SALT SPRING ISLAND – Visit a place that is close to home – but seems like a world away! The Southern Gulf Islands are recognized as a great destination to visit particularly after being featured in the New York Times as one of the “52 Places to go in 2016”.
To help our five Island mecca build on this global exposure, the Chambers of Commerce from Galiano, Mayne, Pender, Salt Spring, and the Saturna Island Tourism Association, with the support of Destination BC’s Co-op Marketing Partnerships Program have created the “Experience the Southern Gulf Islands” initiative.
Featuring spectacular landscapes, unique natural attractions, water based activities, and interesting creative communities, each of the islands offers a unique recipe for providing an experience with lasting memories. The Southern Gulf Islands has an isolated character while being closely connected to the population centres of the lower mainland and Southern Vancouver Island.
Galiano Island’s festivals and arts scene includes the Kunamokst Mural, along with hiking delights, nationally acclaimed restaurants and the family friendly Montegue Marine Park. Mayne Island offers laid-back charms, the renowned Japanese Garden, craft markets, eco tours and kayak adventures, varied dining options and beautiful views from the Georgina Point Lighthouse. Pender Island offers two islands to explore, with beaches and seaside vistas, several accessible marina’s, numerous hiking trails with one featuring 21 pin disc golf.
Salt Spring Island is well known for its famous arts and wellness communities, its hive of “alternative lifestyles”, the famous Saturday Market and culinary options from vineyards, a craft brewery and many, passionate agricultural producers, often with roadside stands. Saturna Island offers an abundance of nature trails including East Point Park well known for its marine and aerial wildlife watching and the famous annual Saturna Lamb BBQ – now in its 67th year!
All of these memorable island treasures are surrounded by the waters of the Salish Sea and the recently created Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. One can kayak and canoe in some of the most protected waterways on the coast.
With the “Experience the Southern Gulf Islands” already headed toward a new and effective “brand”, the Gulf Islands Chambers of Commerce with Destination BC’s collective marketing initiative, is attracting a visitor audience ready for a unique experience to discover the Islands’ many and diverse treasures. We need to remember that they will also want to experience other popular BC attractions throughout our region. They will travel and stay near you too!
Expect a significant economic impact for all of us; be willing to participate in the opportunity!
– Jeremy Milsom is the Communications Director of the Salt Spring Island Chamber of Commerce. For more information on the organization, please visit www.saltspringchamber.com.
