Vancouver, the most populous city of Canada’s British Columbia province, has long been rated as one of the world’s most livable cities, with its spectacular harbor setting and ethnically diverse communities. While the city limits contain many exceptional sightseeing spots, you have to venture out to the outlying Gulf Islands to fully appreciate the majestic natural beauty on offer. Saturna Island is the most easterly of the Gulf Islands archipelago in the Strait of Georgia where Vancouver overlooks, and is known for its relatively unspoiled nature and great opportunities for whale watching. It is an ideal place for outdoor lovers to spend a few days hiking and kayaking around. Keep reading for the top Airbnb vacation rentals in and around Saturna Island, Canada.
1. Gorgeous private retreat on neighboring island (from USD 138)
The Gulf Islands are about a two to three-hour ferry ride from Vancouver, and are also interconnected among themselves via regular ferry services. From Saturna Island, you can try some island-hopping trips to the neighboring Mayne Island or Pender Islands, or further on to the Salt Spring Island, the biggest of the Gulf Islands. Conversely, you can find accommodations in the other islands to base in, and then go for day trips to Saturna Island. This gorgeous, three-story holiday rental near Saturna Island is located near the southern tip of the South Pender Island, and can host up to six guests. Enjoy short walks to the beaches nearby, or simply take in the ocean views from the balconies while you enjoy BBQ cookouts.
Pender Island, British Columbia, CanadaSuperhost Accommodates: 4
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the house is so inviting and comfortable exactly like in photos with a beautiful outdoor space to enjoya sun-drenched room perfect for relaxing with a booki loved the sunroom bedroom we could watch the stars from bedthe cabin is very well equipped with everything you might need for a cozy and relaxing staythe house was cozy and we loved the wood stove and board gamesCleanliness:
very clean nice living spaceso clean and well-appointedvery clean place and was cozythe house is very clean and comfortablewas clean and gloria was welcomingHost:
the host (gloria) was marvellous and we felt welcome throughoutgloria was a wonderful hostthis was a lovely home with added special touches by the hostsgloria and andy were great hostsgloria was also a fantastic hostRead more reviewsLocation:
great house in a great locationlovely location and spacecool cozy cabin in a great location on the island) the location was perfect for our needswe were very comfortable and the location was beautiful
2. Cozy cottage for outdoor pursuits (from USD 71)
The rustic Gulf Islands offer fantastic opportunities for outdoor pursuits such as cycling, fishing, hiking, boating, sailing and scuba diving. On more populated isles, you can even take tours to farms and artist studios featuring painters, potters and specialty cheese makers. To take in all these possibilities, all you need to do is to stay a few days in accommodations such as this cozy and tranquil cottage near Saturna Island, which offers two comfortable beds, an equipped kitchen, and even a courtyard with a view of the garden. A great base to venture out and explore the rural charms of the surrounding islands.
Pender Island, British Columbia, CanadaSuperhost Accommodates: 3
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we appreciated the wifi and the original artwork on the wallsalso having no tv or radio gave the feeling of a detachment from civilization and total relaxationthe sleeping loft is small and very comfortablethe whole property is beautiful and the cottage was very comfortablethe cottage is spacious and comfortableCleanliness:
very clean and a beautiful surroundingeverything was super cleanvery clean comfortable and an overall delightcute private very clean and inviting cottageclean comfortable and more spacious than i expectedHost:
friendly host thanks tracythe host tracy is so welcoming and kindfrom the moment we arrived tracy and jude were the perfect hosts and made us feel very welcomeslept better than we do at home tracy was a lovely hostbig thanks to our lovely hosts for creating a lovely home away from homeRead more reviewsLocation:
located within walking distance to a beautiful beach and a half hour walk to poet's coveclose to good hiking and kayakingperfect location for a wedding we were going tosuper cute and cozy place it made for a comfy stay for our young family’s trip to penderit’s a very quiet location and close to great hiking and nature
3. Beautiful house with breathtaking vistas (from USD 346)
If your idea of a vacation stay is to relax by the fireplace and gaze out at some breathtaking scenery, then this beautiful cottage-style accommodation near Saturna Island, set upon a ridge on South Pender Island, fits the bill to a tee. Check out the stunning living room, with floor-to-ceiling windows that offer you spectacular vistas of the island’s coves and coasts. And if you step out to its landscaped yard, you will find hammocks, tire swings, a BBQ grill and a fire pit – perfect for a fun outdoor cookout. There is also an in-ground trampoline and zip-line for your recreational purposes.
Pender Island, British Columbia, CanadaSuperhost Accommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the kitchen is well-appointed and you couldn't ask for a more breathtaking sunset viewthe kitchen was very well equipped and we loved using the barbecue on the patiobeautiful place quiet comfortable and relaxingCleanliness:
the place was very clean and well decoratedwe had to deep clean the sink dishwasher most dishes and the coffee machineHost:
carley was a great host toocarley was a responsive and gracious hostcarley is very responsivecarley and everest were very responsive and welcoming hostscarley was communicative and responsive with any questions that we hadRead more reviewsLocation:
stylish place in a great locationhouse was lovely and the location was greatwhat a lovely place to spend a few dayswe had a very relaxing time as the location is on the quiet side of the islandpender island is a beautiful place to get away for a couple days and slow down
4. Luxurious vacations at oceanfront home (from USD 267)
Luxurious stays amid the Gulf Islands are rare, so this stunning oceanfront home on South Pender Island is a prized catch for holiday-goers willing and able to afford the stay. Start with the seaside location, which overlooks Saturna Island and the San Juan Islands across the nearby United States border. Then take in the plush living room, complete with a beautiful rock fireplace and large leather armchairs. Then step out onto its two decks or the sunroom to admire the ocean scenery (and maybe catch the occasional sighting of orca whales). Enjoy BBQ meals, soak in its outdoor hot tub or simply unwind among its rock-garden backyard – there are so many ways for you to relax in style. The kind hosts have even thrown in a hammock and two bicycles for you to explore the surroundings.
Pender Island, British Columbia, CanadaSuperhost Accommodates: 6
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
beds are really comfortable and the views were stunningawesome place spectacular views comfortable and roomywe enjoyed the hot tub on the deck and the views while snuggled up in the sun roomthe view is spectacular kitchen fully stocked and the beds were so comfortablethe cottage is cozy and charming and the view and beauty of the area was spectacularCleanliness:
super clean and cozyvery specious comfortable and cleaneverything was cozy and cleanwe had a wonderful time at carol's place- the space was clean and invitingthe house was amazing huge modern comfortable and exceptionally cleanHost:
carol was a wonderful hostcarol was a awesome hosthosts were attentive and easy to communicate withamazing place and amazing hostscarol and peter are wonderful hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
super stunning location and housebeautiful location super special houselocation was also easy to access from the ferrybeautiful location with attention to detailswould definitely recommend r&r at this location
5. Rustic accommodation ideal for wildlife viewing
The sparsely populated Saturna Island is a great place for wildlife viewing. There are over 180 species of birds to spot, such as ruby-throated hummingbirds, bald eagles and great blue herons, while there is a large population of feral goats around the mountainous surroundings. But the prize draw of the island is at East Point, which is widely considered as one of the best places on the British Columbia coastline for onshore whale watching. Accommodations are limited on the island, so this rustic home is a great option with its open living-room and kitchen area, wrap-around decks, a garden with a small pond and a loft master bedroom.
Saturna, British Columbia, CanadaTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we had a lot of fun cooking in the fully stocked kitchennicely arranged and comfortable for groups as it has two levels to spread out onthe beds were comfortable and the space was sparingly and tastefully furnished6 of us fit comfortably in this cozy homethe house was comfortable well decorated and had plenty of room for the 6 of usCleanliness:
the house was clean and had great bedsthe house was amazingly cleannice and clean and plenty of wood for the stovethe place was sparkling clean and we would definitely stay againthe cottage was spacious clean and very comfortable to relax inHost:
the host was very responsivethank you dylan for being a wonderful hostdylan is a great and very responsive hostdylan was super helpful in getting it back to ussaturna is a one of a kind placeRead more reviewsLocation:
very comfortable and affordable for the locationthe place is great location is great the house is quiet and relaxinggreat location close to the lyall harbour ferry terminaldylan’s place was amazing absolutely beautiful and peaceful locationsuch a cool and cozy place
6. Spacious waterfront log home
With mild weather all year round, the Gulf Islands is home to many top-end farms and vineyards. On both Saturna Island and North Pender Island, you can visit the Sea Star Estate Farm and Vineyards to enjoy fine wines and fresh produce. You can also check out the seasonal Pender Island Farmers’ Market, which features breads, baked goods, arts and crafts and other locally made items. And when you have bought all the food and wine, you can share it with your family and friends at this spacious waterfront property on South Pender Island. With four bedrooms, comfy living room and outdoor deck offering spectacular ocean views, the log home can accommodate up to eight guests for a perfect private vacation.
7. Serene, self-contained studio cottage
Many pristine parts of the Gulf Islands fall under the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, where outdoor lovers can enjoy camping, hiking and wildlife viewing activities amid conserved land. At Saturna Island, for instance, you can picnic at Winter Cove, walk through temperate forests at Lyall Creek or camp out at Narveaz Bay. If you are based in the neighboring South Pender Island, then try the challenging trek up Mount Norman amid the island’s park reserve. This self-contained studio cottage in South Pender makes an ideal base for your park reserve explorations, with its snug queen-size bed and well-equipped kitchen. After a day of outdoor exertions, you can chill out amid its serene setting, enjoying the sea breeze upon the comfortable front deck.
Pender Island, British Columbia, Canada
8. Seaside retreat with beautiful interior decor
There is just something magical about seaside properties such as this wondrous retreat on Saturna Island. Maybe it’s hearing the soothing sounds of incoming waves, or feeling the sea breeze while sitting by the front deck. Whatever the allure, you can enjoy it on this spacious cabin with great interior decor, well-equipped kitchen and snug beds. If you are lucky, you might just be able to spot whales or bald eagles passing by.
Saturna, British Columbia, Canada
9. Peaceful, private and cozy cottage
With a well-connected ferry network, the city of Vancouver makes for a wondrous day trip from the Gulf Islands. There are plenty of attractions such as the popular Stanley Park, the family friendly Vancouver Aquarium and the impressive Museum of Anthropology at the University of British Columbia. Don’t forget to take in the superb city skyline, set against the backdrop of the Coastal Mountains. When you are done sightseeing, return to peaceful retreats such as this beautiful cottage at South Pender Island. With cozy beds, expansive decks and well-stocked kitchen, the cottage is great for families or friends eager to enjoy a few days away from the urban sprawl.
Pender Island, British Columbia, CanadaTop guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the cottage was even more comfortable and spacious than the photos showwe were surprised to find the cottage larger than we'd expected and so very comfortablethe cottage is neat and tidy and the kitchen is stocked with everything you need for vacation cookingwe had beautiful walks around the local area and cooked great meals in the kitchenCleanliness:
the place was very clean and comfortable for our group of 6the house was clean and cozy with a well stocked kitchen for cooking large mealsHost:
peter and linda were very welcoming and responsivepeter and linda were great hosts and got back to us quickly when we had questionsthe hosts were delightful and incredibly welcoming and helpfulgreat place and fantastic friendly hostspeter and linda are very responsive to any questions but otherwise left us to enjoy the islandsRead more reviewsLocation:
the property was very spacious and the location was greatvery private peaceful location with a nearby beach with lots rocks to throw and crabs to chasethe neighborhood is incredibly quiet and the island is a beautiful place to spend timeour group of friends spent a long weekend exploring pender island and staying in peter and lindas place
Nearby Airbnb vacation rentals
10. Raylia Sleeping Cabin (from USD 78)
Step into nature’s embrace with this unique off-grid cabin nestled at the mountain’s foot, offering an unfiltered glamping experience. The enchanting trail, sprinkled with fairy lights, guides you to this private hideaway, promising mornings filled with bird melodies and the invigorating scent of untouched woods. Though devoid of electricity and water, the serenity compensates amply. An outhouse is available for essentials.
Step out, and within a brief 5-minute stroll, access a delightful mix of eateries, a vibrant coffee truck, and a noteworthy organic outlet. Parking is hassle-free, and for early arrivals, there’s provision for luggage drop-off.
Mayne Island, British Columbia, CanadaSuperhost Accommodates: 3
11. Perfect Meadow Cabin (from USD 104)
Discover a serene woodland escape at this cozy cabin nestled in the forested hills. With its enchanting park views and modern amenities, you’ll have everything you need for a relaxing retreat. Make yourself at home in the fully-equipped kitchen and unwind in front of the crackling fireplace (available October-May). Explore the stunning George Hill trail, accessible directly from the property, where you can enjoy the beauty of nature at sunrise or sunset.
Long-term stays are welcome, but there’s no Wi-Fi; however, cell reception is excellent. The host asks that guests kindly remove their trash upon departure, as they don’t have garbage pick-up. Take in the scenic vistas from the patio or windows, free from curtains for an unobstructed view. The bed is located in a loft, accessible by a ladder that’s like walking up stairs.
Pender Island, British Columbia, CanadaSuperhost Accommodates: 2
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
it is very cozy and perfect to warm up in after a day of exploring the islandCleanliness:
this is a lovely quiet clean and very private cabin in the woodssmall square footage but well laid out so feels spaciousHost:
the hosts are responsive and helpfulreally great hosts who do a good job making sure you have everything you needthanks for your hostwe really enjoyed our stay and jamie was a very gracious and helpful hostthis is a very nice bright cabin in the woods behind the hosts' home on pender islandRead more reviewsLocation:
the location is great walking distance to a couple lovely trails and close to the ferrygreat location for exploring trails and the islandgreat experience super cute nicely decorated perfect location idyllic :-)a great location for pender island explorationnice and close to the ferry
Perfect antidote to unrelenting urban life
The Gulf Islands are a great detour from Vancouver, filled with rustic charms such as spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and quaint shopfronts. Best of all, the gentle atmosphere makes for a wonderful, relaxing time amid these rural isles. Escape the unrelenting pace of urban life and embrace the beauty of the great outdoors at Saturna Island. Book your cabin in or around Saturna Island now for the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of city living!
Should you desire more alternatives, there exists a diverse selection of Airbnb rentals on Mayne Island, providing you with a multitude of choices to enhance your incredible journey.