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Travel & Outdoors

6 Less Traveled British Columbia Islands That Are Actually Hidden Gems

less traveled islands in bc

Photo: smilygrl / Flickr

There are so many serene islands to explore, both big and small. But the next time you’re looking for an adventure—you should hop over to some of the less traveled islands in BC.

These hidden gems are the perfect escape from the city and all have their own unique and signature vibe.

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Less Traveled Islands In BC

Denman Island

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A funky little town with a bustling arts scene. It’s part of the Comox Valley, nestled in the Northern Gulf Islands. It has a very small community of just over a thousand year-round residents.

The quaint town has a lot of personality to offer though. Step into a number of cute little galleries and art centres in the area. Or just soak up all the waterfront and mountain views there are to take in here. You can reach this spot by taking a little ferry from Buckley Bay, on Vancouver Island.

Cortes Island

 

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This stunning spot is part of the Discovery Islands archipelago. The island runs 25 kms long and has a population of just over a thousand permanent residents.

You can access the island by plane or ferry. It’s a remote destination that not a lot of people know about—but it’s definitely worth the trip. It has an abundance of wildlife, lakes, lagoons and forests.

Mayne Island

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A sleepy little town with friendly locals, adorable shops and stunning landscapes. It’s midway in between Metro Vancouver and Vancouver Island. It has just over a thousand residents, making it a quiet but cozy town.

It’s also home to an adorable hobbit house where you can spend a night, with sheep roaming around on the property. You can catch a ferry here from Tsawwassen to Otter Bay.

Texada Island

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Many locals have never been here, but once you visit—you’re going to want to keep coming back. At 50 kms, it’s the largest island in the Strait of Georgia and has a lot to offer. It’s the perfect place for outdoor enthusiasts who want to spend their time mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, swimming—you name it.

But it also has a small town charm that is rich with history from its mining days. You can get here by taking a ferry from Powell River.

Savary Island

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It’s actually referred to being the Hawaii of the North. It gets this nickname because of the vast amount of sandy beaches and lush forests. It’s super small but what it lacks in size it makes up for in scenery.

It’s a secluded spot that will make you get back to nature and find a strong sense of tranquility. Once in Langdale on the Sunshine Coast, you can drive to Earls Cove and then take a water taxi.

Newcastle Island

The little slice of heaven is just off the coast from Nanaimo. It’s all part of a provincial park, so no one actually lives here. But it’s definitely worth a visit. It’s best known for its crystal clear waters and gorgeous mountain views.

You can go along a loop trail that will take you on a scenic walk around the entire island. The best word to sum this place up is picturesque. Visit the gorgeous island by taking a personal boat or a shuttle boat from Nanaimo.

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