Gabriola 101: an Introduction to the Island of the Arts
We're proud of our island - and for good reason. Gabriola has almost everything that almost anyone would need.
Where We Are
Gabriola Island is situated a short (about twenty minutes) ferry ride from Nanaimo, British Columbia. Gabriola is one of the Gulf Islands of British Columbia, situated in the Strait of Georgia, between Vancouver Island and the British Columbia mainland.
How to Get Here
Gabriola is an island, so you will have to get here via ferry, float plane, or your own boat (or the boat of a kind friend!).
One of the Chamber's members (the Haven) has an excellent web page referring to the many ways to get to Gabriola. Click here to read the Haven's instructions on how to get to Gabriola. While you're at that site, take a look at all the programs and facilities offered by the Haven.
What Gabriola Island Looks Like
Gabriola is one of the larger Gulf Islands. There is enough flat land on Gabriola to sustain some farms, but most of the island is wooded and hilly. It's a great island for bicycling, as long as you don't mind the challenge of a couple of steep hills. It sometimes snows on Gabriola, but only around Christmas time, and only for a short while: you'll rarely see the snow stay for more than a few days, on those rare occasions when it does blanket the evergreen trees. For most Gabriolans, a snowfall just means a few days of not being able to work in the garden! You'll find plenty of parks on Gabriola, and several beaches. If you like winding roads, pleasant walks and lush greenery, you'll love Gabriola Island. Click here for a slide-show, of photographs taken on and around Gabriola
Who We Are
We have a growing population of a bit more than 4,500 people, from all walks of life. Many of us are retired, but many of us are still looking forward to retirement. We are a very welcoming and open-minded group, so you will find all sorts of interesting people as you explore Gabriola. Most Gabriolans are full-time residents, but there are also a considerable number of people who make Gabriola their "second home" on weekends and during the summer-time.