Pender Island: Planning Your Way to an Unforgettable Experience
When to Visit Pender Island
In the past, we have visited Pender Island by boat so it was a treat to spend a weekend there exploring. I forgot just how hilly Pender is so it was great to visit with a vehicle and see both North and South Pender, which are connected by a single-lane wooden bridge. Really, anytime is a great time to visit the island depending on what you hope to do. We spent a lovely weekend in October camping on the island and enjoyed the beaches, trails, and local offerings.
Getting There
Depending on where you are coming from you will need to take a BC ferry to Otter Bay on North Pender Island. You can get a direct ferry from Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island that takes about 30 minutes or catch an island hopper that makes stops at the nearby Southern Gulf Islands and takes a little longer. You can also take a ferry from Tsawwassen in Vancouver that offers similar options. Be sure to check the ferry schedule for your specific days of travel as schedules change regularly.
Pro Tip: Purchase an Experience Card from BC Ferries for significant discounts on your ferry ride.
Location, Location, Location
We had the opportunity to stay on a friend’s property near Thieves Bay and enjoy the beautiful sunrises and sunsets each day. Depending on what you are looking for there are several accommodation options on the island. There are a number of vacation rentals throughout the island. Another popular option is a unique family retreat at Woods on Pender, where options range from airstreams to cabins. With on-site dining and outdoor hot tubs, it’s a memorable way to immerse in the island’s natural beauty.
For a unique outdoor experience on South Pender, head to Beaumont Marine Park where families can camp right by the water. Accessible by kayak, boat or a hike, it’s a peaceful place to stargaze and enjoy a night surrounded by nature. For more on camping check out this post.
If you are looking for something a little fancier, Poet’s Cove Resort and Spa on South Pender is a great option for a girl’s weekend, couples getaway or book a cottage with a private hot tub for the whole family. We love the pools with an ocean view.
Day Trips
Once we are on Pender we don’t need to go too far, everything is within about a 20-minute drive. We usually spend our days exploring a beach, hiking and visiting the local roadside stands, coffee shops and cidery. The island is peaceful, quiet and charming. It’s a great spot to get away and enjoy the outdoors. Check out the Top 12 Experiences on Pender so you don’t miss a thing.
