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Vanislander / Festivals and Events / Cortes Island Seafest 2025

Cortes Island Seafest 2025 | Oyster Festival

Get ready to uncover a hidden gem of the Salish Sea this Victoria Day weekend: on Saturday, May 17, 2025, Smelt Bay Park will transform into Cortes Island Seafest—your gateway to an unforgettable oyster extravaganza, live island tunes, and artisanal delights you won’t find anywhere else. Imagine stepping onto a sun-dappled beach, the scent of sea salt mingling with sizzling barbecued oysters, as local musicians tune up just steps away—will you be among the first to taste the Pacific’s freshest bounty and join in the island camaraderie? Whether you arrive by BC Ferries or private boat, we’ve got every detail—from ferry schedules to insider tips—lined up so you can focus on what matters: indulging in raw “shooters,” exploring the artisan market, and dancing barefoot in the sand until sunset. Stay with us and let the adventure begin…

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What & When

Name: Cortes Island Seafest (Oyster Festival)
Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025 (Victoria Day long weekend)
Time: 11:00 AM–4:59 PM
Location: Smelt Bay Park, Cortes Island

Who’s Behind It

Hosted by the Cortes Island Seniors Society in partnership with local shellfish harvesters and community volunteers, Seafest celebrates island life and the bounty of the Salish Sea.

Highlights & Activities

Tickets & Pricing

• General Admission: Approximately CAD 25 (cash and card accepted)
• Children (under 12): Free or reduced rate (confirm on-site)
• Tickets are sold at the gate; no advance purchase required.

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Getting There

• By BC Ferries
1. Departure: Campbell River → Quadra Island (15 min)
2. Then: Quadra (Heriot Bay) → Cortes Island (Whaletown, 45 min) BC Parks
3. Shuttle: Free island shuttle from Whaletown ferry terminal and Gorge Harbour Marina (subject to confirmation—stay tuned). Visit Cortes Island
• By Private Boat
✓ Moor at Gorge Harbour Marina and catch the shuttle to Smelt Bay.
• Driving & Parking
✓ Limited on-site parking at Smelt Bay Provincial Park; carpool or arrive early.

Accommodation Nearby

• Camping
Smelt Bay Provincial Park: 22 sites, vehicle-accessible (reservable & first-come)
• Bed & Breakfasts & Lodges
✓ Over 40 B&Bs and lodges island-wide, from ocean-side suites to forest cottages.
✓ Hollyhock Retreat Centre: Programs, workshops, and cozy lodging (20 min walk).

Other Victoria Day Events

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Disclaimer
Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Insider Tips & Recommendations

Arrive Early (10:30 AM)

Beat the crowds and secure a prime beach-side spot.

Bring Layers

Coastal weather can shift; pack a windbreaker or light jacket.

Cash & Card

Vendors accept both, but small purchases are smoother with cash.

Explore Beyond Seafest

Hike the Whiskey Point Trail (4 km round-trip) or visit Curious Farm for local produce.
Don’t miss your chance to savour the Salish Sea’s finest at Cortes Island Seafest 2025. Mark your calendar for May 17, lace up your ferry boots, and prepare for a day of delectable oysters, toe-tapping music, and island camaraderie. Stay tuned to the official Seafest page for last-minute updates—and we’ll see you on the beach!

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Nila Abasian

2025 May 10
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Alireza Moghimehfar

2025 May 10

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