There’s so much outdoor beauty to enjoy on Bowen Island, from its rocky beaches and dramatic cliffs, to meandering forest trails, to its charming country roads. It’s a place where you can do a bit of everything: hike, paddle, sip local cider, check out an art gallery, and discover a local market. With spring on its way and day-trip season rapidly approaching, it’s time to add this iconic destination to your list.
The island’s roads are hilly but scenic, offering cyclists the chance to push themselves to the limit. Its rocky beaches warrant water shoes, but its clear, clean waters are well worth it. Oh, and there’s an award-winning golf course to check out if golfing is your favourite pastime.
Just a 20-minute ferry ride away from West Vancouver, Bowen Island is considered “one of the best days out you can have from Vancouver,” according to Tourism Bowen Island and Lonely Planet.
Visitors can enjoy the day beachcombing or paddling their way through striking waters, go on a number of scenic hikes or bike rides, or check out one of the many outdoor yoga sessions or live concerts during the warmer months.
If you’re looking for the ultimate hiking challenge, consider adding Mt. Gardner to your itinerary, as it’s the island’s highest peak.
Head to the Bowen Cider House or Bowen Island Brewing for a refreshing sip, or dine farm-to-table at one of the island’s many local eateries.
Visitors arrive via Snug Cove, which has a boardwalk and pier overlooking the scenic harbour and little shops in the area, including Earnest Ice Cream.
It’s a year-round paradise, so you can’t go wrong with a visit no matter when you choose to hop on that ferry.
Happy exploring!
How to get there: Take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay, West Vancouver, to Bowen Island (Snug Cove)
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