Bus
Driving
Salt Spring Island to Burnaby
Updated: 28 May 2026
The journey from Salt Spring Island to Burnaby involves a ferry crossing to the mainland followed by a drive or transit connection. You will take a BC Ferries vessel to Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay. From there, you can drive via Highway 99 or use the TransLink bus and SkyTrain network to reach Burnaby. The total travel time is approximately 4 hours, depending on connections.
Total Distance: Driving distance 75 km (from Tsawwassen), straight-line air distance 85 km.
Fastest Way
Driving your own vehicle via the Tsawwassen ferry terminal.
Cheapest Way
Public transit using the TransLink network is the most economical.
Compare Salt Spring Island to Burnaby Routes
|
Connecting
|
Connecting
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 5 hours | 4 hours |
| Avg Price | $50 - $70 | $70 - $100 |
| Operator | BC Ferries Connector / TransLink | BC Ferries |
| Route | Ferry to Tsawwassen, bus to SkyTrain, SkyTrain to Burnaby. | Ferry to Tsawwassen, Highway 17, Highway 99, Highway 1. |
| Tip | The SkyTrain is the most efficient way to navigate Burnaby. | Burnaby is centrally located and accessible via Highway 1. |
Travel Tips
-
SkyTrainUse the Expo Line to get to Metrotown or the Millennium Line for North Burnaby.
-
TrafficHighway 1 through Burnaby can be very congested during peak hours.
-
FerryBook your ferry in advance to ensure you get your preferred sailing time.
-
TransitDownload the Transit app for real-time bus and SkyTrain schedules.
-
ParkingParking at major malls like Metrotown is free but can be busy.
Safety Tips
-
Public TransitStay aware of your surroundings when using public transit at night.
-
DrivingBe cautious of cyclists on Burnaby roads.
-
EmergencyKeep your phone charged for navigation and emergency calls.
-
SafetyBurnaby is generally safe, but standard urban precautions apply.
People Also Ask
-
Is Burnaby easy to reach?Yes, it is well-connected by highways and the SkyTrain.
-
How long is the trip?Expect about 4 hours including the ferry crossing.
-
Can I take a bus?Yes, there are many bus routes connecting to the SkyTrain.
-
Is there a direct ferry?No, you must take a ferry to the mainland first.
-
What is the best way to travel?Driving is fastest, but SkyTrain is best for avoiding traffic.
Quick Info
- From Salt Spring Island, British Columbia, Canada
- To Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada
-
Modes
Best Time to Travel
Spring and autumn for mild weather and manageable traffic.
Things to Do in Burnaby
1
Burnaby Mountain Park
Offers stunning views of the city and the Burrard Inlet. It is a great place for a sunset walk.
2
Deer Lake Park
A beautiful area with walking trails and a lake. It is home to the Burnaby Art Gallery.
3
Metrotown
One of the largest shopping malls in Canada. It is a major hub for retail and dining.
4
Central Park
A large urban park with sports facilities and walking paths. It is a green oasis in the city.
Tags
Salt Spring to Burnaby
ferry to Burnaby
travel to Burnaby from island
BC Ferries route
driving to Burnaby
Burnaby travel guide
island to Metro Vancouver
commuting to Burnaby
