Bowen Island

Bowen Island is a quiet, forested island of about 20 square miles (52 square kilometers) that is home to approximately 3,500 year-round residents. Due to its popularity as a location for Vancouverites’ vacation homes, that number swells to 5,000 in the summer. The common theme of the island’s inhabitants is a commitment to laid-back, rural living. Bowen Island is easily accessible by ferry (from Horseshoe Bay) or water taxi (from Granville Island). Ferries and water taxis land in Snug Cove, a short stroll away from shopping and dining in Village Square, Artisan Square, and the Marina on the Pier.
In the summertime, you can enjoy kayaking around the island’s sheltered bays and swimming at the island’s sandy beaches. Hiking and mountain-biking trails also abound on the island. The artistic community on Bowen Island celebrates its culture and history at festivals and events all year long. The Round Bowen kayaking and sailboat races (June), the Write On! Bowen Writers Festival (July), the BowFest (August) with a parade, animals and carnival, the AppleFest (October), and the Light-Up Bowen Lantern Parade (December) all offer the visitor plenty of local entertainment.

Practical Info

Bowen Island is just over 15 miles (25 kilometers) northwest of Vancouver. The island is approximately 3.75 miles (6 kilometers) wide by 7.5 miles (12 kilometers) long. At its closest point to the mainland, Bowen Island is less than 2 miles (3 kilometers) west of Vancouver. There is regular ferry service from Horseshoe Bay, as well as three water taxi services from different locations in Vancouver.