Gabriola Island

Travel 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.

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola

Gabriola
Fully refundable
The price is €195 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
€195
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this cabin in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a garden. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal ...
10/10 Exceptional! (41 reviews)
"Staying at the Hobbit was wonderful. The hosts were so pleasant, the cabin was welcoming and perfect. Gabriola island is a treat. The breakfasts were delicious."

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
The Grande Fir Room

The Grande Fir Room

Gabriola
The price is €174 per night from 7 Aug to 8 Aug
€174
7 Aug - 8 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this B&B in Gabriola Island. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal are located nearby.
The Grande Fir Room
Gabriola Small Suite with Hot Tub

Gabriola Small Suite with Hot Tub

Gabriola
The price is €142 per night from 7 Aug to 8 Aug
€142
7 Aug - 8 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this apartment in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (24 reviews)
Comfortable and clean
"The room was spotless. The bed was very comfortable and the host was quite friendly. The ensuite washroom is small but adequate. The home is about 6 years old and in excellent condition. There is a limited number of accommodations on Gabriola Island and we were happy. We chose this one. There was ..."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Gabriola Small Suite with Hot Tub
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.
The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola

Gabriola
Stay at this cabin in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and a garden. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal ...
10/10 Exceptional! (41 reviews)
"Staying at the Hobbit was wonderful. The hosts were so pleasant, the cabin was welcoming and perfect. Gabriola island is a treat. The breakfasts were delicious."

Reviewed on 31 Jul 2025

The Hobbit on Canopy Ridge Gabriola
Gabriola Small Suite with Hot Tub

Gabriola Small Suite with Hot Tub

Gabriola
Stay at this apartment in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (24 reviews)
Comfortable and clean
"The room was spotless. The bed was very comfortable and the host was quite friendly. The ensuite washroom is small but adequate. The home is about 6 years old and in excellent condition. There is a limited number of accommodations on Gabriola Island and we were happy. We chose this one. There was ..."

Reviewed on 30 Jul 2025

Gabriola Small Suite with Hot Tub
Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub

Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub

Gabriola
Stay at this apartment in Gabriola Island. Enjoy free WiFi, furnished patios, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (34 reviews)
"We spent a week on Gabriola Island for a family reunion and Chrissy's place worked beautifully for us. It was exactly as advertised and Chrissy was a wonderful host."

Reviewed on 3 Aug 2025

Gabriola Large Private Suite & Hot Tub
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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