Gabriola Island Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Boomer Jerritt/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Boomer Jerritt/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island

Discover breathtaking coastline, thrilling adventure sports and magnificent wildlife on one of the most picturesque of Victoria’s Gulf Islands.

Gabriola Island is just a narrow gap of water away from the modern metropolis of Vancouver, yet it couldn’t feel farther removed from city life. Visit to explore dense cedar tree forests and sandstone coastlines carved by the sea. Besides spectacular wilderness, the island also offers theaters, museums and restaurants.

Get an overview of the island in the Gabriola Museum. Stories from the island’s nautical past are complemented by local art displays and outdoor exhibits. Uncover the mysteries of Petroglyph Park, where ancient First Nations symbols are carved into the rock.

The small island has a thriving arts and culture scene. Watch classic movies or plays at the Roxy Lounge and Culture Club and the Gabriola Theatre Centre. Come in August to enjoy the Gabriola Theatre Festival.

Enjoy exploring nature for days. Among the most recognizable sights on the island are the Malaspina Galleries, whose wave-shaped sandstone formations were created by tidal erosion.

Take advantage of opportunities for adventure sports. Rent a kayak and paddle along the coast toward Vancouver Island or hop on a bike and head into the forests and hills of the interior.

Watch for wildlife on the coast and in the hills. The waters around Vancouver Island are home to seals, otters and whales. Head to Whalebone for sightings of eagles soaring over beaches on the Salish Sea.

Catch a ferry from Nanaimo Harbour to reach Gabriola Island. The journey takes about 25 minutes and leads directly into the bay just outside the town of Gabriola. Alternatively, ride the float plane service running from Vancouver. Once on the island, rent a bike to get around or ride the community bus, which is affectionately named Gertie.

Head to Gabriola Island in summer, when the ocean waters are balmy and welcoming. The weather is best during July and August, though this is also peak tourist season. Spring is a good time to see wildlife, while fall is a great time to try fresh produce from local harvests.

Coast Bastion Hotel

Coast Bastion Hotel

3.5 out of 5
11 Bastion Street, Nanaimo, BC
The price is ₹13,890 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹13,890
₹16,113 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star eco-certified hotel in Nanaimo. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, breakfast (surcharge) and a fitness centre. Our guests praise the restaurant and the ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,236 reviews)
"Its a good place to stay with view."

Reviewed on 22 Jul 2025

Coast Bastion Hotel
Inn On Long Lake

Inn On Long Lake

2 out of 5
4700 North Island Hwy, Nanaimo, BC
The price is ₹13,086 per night from 18 Aug to 19 Aug
₹13,086
₹15,180 total
18 Aug - 19 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this beach hotel in Nanaimo. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and a private beach. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (1,013 reviews)
"Needs some work in the sauna"

Reviewed on 21 Jul 2025

Inn On Long Lake
Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo

Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo

2 out of 5
96 Terminal Avenue North, Nanaimo, BC
The price is ₹10,411 per night from 27 Jul to 28 Jul
₹10,411
₹12,076 total
27 Jul - 28 Jul
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this business-friendly hotel in Nanaimo. Enjoy free breakfast, free Wi-Fi and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
7.8/10 Good! (1,009 reviews)
"Overall good service, very nice staff"

Reviewed on 20 Jul 2025

Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Luxury ocean dock pool villa

Luxury ocean dock pool villa

5 out of 5
4712 Shell Beach Rd, North Oyster, BC
Stay at this 5-star luxury holiday home in North Oyster. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and private pools. Popular attractions Ladysmith Marina and Ladysmith ...
"Overall was a great experience! My family had a great stay here with all the amenities."

Reviewed on 20 Apr 2024

Luxury ocean dock pool villa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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