Kayaking, Lakes, and Coastal Magic
Salt Spring Island is a paradise for nature lovers—not just hikers and birdwatchers, but paddlers, swimmers, and anyone who feels at home near the water. The island’s gentle shoreline, sheltered bays, and inland lakes offer a range of outdoor experiences that change with the seasons, the tides, and even the light.
Whether you’re here for a weekend or thinking of making the island your home, these outdoor adventures offer a glimpse into the freedom and beauty of Salt Spring life.
Kayaking to Chocolate Beach: A Local Favourite
One of the best paddling trips on the island is the short kayak from Ganges Harbour to Chocolate Beach on Third Sister Island. It’s a gentle paddle—ideal for beginners or anyone looking for a peaceful excursion.
Chocolate Beach is known for its soft white shell beach, driftwood seating, and views across the water. Pack a picnic, take a swim, and watch for seals popping up nearby. It’s a spot many locals return to again and again.
Rental tip: Kayaks and paddleboards are available right from Ganges, with half-day and full-day rentals offered in summer. Guided tours are also available for those new to kayaking.
Bioluminescence: A Magical Evening Paddle
On warm summer nights, Salt Spring’s waters sometimes glow with bioluminescent plankton—tiny organisms that light up when disturbed. It’s a truly unforgettable experience to paddle at dusk and see glowing streaks trail behind your paddle, or watch sparkles swirl around your hands in the water.
The best time to see bioluminescence is during the new moon, when the sky is dark and the water is still. Local tour companies offer guided bioluminescent kayak tours, or you can head out on your own if conditions are right.
Paddleboarding & Canoeing on St. Mary Lake
Salt Spring’s largest freshwater lake, St. Mary Lake, is perfect for paddleboarding, canoeing, and casual swimming. With no tides or currents to worry about, it’s ideal for families or those just learning to paddle. The water warms up nicely by summer and offers a tranquil backdrop surrounded by forested hills.
Beaches to Explore
Salt Spring has a number of beaches worth discovering, each with its own personality:
- Beddis Beach – Great for walking and tidepooling, with soft sand and views of Mount Baker
- Vesuvius Beach – Warm, shallow water and incredible sunsets—great for swimming
- Walker’s Hook – A bit more rugged and quiet, perfect for birdwatching and solitude
- Baker Beach – A hidden gem on the southeast side with forested trails leading to the shore
Sailing, Fishing & Marine Life Watching
The waters around Salt Spring are ideal for sailing, and the island is home to an active sailing club in Ganges. You’ll also find excellent opportunities for shoreline fishing and crabbing, especially in sheltered bays. From spring to fall, keep your eyes open for orcas, seals, and sea lions.
Outdoor Life, Island Style
What’s special about Salt Spring isn’t just the activities—it’s the pace. There’s time to linger, to explore without crowds, and to find quiet corners that feel like they belong only to you. Whether you’re on a paddleboard at sunset or watching phosphorescent trails swirl behind your kayak, these moments stay with you.
Thinking of Making It Home?
For many people, outdoor access is one of the biggest reasons to move to Salt Spring Island. If you’re dreaming of a life where trails, beaches, and kayak launches are part of your daily routine, I’d be glad to help you find the right fit. Some neighbourhoods offer walkable access to the shoreline—others provide room for gear, gardens, and boats. Let’s find what suits your version of island life.