Just a 20 minute ferry ride from Horseshoe Bay, Bowen Island feels like a world away from Vancouver. The moment the boat pulls away from the terminal and Howe Sound opens up around you, with mountains rising on every side, eagles cutting across the sky, and the city noise already fading, you understand why people have been making this crossing for over a century.
Bowen Island sits at the southern entrance to Howe Sound, about 20 kilometres northwest of downtown Vancouver, and it punches well above its weight for an island of just 50 square kilometres. There are pockets of old growth and second growth forests laced with trails, quiet coves and sun warmed beaches, a charming village where the ferry docks, and a creative, close community of roughly 4,000 residents who chose island life over city convenience. Artists, writers, hikers, families, and retirees all seem to coexist here in an easy, unhurried way that is genuinely hard to find this close to a major city.
Most visitors come for a day trip, and a day is absolutely enough to get a taste. But the more time you give Bowen, the more it gives back. Morning trails before the crowds arrive, a long lunch on a pub patio, a sunset over the Sound with nowhere to rush off to, the island rewards the unhurried.
Whether you are planning your first visit or your fifteenth, here are the ten best things to do on Bowen Island.
1. Ride the Ferry from Horseshoe Bay
The adventure starts before you even arrive. BC Ferries runs frequent crossings from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver to Snug Cove, and the crossing itself is half the fun. The views of Howe Sound, with its mountain backdrop and island-dotted waters, are genuinely stunning. On a clear day, you’ll want to be on the upper deck with your camera ready. The ferry runs year-round and no reservations are needed for walk-on passengers — just show up and enjoy the ride.
2. Wander Through Snug Cove Village
Step off the ferry and you’re immediately in Snug Cove, the island’s small but lovable village centre. A short stroll takes you past independent shops, a bakery, a pub, a gallery or two, and the iconic Union Steamship Company Marina store. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an hour just poking around without any particular agenda. Grab a coffee, chat with a local, and soak in the unhurried pace that makes Bowen Island so appealing.
3. Hike Mount Gardner
For the hikers, Mount Gardner is the crown jewel. At 727 metres, it’s the highest point on Bowen Island, and the trail to the summit rewards you with sweeping panoramic views of Howe Sound, the Sunshine Coast, and on clear days, even the Gulf Islands. The full loop is roughly 16 kilometres and takes most people four to six hours — so pack lunch, wear proper footwear, and head out early. Shorter out-and-back options are available if you’re not up for the full loop.
4. Explore Crippen Regional Park
Crippen Regional Park wraps around Snug Cove and is the island’s most accessible natural space. The park has an interconnected network of trails winding through second-growth forest, past Killarney Lake, and along the shoreline. It’s ideal for families, casual walkers, and anyone who just wants to breathe some fresh air without a strenuous climb. The forest floor is gorgeous in spring and fall, and the park is home to a surprising variety of birds and wildlife.
5. Walk to Killarney Lake
One of the most popular easy hikes on the island, the trail to Killarney Lake starts right near Snug Cove and takes about 45 minutes at a relaxed pace. The lake is serene and peaceful, surrounded by forest, and there’s a picnic area where you can sit and enjoy the stillness. In warmer months it’s a lovely spot for a quiet lunch. The trail is well-maintained and accessible to most fitness levels, making it a great choice if you’re visiting with kids or want a gentler outing.
6. Kayak or Paddleboard the Coastline
Bowen Island’s coastline is made for paddling. The calm waters of Howe Sound offer protected paddling conditions for much of the year, with sea caves, rocky outcrops, and small beaches to explore. Rentals are available on the island during the warmer months, or you can bring your own gear on the ferry. Experienced paddlers can circumnavigate sections of the island’s perimeter, while beginners will find plenty of sheltered bays to explore near the Cove.
7. Have a Meal or Pint at a Local Pub
After a day of hiking or paddling, there’s something deeply satisfying about settling into one of Bowen’s local eateries. The pub culture on the island is warm and welcoming — you’ll find locals and visitors mixed together, sharing tables and swapping trail recommendations. The food tends toward hearty comfort fare, and BC craft beers are always on tap. If you’re visiting in summer, ask about seasonal local seafood — it doesn’t get much fresher than this close to the water.
8. Swim at a Beach or Cove
Bowen Island has several swimming spots worth seeking out in summer. Tunstall Bay on the island’s west side is a favourite for its calm, shallow water and sandy shore. Mannion Bay, near Snug Cove, is another option that’s easy to reach without a car. The water in Howe Sound warms up enough by July and August for a refreshing dip, and the scenery around you — mountains, forest, quiet water — makes it feel like swimming in a postcard.
9. Catch the Sunset Over Howe Sound
Bowen Island sunsets are something else. Because the island sits at the mouth of Howe Sound and faces west, the evening light plays spectacularly across the water and mountains. Head to any elevated viewpoint or west-facing shoreline as the sun starts to drop, and you’ll understand why so many people who come for a day trip end up daydreaming about moving here. If you’re catching a late ferry back, this is how you spend the final hour before you go.
10. Stay the Night and Experience the Quiet
If there’s one thing most day-trippers regret, it’s not staying longer. Bowen Island has a small selection of B&Bs, vacation rentals, and cozy retreats scattered around the island. Staying overnight lets you experience the island after the day-trip crowd heads back on the ferry — quieter trails in the morning, a slower breakfast, and the rare pleasure of having a place like this mostly to yourself. It’s only 20 minutes from the city, but an overnight on Bowen Island genuinely feels like a proper getaway.
Getting There
Ferry: BC Ferries departs from Horseshoe Bay Terminal in West Vancouver. Crossings take approximately 20 minutes and run throughout the day. No reservations required for walk-on passengers.
By Car: Horseshoe Bay is accessible via Highway 1 (Upper Levels Highway). Parking is available at or near the terminal, though it fills up on busy summer weekends — arriving early or walking/cycling to the ferry is recommended.
On the Island: Snug Cove and Crippen Regional Park are easily explored on foot. For more remote areas like Mount Gardner or Tunstall Bay, a car, bicycle, or taxi is helpful.
Bowen Island is a short trip from Vancouver but a long way from the ordinary. Add it to your list.