1. The Gulf Islands are a group of islands located in the Strait of Georgia between Vancouver Island and mainland British Columbia, Canada. The largest and most populated island in the group is Salt Spring Island, but there are also several smaller islands such as Galiano Island, Pender Island, and Saturna Island.

The Gulf Islands are known for their stunning natural beauty, with lush forests, rocky shorelines, and picturesque harbors. They offer a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, cycling, boating, and wildlife-watching. The islands are also home to a vibrant arts community, with many galleries, studios, and craft fairs showcasing the work of local artists.

2. There is no specific working time or phone number for the Gulf Islands as a whole, as they are made up of multiple individual islands, each with their own businesses and services. However, many businesses, restaurants, and attractions on the Gulf Islands operate on regular business hours (typically 9am to 5pm), so it is best to check with specific establishments for their hours of operation.

3. The Gulf Islands can be accessed by ferry from Vancouver Island or the mainland. BC Ferries operates several routes to the Gulf Islands, including from Tsawwassen (mainland) to Swartz Bay (Vancouver Island) and then to various Gulf Islands. The cost of ferry transportation varies depending on the route and vehicle type. It is recommended to check the BC Ferries website or contact their customer service for up-to-date ticket information.