Ringed by white sand beaches and tufted with temperate rainforest, the paradisiacal retreat of Savary Island is known locally as the Hawaii of the North. The moniker is well deserved. Resting in the protected waters of the Inside Passage between Vancouver Island and the mainland, just south of craggy Desolation Sound, this delicate crescent of sand is unlike any other island between Vancouver and Alaska.

Shallow bays and limited tidal flushing create warm waters, perfect for splashing, kayaking and wading. Clear summer days and steep southern cliffs reflect the sun, regularly sending temperatures into the bathwater-like 30s. Days are easily filled for both couples seeking solitude and families with kids in tow. Follow the winding Sunset Trail, bike the island’s maze of unpaved roads, amble through cedar-scented forests, wander the dunes, poke about teeming tide pools, fish, or just lie back with a book and work on your tan.