[1] Cortes Island lies within Electoral Area B of the Strathcona Regional District,[2] which provides water and sewage systems, fire protection, land use planning, parks, recreation, and emergency response.

Cortes Island is a tourist destination in the summers, with many people visiting to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and warm weather.

[8][9][10] In July 1792 William Broughton and Archibald Menzies of the Vancouver Expedition landed at the mouth of a stream in Squirrel Cove, on the east side of Cortes Island, to take some refreshment.

In addition, a seasonal Canadian Coast Guard Inshore Rescue Boat Station is located in Cortes Bay during the summer.

[14] The station is staffed by a coxswain and 2 crewmembers aboard a Zodiac Hurricane Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB).

Kayaking is a popular activity around the island, and the Cortes Museum and Archives hosts the local visitor's centre.

Craft markets are held weekly at the Manson's Landing Community Hall, and the Gorge Harbour Marina Resort.