With more than 300,000 residents, the Greater Victoria metropolitan area at the extreme southwestern tip of Vancouver Island contains the majority of the island's population. Victoria proper is a true city, boasting all the arts and culture, sports and commerce, and general vibrant commotion that the term implies. But life slows down dramatically on the nearby Gulf Islands. There, visitors enjoy rambling among studios and vineyards, shopping at off-beat boutiques and galleries, and simply relaxing amidst glorious scenery at a rural pace.

Kenmore Air provides daily, year-round seaplane service between Seattle and Victoria Inner Harbour. Service to five of the Gulf Islands is offered from April–September, except as noted:

Galiano Island
Mayne Island
Salt Spring Island
Saturna Island (May–September only)
South Pender Island

Charter service to Victoria and the Gulf Islands is available year-round — including seaplanes directly to the destinations above and wheeled aircraft to Victoria International Airport.