Visit Saysutshun

Located in the heart of Snuneymuxw territory, Saysutshun is a living island, one that invites you to slow down and bask in the presence of the sacred.

Located in Downtown Nanaimo Book Now

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Large western red cedar tree near Port Renfew, Vancouver Island, BC

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Connect with Snuneymuxw

Connect and step onto Saysutshun and let the Island slow
you down.

A sacred Island known as a place of healing, preparation and transformation. We invite visitors to experience our land, history, and living traditions.

Contact [email protected] for cultural tour bookings.

Snuneymuxw First Nation

Outdoor Adventures

Explore the island by running, biking, or walking the trails, camping, beachcombing along the shoreline, kayaking or canoeing the surrounding waters, paddle boarding, swimming, snorkeling, and fishing.

Rentals

Family-Friendly Trails, Hiking & Camping

Enjoy easy, scenic hikes for adventurers of all ages, with stunning views and fresh ocean air. Stay overnight at welcoming campsites and wake to the island’s natural beauty.

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Refreshments

Pack a lunch or stop by Off the Hook in the Pavilion to enjoy a casual bite.

Pet Friendly

Your four-legged hiking friend is welcome on Saysutshun, and needs to be on leash at all times.

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Moorage

Available berthing facilities for more than 50 boats available at the island, moorage is both convenient and affordable.

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Explore the Natural Wonders

A walk around the island truly takes you back through time, revealing hidden treasures from the island’s past.

Our most popular walk, Coastal Trail, is 8 km trail follows the perimeter of the island and takes about two hours on average. Allow extra time to stop and admire the many scenic lookout points or read the interpretive signs along the way.

Whether hiking, enjoying guided tours, or discovering local traditions, Saysutshun provides an unforgettable experience that celebrates both nature and history.

Wildlife

Saysutshun is home to a variety of wildlife that contributes to the island’s natural ecosystem and holds significance within Snuneymuxw teachings and traditions.

Visitor's Check List

Before your visit, review this helpful checklist.

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Wear weather apropriate clothing and bring comfortable footwear.

Small backpack for personal items

Refreshments and snacks

Use binoculars for a closer look - Observe from a distance.

Camera or phone for photos - no photography or etching on petroglyphs. These ancient works are sacred.

Curiosity and respect to learn about Snuneymuxw culture and history.

Leave No Trace

We're lucky to be surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and it's up to all of us to keep it that way!

More info

Pack out all trash including biodegradable waste like fruit peels.

Stick to designated trails to prevent erosion and protect local ecosystems.

Respect all posted signage to ensure a safe and sustainable experience.

Amplified sound can disrupt wildlife, fellow visitors, and ther serenity of natural places. Use headphones to enjoy your music while respecting your surroundings.

How to get here

Visitors can access Saysutshun by ferry, making the short trip across the water to explore the island.

More info

Depart from Maffeo Sutton Park and Saysutshun every half hour.

Two SVOP - Class Vessels - Operating Daily with the capacity of 12 passengers. The Grey Selkie requires two captains and has the capacity of 80 passengers.

Reserve ferry tickets ahead of time or arrive on the day (first come first serve).

Check the ferry schedule for days and hours of operations.

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"The ferry reservation was easy to make. The ferry staff were very friendly and pleasant. The boat ride was great, ferry left on time. Trails around Saysutshun are peaceful and beautiful. I'm glad there are no vehicales allowed on the island and that the forest is preserved in its natural state. No garbage to be see anywhere. Great to have pit toilets and benches here and there, plus the kids playground, kayak rental, large washrooms and coffee shop. The beautiful views make amazing photos. Saysutshun is an incredible gem for Nanaimo and all visitors to enjoy. Thank you so much!!!"

- 2025 Visitor

"The staff on the ferry were kind and helpful. They were super accommodating for our large school group. The map found on the website was very helpful for review and planning and the markers around the island helped to share the knowledge of Saysutshun and the history of the island."

- Nanaimo School Group

"Thank you so much for the great hospitality. Beyond satisfied with our trip over to Saysutshun. I brought staff over there to enjoy the park. They loved it! Can't wait for your next trip over."

- Seasonal Visitor

"The ferry was convenient and prompt. The ferry workers were very helpful, kind, and approachable. I enjoyed my day cycling Saysutshun."

- 2025 Visitor

"A perfect place to spend some time and connect with nature. Well organized, with good services and lots of outdoor activities to choose from."

- 2025 Visitor

"A wonderful community resource"

- 2025 Visitor

"We loved everything. The camping spots were beautiful, the trails and beaches were gorgeous. Everyday we would see wildlife from birds to the bees."

- Seasonal Camper

"We love coming here year after year. Great hiking and also really good food at the concession stand. Looking forward to going back next year!!"

- Seasonal Visitor

"Very easy and user friendly to book the ferry ride. Awesome friendly staff who are always there to answer questions or concerns. Once at the island, beauty and tranquility, amazing amenities and beautiful park. Can not recommend enough, what a perfect day!"

- 2025 Visitor

"I always love going to Saysutshun for a day hike. I have been going there since 1982."

- Regular Visitor

"The whole experience to Saysutshun was amazing!!! We had a fabulous time kayaking around the island. The ferry was on time and the staff were friendly."

- 2025 Visitor

"Nadine, Phil, and Amy along with the rest of the team helped us plan our small intimate wedding weekend camping with family from the start. The staff were all very friendly and helped us with all the logistics before and during the weekend. We had the best time and things went on without any major issues!"

- Event Participant

"The ferry reservation was easy to make. The ferry staff were very friendly and pleasant. The boat ride was great, ferry left on time. Trails around Saysutshun are peaceful and beautiful. I'm glad there are no vehicales allowed on the island and that the forest is preserved in its natural state. No garbage to be see anywhere. Great to have pit toilets and benches here and there, plus the kids playground, kayak rental, large washrooms and coffee shop. The beautiful views make amazing photos. Saysutshun is an incredible gem for Nanaimo and all visitors to enjoy. Thank you so much!!!"

- 2025 Visitor

"The staff on the ferry were kind and helpful. They were super accommodating for our large school group. The map found on the website was very helpful for review and planning and the markers around the island helped to share the knowledge of Saysutshun and the history of the island."

- Nanaimo School Group

"Thank you so much for the great hospitality. Beyond satisfied with our trip over to Saysutshun. I brought staff over there to enjoy the park. They loved it! Can't wait for your next trip over."

- Seasonal Visitor

"The ferry was convenient and prompt. The ferry workers were very helpful, kind, and approachable. I enjoyed my day cycling Saysutshun."

- 2025 Visitor

"A perfect place to spend some time and connect with nature. Well organized, with good services and lots of outdoor activities to choose from."

- 2025 Visitor

"A wonderful community resource"

- 2025 Visitor

"We loved everything. The camping spots were beautiful, the trails and beaches were gorgeous. Everyday we would see wildlife from birds to the bees."

- Seasonal Camper

"We love coming here year after year. Great hiking and also really good food at the concession stand. Looking forward to going back next year!!"

- Seasonal Visitor

"Very easy and user friendly to book the ferry ride. Awesome friendly staff who are always there to answer questions or concerns. Once at the island, beauty and tranquility, amazing amenities and beautiful park. Can not recommend enough, what a perfect day!"

- 2025 Visitor

"I always love going to Saysutshun for a day hike. I have been going there since 1982."

- Regular Visitor

"The whole experience to Saysutshun was amazing!!! We had a fabulous time kayaking around the island. The ferry was on time and the staff were friendly."

- 2025 Visitor

"Nadine, Phil, and Amy along with the rest of the team helped us plan our small intimate wedding weekend camping with family from the start. The staff were all very friendly and helped us with all the logistics before and during the weekend. We had the best time and things went on without any major issues!"

- Event Participant

"The ferry reservation was easy to make. The ferry staff were very friendly and pleasant. The boat ride was great, ferry left on time. Trails around Saysutshun are peaceful and beautiful. I'm glad there are no vehicales allowed on the island and that the forest is preserved in its natural state. No garbage to be see anywhere. Great to have pit toilets and benches here and there, plus the kids playground, kayak rental, large washrooms and coffee shop. The beautiful views make amazing photos. Saysutshun is an incredible gem for Nanaimo and all visitors to enjoy. Thank you so much!!!"

- 2025 Visitor

"The staff on the ferry were kind and helpful. They were super accommodating for our large school group. The map found on the website was very helpful for review and planning and the markers around the island helped to share the knowledge of Saysutshun and the history of the island."

- Nanaimo School Group

"Thank you so much for the great hospitality. Beyond satisfied with our trip over to Saysutshun. I brought staff over there to enjoy the park. They loved it! Can't wait for your next trip over."

- Seasonal Visitor

"The ferry was convenient and prompt. The ferry workers were very helpful, kind, and approachable. I enjoyed my day cycling Saysutshun."

- 2025 Visitor

"A perfect place to spend some time and connect with nature. Well organized, with good services and lots of outdoor activities to choose from."

- 2025 Visitor

"A wonderful community resource"

- 2025 Visitor

"We loved everything. The camping spots were beautiful, the trails and beaches were gorgeous. Everyday we would see wildlife from birds to the bees."

- Seasonal Camper

"We love coming here year after year. Great hiking and also really good food at the concession stand. Looking forward to going back next year!!"

- Seasonal Visitor

"Very easy and user friendly to book the ferry ride. Awesome friendly staff who are always there to answer questions or concerns. Once at the island, beauty and tranquility, amazing amenities and beautiful park. Can not recommend enough, what a perfect day!"

- 2025 Visitor

"I always love going to Saysutshun for a day hike. I have been going there since 1982."

- Regular Visitor

"The whole experience to Saysutshun was amazing!!! We had a fabulous time kayaking around the island. The ferry was on time and the staff were friendly."

- 2025 Visitor

"Nadine, Phil, and Amy along with the rest of the team helped us plan our small intimate wedding weekend camping with family from the start. The staff were all very friendly and helped us with all the logistics before and during the weekend. We had the best time and things went on without any major issues!"

- Event Participant

Connect with our Team

Send us a message and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.

GUEST SERVICES
1-866-788-6243
[email protected]