Pender Island is one of the Southern Gulf Islands. This cluster of beautiful islands is situated between Vancouver Island and the mainland of British Columbia in the Strait of Georgia.
Pender Island actually consists of two small islands, North Pender Island and South Pender Island, and is surrounded by the Salish Sea.
This hidden gem in BC is known for its natural beauty, stunning views, hiking trails, beaches, and forests. It is also home to many species of wildlife, including whales, seals, and bald eagles.
The island offers a variety of outdoor activities for visitors, such as kayaking, whale watching, camping, and fishing.
All in all, Pender Island is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway, with plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the outdoors!
20 best things to do on Pender Island BC
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How to get to Pender Island?
Ferry from Vancouver to Pender Island
To get to Pender Island from Vancouver or Victoria, you can take a ferry (run by BC Ferries). From Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal (Vancouver) there are up to 3 daily round-trip sailings to Otter Bay on Pender Island.
The ferry from Vancouver to Pender Island takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes (for direct ferries) and about 2 hours and 15 minutes with stops at Galiano Island and Mayne Island.
Ferry from Victoria to Pender Island
From the Swartz Bay ferry terminal on Vancouver Island, there are up to 8 daily round-trip sailings to Pender Island.
Travel time is only 40 minutes for direct ferries to Pender (but longer for ferries that stop along the way at Galiano, Mayne, Saturna, or Salt Spring Island).
You can find more information about BC ferries, their timetable, and prices here.
I really enjoyed the ferry ride as it's a beautiful route and if you're (very) lucky you may even spot a killer whale along the way.
Note: if you travel during the high season (summer months), make sure to make a ferry reservation!
How to get around Pender Island?
I recommend renting a car in Victoria or Vancouver. While Pender Island is only a small island, it's too big to explore on foot. You can cycle around the island, but know that this is challenging because of the hills.
You can also rent a campervan. Please note that campervans can only be picked up in Vancouver.
Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace, stop wherever you want, and explore the best places on Pender Island!
If you are planning to stay in Canada for a longer period of time, consider buying a car instead of renting one.
Where to stay on Pender Island?
Because Pender Island is fairly small, there aren't tons of accommodation options. While you can find nice places to stay, many visitors book a hotel on Vancouver Island or on one of the other Gulf Islands instead.
Below you can find my recommendations.
| Hotel | Location | Price | Review score | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Poets Cove Marina | Pender Island | 253 CAD | 8 | Click here |
| Coles Bay Vacation Retreat | North Saanich (VI) | 161 CAD | 9.6 | Click here |
| Galiano Oceanfront Inn & Spa | Galiano Island | 296 CAD | 7.7 | Click here |
| Salt Spring Inn | Salt Spring Island | 192 CAD | 8.4 | Click here |
| The Sanctuary Retreat & Spa | Salt Spring Island | 495 CAD | 9.3 | Click here |
Note: if you're visiting in high season, it's recommended to book ahead, especially for the months of July and August. The prices mentioned in the tables above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Booking.
Top places to visit on Pender Island: map
Click here for the interactive map.
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20 best things to see and do on Pender Island
1. Relax on Hamilton Beach
Located next to Port Browning, Hamilton Beach is one of the must-visit places on Pender Island. In the summer the beach is bustling with people. You'll see moored sailboats and people kayaking in the ocean (see #8).
Bring your own food, spread a mat, and enjoy the scenic views. There are picnic tables too. A few meters away is Port Browning Marina Resort and Pub which serves some tasty food.
Beaumont Marine Park is another popular beach that's worth visiting during your time on Pender Island, as are Stanley Point and Medicine Beach.
2. Go hiking at Mount Menzies
There are many trails and loops in the Gulf Islands National Park. The difficulty level ranges from easy to moderate.
The Mount Menzies loop is one of the most popular hikes among sightseers for several reasons:
- It's an easy trail and appropriate for different age groups.
- Pets on leashes are also allowed.
- The views from the top are spectacular.
Read more details about this trail here.
3. Visit a wine-tasting room
Definitely add a wine tasting session to your list of things to do on Pender Island because this little island has some great wine options!
The wines are fermented locally, mainly using local produce. If you're looking for a good place for a wine tasting, the Twin Island Cider tasting room, and the Sea Star Vineyards are great options.
4. Get a massage in a vintage Airstream trailer
Who doesn’t enjoy a relaxing, soulful massage when on a trip? A one-of-a-kind experience is indulging in a treatment inside a 31′ Airstream.
De-stress and enjoy this unique experience in the woods, alone or with your partner. To avoid the last-minute hassle, visit the WOODS on Pender website and book a slot beforehand. You can choose between a 60-minute or a 90-minute session.
5. Grab a bite to eat at Coffee + Kitchen restaurant (WOODS on Pender)
The Coffee+Kitchen should be one of your places to eat in Pender Island if you want to savor some fresh, farm-to-table cuisine made with organic ingredients.
Located on the WOODS on Pender property (which is also the location for #4), the meals at Coffee+ Kitchen are surely by far one of the most luscious and Instagram-worthy on the island.
From cocktails to appetizers, coffee to desserts. Plus the ambiance of this place is also great. Do try their prosciutto pizza topped with seasonal veggies, fior de latte, fresh herbs, and aged balsamic.
5. Hike the Roe Lake Loop
It takes about an hour to complete the 2.6-kilometer Roe Lake Loop. Roe lake is a freshwater lake and while it's not the bluest of all lakes, this lovely hike will surely delight you.
Located in the Gulf Island National Park Reserve, you'll see a lush forest, wildflowers, and green moss all around you. You might spot some wildlife too.
6. Go camping in Shingle Bay
A campsite, next to the ocean, Shingle Bay is a great weekend getaway. Make memories as you sing, dance or simply stargaze with your buddies.
Do reserve a camping spot beforehand, as there are only 10 reservable sites. Also, note that you either have to walk to this campground or take a boat trip to get there.
Are you looking for more campgrounds? Check my Camping on Vancouver Island post.
7. Join a whale watching tour
The Vancouver Island area is known for its amazing whale-watching opportunities, as it's located at the entrance to the Strait of Georgia in British Columbia.
Climb aboard a vessel with your family or a small tour group and head out onto the waters around Pender Island.
You'll most likely see some of the most magnificent creatures of the ocean such as orcas, humpback whales, and other species. There's even a chance to spot grey whales (the migration takes place between April and October).
8. Go kayaking
Kayaking is a popular activity on Pender Island as it offers countless bays and beaches to explore along its 61 kilometers (38 miles) of rugged coastline.
Enjoy the views and tranquility as you paddle through its stunning inlets and hidden coves.
Whether you're an experienced kayaker or just starting out, certified trainers are happy to provide lessons and ensure your kayak adventure is a successful one.
9. Relax at Poets Cove Marina
Located on South Pender Island, Poets Cove Marina offers 110 deep water slips for boats. Just next door is the Poets Cove Resort and Spa, offering a luxurious stay for a romantic weekend getaway. Check availability here.
The Syrens Bistro on the property is a cozy restaurant that serves tasty comfort food. Enjoy the spectacular ocean views from the patio while sipping your favorite drink.
Or take a stroll around the Marina and capture the mesmerizing sunset views. Either way, Poets Cove Marina is a lovely place to spend an afternoon!
11. Visit Pender Islands Museum
At Pender Islands Museum you can learn more about the history of the island and the first peoples who lived here.
Situated in an old farmhouse, there are old vessels, dresses, paintings, crockery, and much more on display. Though small, the museum makes for a nice and informative visit.
Admission is by donation ($7 per person or $15/per family is suggested). Be sure to check the opening hours as the museum closes down during the winter months.
12. Play a game at the Golf Island Disc Park
If you love sports, add this to your list of things to do in Pender Island. Golf Island Disc Park is a one-of-a-kind Disc Golf Course with 27 holes in total.
The rules are similar to golf, but instead of a ball, you maneuver a disc (similar to a frisbee) through the course. Read more about this fun game here.
13. Hike Mount Norman
Mount Norman is the highest point of Pender Island and there are two hiking trails to choose from. Both of the trails are well-marked, read more detailed information here.
You can enjoy panoramic views over Bedwell Harbour and the surrounding Gulf Islands from the summit.
14. Visit Vern Simpson Studio
If you're an art lover, be sure to drop by the Simpson Studio. It displays the works of the talented Vern Simpson.
Vern Simpson is well-known for the iconic “Gassy Jack” sculpture that stood in Vancouver’s Gastown District for 60 years.
The studio is situated in an adobe-style home on South Pender Island. It showcases brilliant artwork of deep perspectives, landscape paintings, sculptures, and more.
16. Shop at the Islnd Grl Collective
The Islnd Grl Collective is primarily a clothing boutique and a little paradise for shoppers. They house a unique selection of premium-quality clothing, jewelry, and accessories crafted by locals as well as some big brands.
Every product has an island flare to it. If you want to buy some souvenirs for your loved ones, definitely pay a visit to the Islnd Grl Collective.
17. Browse the Pender Island Farmers Market
The community hall of Pender Island hosts a market every Saturday (from 10 am until 2 pm). Farmers gather at the Pender Island Community Hall to sell their fresh products.
Here you can buy local produce straight from the farm, delicious food and snacks as well as beautiful souvenirs.
Artisans sell very unique handmade stuff which includes accessories, jewelry, clothing, footwear, and much more.
18. Eat great food at HUB at Hope Bay
If you're looking for Mediterranean food, a must-try place is HUB at Hope Bay. Insider advice: make a reservation for a table with a waterfront view.
Often, there is live music that adds to the great vibe at HUB. A few must-try things from the menu are mushroom gnocchi, house-made ravioli, and a glass of local wine.
19. Spend an afternoon at Magic Lake
90% of the Pender Island population lives around Magic Lake. This is the most developed area on Pender Island with lodges, guest houses, and cabins offering facilities like a hot tub or swimming pool.
You can also go for a swim in Magic Lake or simply relax along its shores and spot some local birds.
20. Admire the views from Gowlland Point
Tucked away down at the southern end of South Pender Island, Gowlland Point is the best place to enjoy some scenic views.
On a clear day, you'll be able to see the San Juan Islands (and even Mount Baker) in the United States!
Pender Island things to do: in conclusion
In conclusion, Pender Island is a great destination for outdoor activities and exploring nature. Whether you’re spending a weekend or an entire week, Pender Island is sure to provide a memorable visit.
If you've got any questions, leave a comment below or send me a message. For more Vancouver Island travel tips, check these posts:
- Things to do in Campbell River
- Things to do in Nanaimo
- Things to do in Port Alberni
- Things to do in Ucluelet
- Where to stay in Victoria
Also read my other Canada articles for more travel inspiration.
