The wild beauty of British Columbia’s Galiano Island

Just 30 minutes by seaplane from Vancouver, Galiano Island is an ideal getaway for west coast urbanites hungry for outdoor adventure.

Canadian Geographic Travel sent photographer Jake Graham to explore this gem of the Southern Gulf Islands with Canada Goose. There, he discovered uncrowded, well-maintained hiking trails, friendly locals, unique dining experiences and endless opportunities to photograph breathtaking coastal landscapes and wildlife. The only negative? Having to say goodbye and head back to the mainland.

Here’s a look at what you can expect on your own weekend getaway to Galiano Island.

Leave the city behind as a seaplane whisks you across the Georgia Strait to Galiano Island.

First stop: The beach, to take in the ocean and mountain views.

Log cabin on pond — Bodega Ridge offers private luxury log cabin accommodations in a rural setting, with views of Trincomali channel and the Vancouver Island Mountains.

Red kayaks, kayaker POV — Rent a kayak and paddle the calm waters along Galiano Island’s sandstone shores.

Sea cave looking out at sea — Galiano Island is home to a network of sea caves carved into its soft sandstone coast. Many are easily accessed and safely explored by kayak.

A hike to the top of Mount Galiano to greet the sunrise is a perfect way to start a day on the island.

Sunrise over the Southern Gulf Islands, seen from atop Mount Galiano.

Robin Kort, a local chef and foraging guide, demonstrates how to identify miner’s lettuce. Kort offers foraging experiences through her company, Swallow Tail. The best part? You get to eat what you collect!

Islands dot the Salish Sea, as seen from a flight with Sky Helicopters.

Galiano Island is a photographer’s paradise.

Seals play offshore in the early morning light.

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