Since I just had my convocation in May from Kwantlen Polytechnic University (YAY I HAVE A DEGREE), a weekend getaway with my best friends was a must. Being freshly out of university, the future looks extremely bright, but also really scary. I knew a weekend away was just what I needed to clear my head.

Mayne Island is apart of the southern gulf islands off the coast of British Columbia. These islands are definitely apart of the West Coast’s hidden gems. We left on the Friday, driving to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal to catch the B.C. Ferry, Queen of Nanaimo. Chris and I met my best friend Karleigh, her boyfriend Nick and their dog, Dexter, at the terminal.

The ferry took just over an hour and a half, arriving at Mayne Island around 10pm. We decided to head straight to my family’s cabin. We quickly unpacked, threw some pizza’s in the oven and started playing a game of monopoly. After an uneventful game, we called it a night.

The next day we went to the only grocery store on the little island and stocked up for the next few days. When we got back we made a huge breakfast, premade some sandwiches for lunch and then headed to the beach. Here we spent the day playing in the ocean, soaking up the sun, and relaxing. The four of us spent many hours at the beach before we headed back to the cabin to get ready for dinner.

There is a little restaurant on the island that is located right on the water. Not only are the views amazing, but the fish and chips are to die for. We had a lovely meal overlooking the water. After dinner we relaxed into our sweatpants where we sat on the cabin deck and watched the deer playing on the lawn.

The next day we explored beaches, watched orcas and seals in the distance and enjoyed each other’s company. Our weekend stayed this relaxing the entire time. Whenever I need a little getaway from reality, this is always the place to go. While I highly recommend Mayne Island, any of the other southern gulf islands are worth a visit.