Gabriola offers different focuses for trip planning: the village centre has sports facilities, a playground and paths; beaches, wetlands and hiking trails are among the natural and coastal attractions on Gabriola Island. Consider whether you want to focus mainly on activities in the village centre or on the island’s diverse destinations.

Sports, Play and Paths in the Village Centre

Huxley Community Park is in the village centre of Gabriola. Its two tennis courts and sports field can be booked through the Gabriola Recreation Society. Check current availability and booking information before making plans.

Paths from the park connect to the Folklife shopping center and The Commons. There is also a playground with equipment for children aged 2 to 5 and 5 to 12. The playground was completed in November 2017.

Beaches and Water on Gabriola Island

Gabriola Sands Park has two sandy beaches and large, well-maintained grassy areas. Designated swimming areas are available at Taylor Bay and Pilot Bay. The sandy beaches and shallow water are suitable for saltwater swimming. Check current safety information before swimming.

The park also offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. If you plan either activity, check the latest information before setting out. This lets you consider the designated swimming areas and paddling opportunities as different aspects of a park visit.

Walks and Nature on Gabriola Island

At Sandwell Park, an 800-metre walking path leads from the parking lot to the day-use and picnic area at Lock Bay beach. The final section is steep and slippery—a key consideration when planning your route. East of the day-use area, a prehistoric petroglyph in the sandstone can be viewed at low tide. This opportunity depends on the tide.

Drumbeg Park at the southern end of Gabriola Island has about two kilometres of easy, well-maintained walking and hiking trails. The details about Sandwell and Drumbeg help answer different questions: at Sandwell, the length, destination and a steep, slippery section are specified; Drumbeg offers an approximate indication of the length and character of its trails. Check current park information before your visit.

Whales, seals, sea lions, bald eagles and various waterfowl may be seen at Drumbeg Park. Sightings are not guaranteed.

Coats Marsh Regional Park on Gabriola Island is the island’s first protected wetland. An unpaved network of trails offers opportunities to observe the marsh habitat and birdlife. This adds another landscape to the coastal attractions without requiring you to expect a wildlife sighting.

Getting There and Accommodation Options

Descanso Bay ferry terminal is on the northwest side of Gabriola Island, with ferry connections to Nanaimo Harbour on Vancouver Island. Check the current ferry status before travelling.

Those considering camping instead of a hotel will find a campground at Descanso Bay Regional Park on Gabriola Island, with private, unserviced, wooded sites.

Discover more destinations: Bowser, Parksville, Cassidy, Qualicum Beach, Nanoose Bay, Nanaimo

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