Ready to explore the stunning Gulf Islands? Plan the perfect day trip or weekend escape to Salt Spring Island with Harbour Air. From artisan markets to scenic hikes and seaside dining, our guide highlights the top summer activities that make Salt Spring Island a must-visit destination. Keep reading to start planning your island adventure today!

Travel to Salt Spring Island in Minutes: Your Seaplane Adventure Awaits 

Maximize your island adventure and cut your travel time with Harbour Air’s convenient seaplane flights to Salt Spring Island. In just 20 minutes from Downtown Victoria, 25 minutes from Richmond (YVR South), or 35 minutes from Downtown Vancouver, you’ll arrive in the heart of Salt Spring—no traffic, no ferry waits. With fast, scenic flights and multiple daily departures, Harbour Air makes it easy to explore Salt Spring Island’s artisan shops, local food scene, and stunning natural beauty—all in a single unforgettable day trip. 
 

Spend the Day on Salt Spring Island return flights start from $249.

Salt Spring Island Saturday Market  

Make sure to plan your trip over the weekend to catch the Salt Spring Island Saturday Market, which runs every Saturday from 9am to 3pm-ish from now until October 25th, 2025. Head to Centennial Park in Ganges to find local fresh produce, jewelry, clothing, art, and many more artisanal creations.  
 

Explore Salt Spring Island with a Tour 

Looking for an easy, stress-free way to explore Salt Spring Island? Let the experts do the planning! Book a curated experience with Tour Salt Spring, offering popular options like a sightseeing tour or a wine and libations tour. Discover local gems including artist studios, lush rainforest walks, working farms, cheesemakers, and panoramic viewpoints of the Gulf Islands.

Prefer to explore at your own pace? The Salt Spring Hop On Hop Off Bus is the perfect way to create your own artisan adventure. With convenient stops at top attractions like Salt Spring Island Cheese and Goat Farm, Sacred Mountain Lavender Farm, Salt Spring Brewing Co., Garry Oaks Estate Winery, Ciderworks & Salt Spring Apple Co., and Island Bees Honey Tasting, it’s the easiest way to experience the best of Salt Spring Island. Whether guided or self-paced, your perfect island day awaits.
 

Explore on Your Own Time

See all the sights and enjoy all the special spots on Salt Spring Island with Salt Spring Car & Scooter Rentals. Rent a car or a single/double scooter, and cruise around the island at your own pace. Discover hidden beaches, scenic viewpoints, and local markets without having to stick to a schedule. It’s the perfect way to experience Salt Spring’s laid-back charm and natural beauty on your own terms. Book ahead to not be disappointed.

Spend the Day Shopping on Salt Spring Island 

A day trip to Salt Spring Island isn’t complete without exploring its one-of-a-kind local shops and artisan boutiques. Start your shopping adventure at the Waterfront Gallery, featuring stunning works by local artists with a focus on West Coast-inspired art. Just a short stroll away, Artcraft in Mahon Hall showcases handcrafted goods from over 100 Gulf Island artists, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, and more. For curated fashion, home décor, and gifts, Twang & Pearl is a must-visit Salt Spring boutique known for its eclectic, boho-chic vibe. Stop by Mouat's Clothing, part of Salt Spring’s oldest general store, for stylish, practical apparel perfect for island life. Don’t miss Old Salty, a quirky, locally loved shop filled with nautical treasures, gifts, and souvenirs. Whether you're hunting for the perfect keepsake or simply window-shopping, Salt Spring’s unique shops offer a truly memorable island retail experience. 
 

Indulge in the Vibrant Food Scene  

Photo credit: Destination BC
 

Spending the day on Salt Spring Island isn’t complete without indulging in its vibrant food scene. Start your culinary adventure at the Treehouse Café, a charming spot nestled beneath a giant tree, known for its cozy ambiance and live music alongside hearty breakfasts and fresh coffee. For lunch or dinner with a view, head to Auntie Pesto’s, where waterfront dining meets locally inspired Italian cuisine. Cool off with a handcrafted treat from Glad's Gelateria, a local favourite for authentic gelato made with organic ingredients. Cap off your day with a visit to Salt Spring Wild Cider, where you can sip crisp, small-batch ciders made from wild and heritage apples, all while enjoying panoramic orchard views. Whether you're a foodie or just hungry for something memorable, Salt Spring Island serves up a delicious day trip you won’t forget.
 

Embrace the Outdoors

If you're feeling like letting out your adventurous side, Salt Spring Adventure Co. can help with that! Take your pick from whale watching, kayak or paddleboard rentals, or choose from their adventure packages. There is no better way to connect to nature and the stunning scenery Salt Spring Island offers than by spending the day on the water.
 

That’s a wrap!  

After your day on Salt Spring Island, fly back home on a Harbour Air seaplane for a quick and seamless return trip.