One of the larger of British Columbia's Gulf Islands, Galiano Island is conveniently located between Vancouver and Salt Spring Island, with its main village, Sturdies Bay, being the first stop on the ferry from Tsawwassen. Enjoy life at a slower pace at this creative haven, where small markets offering in local crafts and fresh produce can be found on every corner. Modern day Galiano Island is inhabited primarily by free-spirited artisans that differ little from Galiano's original residents, the Coast Salish Aboriginal people, who carved out a warm, community-oriented tradition on this lush piece of land. An island of parks, Galiano features four provincial parks, including Bellhouse Park, Bodega Ridge and Montague Harbour Marine Park. The newest park, Dionisio Point, is named after the Spanish explorer Dionisio Galiano who charted the island in 1792. In addition to parks, Galiano has several shell and sand beaches. Kayaking is the local pastime, but there is also a nine-hole golf course on the island.