The BC Gulf Islands: Located off the southern tip of the British Columbia, Canada, coast line, these islands are easily my favorite. Home to much exquisite wildlife, the Gulf Islands lie between the giant island of Vancouver Island (about 450 miles long and bigger than Japan!) and the mainland coast, home to the fabulous city of Vancouver, BC.

The Gulf Islands are many islands nestled in the southern half off Vancouver Island. They stretch up the coastline protected from the open Pacific waters by the big Vancouver Island, whose mountain range up its spine captures the abundant rains that come in off the ocean, leaving calmer and sunnier waters and climates inside between the mainland's giant mountains and those of the island.

Countless tiny Gulf Islands lay scattered amongst the bigger Gulf Islands that are home to many vital island communities. Each island has its own personality and topography. There are two main groups: the southern Gulf Islands (2), and the northern Gulf Islands (1). The southern tend to be more populated and closer to the main population centers of Vancouver and Victoria, which sits on the sunny southern tip of Vancouver Island. The western shores of the mainland enclose the Gulf Islands and are called the Sunshine Coast for the great weather that the potected coastlines' niches and harbours have because of their protection and position between the two mountain ranges.

The waters teem with salmon of many species, seals, walruses, whales, eagles above and world famous diving below. Clean, the inland waters are washed by glacier fed fiords and inlets that produce the best oysters in the world. All kinds of birds and animals populate the islands. Many native Indian bands make the islands their traditional homes and have lived here for milleniums. The area is a boaters' and kayakers' paradise: countless bays, beaches, coves, isles and islands delight the voyager.

Provincial parks abound on the islands for camping and recreational pleasures. The islands are home to many famous artists and crafters who find the island lifestyle irresitible for its seclusions and rustic charms. BC Ferries, the largest ferry corporation in the world, services many of the islands and keeps the populations connected to the outer world. Bed and breakfasts abound as do fishing lodges. All sorts of tours are available from land, sea and air. There is always something new to explore. The parks protect some of the giant trees that remain from its old growth past: douglas fir, spruce, pine and the unique Arbutus tree.