Getting Here & Getting Around
5 km from downtown Nanaimo, most people access Gabriola via BC Ferries.
Once you’re here, there are 158 kilometres of roads to walk, cycle and drive.
Getting Here
Ferry
BC Ferries runs the ferry between Nanaimo and Gabriola. Foot passengers, bikes and vehicles are all welcome. Find the best times to travel.
Float Plane
Float planes run daily from the south terminal of Vancouver International Airport.
Private Boat
Arriving by boat? We have two marinas and a public wharf to welcome you.
Getting Around
Share the road
There are no sidewalks or bicycle lanes on the island. Ride or walk single file. Be aware of narrow road sections, poor road conditions, uneven edges and wildlife. There’s lots of deer on this island!
E-bikes are welcome and a common sight on the island!
Electric Cars
An electric car charging station is located in the Madrona Marketplace parking lot on North Road.
Boating
Cruise or sail to the southeast end of Gabriola where there are two marinas with docks, fuel and moorage in Silva Bay, and a public wharf with moorage in Degnen Bay.
Radio either marina on VHF 66A and they will assist you into a slip.
Use charts 3475 or 3443. Latitude 49.149965 and Longitude -123.695662.
Public Transportation
Descanso Bay Campground
Categories
Camping
About
From Descanso Bay's website: '?Descanso Bay Regional Park is located on 40 acres of oceanfront property on charming Gabriola Island. Located only a short walk from the ferry terminal and village center the park is in an ideal location for discovering all Gabriola has to offer. The campground accommodates trucks and trailers, motor homes and tents and is easily accessed by foot, bike or kayak. This Regional Park is also adjacent to Cox Community Park which has an established network of trails through a majestic forest setting. With three private bays and a small boat launch area, explore the unique sandstone shoreline in your own kayak or in one of our rentals!'
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