Visiting Pender Islands

February 26th, 2008 · No Comments · General

Salt Spring, Mayne, Galiano, Gabriola, and Saturna Islands are some of the Beautiful Gulf Islands of British Columbia, Canada.

Beautiful Pender Island North & South Pender Island are one of the Southern Gulf Islands which lie in the calm and picturesque waters between Vancouver and Victoria British Columbia.

Pender Islands is approximately 36 km Sq. or 14 miles square and is actually two islands. North Pender and South Pender, they were once one Island. In 1903 a canal was created to assist marine traffic, thus severing the island connection, making what is know today as North Pender and South Pender Islands. In 1956 they were again connected by the development of a one-way bridge.

Pender Islands boasts the best year round climate in Canada! The sub-Mediterranean-type climate (781 mm) 30.7 inches of rain per year makes the Pender Islands perfect for family vacations, romantic retreats, small seminars, golfing, health and yoga retreats, hiking and nature watching. BC Ferries provides regular scheduled service between the Pender Islands and Swartz Bay (near Victoria), Tsawwassen (on the mainland), and several other Gulf Islands.

The Pender Islands are known as the “friendly Islands” and the “Islands of hidden coves and beaches”, boasting 20 public ocean accesses, Hamilton Beach on North Pender Island and Mortimer Spit just across the bridge on South Pender Island, offer swimming and picnic sites. The Pender Islands Parks and Recreation Commission has recently opened new beach accesses that are clearly marked and well maintained. Novice and experienced hikers can explore many easy trails or a more strenuous climb in Mount Norman Capital Regional District Park on South Pender.

Map of Pender Islands Step back in time…with a quiet stroll down a country road, stop at a roadside stand and sample local grown vegetables or flowers. Enjoy the laid-back pace of the Pender Islands and meet the trusting and friendly Islanders. Share the unspoiled countryside with wild flowers and deer that browse peacefully by the roadsides. Shop for local arts and crafts at the many shops, studios, and galleries around the Islands.

Golfers play nine holes at the full facility course located on Otter Bay Road. Tennis courts are available at three locations while disc (Frisbee) golf, a game for the whole family, is played in the Magic Lake area.

Boaters find marinas at Port Browning, Otter Bay, and Bedwell Harbour, as well as government wharves at Hope Bay, Browning Harbour and Port Washington. The Canada Custom office for boaters is on the wharves at Bedwell Harbour. Scooters and bicycles are available for visitors who arrive on foot wishing to explore the Island.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the water. Rent a small boat to fish or explore. Fish for salmon and cod, go ashore at Beaumont Marine Park, bring your kayak or diving gear. Ocean kayaking lessons and guides knowledgeable about wildlife and waterfowl are available throughout the year. Seventeen campsites are available at Prior Provincial Park. Eatenton House B&B has Island maps for your convenience and welcome the chance to help you make the most of your vacation!