Suggested itinerary: Pender
Can you explore Pender Island over a 2- or 3-day itinerary? Whether you end up here for a weekend or a week, you’ll have plenty to fill your time. With hiking, beachcombing, sunset watching, market shopping, and at least one round at the world-class golf course, the twin islands pack more into every square kilometre than you might assume.
If you’re planning a three-day weekend on Pender Island, you’ll want to start here. Use the following as itinerary inspiration, giving you just a little peek into the magic that this island holds.
Day 1: Arrival and a sunset picnic
Afternoon
Try to arrive on Friday as early as you can manage to kick off your Pender Island 3-day itinerary. There’s more island to discover than its 34 square kilometres might initially suggest.
As you disembark from the ferry at the Otter Bay terminal, do a quick run through of your provisions. Do you need extra snacks? A locally made wine? A sweet treat? If you forgot something or want to stock up on local goodies, the Driftwood Centre is an easy first stop.
This is the island’s main source for provisions, with everything you need for a long weekend. Grab a basketful of snacks for later, then pick up a bottle of something good while you’re at it.
Once you’ve unpacked at your accommodation, step outside. If you’re tucked into the trees at The WOODS on Pender, you’ll likely hear the cry of ravens. Or, if you’re looking over the water at Poets Cove, it’ll be the sound of the waves lapping on the rocks. This is the heartbeat of Pender, and you have the entire weekend ahead of you.
Evening
On the first night of your Pender Island weekend, head down to Bridges Beach or Shingle Bay for the sunset. Both of these north-facing shorelines are perfect for catching the last warm rays of the sun as it sets over the Salish Sea.
If it’s during summer, bring a spread of nibbles from your stop at Driftwood Centre plus a cold local drink. Spend the evening enjoying conversation, the sounds of the great outdoors, and — importantly, none of the usual distractions of weekday life.
Or, if you’d rather sit down to dinner at a table, The Copper Otter Bar and Grill is exactly where you want to be. Located back in the Driftwood Centre zone, their menu features an epic list of smashburgers, hearty bowls, and excellent vegetarian options.
Day 2: Markets, farm stands, and tastings
Morning
Start day 2 at Vanilla Leaf Bakery Café. In the mornings, this place fills with a friendly local crowd, as well as croissants, sweet treats, and good coffee. Arrive early and don’t rush to leave.
From there, if it’s a Saturday, make your way to the Pender Island Saturday Market at the Community Hall. Running year-round, this is where you’ll find local produce, artisan crafts, baked goods, and the kind of one-of-a-kind finds that only exist on Pender. Wander the stalls, chat with the growers, and load up for later.
While you’re out, keep your eyes open for farm stands along the island roads. They pop up everywhere, especially in the warmer months. You never know what you’ll see, from food and flowers to crafts and preserves.
Afternoon
With your market haul in tow, it’s time to head uphill. The hikes on Pender Island offer some of the finest views in the entire Southern Gulf Islands. This afternoon belongs to George Hill — the highest peak on North Pender and, as many locals will tell you, the most beautiful spot on the island.
At the summit, rare Garry oaks and wildflowers keep you company in what writer Hans Tammemagi described as “a place so grand it quietly asks you not to spoil it with noise and babble.” Take the hint. Sit on the bench and stay a while.
After the hike, reward yourself with a local tasting. Twin Island Cider makes beautifully low-intervention ciders and perry from native yeasts, with a tasting room open Friday through Sunday year-round. Wine lovers should make time for Sea Star Vineyards, the island’s only winery, with a seasonal tasting room and views to match the pour.
Evening
Tonight you have two options. If you’re feeling the need to unwind and get cozy, head back to your accommodation and cook something from the goodies gathered at the market and the farm stands.
Or head to The WOODS on Pender, to Coffee + Kitchen. Bakery and cafe by day and dreamy foodie haven by night, it feels just as cozy. If you choose this option for dinner, you’ll get spoiled for choice with handcrafted cocktails and a menu sourced from all local ingredients. Reservations are recommended here.
Day 3: A little friendly competition
Morning
Switch things up for your final morning. Head to Slow Coast Coffee, one of the most charming cafés in the Southern Gulf Islands. You’ll quickly discover there’s a reason why locals are so fiercely devoted to this place.
Order something good, find a seat, and gradually wake up to the final day of your Pender Island 3-day itinerary.
After coffee, it’s time to experience Pender’s more competitive side — the 18-hole disc golf course. Forgot your discs at home? Don’t worry! You can source them at Pender Pharmacy, Pender Island Kayak Adventures, or The Driftwood Auto Centre.
This is one of the greatest courses in BC and maybe even Canada. It runs along the wooded coastline, with technical holes and an unforgettable landscape. It hosts several legendary annual tournaments, but on a quiet island afternoon, the course is yours to enjoy.
When the trees start casting longer shadows, begin making your slow way towards Otter Bay Ferry Terminal. Give yourself plenty of time before your sailing — at least 45 minutes and longer still in the summer months.
Whether you came for the hikes, the disc golf, the markets, or the island vibes, a Pender weekend delivers every time. The only thing left to figure out is which ferry you’re booking for your return trip — and whether it will be for more than just a Pender Island itinerary in 3 days.
