5 Reasons to Visit Saysutshun
Find out why Saysutshun is loved by locals and visitors alike! Just a short ferry ride from Nanaimo, Saysutshun is the perfect place to relax while delving into rich history and culture, enjoying abundant activities, and unwinding on sun-kissed shores.
1. Hiking Trails and Nature Walks
Saysutshun has an extensive network of trails to choose from, offering a range of difficulty levels, from challenging hikes through heavy forests to casual strolls to the oceanfront.
Coastal trails take you past sandy and pebbled beaches, perfect for stopping for a swim this summer! You can take in a breathtaking view of Departure Bay by following the Channel Trail to the island's north end, past the old sandstone quarry.
Dogs are welcome on all trails while on a leash, and most trails are accessible by bike. Just check the trails map to make sure!
2. Take a Walk Through History
Spend an afternoon on a cultural walking tour and hear stories directly from a Snuneymuxw knowledge keeper.
A spiritual place to the Snuneymuxw People, Saysutshun is the home of village sites and has been a source of rich natural resources for a millenia. This immersive experience begins at the Totem Pole near the ferry dock where an experienced Snuneymuxw guide will introduce you to the Snuneymuxw First Nation sacred village sites, traditions, and cultural history of Saysutshun. You will hear beautiful stories and practices that have been handed down from generation to generation as you learn about Snuneymuxw medicines and observe historic artifacts.
Make sure to reach out and book a cultural walking tour before arriving.
3. Beaches, Water Activities, and Marine Wildlife
Saysutshun is an ideal place to relax on one of the sandy beaches or rent a kayak or canoe. As the days get warmer, you can enjoy a refreshing swim in protected, shallow waters at sandy Kanaka Bay, Midden Bay, or pebble beaches at Brownie Bay and Mark Bay.
For the adventurers in your group, there are tide pools to observe, rocks to overturn, and flowery anemones and scurrying crabs to see. Keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, otters, orcas, and other marine creatures in their natural habitat! The variety of opportunities to experience the island is enough to keep kids or adults entertained for hours.
4. Host the Perfect Event
To host an unforgettable event, rent the island's historic pavilion hall. With a small stage, dance floor space, and washroom facilities, this is the perfect setting for weddings, company events, family reunions, and more!
The barbecue pit and outdoor picnic shelter are ideal for large groups and sit between the forest and a grassy field, perfect for impromptu soccer games or dancing barefoot underneath the stars.
Contact Guest Services to book your next event on Saysutshun!
5. Easy to Stay Awhile
Escape the bustle of everyday life and sleep underneath the stars. With no cars on the island, you'll hear the sounds of the ocean, the wind whipping through the trees, and birds chirping you a good morning. Stay to watch the sunset and wake up to witness scenic ocean views while you enjoy your morning coffee. Camping at Saysutshun is like nothing else.
The island has several well-equipped campsites catering to all types of campers just a five-minute walk from the docks. Flush toilets and hot showers are included.
Reservations are highly recommended and can be made through the BC Parks online reservation system.
Pack your day or weekend experience with everything that piques your interest, be it birdwatching, forest strolls, beach combing, kayaking along the shore, or meandering through all the historical sites on the island. No matter who you visit with, you'll find something for everyone on Saysutshun.
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