Things to do visiting Salt Spring Island 2024

Salt Spring Island: Things to Do

Nestled between Vancouver Island and the British Columbia mainland, Salt Spring Island, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. Salt Spring Island is the largest of the Southern Gulf Islands. Known for its artistic vibe, wine cider and beer tasting tours, and a laidback lifestyle, this tranquil Gulf Island paradise is the perfect weekend getaway or extended vacation spot.

With its rugged natural beauty, thriving local produce, and wealth of island attractions, Salt Spring Island offers something for everyone. Here, it's easy to unplug from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Meander along forest trails, pop into the Saturday Market, or lounge on a secluded beach.

From touring wineries and farmsteads to browsing galleries and boutiques, there's plenty to fill your days with joy.

5 Highlights of Salt Spring Island

If you're planning to visit Salt Spring Island, check out these 5 great stops for when you're there:

1. Visit the Salt Spring Island Saturday Market

Every Saturday from April to October, the famous Salt Spring Island Market draws crowds hungry to sample the island's bounty. With over 100 vendors, it's easy to spend hours wandering the stalls stocked with fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal crafts, and more.

Don't miss out on tasty snacks like wood-fired pizza or spanakopita straight from the oven. It's the perfect place to mingle with locals, listen to live music, and soak up the island vibe.

2. Explore the Ganges Village

At the heart of Salt Spring Island, Ganges Village sits- the main hub buzzing with cafes, galleries, shops, and entertainment. Meander along the seaside boardwalk and duck into the eclectic boutiques. Treat yourself to fish and chips on the pier or browse the local artisan wares.

Along the way, be sure to check when the next concert, play, or community event is happening. The village comes alive on market days and is the gateway to exploring the island.

3. Enjoy the Ruckle Provincial Park

If you're looking for an idyllic nature escape among Salt Spring Island Attractions, head to Ruckle Provincial Park, spanning the southwestern coastline. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on trails winding through forests, meadows, and shorelines.

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the the oceanfront sites, or comb the pebbly beaches and keep an eye out for orcas or seals playing offshore.

With backcountry campsites and kayak rentals available, it's easy to settle in for outdoor adventure here.

4. Discover the Salt Spring Island Cheese Company

Indulge your taste buds at the Salt Spring Island Cheese, where farm-fresh artisanal cheeses reign supreme. Tour the small-batch production facility to learn about traditional cheesemaking methods before sampling their award-winning selection.

Sip wine while nibbling on platters piled high with creamy goat milk cheeses paired with housemade chutneys. Visitors can also grab a wood-fired pizza or specialty grilled cheese sandwich at the onsite cafe!

5. Experience the Salt Spring Brewing Company

Quench your thirst for craft beer at Salt Spring Brewing Company, the island’s original microbrewery.

Relax in the laidback tasting room housed in a converted apple-packing barn. Sample their extensive line up of ales like the traditional Heather Pale ale or a refreshing Raspberry Mango Sour ale.

Chat with the friendly staff to learn more about their small-batch brewing process using local ingredients.

How Does a Hop On Hop Off Tour Work?

Our unique hop on hop off tour allows you to embrace the freedom of exploring Salt Spring Island at your own pace, discovering its hidden gems and scenic wonders as you go. Here’s how it works:

Tour Schedule

• Tours run from mid April to October
• Departures are at 10 am, 11 am, 1 pm, and 1 pm from Salt Spring Visitor Info Centre
• Each tour loop takes approximately 1 hour
• You can hop on and off all day with your pass

Tour Stops

Our tour visits many of the best attractions on Salt Spring within a 28km loop, including:

• Salt Spring Island Cheese Company - cheese tastings, woodfire pizza and gelato
• Salt Spring Brewing Co. - craft brewery tastings in nature
• Burgoyne Bay Hike / Picnic - nature trail & beach walk
• Garry Oaks Estate Winery - wine tastings
• Ciderwork & Salt Spring Apple Co. - apple orchard & cider tastings
• Ganges Village & Market - peaceful journey along the Ganges Harbour

At each stop, you can hop off to explore and then catch the next bus when ready. Or stay on the entire route to get an overview of the island's treasures. Knowledgeable guides provide commentary en route.

Click here to schedule your next tour with us!

FAQ - Visiting Salt Spring Island

What should I bring on the tour?

When joining our Salt Spring Island hop on hop off tour, we recommend bringing:

• Sturdy walking shoes for exploring the stops and trails
• Light layers like a sweater or windbreaker in case of changing weather
• Sun protection including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
• A small backpack or crossbody bag for carrying any purchases or picnic snacks
• Cash for food, drinks, and shopping at the local vendors
• Camera to capture the island's beauty and memories from your time here

Come prepared to wander, taste, and experience the island so you can make the most of your time with us!

How long is each stop?

The bus comes by every hour allowing about 50 minutes at each stop along the route for brief tastings, exploration, and photos.

For a more in-depth visit, you can hop off the bus and spend 1-2 hours at locations before catching the next bus.

Our guides are happy to provide timing recommendations so you can customize your tour experience.

Can I stay longer at a stop and catch the next bus?

Absolutely! Your pass allows you to hop on and off all day, so you can spend more time at places that interest you most. Just check the tour schedule for the next departure time.

If you want to linger at a stop like Salt Spring Island Cheese or the brewery for tastings and lunch, simply hop off and then take a later bus when you're ready to continue.

We want you to make the most of your time exploring the island.

When you're finished for the day, look forward to a rewarding night's sleep in one of the comfortable Salt Spring Island hotels.

Plan Your Visit to Salt Spring Island with Hop On Hop Off Tours

Salt Spring Island offers a tranquil retreat with artisan treasures waiting to be discovered. Avoid the stress of driving and parking woes, and let us chauffeur you around the island on our unique hop on hop off tour.

With knowledgeable local guides and stops at charming vineyards, breweries, cheese shops, markets, and parks, it's the perfect introduction to our island paradise.

Book your tickets online and start dreaming about sipping and savoring your way around Salt Spring! We can't wait to welcome you aboard.