Westham Island

What Is Westham Island?

Westham Island is a small, flat farming island in the Fraser River delta, just west of Ladner in Delta, BC. It is only about half an hour from Vancouver, yet it feels like a different world: open fields, quiet country roads, a historic wooden bridge and one of the best bird sanctuaries in Canada. The island is home to three attractions that pair well on one outing: the George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary, Westham Island Herb Farm and Emma Lea Farms.

The island is compact, and most of the main roads run in a simple line from the bridge to the sanctuary at the far end. That makes it easy to see everything in a half day, or to stretch it into a full day with a picnic and a slow walk through the birding trails.

George C. Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary, at 5191 Robertson Road, sits at the tip of Westham Island and is the headline attraction. It covers around 300 hectares of marsh, ponds and treed pathways, and more than 300 bird species have been recorded there. The flat dike trails are easy for strollers and wheelchairs, and boardwalks and viewing platforms put you close to the water. Fall and spring migrations are the busiest times for birders, and the annual snow goose visit in fall and again in mid-winter is a local favourite. Entry is paid, and the sanctuary sets its own hours, so check its official website before you go.

Westham Island Herb Farm

Westham Island Herb Farm, at 4690 Kirkland Road, is part of the Ellis family farm, which has been at this location since 1916. It is a good stop for fresh island-grown vegetables, herbs, fruit and flowers, and the country store sells honey, jams, preserves and gifts. In spring the greenhouse sells plants and seedlings, and in summer you can wander the fields and gardens. It is a gentle, family-friendly stop that takes less time than the bird sanctuary.

Emma Lea Farms

Emma Lea Farms, at 2727 Westham Island Road, is the island's best-known U-pick farm and a family-run operation since 1885. Come for strawberries in June, raspberries and blueberries in July, sunflowers in August and pumpkins in October. The farm market and the Ice Cream Shoppe make it a natural last stop on the way back to the bridge. For photos, picking seasons and tips, read our full guide to Emma Lea Farms.

Other Farm Stops on the Island

Westham Island has a few smaller seasonal farm stands as well. Bissett Farms, at 2170 Westham Island Road, has been known for U-pick blueberries and blackberries in the big blue barn on the way to the sanctuary. Offerings change from year to year, so look for open signs along the road and check before you plan a trip around any one stand.

Getting to Westham Island

From Vancouver, the drive to Westham Island is about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Head south toward Ladner, then follow the signs to the Westham Island Bridge. The old wooden bridge has a single lane, so traffic takes turns, and it can open for boats, which may add a short wait. Once across, the main road runs straight along the island to the bird sanctuary. Parking is available at each stop. The island is very flat and the roads are quiet, so many visitors cycle it. Take care on the narrow roads and watch for farm vehicles.

A Half-Day Westham Island Itinerary

1. Cross the bridge in the morning and head straight to Reifel Migratory Bird Sanctuary, when the birds are most active.
2. Spend one to two hours on the dike trails and boardwalks, then picnic nearby.
3. Stop at Westham Island Herb Farm for vegetables, herbs, flowers and preserves.
4. Finish at Emma Lea Farms for U-pick in season, the farm market and ice cream.

Best Time to Visit Westham Island

Spring brings greenhouse plants at the herb farm and plenty of bird activity at the sanctuary. Summer is berry season, with strawberries in June, raspberries and blueberries in July, and sunflowers in August at Emma Lea. Fall is a favourite, with pumpkins in October and the snow goose migration at the sanctuary. Winter is quiet and peaceful, with good bird watching for people who dress for the weather. Weekdays are calmer than weekends all year.

Tips for Visiting Westham Island

• Check each stop's website for current hours, fees and seasonal availability, since they differ.
• Allow extra time at the bridge, especially on summer weekends.
• Bring binoculars, a camera and layers, since it is often windier and cooler than the city.
• Carry some cash and a debit card, since small farm stands may not accept every payment type.
• Bring containers for berries and a cooler for farm produce and frozen items.
• Respect the working farms: stay on marked paths and keep pets at home unless a stop says otherwise.

More to Do Near Westham Island

Ladner Village is a short drive back across the bridge and has cafes, bakeries and small shops. Boundary Bay Regional Park and Centennial Beach are also in Delta and make a good follow-up for a sunset walk. Another farm outing worth a look is Richmond Country Farms.

Westham Island FAQ