Saltspring (Salt Spring) Island
Gulf Islands, British Columbia, Canada

Saltspring Island is the largest island of the southern Gulf Islands off the west coast of British Columbia, Canada. The island is the most visited destination island of the southern Gulf Islands made popular by marine activities, mountain viewpoints, artist studios, markets and waterfront parks.

Saltspring Island is 300 square kilometres (180 sq. mi.) of rocky headlands, second growth forests, jagged cliffs and sandy beaches. There are 8 fresh water lakes on the island. There are 27 different beach access points located along the coastline roads of the island. There are 2 Provincial Parks and 1 ecological reserve.

Many activities and adventures are enjoyed on Saltspring Island. Some of the activities include ocean kayaking, fishing, scuba diving, beachcombing, swimming, canoeing, camping, birdwatching, cycling, wildlife watching, hiking, boating, sailing and sightseeing. There are tours and guiding companies operating on Saltspring Island.

The main village on Saltspring Island is Ganges. The streets of Ganges Village are lined with shops, stores and boutiques. There are services important to travelers like restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, hardware store, banks, a grocery store, a gas station, internet, laundromat and a post office. Parking is limited.

Other companies include cottage industries, wineries, art galleries and accommodations. Scattered throughout Saltspring Island are all types on accommodations including campgrounds, motels, inns, cottages, bed and breakfasts and hostels.

There is a high concentration of artists who live on Saltspring Island. Self guided and guided art tours provide an opportunity to visit with some of the local artists and their private studios and galleries.

The community has two full service marinas - one in Ganges and one in Fulford Harbour. The marinas service boats and floatplanes. The marinas are busy during the peak boating seasons so book early for moorage. Both harbours are home to BC Ferry terminals.

Hiking and sightseeing parks are popular on the island. The most popular waterfront park on Saltspring Island is Ruckle Provincial Park. A campground park with 7 kilometres of shoreline to explore. And the park with island views and hiking trails is the Mount Maxwell Provincial Park. It is a park with amazing views of the surrounding Gulf Islands and Sansum Narrows.