East Point, on Saturna Island, is one of the very best locations in the Southern Gulf Islands to see whales from land. The Southern Resident (SRKW) Pods swam past East Point from May to November as they traveled from the Pacific Ocean to the Fraser River Delta, one of their former favourite feeding grounds. The orcas often swam very close to the sandstone cliffs, along the kelp beds on the south side of East Point and through Boiling Reef on the east side. Today, we’re not seeing the SRKWs as much as their feeding patterns have become disrupted, but, transient orca groups, humpbacks and occasionally other whale species are seen throughout the year. This is a place where sea lions rest on the rocks from October to May. Harbour seals birth on the sandstone beaches and harbour porpoise can be seen in the summer months.

Many species of marine birds reside in or use Saturna waterways as a stopping point on their annual migrations. A double-crested cormorant roost is located here, and black oystercatchers are prevalent year-round. Raptors such as bald eagles, hawks and owls are seen regularly.

The shoreline of Saturna Island is affected by big storms, active surf and strong ocean currents. These conditions erode the sandstone cliffs and beaches, creating beautiful sculptural shapes and crevasses in the intertidal zone. It’s here where the most unique species of plants and animals can be found.

As there are no large predators living here, abundant deer and feral goats affect the ecology of the island.

To visit Saturna Island and learn more about the community, click here.