Galiano Island

Galiano Island lies to the northeast of Saltspring Island off the east coast of Vancouver Island. GalianoIsland_WhalerBay - Whaler Bay as seen from Sturdies Bay Road on Galiano Island

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Book a Halal Cruise or Boat Tour in Galiano Island

Galiano Island is the closest and most convenient to Vancouver (and the U.S. border) of all of the Southern Gulf Islands, and in most cases it is the first stop on the BC Ferries route to the islands, only 50 minutes. In the quiet season there are just two ferries a day from Tsawwassen and the mainland terminal near Vancouver, and in the busier summer months and there may be up to 4 sailings a day. If traveling with a car, reservations are advisable and there is no additional charge for reserving on the Gulf Islands Route. If you want to, it is very feasible to leave your vehicle behind on the mainland, and travel as a foot passenger to see Galiano. Galiano is the perfect island for "island hopping":visitors can stay on Galiano, and use BC Ferries (or a summer water taxi) for visits to other islands, returning to Galiano at the end of the day. Visitors can also travel via Victoria (British Columbia) | Victoria (Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal) on Vancouver Island. There are several sailings a day, ranging from direct 1 hour and 10 minutes sailings, to multi-stop "island-hopper" ferries. These sailings are not reservable. Private charter boats are also available at the discretion and timing of the passengers which affords guests the convenience of their own time table as well as privacy. These are reservable and can fit parties of almost any size, though they are more expensive than taking BC ferries.

Buy a Flight ticket to and from Galiano Island

There is an "airport" in Montague Harbour, for float plane service, including regular scheduled service from the dock near Vancouver International Airport, with a connecting shuttle and complimentary parking. Regularly scheduled service:

• Pacific Air 1-855-WeFlyBC (953-5922)
• SeaAir, 1-800-447-3247

Charter service:

• Kenmore Air (from Seattle)
• Harbour Air (from Vancouver)
• Saltspring Air, 1-877-537-9880

Visitors and residents arriving by boat can certainly find lots of moorage space. Montague Harbour has moorage, a gas dock and some limited facilities. A dock at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa is available by the day or overnight (moorage is limited and reservable). Government docks at Sturdies Bay and Whalers Bay, are walking distance to the shops in the Village of Sturdies Bay; all allow transient boaters for a minimal charge, on a first come, first served basis. In the summer months only (July and August) and the school boat becomes an inter-island shuttle. People (and their bicycles, if they wish) can travel on Saturdays only from Galiano to Saltspring, returning in the afternoon. It allows visitors the chance to 'island hop' from Sturdies Bay Village (the Government dock next to the ferry dock) directly into Ganges Village for shopping and the Saturday market. During the school year, visitors can ride the school boat between Galiano Island and Saltspring Island, Monday through Thursday (space available basis).

Get around

Galiano is the second largest of the Southern Gulf Islands: roughly 27 kilometers long and very narrow. While hiking can take you to many stunning locations on Galiano, it also helps to have a little assistance with transportation. Luckily there are options, if you choose to leave your vehicle behind:

• Rent a moped (250-539-0233) Galiano Moped and Boat Rentals
• Rent a Smart Car or a van (250-539-3388) Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa
• Take a Kayak tour or rent a kayak (250-539-2442) Gulf Island Kayaking
• Rent a boat (250-539-0233) Galiano Moped and Boat Rentals

There are no regular buses or taxis on the island. If you are traveling far from the south end, it may be best to bring your own car, or ensure your lodging will pick you up. In summer, The Hummingbird Pub operates a free summer bus from the marina and campground during the evenings only. It is a lively ride with an iconic bus driver and music. Free pick-up from the Marina to the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa is available by calling 250-539-3388. Maps of the island are available on BC Ferries or at the Chamber of Commerce Information booth, near the ferry terminas. Hiking trails are not well marked on Galiano, nor is there adequate signage. But local people are friendly, and exploration is fun and easy and very safe. Maps of the Island are available at the Chamber of Commerce Tourism booth at Sturdies Bay and at the "bus shelter" at the Marina. There are no dangers on Galiano in terms of wildlife (no bears or cougars) but roadways are narrow with no shoulders, so bicyclists and hikers need to take care.

What to see in Galiano Island

GalianoIsland_MontagueRd - View From Montague & Georgeson Bay Roads Galiano Island is the most accessible to Vancouver, yet has the most rustic, seemingly untouched places. It is very undeveloped, having had most of its land left as either forest lands or as residential home sites. It is the one island of the Southern Gulf Islands that has beautiful beaches, and they vary from the white shell Indian midden at Montague Beach to the warm sands of Morning Beach, to the hidden sandstone pleasures of Coon Bay and the long stretches of small stone beach at Pebble Beach and Cable Bay. Hiking trails are everywhere, and the vantage points atop Mount Galiano, Bodega Ridge and Bluffs Park present spectacular views across the other Gulf Islands, all the way to the mountains of Washington state. Bicycle and mountain biking trails are definitely strenuous, but well worth it. Just ensure that you stock up on water and supplies when leaving the village of Sturdies Bay, or at the Corner Store just 3 kilometers further but still on the South End, as there are no shops or services traveling north on the island. The best way to experience the island is by water: rent a kayak or take a sunset kayak tour, it is so easy in the sheltered waters of the Island and the islets that surround Galiano. Gulf Island Kayaks is experienced with new kayakers or experts, and gears their tours to every level. Or take an eco tour with Saltspring Tours that does summer pick ups to and from Galiano Island, and visit bird colonies and sea lion rocks and, hopefully, spot the Orca whales for which the island is famous: "J" pod is very active in Active Pass, separating Galiano from Mayne Island. While they range great distances following the salmon and they are frequently seen in the Pass, from the shores of Galiano. For people wanting to explore the island on land and there is no substitute for doing it the old-fashioned way: by foot. The hiking trails and beaches are endless pleasures to explore and the views incredible and the wildlife all friendly. If you want to travel further afield (literally), rent wheels from Galiano Mopeds or a "Smart Car" from the Galiano Oceanfront Inn. From Bodega Ridge on the north end to Bluffs Park and Mount Galiano and Mathews Park Beach and there is much to explore. For a gentler experience, relax on Cain beach, or go for a picnic, with the whales and boats passing almost within reach, at Bellhouse Park, or rest in the Gardens at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa. And Galiano is not all about the outdoors...with the many wonderful artists and crafts people on the island ... a studio tour is a "must-see". Be sure to see the famous, and massive, "Kunamokst Mural" at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Galiano Island

Galiano Island has as many amenities as larger centres, but they are smaller, more one-of-a-kind. There is as much to do on the island (and its surrounding waters) than other vacation places in British Columbia, but without the crowds or signs of urbanization. Many world-class artists make their home on the Gulf Islands, and Galiano is no exception. Be sure to combine the outdoor activities with a visit to an artist's studio, a visit to the spa, and a glass of with some live music at a local watering hole.

• Island-hopping - Galiano is the Gateway to the Gulf Islands, with easy first-stop ferry access from Vancouver, and many travel options via inter-island ferries to explore the other islands.
• Spa - Take time out from all of the outdoor activities and enjoy a spa treatment in a full-service oceanfront Madrona del Mar Spa (1-877-530-3939)
• Art Tour - Take a tour around the island (pick up an Art Tour guide at the Tourism Information Booth or one of the local businesses) and visit some of the great art studios in the forest homes of the artists, or see several of them at Art and Soul Gallery in the Village. Many are walking distance from the ferry, in the Village. Or take a drive to visit artists in their studio galleries throughout the island. Marcia de Vicque Glassworks, Bodega Studio, Cedar Grove Pottery and Bill Boyd Studio are just some of the highlights.

• Kunamokst Mural - Do not miss the chance to see this famous mural, seen on-line at www.kunamokstmural.com. The collaborative work of over 180 artists created this mural of West Coast sea life. Original works by Robert Bateman, Roy Vickers, Wyland, and many Galiano and British Columbia artists. Daily, at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa.
• Hiking - Explore the best of the west coast with beautiful wooded trails, ridges or beaches. Friendly wildlife abounds, such as Orcas, Bald Eagles, and deer.
• Whale watching - The beautiful Orca (killer) whales are at home in the waters off Galiano Island, following the food source (salmon and other fish) in pods through Active Pass. Try Gulf Islands Whale-watching (1-888-656-9878)
• Cycling - Challenge Galiano's famous hills and take your bicycle (there are no bicycle rentals on the island, but a bicycle repair shop is walking distance from the Village. (250-539-9906)
• Kayaking - See the islands as they should be seen, from the water: take one of the Gulf Island Kayak tours or rent a kayak (250-539-2442).Explore the islets and inlets, see seabird cliffside colonies and come up close to the seals and whales. Or pack a picnic lunch and paddle to nearby James Bay(Prevost Island), part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. There are no services at James Bay (Prevost Island) so bring plenty of soft-drinking water with you .
• Boating - It does not take any particular skill to rent a boat and maneuver the islands: so easy even for the beginner and you will see so much more of the island (250-539-0233). Explore hidden bays and beaches that are to be found in Trincomali Channel or spend an afternoon at Ganges on Saltspring Island or a shell beach for a picnic. A trip to Wallace Island for an afternoon is a must. J Pod can often be seen as they pass through Active Pass, or view the seal colonies on Collinson Reef or Gossip Island. Salish Sea Charters will custom build a trip for you 1 (604) 518-8946.

• Play golf - Galiano Golf and Country Club is a challenging and picture-perfect golf course with an easy attitude. (250-539-5533)
• Moped - Renting a scooter/moped will allow the island visitor to travel the many back roads and experience the many look out points, beaches and secluded spots away from the summer crowds. Contact Galiano Moped and Boat Rentals (1 250 539 3443 or 1 250 539 0233) for availability and directions to the island highlights.
• Wildlife viewing - All the wildlife on Galiano is of the mostly friendly variety (no bears or cougars or wolves here); deer abound in the forests, seals and whales offshore, and the bird life brings birdwatching enthusiasts from around the world (over 150 species of birds have been sighted);
• Fishing - Join an authentic fisherman in his troller for a day on the water and bring home your supper (or catch-and-release) with Salish Sea Charters (604) 518-8946.
• Music - In summertime especially, Galiano's little pubs and restaurants feature some great music by local and international musicians; try the Galiano Grand Central Grill, Atrevida Restaurant (in the grounds of the Galiano Oceanfront Inn) or the Hummingbird Pub; the local community hall also hosts classical concerts.

Events

• Galiano International Wine Festival - A very popular event, held the second Saturday of August each year and the festival is a benefit for the island health care centre and is a wonderful way to learn about fruit cocktails, enjoy local appetizers made by the supporters of the health care society, and relax in the sun (it's all outdoors!).
• Galiano Fiesta - A family friendly event held annually on the August long weekend. A variety of entertainment, food, booths selling local crafts and foods, games of chance (gum boot toss, anyone?), and fun activities for everyone. One day only.
• Galiano Arts Weekend - The August Long Weekend is a weekend of Fiesta, and many art openings and studio showings: a must see. Galleries and Studios are all open for the tour.
• Galiano Literary Festival a winter event in February that sees dozens of British Columbia artists read from their work and participate in workshops on literature and writing. Created by Galiano Island Books and held at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa .

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Galiano Island

Galiano is home to world-class artists and artisans. You can view their work year-round at the galleries or in the artists' studio homes. A map and guide to the Art is available through the various galleries. Most shops and galleries are in the Village, most artist's studios are in the interior of the island) Highlights of any visit should include a walk to the local galleries near the village, a drive to mid-way up the island, where there are three great galleries together: Artist's Studios

• Marcia DeVicque Glassworks
• Cedar Grove Pottery
• The Yellowhouse Art Gallery
• Blackbird Studios

Artisan Shops and Retail Gift Stores

• HTTPS://WWWW.Wrtandsoulcraftgallery.com/ Art & Soul Craft Gallery in the Village, has a variety of Galiano Island artists on display and for sale.
• Kunamokst Mural Mosaic at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa, near the Village.
• Ixchel Shop
• Galiano Island Books(in the Village)"World's best little bookstore"
• Loose Leaf Tea and Papery (in the Village at the Post Offic e)
• Madrona del Mar Spa for gifts for you or your home
• Now and Zen (in the Village)

Muslim Friendly Food & Restaurants in Galiano Island

• Daystar Market - A funky food market offering a small but interesting deli selection. Pick up "to-go" fresh organic fruits and juices and cheeses, breads and beverages 3 kilometers from the Village and ferry terminal. Weekends they have latte coffees and baked goods.
• Sturdies Bay Bakery - Breakfast and lunch place in the Village; known for its pies, cinnamon buns and breads.
• Wood-fired Oceanfront Pizzas Terrace - On the waterfront in the grounds of the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa, it has a Tuscan-style wood-fired oven holding pride of place; draft Cola; best views; walking distance from the ferry, so park your vehicle and "wait until your boat comes in". Opening May through to the beginning of October, with later evenings in the summer.
• Grand Central Emporium and Grill and Scoops - Originally the landmark old Burrill Brothers store and the owners have transformed the antique building into a popular local hangout. Service is "island-style" with a full menu. Open for breakfast and lunch. Weekends for dinner. Licensed. Frequent "open mike" nights and live music on Galiano. Walking distance from the ferry. In the Village
• Crane and Robin Cafe - Montague Marina's restaurant, open for a taco menu for lunches and dinners beveragesa. Fresh baking and specialty coffees daily at the Marina store in the same building. (Seasonal restaurant only).
• Galiano Golf Club - Great food outdoors on the patio, overlooking the prettiest little golf course anywhere. Check for hours during your visit, as they vary.

GalianoIsland_HummingbirdPub - Hummingbird Pub Shuttle Bus

• Hummingbird Pub - This Galiano icon has been around for many years, its trademark red bus transporting people from the marina for pub-style fare of fish and chips, Burgers and more. Karaoke night and sometimes live music, swimmingpool table. 3 kilometers from the Village and ferry terminal. Open daily. The pub's shuttle bus runs from the Victoria Day long weekend to the end of September with pick-ups and drop-offs at the pub, Marina junction and Montague Park gate.
• Atrevida Restaurant - in the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa and the only waterfront casual fine dining on the island, featuring Pacific Northwest cuisine with an extensive British Columbia Wine list. Wood-fired Pizzas on the Patio in the summer. In the Village.Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa evening dining - Restaurant in the evening, in the Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa Walking distance from the Village and the Ferry; Marina guests can call for pick-up.
• Pilgrimme's Restaurant (near the marina, in the former home of La Berengerie), award-winning restaurant with a focus on local farmed produce and different uses of foraged ingredients like bull kelp.

Galiano has only one pub and one lounge on the island:

• Hummingbird Pub – The only Pub on the Island. If you are at the marina or the campground, you can take the famous red Hummingbird Pub bus (it runs seasonally) to the pub for libations. Beer on tap, swimmingpool table, big screen television and the ubiquitous lottery screens. Also a full menu. Open daily until late, music many weekends.
• Orca Lounge at the Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa – The only licensed lounge on the island, perfect for waterside relaxing. Big fireplace, huge windows overlooking the Bay, famous for their Galiano Island Blackberry Martini, as well as Best British Columbia list and B.C. fruit cocktails-by-the-glass list at the British Columbia Wine Festival Awards. Patio in the summer. Perfect place to have a drink and wait to see your ferry come in and still have lots of time to walk down.

British Columbia’s relaxed drink laws mean you can also have a drink at these restaurants: the Patio Grill at the Galiano Inn is oceanfront, an outdoor summer terrace with drinks and a view of boat traffic; Grand Central Emporium and Grill, in the Village, has a pub-like atmosphere, with big screen t.v., frequent live music jams. Or have a drink on the Marina’s deck at Montague Harbour and survey the boats. The Golf Course has a relaxed atmosphere and outdoor patio for a few rounds before or after a round.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Galiano Island

Galiano Island - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Galiano Island, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Galiano Island. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Galiano Island and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Galiano Island. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Galiano Island. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Galiano Island: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Galiano Island. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Galiano Island: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Galiano Island, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Galiano Island. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Galiano Island, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Galiano Island, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Galiano Island and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Galiano Island, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Galiano Island, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Galiano Island without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Galiano Island is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Galiano Island. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Galiano Island is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Galiano Island, please contact: eHalal Travel Group Galiano Island Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Galiano Island

eHalal Group Galiano Island is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Galiano Island. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Galiano Island. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Galiano Island ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Galiano Island. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Galiano Island, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Galiano Island are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Muslim Friendly Hotels

Galiano has a wide range of lodging for any style of travel:

• Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa - The most beautiful and complete resort on the island, easy walking distance to the ferry, no vehicle necessary. All suites are Oceanfront: 10 Spa Suites in the Inn (complete with wood-burning fireplaces, custom cabinetry with hidden massage tables, luxury ensuites with spa tubs. 10 Villa One Bedroom Suites (in a new building) with outdoor bathtubs, wood-burning fireplaces and full living/dining rooms, kitchens. Madrona del Mar Spa is one of the best spas on the coast: unique island-based products and treatments. Atrevida Oceanfront Dining. Summertime wood-fired Pizzas on the Terrace. Dock for boats and floatplanes. Beautiful Gardens. Higher end luxury lodging with great deals in off season or in packages. 134 Madrona Drive, in the Village. 1-877-530-3939 www.galianoinn.com
• Bodega Ridge Lodge – A large lodge & seven cabins located on the north end of the island, high on the ridge overlooking the islands. Seven charming log cabins perfect for families or couples. Perfect for groups, retreats and weddings, you can take over the main lodge gathering place and the cabins and have the 22 acres to yourselves. Each cabin has three bedrooms, its own kitchen facilities, woodstoves. Bicycles available and access to lots of trails for hiking. Additional lodging at sister property on Porlier Pass Road "Madrona Lodge on the Cove" 1-877-604-2677. www.bodegaridge.com
• Driftwood Village Cabins: walking distance to the Village shops and cafes, this small resort is a long-established island family business. Basic lodging of cabins with wood-burning stoves and kitchen facilities. Hot tub.

Bed and breakfast

Galiano has lots of lovely Bed and Breakfast homes, most are in the true tradition of a B and B: the bedrooms are part of the living area for the hosting family. There used to be many more, but over time the owners have discovered the island lifestyle and chosen to just rent out cottages. Some best options for value, style and location are:

• Rocky Ridge: Beautiful home overlooking the water. Hot tub. Great hosts. Good Vegetarian options. www.cedarplace.com/rockyridge 250-539-30387
• Morning Beach Waterfront B and B Great location on the beach, good for families. Separate cottage also. Great hosts. Good Vegetarian options. 250-539-3053
• Salish Sea B and B South end location with easy access to Village restaurants. On the water, with lovely views, great hosts. 250-539-3361

GalianoIsland_MontaguePark - Sunset viewed from Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park's Shell Beach

Camping Places

• Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park Located about 10 kilometers from the ferry terminal. Campsite reservations are accepted and there are also some first come, first serve sites (non-reservable). Some of the walk-in sites (great for those traveling on the island without vehicles) have waterfront views. Enjoy trail walks, watching sunsets from Shell Beach, exploring intertidal life during low tides, and more.

Travel Next

• Salt Spring Island

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