Pender Island Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Tourism Vancouver Island
Photo provided by Landon Sveinson Photography/Tourism Vancouver Island

These two idyllic islands in the archipelago outside Vancouver promise relaxing walks, charming towns and a warm rural atmosphere.

Pender Island, in spite of its singular name, actually consists of two islands. The sense of community here is felt strongly through its rich connections to the past and a large presence of artistic and creative types. Enjoy the relaxed pace of Pender, a laid-back and peaceful holiday destination.

The two islands were once connected to one another, before a canal was carved through the isthmus in 1902. Today, most residents live on North Pender, where old-world farms grow organic produce. Explore Roesland, once farmland and then a coastal resort, now part of a national reserve Here, browse the Pender Island Museum to learn more about the community’s agrarian past.

Swim or engage in watersports in the ocean waters around the islands. Rent a kayak to paddle in the coastal coves and inlets at a gentle pace. Don goggles and dive into a cave at Tilly Point, where glowing anemones line the ocean bed.

Tee off on the scenic nine-hole course at Pender Island Golf & Country Club. The putting greens and driving ranges here are surrounded by thick woodland.

Explore the scenery of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, a large portion of which is on South Pender. Hike up Mount Norman or take a more leisurely walk to places such as Enchanted Forest Park, a fairy-tale glade. Tour the wilderness and look for bears, whales and other wildlife.

Come to Pender Island on the first weekend in August to witness the annual Hope Bay Boat Days, a 2-day festival with music, boat shows and communal dinners. In the same month, purchase the best produce from local farms at the lively Fall Fair.

Peak season in the Gulf Islands is in July and August, when the sun is out and the water is perfect for swimming. Travel to the island by ferry from Swartz Bay on Victoria Island or Tsawwassen in Vancouver. Fly in on a float plane to view the beauty of Pender Island from above.

Poets Cove Resort & Spa

Poets Cove Resort & Spa

4 out of 5
9801 Spalding Rd, Pender Island, BC
The price is ฿6,127 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
฿6,127
฿7,046 total
7 Sept - 8 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star beach resort in Pender Island. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and an outdoor pool. Our guests praise the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (393 reviews)
"Great location & view! Its a great spot for families, stayed in the 2 bed villa. However, the amenities wasnt that great! one of the 2 pools were closed during our 4 days stay, eventhough when asked from the staff we were promised it will opened soon. The whole resort ended up in the kids pool and ..."

Reviewed on 21 Aug 2025

Poets Cove Resort & Spa
Motel 6 Saanichton, BC - Victoria Airport

Motel 6 Saanichton, BC - Victoria Airport

2 out of 5
2401 Mt Newton Cross Rd, Saanichton, BC
The price is ฿4,416 per night from 28 Sept to 29 Sept
฿4,416
฿4,990 total
28 Sept - 29 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this motel in Saanichton. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful staff in their reviews. ...
Motel 6 Saanichton, BC - Victoria Airport
Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa

4.5 out of 5
849 Verdier Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC
The price is ฿9,358 per night from 28 Sept to 29 Sept
฿9,358
฿10,575 total
28 Sept - 29 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4.5-star luxury hotel in Brentwood Bay. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island

3.5 out of 5
315 Robinson Road, Salt Spring Island, BC
Stay at this 3.5-star cottage in Salt Spring Island. Enjoy free Wi-Fi, free parking and balconies or patios. Popular attractions Mistaken Identity Vineyards ...
9/10 Wonderful! (319 reviews)
"Love the is cottage! Good for families and friends to share"

Reviewed on 27 Jun 2025

The Cottages on Salt Spring Island
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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