Swimming spots, picnic areas and scenic nature escapes
Salt Spring Island is surrounded by the warm waters of the Gulf Islands and dotted with freshwater lakes perfect for swimming. From sandy beaches to rocky coves to warm lake swimming holes, there's a spot for every kind of water lover.
Open our Google My Maps and select the Beaches & Parks layer to see all locations pinned on the island. Use the legend icon (☰) in the top-left corner to toggle between map layers.
Open Google Map →One of Salt Spring's most loved beaches — warm, shallow water, sandy shore with views of Prevost Island. Ideal for families.
Beddis Rd, South of Ganges
Calm, sheltered swimming beach near the Vesuvius ferry terminal. Shallow water, good for children. Picnic tables.
Vesuvius Bay Rd
Popular beach park in Fulford Harbour area with playground, picnic tables and views to the ferry dock.
Fulford-Ganges Rd near Fulford
Downtown Ganges waterfront park. Great for picnics with views of Ganges Harbour.
Ganges Harbour, downtown
Warm freshwater lake with a public access point — ideal for swimming, paddleboarding and kayaking in summer.
Cusheon Lake Rd
Salt Spring Island's largest freshwater lake. Public beach access for swimming. Kayak/canoe rentals available nearby.
North End
Quiet, warm freshwater swimming lake accessible from a short path. Beloved by locals.
Fulford area
Small, peaceful freshwater lake in the south end area. Good for a quiet swim.
South End
Scenic lake with forested surroundings. Walking path around the lake. Bird watching.
Blackburn Rd
Scenic mountain lake near the summit of Mount Maxwell. Cool, clear water.
Near Mt Maxwell summit
Small rocky beach on the north end accessed via Quarry Drive. Lovely sunset views.
Quarry Drive, North End
Remote pebble beach on the northeast side of the island. Excellent for beachcombing and solitude.
Walker's Hook Rd, Long Harbour
Dramatic rocky shoreline with some sandy pocket beaches. Part of the largest provincial park on SSI.
Beaver Point Rd
Small public beach and dock area in Fulford village. Watch the BC Ferries come and go.
Fulford village
Rocky beach on the northeast shore. Good for exploring tide pools at low tide.
North End, east shore
Small community beach and pier at Fernwood. Calm water, views of Galiano Island.
Fernwood Rd, North End