Bowen Island Travel Guide

Explore the beauty of Bowen Island with our comprehensive travel guide that includes information on places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, nearby destinations and more.


Bowen Island is a small jewel of North Shore, located in Lower Mainland, British Columbia, Canada. Known for its scenic coastal views, outdoor adventures, and a laid-back local culture, this island makes for a perfect escape from the bustling city life.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about Bowen Island, including places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options and logistics, nearby destinations and more.

Introduction to Bowen Island

Bowen Island is known for its breathtaking coastal views, lush green forests, and a rich cultural heritage. A popular tourist destination in the region, the island attracts visitors from all around the world, who come to explore its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and vibrant local scene.

List of Places to Visit in Bowen Island

Whether you are a nature lover, cultural enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful retreat, Bowen Island has something special for everyone. Here’s a list of popular attractions to visit on the island:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Bowen Island Museum and Archives
  2. The Union Steamship Marina
  3. Artisan Square
  4. Snug Cove

Natural Attractions of Bowen Island: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Killarney Lake
  2. Mount Gardner
  3. Bowen Island Lookout
  4. Dorman Point

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bowen Island

Bowen Island is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with numerous trails that take you across scenic coastal views, lush green forests, and mountainous terrain. Some popular routes to check out are:

  1. Killarney Lake Loop Trail
  2. Mount Gardner Trail
  3. Dorman Point Trail
  4. Bridal Veil Falls Trail

Best Things to Do in Bowen Island: Activities and Tours

Along with hiking and biking, there are plenty of other exciting things to do on Bowen Island. Some of the must-try activities are:

  1. Kayaking and paddleboarding
  2. Whale watching
  3. Fishing
  4. Wine-tasting tours

Week-Long Itinerary for Bowen Island

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Bowen Island, here’s a suggested itinerary to make the best of your stay:

Day 1 Arrival and Exploration of Snug Cove
Day 2 Hiking at Mount Gardner
Day 3 Kayaking and Paddleboarding around Bowen Island
Day 4 Whale Watching Tour and Wine tasting
Day 5 Relaxing at the Beach and visiting Artisan Square
Day 6 Exploring the Bowen Island Museum and Archives
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Bowen Island

Bowen Island is famous for its local cuisine, fresh seafood, and craft beer. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Fish and Chips
  2. Seafood Chowder
  3. Smoked Salmon Salad
  4. Lobster Bisque

Local Beverages

  1. Bowen Island Beer
  2. Apple Cider
  3. Local Wine
  4. Herbal Tea

Where to Stay in Bowen Island: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodation or a budget-friendly stay, Bowen Island offers a range of options to choose from. Some popular choices are:

  1. The Lodge at Pine Cove
  2. Bowen Island Lodge
  3. Nectar Yoga B&B

What to Buy in Bowen Island: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take a piece of Bowen Island with you, here are some souvenirs and local products to consider:

  1. Bowen Island Art and Crafts
  2. Local Produce and Wines
  3. Handmade Soap and Beauty Products

Local Culture and Customs of Bowen Island

Bowen Island is known for its friendly locals, laid-back vibe, and vibrant cultural scene. To fully immerse yourself in the local culture, here are some customs to keep in mind:

  1. Respect the environment and wildlife
  2. Follow trail etiquette while hiking or biking
  3. Support local businesses and artisans

Best Time to Visit Bowen Island

The best time to visit Bowen Island is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are at their best. However, the island is charming all year round, with its unique seasonal activities and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bowen Island

Do:

  1. Respect the island’s natural beauty and environment
  2. Take your time to explore and immerse yourself in the local culture
  3. Support local businesses and artisans

Don’t:

  1. Litter or disturb the local wildlife
  2. Go off-trail while hiking or biking
  3. Disrespect local customs and cultural heritage

Safety and Health

Safety in Bowen Island

Bowen Island is a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a friendly local community. However, it’s always advisable to follow general safety protocols, such as:

  1. Keep your valuables safe while exploring the island
  2. Follow traffic rules while driving or biking
  3. Wear proper gear while engaging in outdoor activities

Health in Bowen Island

Bowen Island has a reliable healthcare system, with a local clinic and hospital available for emergencies. It’s always advisable to carry basic medication and travel insurance for added safety.

Getting to Bowen Island: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bowen Island is accessible by ferry service from Horseshoe Bay, which runs several times a day. Visitors can also take a water taxi from Granville Island. Once on the island, there are several transportation options, such as taxis, buses, and rental cars.

Airports Near Bowen Island

  1. Vancouver International Airport (YVR)
  2. Victoria International Airport (YYJ)

Bus Stations Near Bowen Island

  1. Horseshoe Bay Transportation Center
  2. West Vancouver Blue Bus Terminal

Other Options

Visitors can also take a water taxi from Granville Island or charter a private boat to get to Bowen Island.

How to Get Around in Bowen Island

Bowen Island is a small island, and most places can be accessed by foot. Visitors can also opt for taxis, rental cars, or bicycles to explore the island at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Bowen Island: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bowen Island is well-connected to other popular destinations in British Columbia, such as Vancouver, Whistler, and Victoria. Visitors can also take a ferry to explore other nearby islands, such as Gambier Island, Anvil Island, and Keats Island.

Conclusion

Bowen Island is a breathtaking destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and cultural heritage. Whether you’re planning a peaceful retreat or an action-packed adventure, this island is guaranteed to offer an unforgettable experience. We hope this travel guide helps you plan your visit and explore the best of Bowen Island.

Marina views at Snug Cove Marina views at Snug Cove