If you want to feel like you're on a tropical vacation this year, without leaving Canada, this tiny island in B.C. is your best bet. It's a ferry trip away from Vancouver, and has velvety white sand, clear turquoise water, and incredible views all around.
The beach on this island has been named on rankings time and time again, famed for its incredible beauty and warm water. If you're willing to make the journey here, it makes for a trip you won't forget.
This is Hornby Island, a small island in B.C. that's known as one of the warmest salt water swimming spots in the province, according to BC Parks. It's got many claims to fame though, with Tribune Bay Park — the go-to destination on the island – boasting "close to 1 km of fine white sand beach" and water that reaches "near tropical temperatures during the summer."
It all works to make this place a little slice of paradise, earning it the nickname of "Little Hawaii."
While the breathtaking beach of Tribune Bay is a big draw, Hornby Island has a lot to offer. Helliwell Park is right there and has high bluffs that make it especially scenic, along with winding trails that take you past old-growth trees.
In total the small island has three provincial parks (it's actually 40% parkland) and 70 hiking and biking trails to explore.
The island has no shortage of beautiful scenery, but the local businesses and tours here also make a summer trip that much better. Hornby has 60 professional artists, and you can shop the local goods and tour studios all around.
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Driving around, you'll spot roadside farm stands, but the Farmers' Market is the perfect place to experience the vibrant, creative community. It runs on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the summer, from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The local food is also amazing, with everything from bakeries to honey wineries. Forage Farm and Kitchen is a go-to place to eat here.
As for how to get to Hornby Island, there's a few options. From Vancouver, you can book a BC Ferries trip, which will take you on three different ferries. First you'll go to Buckley Bay, then to Denman Island, and finally to Hornby.
There's also other options like taking a float plane with Gulf Island Seaplanes, or even taking a private boat.
If you want a summer trip that you won't forget, this is the spot to go.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
