Getting to Pender is fairly easy by ferry. The ferry terminal
on Pender Island is located at Otter Bay and is serviced by BC
Ferries from both Swartz Bay on Vancouver Island and Tsawwassen
on the mainland. There is also float plane service to Pender
Island, depending on where you are coming from, via Harbour Air,
Kenmore Air and Seair.
Once on Pender, you will soon discover why the Pender’s
are known as the “friendly islands” and the “islands
of hidden coves and beaches”. Interestingly, the Pender’s
are actually made up of two islands, North and South Pender.
In 1902, there was a narrow channel dredged to separate the land
mass to make shipping easier and safer. The two islands would
finally be “re-connected” in 1955 when a single lane
bridge was built. The combined area of North and South Pender
is about 35 square kilometers and the two islands maintain a
permanent population of about 2300 residents, which can increase
significantly during the summer months.
On Pender Island you are inspired to be outside to experience
everything that island life has to offer. The recreational opportunities
seem endless, whether on land or in the water. One of the absolute
best ways to explore Pender is from the water in a kayak. If
you bring your own kayak, there are numerous launching sites
around the islands. If you are new to kayaking or want some local
expertise, Kayak
Pender Island is first rate and extremely knowledgeable.
For those who want a different kind of marine adventure, from
eco-tours, to fishing, scuba diving or even a water taxi, head
to Port Browning Marina and check out Sound
Passage Adventures.
For visitors arriving by boat, there is the Otter Bay Marina,
which is very close to the Otter Bay ferry terminal and Poets
Cove on South Pender. There are also public docks at Port Washington
and Hope Bay.
The Pender’s are well known for its numerous beach
access points and a well marked trail
systems. You will have no difficulty
finding the trail to match your ability, from easy to moderate
to difficult. The Gulf Islands
National Park Reserve, which was
established in 2003, manages some of the more at risk areas on
the islands. Some of the better known beaches are located at
Mortimer Spit, Medicine Beach (which is one of the last wetlands
in the Gulf Islands), Bricky Bay and a great spot for exploring
just off of Boundary Pass road. Some of the better known hikes
and favorite spots are located at Beaumont Marine Park/Mount
Norman Regional Park, Roesland, Brooks Point and the Enchanted
Forest Park. Another favorite for locals and visitors alike is
located on North Pender at Thieves
Bay. This is one of the best
whale watching spots in the region as the orcas often get very
close to the breakwater.
A getaway on Pender would not be complete without a round of
golf at the Pender
Island Golf and Country Club. This is a great
9 hole track where the pace is relaxed and children are welcome.
The best thing of all about the course is that it is open year
round. If traditional golf is not your thing, try out the Disc
Golf. This is an emerging sport and Pender has one of the best
courses around. Thanks to dedicated volunteers, a 27 hole course
has evolved over the years to make for an exciting game.
If you need a break from the BBQ, Pender has some nice options
to meet your dining requirements. There is the Pistou
Grill,
The Stand at the ferry terminal, Islanders
Restaurant, Memories
at the Inn, Hope Bay Café, Chippers at the Pender Island
GCC, Pender Island
Bakery Café and the Pub
at Port Browning.
Speaking of eating, another fun thing to do on Pender is to head
up to Morning Bay Vineyard & Winery. Sample some wines and
enjoy the magnificent views on Pender’s only winery. Started
in 2001, Morning Bay expects to release their first estate wines
in the spring of 2007.
What would an island be without a dynamic artistic side?? Fear
not, as there is absolutely no shortage of uniquely
talented people on the Penders. Locally made arts and crafts can be found
at many shops, studios and private galleries found throughout
the islands. Watch for exhibitions and showings, especially during
the spring and summer. The Saturday morning Farmers
Market at
the community hall gives you another opportunity to experience
locally made crafts, produce and other goodies!!! The annual
Fall Fair is another Pender tradition that produces the only
real traffic jam of the year, island style!!! The theatrical
highlight of the year is the annual New Years Eve Magic
Lake Lantern Festival. This is a magical sight for young and old and
it really makes you appreciate the abundance of talent Pender
is blessed with.
Links
Destinations
Activities
Dinning
Other
