If you’re visiting Salt Spring, it’s hard to miss the colorful stalls of the many farmers’ markets that take place year-round. 

Whether you’re coming to visit the island in May or December, you can be sure there will be fresh local produce available for sale during your stay! 

Here are some of the different markets on Salt Spring you might want to check out.

Exploring Local Markets On Salt Spring

There are so many opportunities to take advantage of everything Salt Spring has to offer, especially when it comes to the produce at the local markets.  There are sweet strawberries and juicy corn, apples and squash, which means a bounty of fruit and vegetables in every season.

Salt Spring Island is a unique place with a diverse range of local businesses. From the farmers markets to the art galleries, there is something for everyone on the island. If you’re thinking of exploring the local markets on Salt Spring, here are a few tips to help you get started. 

• First, be sure to check the days and times of the markets you’re interested in. Some markets are only open on certain days or during specific hours. 
• Second, make sure you have enough cash on hand, as many businesses only accept cash payments. 
• And finally, don’t forget to bring a reusable bag to carry your purchases!

With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a great time exploring the local markets on Salt Spring Island.

Where Is Salt Spring Island And How Do You Get There?

Salt Spring Island is a small island located off the coast of British Columbia, Canada. It is one of the many islands that make up the Gulf Islands archipelago.  Salt Spring Island is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and laid back atmosphere with artistic culture. The island is accessible by ferry from Vancouver, Victoria, and various other points on Vancouver Island. 

There are also a few scheduled flights each day from Vancouver and Victoria. Once on the island, there are a variety of transportation options available, including bicycles, cars, and busses. BC Ferries serve 3 different terminals on Salt Spring Island, as well as running a number of summer ferries.

Swartz Bay to Fulford Harbour takes thirty-five minutes if you’re coming from the Victoria area on Vancouver Island. 

It’s also possible to come from mainland Vancouver by getting a BC Ferry from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay, then catching a BC Ferry to Salt Spring.

Tsawwassen to Long Harbour takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to 3 1/2 hours depending on the number of stops your trip makes. The ferry departing from Tsawwassen terminal will be arriving at Long Harbour, Salt Spring’s mid-island terminal.

Crofton to Vesuvius Bay takes about 20 minutes if you are driving to Crofton from Duncan (south of Nanaimo) on Vancouver Island, the journey should take approximately 45 minutes. 

This route is also convenient for travelers coming from anywhere north of Nanaimo on the island, or from the Vancouver North Shore via the BC Ferries crossing from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo.

You can check ferry schedules here.

Once you’re on the island, there are plenty of things to do: you can explore the many hiking trails, go kayaking or canoeing, visit the farmer’s markets, or just relax on one of the many beaches. Salt Spring Island is a great place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life for a few days, to immerse yourself in nature, and to discover the beauty of the West Coast throughout the seasons. 

Salt Spring Island’s Local Markets

There are many local markets where you can find fresh produce, artisan goods, and more. Here are a few of Salt Spring Island’s local markets:

• The Salt Spring Island Saturday Market 

The largest and most well-known market on the island. It’s open every Saturday from April to October and features over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, prepared food, handmade arts and crafts, and more.

• Ruckle Farm

The farm has been in operation for centuries, and continues to grow hay and raise sheep and lambs, cows, hens and turkeys. In addition, the farm maintains a large market garden with sales through their own farmstand. Ruckle Farm hosts Ruckle Farm Day in the Spring, a Heritage day of demonstrations of old-style farming and practices such as churning butter, spinning & weaving, horse plowing and tractor plowing.

• Salt Spring Island Fish Market

The Salt Spring island fish market is a local landmark and has been in operation for over 50 years. The market is located on the docks in Ganges Harbour and is open year-round, rain or shine. The market offers a wide variety of seafood, including fresh, frozen, and canned fish, shellfish, and seaweed. You can also find a variety of prepared foods, such as smoked fish, chowder, and sushi. If you’re visiting, make sure to stop by the fish market and pick up some fresh seafood for a delicious meal.

Other Notable Salt Spring Island Attractions

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the island’s many hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains. For those interested in the island’s history, there are a number of museums and historic sites to visit, including the Salt Spring Island Archives and the Salt Spring Island Museum. 

For the nature lover, there are also a number of parks and hiking trails to explore, including the Mount Maxwell, Burgoyne Bay and Ruckle Provincial Park. If you’re staying at Lightwater Cove, enjoy the proximity and closeness to Ruckle Park, and other hiking trails. We’re happy to show you around, and recommend the best places for hiking near Lightwater.

And for the history buff, there are a number of heritage sites to visit, such as the Mahon Hall, Salt Spring Arts and the Salt Spring Island Museum. Whether you’re looking for a cultural experience or a chance to get back to nature, Salt Spring Island has something for everyone.

Visit Salt Spring Island Today

Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, Salt Spring Island is the perfect place to unwind and recharge.  Book your stay at Lightwater Cove today, and discover the beauty of Salt Spring Island for yourself.