Last Updated on October 22, 2025

Texada Island: Your Ultimate Off-The-Beaten-Path Family Escape

If you know the Gulf Islands, you’re probably thinking of Salt Spring’s lively markets, Galiano’s ocean views, or Pender’s cozy cottages. But travel a little farther north, and you’ll find Texada Island — the largest, quietest, and perhaps most underrated of them all.

Nicknamed “The Rock,” Texada sits where the Strait of Georgia widens, between the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island. It’s a place where old mining roads lead to mossy forests open to sweeping mountain views, and beaches hide volcanic stones patterned like flowers.

This rugged island blends natural beauty, history, and small-town hospitality in a way that feels truly off the beaten path. And getting there — via three ferries from Vancouver — is an adventure all on its own.

Where It Is — And Why It’s Different

Texada Island lies just south of Powell River, off British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. It’s technically part of the Northern Gulf Islands but feels worlds apart from the busier southern ones. At roughly 50 km long and 10 km wide, it’s massive — more than twice the size of Salt Spring Island — yet home to only about 1,100 residents spread among three main communities: Van Anda, Gillies Bay, and Blubber Bay.

The north end of the island holds most of the population and services, while the south remains wild, forested, and perfect for those who crave solitude. You’ll find beaches dotted with driftwood, and enough winding backroads to make you feel like you’re discovering your own corner of the world.

Getting There — The Ferry Adventure

Reaching Texada from Vancouver is part of the journey — and the fun. It usually involves a scenic chain of three ferry rides:

Horseshoe Bay → Langdale (to the Sunshine Coast) – 40 Minutes
Drive north along the beautiful Sunshine Coast Highway to Earls Cove – 75 Minutes
Earls Cove → Saltery Bay – 50 Minutes
Continue north to Powell River – 30 Minutes
Powell River → Blubber Bay (Texada Island) – 40 Minutes

Yes, that’s three ferries — but each sailing is a chance to take in more of coastal B.C.’s beauty. You’ll pass tiny islands, deep forested coves, and stretches of ocean so still it looks like polished glass.

A few important things to know:

Cost: At current rates (October 2025), a roundtrip for a vehicle and passengers from Vancouver all the way to Texada costs around $300. Always check current rates at BCFerries.com before booking.
Reservations: Of the three ferries, only Horseshoe Bay → Langdale can be reserved in advance. The other two ferries — Earls Cove → Saltery Bay and Powell River → Blubber Bay — do not accept reservations.
Timing: If you’re making the full trip from Vancouver, give yourself plenty of buffer time and get an early start to make all connections smoothly. Otherwise, you might find yourself waiting between ferries, cutting into your first day on the island.

If you have an early ferry start from Vancouver, you can actually make it to Texada in time for dinner. We left before sunrise (6am ferry), hopped our way up the coast, and rolled off the final ferry in Blubber Bay just as the evening light turned everything gold.

Because the first day is essentially a travel day, we highly recommend staying at least four nights if you’re coming from Vancouver — especially if you want time to hike and explore in depth. We stayed three nights, and while it was the perfect mini fall getaway, we found ourselves wishing we had just one more day to explore the the island and relax a bit longer.

Mining History — Iron, Gold, And Grit

Texada has a fascinating mining past that shaped its communities. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the island was a bustling hub for iron, copper, and gold mining. Van Anda, now a sleepy seaside village, was once a boomtown complete with three hotels with saloons, a hospital, and several stores and businesses.

Remnants of that era still exist in the island’s museums and trails. Old quarries and rusted industrial relics now sit quietly among the moss and salal, reminders of how hard people once worked to extract wealth from this rugged landscape. Today, Texada’s economy has shifted toward tourism, logging, and limestone quarrying, but that pioneer spirit still lingers in the friendliness of locals and the sense of resilience that defines the island.

The Island’s Geologic Treasure — The Famous “Flower Rocks”

Texada’s geological claim to fame is its unique flower rocks (Chrysanthemum stone). These striking stones are black volcanic rock speckled with white, star-shaped feldspar crystals that resemble blooming flowers. They’re found in only a few places on Earth, and Texada is one of them.

Hunting for these stones along beaches and gravel bars has become a beloved pastime for locals and visitors alike. They’re especially easy to spot on damp days when the rock’s dark surface contrasts with the bright, petal-like formations. Many people polish them into jewelry or display them proudly in island shops — but even finding one “in the wild” feels like discovering a secret.

The island is one of the few places in the world where these unique “flower rocks” (or Chrysanthemum stones) naturally occur. The best spots to look for them include:

Beaches near Blubber Bay and Gillies Bay – rocks washed up along the shoreline often reveal the star-like patterns.
Quarry areas – especially older, inactive quarries where stones have been exposed by past excavation.
Gravel bars along streams and small creeks – after rainfall, the stones are easier to spot among darker rocks.

Tip: Look for dark-gray or black stones with natural white flower-like formations. Each one is slightly different, making the hunt part of the fun!

We found these, and many more, at Shelter Point beach.

Hiking Texada — Don’t Miss Mount Davies

Texada’s wild interior is crisscrossed with old logging roads and hidden trails, and if you’re up for a bit of adventure, Mount Davies offers one of the best hikes on the island.

The trail weaves through a lush forest draped in moss before breaking out into sweeping views over the Strait of Georgia. On a clear day, you can see the Coast Mountains, Vancouver Island, and the smaller Gulf Islands stretching out below.

It’s not a busy trail — in fact, we didn’t see another soul the entire hike — and that solitude is exactly what makes it special. Pack plenty of water, and allow yourself time to linger at the summit. You’ll feel like you’ve stumbled upon one of B.C.’s best-kept secrets.

Wildlife On Texada Island

With so few people and so much open space, wildlife easily outnumbers humans on Texada. Keep an eye on the roads — deer often dash across unexpectedly — though the island is free of large predators, making hiking and exploring the island feel safe and serene.

Look skyward for bald eagles, and bring binoculars to spot some of the island’s 200+ bird species. Along the coast, you may catch sight of majestic great blue herons, playful otters, seals, or even passing dolphins, orcas, and humpback whales. At Emily Lake in Van Anda, the Western Painted turtles bask in the sun, giving the spot its local nickname: Turtle Lake.

Where We Stayed: Rocky Valley Resort

For our Texada getaway, we stayed at Rocky Valley Resort, a family-owned property that perfectly balances rustic charm with comfort. Nestled in a peaceful valley surrounded by towering evergreens, the resort feels secluded yet convenient — just a short drive from the ferry and local amenities.

The retreat offers nine accommodations — thoughtfully situated to ensure both privacy and stunning views. Guests can choose from a mix of cozy tiny homes, charming A-frames, and spacious family-style cabins, ranging in size from 250 to 750 square feet.

About Rocky Valley Resort

Alberta natives and owners Brian and Shannon had been living in Costa Rica, but the pandemic quickly upended their plans. As the world came to a halt, they found themselves on the last flight back to British Columbia, unsure of what came next — a journey that eventually led them to their dream property on Texada Island.

“When we first arrived, you couldn’t even walk through the land,” Brian recalled as we explored the grounds. Over the following year, the couple worked tirelessly, clearing fallen trees and rocks, while Brian milled local fir and cedar to build much of the resort’s infrastructure.

Combining Shannon’s creative vision with Brian’s hands-on skills, they transformed the property into a welcoming retreat. Their adult sons pitched in as well, helping bring the family’s vision to life — a space designed for guests to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the serenity of Texada Island.

Shady Pine Cottage

We stayed in the Shady Pine Cottage, which was ideal for our big family. It had a full kitchen, two bedrooms that comfortably slept 6 between them, a cozy living area, and a large deck surrounded by forest — perfect for morning coffee or evening relaxation. The décor is simple and warm, with wood finishes, natural light, and a homey island feel.

Rocky Valley Resort goes beyond basic lodging. Its amenities are impressive for an island getaway, offering:

Hot tub, sauna, and cold plunge pools — these were our family’s favorite way to unwind after a day of hiking. Three of our kids tried their first cold plunges (with lots of squeals and laughter!), while we enjoyed relaxing together in the sauna. The hot tub was our go-to way to end the evening, even on a rainy night, providing the perfect way to relax, warm up, and reflect on the day’s adventures.

BBQ and picnic areas for family-friendly meals outdoors.
Communal firepit for cozy evenings under the stars.
Outdoor movie theatre for summertime films.
Laundry facilities, a huge perk for families or longer stays.
Rentals and tours — the resort can help you access boats, bikes, and guided tours of the island, making it easy to explore Texada even if you didn’t bring all your own gear.
Friendly owners who provide tips on trails, beaches, and local hidden gems.

Rocky Valley Resort is the kind of place where you can unwind completely — whether it’s sipping your morning coffee while listening to birds, or soaking in the hot tub as the rain falls around you. For families, groups, or anyone looking for a blend of adventure and comfort, it makes Texada feel accessible, cozy, and memorable.

Fall On Texada — Quiet, Cool, And Utterly Relaxing

Our trip was a mid-October fall getaway, and while the days were shorter and the air carried that unmistakable autumn crispness, it was incredibly relaxing. We wandered mossy trails with leaves crunching underfoot, and enjoyed the rare treat of having beaches and hiking trails completely to ourselves.

That said, summer is the ideal time to visit if you’re hoping for more predictable weather and longer daylight hours. July and August bring warmer water for swimming, open local markets, and a few more dining options. It’s also busier — so book accommodations well in advance.

But in fall, there’s a special kind of peace on Texada. The air smells like cedar and rain, the ferries are less busy, and you can stand on a bluff and hear nothing but wind and waves. It’s the perfect season for those who crave stillness.

Practical Tips For Visiting Texada Island

Plan your ferries carefully. Check BC Ferries schedules and leave buffer time for transfers. Summer crossings can fill up fast, especially if you’re driving.
Stay at least four nights. With one full travel day, you’ll want time to hike, beach-hop, and unwind without feeling rushed.
Bring food and supplies. There are a couple of small stores on the island, but selection is limited compared to the mainland.
Pack for all weather. Even in summer, coastal clouds can roll in quickly. Layers and rain gear are essential.
Be self-sufficient on the road. Texada does not have an auto repair shop, and even the gas station is closed on Sundays, so make sure you have all the gear and knowledge you need in case of a flat tire or other roadside issue. A spare tire, jack, and tire-changing tools are must-haves — you’ll need to be able to handle it yourself.
Support local. Stop by the Texada Island Inn, the museum in Van Anda, or grab a coffee in Gillies Bay. Every purchase helps this small community thrive.
Leave no trace. Texada’s wildness is part of its charm — keep it that way by respecting trails and beaches.

Why Texada Should Be On Your Radar

Texada Island is unlike any other Gulf Island — big, rugged, quiet, and full of surprises. From moss-covered forests to the shimmering beaches dotted with flower rocks, it’s a destination that rewards curiosity and a slower pace of travel. Whether you’re looking to hike, hunt for unique stones, or simply escape the crowds, Texada offers an authentic island experience that feels both adventurous and restorative.

If you’re planning your next getaway in British Columbia, make sure Texada Island is on your list. Pack your boots, bring your sense of wonder, and don’t forget the spare tire — because this is one journey where the destination is worth every ferry ride and every mile traveled. Once you arrive, the island’s quiet charm and natural beauty will make it clear why it’s one of B.C.’s best-kept secrets.

Love it? Pin it for later!