Things to do on Salt Spring Island:
Salt Spring Island is a magical slice of the Gulf Islands, nestled between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia. Known for its creative community, natural beauty, and laid-back vibe, Salt Spring is the perfect getaway for adventurers, foodies, and artists alike. Whether you’re visiting for a day or staying for a while, here are the best things to do on Salt Spring Island:
1. Book a Tour with Tour Salt Spring
Get your bearings with a guided experience that showcases the best of the island. Tour Salt Spring offers thoughtfully curated tours that dive into local history, nature, food, and art. It’s a perfect way to start your journey and get a unique taste of the island.
2. Explore the Island’s Beaches
From rugged rocky shores to soft sandy stretches, Salt Spring’s beaches offer something for everyone. Take a peaceful ocean walk, beachcomb for treasures, or just breathe in the salty sea air. The island has many beaches to choose from depending which part of the island you’re exploring.
3. Forest Bathing (or as the locals say, ‘going for a walk’)
Salt Spring is blessed with many magical serene forest trails. Listen to bird songs, enjoy the towering cedars or firs, and take time to connect with mother nature. The simple act of walking among trees here feels like therapy for the soul.
4. Visit a Rare Garry Oak Ecosystem
Salt Spring is home to the endangered Garry Oak meadow ecosystem, found in very few places in the world. Discover this unique habitat and its incredible biodiversity on a nature walk. There are a few nature reserves that showcase these beautiful trees well.
5. Studio Hop Through Local Artisans’ Studios
Creativity thrives on Salt Spring. Visit artist studios and galleries to meet local painters, potters, glassblowers, and jewelers. Many offer drop-in visits or self-guided tours. The Studio Tour Map offers a great starting point to discover which studioo’s are open and of interest to you (saltspringstudiotour.com).
6. Savor Salt Spring’s Culinary Scene
Whether you’re indulging in homemade pastries, sampling locally grown produce, or enjoying a farm-to-table meal, the island’s food scene is a treat. Don’t miss the amazing bakeries, cozy cafés, and vibrant restaurants. The Treehouse Cafe, a long time favourite, features live music every night of the Summer, and the newer Salt Spring Wild Cider House has outdoor seating great for bringing pets!
7. Sip Something Local
Wine, cider, beer, mead or spirits—Salt Spring has them all. Enjoy a tasting flight or a relaxed drink at one of the island’s charming wineries, cideries, or distilleries. Salt Spring is home to five wineries, two cideries, a meadery and a distillery, as well as some delicious kombucha. Visiting some or all of these establishments can be a fun way to support local producers while trying some award winning libations.
8. Browse the Famous Salt Spring Saturday Market
This bustling market is the heartbeat of island life. Meet local farmers, artisans, and food vendors while soaking in the energy of Ganges. A perfect place to people-watch and pick up unique island-made treasures. The market features up to 120 vendors each week and has a huge range of products – from pottery, fresh bread, handwoven shawls, art, leather goods, soap, and much more. All vendors must “make it, bake it, or grow it”; together they showcase the huge range of local talent.
9. Shop the Tuesday Farmers Market
Looking for the freshest produce? Stop by the Tuesday Market for just-picked vegetables, homemade treats, and friendly local vibes. Located in Centennial Park each Tuesday June – October from 1:30 – 5:30 pm, this calmer market offers a wonderful chance to stock up on pastries, berries, elixirs, flowers and other fresh goods!
10. Catch a Sunset on the West Side
Salt Spring sunsets are something special. Head to a west-facing beach to watch the sky melt into a palette of orange and pink as the sun dips into the Salish Sea. Vesuvius Beach offers a short set of stairs down, an easy way to catch the view before heading onto the ferry. If you’re up for a slightly longer walk, Sunset Beach is aptly named for its incredible evening vista.
11. Hike to the Top of Mount Maxwell
For sweeping views of the island and beyond, lace up your boots and hike up Mount Maxwell. The trail winds through ancient forest to a dramatic lookout at Baynes Peak. If mobility is an issue or you’re just not a hiker, the viewpoint can be accessed by vehicles as well, although the road has been known to have some pretty massive potholes – so it’s not suitable for most vehicles!
12. Connect with Indigenous Heritage at Xwaaqw’um (Burgoyne Bay)
Explore the traditional territory of the Cowichan Peoples at Xwaaqw’um. It’s a peaceful, culturally rich area where you can learn about Coast Salish history and connection to the land. The quiet bay offers nature trails out to daffodil point and along the base of Mt. Maxwell, or head to the beach where you can view two locally carved totem poles.
13. Dine with a View
Many island restaurants offer patio or window seating with panoramic ocean views. Relax with a meal while watching sailboats drift by on the Salish Sea. Charming local restaurants with oceanside views can be found in Fulford, Vesuvius, Ganges and by Fernwood dock.
14. Walk the Trails of Ruckle Park
Ruckle Provincial Park is a gem. Hike the shoreline trails and keep your eyes peeled—Orcas, porpoises, and sea lions are frequent visitors to these waters. The park itself is full of history; originally founded in 1890 by the Ruckle family, there is still an original family home. The farm also has a large herd of sheep, cattle and turkeys which you may see in your wanders. If you’re looking to stay, the campground offers 78 walk-in sites nestled along the shore. A truly magical way to experience the island!
15. Visit Farm Stands for Island Goodness
All around Salt Spring, you’ll find charming roadside farm stands selling seasonal produce, baked goods, flowers, and handmade products. Most operate on an honour system—just drop your coins in the box!
16. Catch Free Live Music in Centennial Park
On select Thursday evenings in summer, enjoy the Salt Spring Arts Summer Outdoor Concert Series (SOCS) in the heart of Ganges. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and settle in for great local music. A fun (and free!) way to enjoy the park in a family friendly setting. For more info visit: saltspringarts.com/socs/
Find the Tour Salt Spring Experience That’s Right for You
Whether you’re into food, art, nature, or all of the above, Tour Salt Spring offers something special for every kind of traveler. We love mixing the best of what Salt Spring has to offer into a unique and memorable day for our guests. Book your perfect tour today! (toursaltspring.com/tours/)
No matter what you choose, Salt Spring Island is bound to leave you inspired, relaxed, and eager to return.
