These two BC islands with picturesque coves are connected by a bridge

Not to be confused with Pender Harbour on the Sunshine Coast, Pender Island is one of the southern gulf islands at British Columbia’s famed Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. And you’ll definitely want to add it to your map of places to visit!

Rolling meadows, pristine lakes, and multiple beaches and coves to uncover – what more could you ask for?

Surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Salish Sea, Pender Island actually consists of two separate islands, North and South Pender, originally connected via an isthmus.

In the early 1900s, a canal was created to give ferries and boats easier access to the islands, with a single-lane bridge to connect them.

Now, the two islands offer boaters and outdoor enthusiasts plenty of scenic adventures. Visitors can book a range of kayaking tours or wildlife-watching excursions, rent canoes, go snorkelling, golf at the Golf and Country Club, or swim at Medicine Beach – and that’s just for starters.

Hikers can check out winding trails through the island’s diverse ecosystems, from gentle strolls to challenging treks. And for the ultimate adventurers, you can hike up to Mount Norman – AKA the highest point on the island.

As well, there are celebrated annual events like the Pender Island Fall Fair, Lantern Festival, and the Pender Island Blues Festival to take advantage of.

Location & info

Situated between Vancouver and Victoria, visitors can easily access the islands via a two-hour ferry ride from Vancouver, or hop on a 40-minute ferry ride from Sidney.

So there you have it, Vancouver! Another beautiful island to explore in BC this fall.

Pender Island, British Columbia

How to get there: Take the ferry from Tsawwassen to Mayne Island and another ferry to Pender Island.