Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Texada gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from YGB to the city takes roughly 30 minutes by local transport, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
Three things to verify before you walk out of YGB:
- Can you legally enter Canada? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 30-minute journey each way by local transport, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the CAD. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some CAD in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
For a layover visit to Texada, we’d suggest Shelter Point Regional Park and Texada Island Museum & Archives. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight. Even a quick visit gives you a sense of the local culture and history.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at YGB, check out Enjoy the Quiet Terminal or Observe Small Aircraft Operations to keep yourself occupied.
Food Worth Trying
- In the city: Texada Island Inn Restaurant and The Island Cafe are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Texada.
- At the airport: YGB Vending Machines and YGB Refreshment Point will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
How to Get Into Texada
You have two main options for getting from Texada Gillies Bay Airport into town:
- local transport: About 30 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 50 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Texada, budget roughly $39 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $19 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Texada.
Luggage Storage at YGB
Luggage storage options at YGB can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Texada for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and YGB is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Texada and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Sleep & Lounge Options at YGB
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, YGB has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Texada is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Texada.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.