Gabriola Sands Park is a small day-use park on the northwest side of Gabriola Island. BC Parks says it is one of three provincial parks on the island and features two sandy beaches, large manicured grassy lawns, and an isthmus dividing Taylor Bay and Pilot Bay.
The park is a popular local destination for swimming, picnicking, organized sports, and special events.
Gabriola Sands is an easy beach and lawn stop for visitors arriving by ferry from Nanaimo or by boat. The 20 minute BC Ferries crossing reaches Gabriola Island, and the park is signed from Taylor Bay Road and Decourcy Drive.
Designated swimming areas are found in Taylor Bay and Pilot Bay. The sandy beaches and shallow salt water make swimming a main draw, and the lawns support picnics and community events, including an annual Halloween fireworks display.
The isthmus and sandy beach are relatively uncommon in the rocky Gulf Islands. BC Parks notes that they provide important ecosystems for migratory and breeding shorebirds and many marine invertebrates living in the sand.
Canoeing and kayaking are available, but there is no boat launch in the park. Rockfish Conservation Areas occur within the park and limit fishing activities.
Plan around Taylor Bay and Pilot Bay swimming, beach picnics, lawn games, paddling, shorebird observation, marine invertebrate context, event planning, roadway cycling, and fishing only after Rockfish Conservation Area rule checks.
Bring drinking water because potable water is not available. Use marine chart 3458 for boating context, leash pets, and use Silva Bay Marina for the nearest boat launch.
