Hornby Island, Canada: 12 Beautiful Experiences with Your Family
Hornby Island, BC, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a laid-back island getaway. With stunning beaches, scenic hikes, amazing rock formations and unique local culture, this island offers something for everyone. Here are our top favourite 12 things to do whenever we visit Hornby Island:
Hike Helliwell Provincial Park
Experience breathtaking views of the ocean, cliffs, and old-growth forests while hiking the trails of Helliwell Provincial Park. This 5.5 km loop is perfect for all skill levels and offers panoramic vistas that make the trek well worth it. It is also a great place to bring a picnic and enjoy the views, however there isn’t a lot of shade once you leave the forest.
Swim at Tribune Bay
With its soft sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, Tribune Bay Park is a must-visit for exploring, swimming, lounging, or playing in the sun. The shallow, warm waters are ideal for families, and the beach, with its turquoise water, is often compared to the Caribbean! There is lots of parking and outhouses on-site at this Provincial Park.
Go Fossil Hunting
Unleash your inner archaeologist at Fossil Beach, where you can search for ancient fossils embedded in the rocks. It’s a great family activity and provides an opportunity to learn more about the island’s prehistoric past.
Bike Around the Island & Discover Water Tank Art
Exploring Hornby Island by bike is the perfect way to take in its natural beauty. Along the way, make sure to stop by the island’s unique water tank art installations—local works of creativity scattered across the landscape. It’s a great mix of outdoor adventure and local artistry and always leaves us wanting soup for lunch.
Visit Hornby Island’s Farmers Market
Hornby Island’s Farmers Market is a vibrant hub of local produce, handmade crafts, and artisan goods. It’s open on Wednesdays and Saturdays from 10:30 am – 1:30 pm during the summer and on Saturdays only in the spring and early fall. It is the perfect place to pick up fresh fruits, vegetables, baked goods, and island-made souvenirs. The market is popular, so go early to find parking on the nearby roads.
Picnic, Paddle, and Watch the Sunset at Grassy Point
Grassy Point is our favourite for picnicking and paddling in the calm waters while enjoying views of the surrounding islands. End your day by watching the stunning sunset —it’s one of the best spots on Hornby to witness the sky light up in hues of pink and orange.
Explore the Rock Formations at Sandpiper Beach
Sandpiper Beach’s striking rock formations create a picturesque setting for exploring tidal pools, beachcombing, and relaxing. It’s a quieter alternative to the more popular beaches and offers a more tranquil vibe. It’s hard to believe how different each of the beaches on this small island really are.
Relax at Whaling Station Bay
Whaling Station Bay is a family favourite for its calm waters and expansive sandy beach, perfect for beach games, sand castles or simply unwinding with a good book. This beach is our favourite spot for a peaceful day at the beach. It’s also less busy than the popular Tribune Bay.
Visit Farm Stands for Homemade Treats and Fresh Produce
The island’s farm stands are known for offering homemade treats, fresh flowers, and organic produce. Whether you’re looking for freshly baked bread, local honey, or vibrant bouquets, these stands give you a true taste of island living. Many stands are open all summer long but others offer baked goods on certain days of the week, these usually differ from the Farmer’s Market. We have found some amazing scones, homemade crackers, and fresh produce on our many stops.
Ringside Market – Foodie Favorites
Ringside Market is the go-to spot for great food in the heart of Hornby. Located beside the Co-op Store, where you will find anything you forgot to bring with you, and the Co-op Gas Station, the market has several interesting shops and food spots. Don’t miss Hornby Island Pizza, which serves up delicious wood-fired pies and live music some evenings, grab a treat at the ice cream and coffee bar, or a drink at the local juice bar. For a farm-to-table experience, check out Forage Farm Kitchen, where fresh ingredients from the island are turned into mouthwatering dishes. Another favourite is Vorizo Cafe, which serves up enormous burritos that are big enough to share. Across the street, there is also a local nursery, farm stand and a great spot for island gifts at Baird & Co.
Visit Local Artisans and Studios
Hornby Island is home to a vibrant community of artists. Take a tour of the island’s local artisan studios and galleries, where you can discover hand-crafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, sculptures and textiles. This is the perfect way to bring home a one-of-a-kind souvenir and support the island’s creative community.
Discover Hornby’s Wineries and Cider Spots
For wine and cider lovers, Hornby Island is home to some fantastic local vineyards and cideries. Spend a leisurely afternoon sampling locally crafted wines and ciders while taking in the stunning views of the island’s countryside. These spots offer a perfect pairing of relaxation and flavor. Visit Hi Winery for some bubbly, Hornby Heart Vinyard, and Fossil Beach Farm for local cider.
Conclusion
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, tranquil beach days, or a taste of local culture, Hornby Island offers it all. From hiking scenic coastal trails and swimming in pristine waters to discovering local art and savouring fresh island flavours, there’s no shortage of unique experiences to enjoy. Make sure to explore at least a few of these during your visit for an unforgettable trip that truly captures the beauty and charm of this little island paradise.
