18 Magical Things to Do on Salt Spring Island

From hiking, kayaking and beachcombing to a vibrant arts-and-crafts scene, Salt Spring is an idyllic place for an island holiday. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Canada, actually!

Photo: Salt Spring Island Tourism

And even though the island is relatively small (you can drive it from top to bottom in 45 minutes), there are plenty of magical things to do on Salt Spring Island.

Bicycle around Salt Spring Island

Salt Spring is so hilly that we doubt we would have tried going for a ride without the assistance of these electric bicycles. We still had to pedal, though.

01.

The Mount Erskine trail. A short stiff hike up the 1,600-foot (488-meter) mountain takes you past twisted old trees, moss carpets and “fairy doors.”

Hike up Mount Erskine

02.

Slurp pasta at Auntie Pesto’s

It features an upgraded glass-walled deck, with a rollout canopy and heat lamps. You can sit outside in comfort, from spring to fall, and enjoy the water views.

03.

Do an artist studio tour

Watch artisans create ceramic bowls, decorative glass vases, French-country tapestries, wood-fired pottery, jade jewelry and more.

Photo: Salt Spring Tweed

04.

Browse the Salt Spring Saturday Market

This popular market showcases the products of some 140+ stallholders, who sell what they make, bake or grow on the island.

05.

Go kayaking

If you’re new to kayaking, a guided tour around Ganges Harbor is a great introduction to the beauty of the Gulf Islands from the perspective of a kayak.

Photo: Salt Spring Adventure Company

06.

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