Population: 1,250
Size: 60 sq km
Ferry to and from: Tsawwassen, Vancouver; Swartz Bay, Victoria; and other Gulf Islands
Long and narrow, Galiano Island is one of the more developed regions in the Georgia Straight, attracting visitors looking for a diversity of activities. Birding, moped tours, sport fishing and camping are available for nature lovers, but those who are looking to be pampered can head to the high-end ocean-front Galiano Inn for spa sessions and relaxation. Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park is located on Galiano Island, and is one of region’s more popular destinations thanks to its Shell Beach—a west-facing waterfront with worn shells covering the ground instead of sand.