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Islands in Canada are adventure playgrounds for dreamers, nature enthusiasts, and culture aficionados. Canada, coast to coast and north to the Arctic, has gargantuan landscapes, multicultural cities, and legendary destinations like the Rockies, Niagara Falls, and the northern lights. Its capital, Ottawa, is located where the Ottawa and Rideau Rivers converge in southern Ontario. It is renowned for Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and its rich arts and food culture. Canada is famous for its people, four-season climate, and cultural mosaic. Canada’s islands are as varied as the country, each combining natural splendour, native flavour, and a lifetime of memories.
10 Canadian Islands To Visit On Holiday
Canadian islands present travellers with raw beauty, cultural depth, and legendary adventures seasonally.
1. Uncover Prince Edward Island’s Red Shores
Photo: Jiaqian AirplaneFan / Wikimedia Commons
Prince Edward Island, the island province and smallest of the ten provinces, is a storybook land with its renowned red-sand beaches, undulating green hills, and Anne of Green Gables walking trails. Travellers bike along the Confederation Trail, tour restored lighthouses, and savour fresh seafood in pretty coastal villages. The island’s easygoing spirit, welcoming residents, and stunning sunsets over the Gulf of St. Lawrence are an enchanted retreat.
Location: Off Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, Eastern Canada
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Nearest Airport: Charlottetown Airport (YYG), 10 km from the city centre
2. Track Along Clifftop Scenery Of Cape Breton Island
Photo: Aconcagua / Wikimedia Commons
Cape Breton Island has towering cliffs, Celtic culture, and the fabled Cabot Trail. It is where visitors can climb Cape Breton Highlands National Park, hear live Celtic music, and observe whales swimming off the rocky coastline. Scottish heritage on the island, welcoming towns, and landscapes that take one’s breath away ensure every moment is etched in one’s memory.
Location: Northeastern Nova Scotia
Nearest Airport: Sydney Airport (YQY), 20 km from Baddeck
Major Activities: Scenic drive, hiking, whale watching, Celtic music festivals
3. Surf The Wild Coast On Vancouver Island
Photo: Michal Klajban / Wikimedia Commons
Vancouver Island is a surfer’s, hiker’s, and nature lover’s paradise. One can surf in Tofino, hike in ancient rainforests, and observe orcas along the coast. Victoria, the island’s capital, delights with gardens, tea rooms, and British charm. The island’s varied landscape, from beaches to snow-covered peaks, hides endless adventure. Vancouver Island is a favourite among those seeking outdoor adventure and relaxed West Coast living.
Location: Off the southwest coast of British Columbia
Best Time To Visit: March to October
Nearest Airport: Victoria International Airport (YYJ), 25 km north of Victoria
4. Walk The Markets On Salt Spring Island
Photo: Tawker / Wikimedia Commons
Salt Spring Island, the gem of the Gulf Islands, is renowned for its lively farmers’ markets, artisan studios, and organic farms. Travellers can visit local crafts, taste cheese, and paddle through peaceful shores. The island’s artistic vibe and natural beauty beg you to lose yourself in the moment. Salt Spring Island is perfect for foodies, artists, and anyone seeking a peaceful, community-focused retreat.
Location: Halfway between mainland British Columbia and Vancouver Island
How To Reach: Ferries from Vancouver or Vancouver Island, floatplane from Vancouver
Nearest Airport: Victoria International Airport (YYJ), 35 km via ferry
5. Camp Under Stars At Manitoulin Island
Photo: Xander Ashburn / Wikimedia Commons
Manitoulin Island, the globe’s largest freshwater island, is an astronomer’s and camper’s paradise. Travellers kayak between cobalt-blue lakes, take the renowned Cup and Saucer Trail hike, and learn about Indigenous life at powwows on the island. The serene forests, glistening waters, and friendly communities on the island make the experience unforgettable. Manitoulin Island is ideal for returning to nature and uncovering the heart of Ontario’s wilderness.
Location: Northern Ontario, on Lake Huron
How To Reach: Drive across Little Current Swing Bridge, ferry from Tobermory (May-Oct)
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Nearest Airport: Greater Sudbury Airport (YSB), 180 km by car
6. Pick Apples At Ile D’Orléans
Photo: Lynda Sanchez / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Île d’Orléans, Quebec City’s rural neighbour, is famous for orchards, vineyards, and historic romance. Cycle through charming villages, apple picking in the fall, and sample cider and cheese. French culture, rolling hills on the island, and food make each experience unforgettable. Île d’Orléans is a gourmet, couples’ heaven, and a mix of old-world romance and natural beauty for all travellers.
Location: St. Lawrence River, close to Quebec City
How To Reach: Cars from Quebec City (15 km) and public transport buses are available
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Nearest Airport: Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB), 30 km by road
7. Embrace The Spirit At Haida Gwaii
Photo: TimBray / Wikimedia Commons
Haida Gwaii, “Islands of the People,” has Indigenous heritage and unspoiled natural beauty. Tourists can see ancient totem poles, kayak isolated bays, and walk through moss-covered forests. The islands are a wildlife haven and living museum of Haida heritage, offering a unique opportunity to experience Canada’s heritage. Haida Gwaii is ideal for the adventure-taker, culture buff, and those with a real sense of wonder.
Location: Off the north coast of British Columbia
How To Reach: Flights to Sandspit (YZP) or Masset from Vancouver, or take ferries from Prince Rupert
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Nearest Airport: Sandspit Airport (YZP), 5 km north of Sandspit
8. Pedal The Peace At Wolfe Island
Photo: Laslovarga / Wikimedia Commons
Wolfe Island, the largest island in the Thousand Islands, is a biker’s dream destination with rolling countryside roads and wind farm vistas. Riders can experience quiet trails, sunbathing on sandy shores, and the warm greeting of Ontario’s small towns. The island’s easy nature, friendly citizens, and accessibility from Kingston render it an appealing destination for day trips or weekend getaways.
Location: Mouth of the St. Lawrence River, off Kingston, Ontario
Best Time To Visit: May to October
Nearest Airport: Kingston Airport (YGK), 13 km from the ferry terminal
9. Kayak The Channels At Thousand Islands
Photo: Meskens / Wikimedia Commons
The Thousand Islands is a labyrinth of green islands and glinting channels on the St. Lawrence River. Trippers can kayak through waters of crystalline purity, visit fairy-tale castles, and see ospreys flying overhead. The combination of natural beauty and historical interest in the region makes a trip not to be missed. The Thousand Islands is ideal for kayakers, boaters, and romantically disposed individuals to get a distinct Canadian experience.
Location: Between New York State and Ontario, the St. Lawrence River
How To Reach: Drive to Kingston or Gananoque, or join a boat tour
Best Time To Visit: June to September
Nearest Airport: Kingston Airport (YGK), 40 km away from Gananoque
10. Discover The Arctic Serenity At Baffin Island
Photo: Ansgar Walk / Wikimedia Commons
Baffin Island, Canada’s largest island, is a world of glaciers, fjords, and polar bears. Explorers can hike Auyuittuq National Park, witness the midnight sun, and observe Inuit culture in isolated villages. Baffin Island’s Arctic beauty, wildlife, and tranquillity offer a different adventure. Baffin Island is not for all, as rugged beauty and unforgettable northern adventure await. Activities like trekking, wildlife, and the northern lights are its main attractions.
Location: Nunavut, north of the Arctic Circle
How To Reach: Flight from Montreal or Ottawa to Iqaluit (YFB)
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Nearest Airport: Iqaluit Airport (YFB), the central airport of the island
Canada’s islands are an adventure haven, a cultural melting pot, and a nature’s paradise, each with a unique experience for all travellers. Out west, Vancouver Island is paradise for hikers, surfers, and wildlife enthusiasts. At the same time, Haida Gwaii is full of Indigenous culture and untamed beauty. Salt Spring Island encourages you to take it easy with oceanfront and craft stores. Beginning your travels? With TripXL, planning your dream holiday to such amazing islands in Canada is simple, secure, and filled with insider tips. Start your journey with TripXL, your one-stop shop for the top islands in Canada for holidays and beyond!
Cover Photo: Mwanner / Wikimedia Commons
