Quick Facts
Location: Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park, Galiano Island, BC
Region: Southern Gulf Islands
Park Size: 97 hectares
Trail Length: Short forest loops
Time: 1–4 hours (day use), overnight camping available
Difficulty: Easy
Admission: Free day-use; camping fees apply
Facilities: Campsites, pit toilets, boat launch, mooring buoys
Best Season: Summer (June–September)
Dog Friendly: Yes (on leash)
Also Known As: Montague Harbour Marine Park
Info
Parking / Access
Montague Harbour Provincial Park
End of Montague Park Road, Galiano Island
Getting There
By Ferry: BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Sturdies Bay (~50 min), then 10 km drive south
By Boat: Protected anchorage with mooring buoys (fees apply)
By Seaplane: Services to Galiano Island from Vancouver/Nanaimo
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Montague Harbour located?
Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park is on the southwest side of Galiano Island in British Columbia's Southern Gulf Islands. The park protects a sheltered bay that has been a gathering place for Coast Salish peoples for thousands of years, featuring unique white shell beaches and old-growth coastal forest.
How do I get to Montague Harbour?
Take BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Sturdies Bay on Galiano Island (approximately 50 minutes). From the ferry terminal, drive south on Sturdies Bay Road, turn onto Montague Park Road, and follow it to the park entrance—about 10 km total. The harbour is also accessible by private boat or kayak.
Is there an entrance fee for Montague Harbour?
Day-use parking at Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park is free. Camping fees apply for overnight stays, and mooring buoys have nightly fees for boaters. Reservations are recommended in summer.
What facilities are available at Montague Harbour?
The park offers 25 vehicle-accessible campsites and 15 walk-in sites, pit toilets, a hand pump for water (treat before drinking), a small boat launch, and mooring buoys. There are no showers or electrical hookups. Bring all supplies as services on Galiano Island are limited.
What activities can I do at Montague Harbour?
Popular activities include hiking on forested trails, beach walking and shell collecting on the unique white shell beaches, kayaking and paddleboarding in the protected waters, swimming in summer, camping, birdwatching, and photography. The calm harbour is ideal for beginner paddlers.
When is the best time to visit Montague Harbour?
Summer (June–September) offers the warmest weather, best swimming conditions, and longest days. Spring and fall are quieter with pleasant hiking weather. The park is accessible year-round, but winter services are limited and weather can be unpredictable.
Are dogs allowed at Montague Harbour?
Yes, dogs are permitted in the park but must be kept on leash at all times. Please clean up after your pet and be respectful of wildlife and other visitors.
What wildlife might I see at Montague Harbour?
The park and surrounding waters are home to harbour seals, sea lions, bald eagles, great blue herons, river otters, and various shorebirds and seabirds. Tidepools along the shore reveal sea stars and other marine life at low tide.
What makes Montague Harbour special?
The park features rare white shell beaches created over thousands of years of Coast Salish harvesting, one of the most scenic protected anchorages in the Gulf Islands, old-growth coastal forest, and a peaceful island atmosphere. It's a traditional gathering place with deep Indigenous history.
Is there cell phone service at Montague Harbour?
Cell service on Galiano Island can be spotty. Expect limited or no service in some areas of the park, particularly in forested sections. Plan accordingly and inform others of your plans.
What should I bring to Montague Harbour?
Bring drinking water or water treatment supplies, food and cooking gear if camping, layers of clothing for changing island weather, kayak or paddleboard for water activities, camera for scenic views, and all supplies you'll need—services on Galiano Island are limited.
