Bowen Island Day Trip from Vancouver: Your Ultimate Guide

Looking for a quick escape from Vancouver’s hustle and bustle? Bowen Island is the perfect day trip destination! Just a short ferry ride away, this tranquil island offers scenic hikes, cozy cafes, stunning waterfront views, and endless opportunities for adventure. This guide has everything you need to plan your Bowen Island day trip, including how to get there, what to do, where to eat, and insider tips.

Why Visit Bowen Island?

Bowen Island is often called “Vancouver’s backyard paradise” and for good reason:

• Close to Vancouver: Just 20-30 minutes by ferry.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: A slower pace of life with cozy villages and pristine nature.
• Outdoor Adventures: Hiking trails, kayaking, and beautiful beaches.
• Unique Local Charm: Boutique shops, art galleries, and community-focused events.

Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, or someone who just wants to relax, Bowen Island has something unique to offer.

Unique Things to Do and Local Experiences on Bowen Island

1. Visit the Bowen Island Heritage Museum

Located in Snug Cove, this small but fascinating museum showcases Bowen Island’s history, from Indigenous heritage to its days as a summer resort town.

• Location: Snug Cove near the ferry terminal.
• Cost: Free (donations welcome).
• Why Visit? A glimpse into Bowen Island’s unique cultural history.

2. Check Out Artisan Square

Nestled on a hill above Snug Cove, Artisan Square is a hub for local artists and creators. It’s a must-visit for art lovers.

• The Gallery at Artisan Square: Features local artwork and handmade crafts.
• Cocoa West Chocolatier: A boutique chocolate shop with rich, organic chocolates made locally. Don’t miss their famous hot chocolate!
• Artisan Eats Café: Grab coffee and pastries while enjoying the serene hillside views.

3. Indulge at Bowen Island’s Only Distillery: Copper Spirit Distillery

Explore the island’s craft distillery where locally produced spirits are made with care and precision.

• What to Try: Taste their handcrafted vodka, gin, or unique spirit blends.
• Location: Near Artisan Square.
• Cost: Tasting flights ~$15 per person.
• Tip: Take home a bottle as a Bowen Island keepsake.

4. Discover Bowen Island’s Secret Beaches

Beyond the popular spots, Bowen Island has hidden beaches perfect for some peace and quiet.

• Pebbly Beach: A secluded shoreline that’s ideal for quiet contemplation and picnics.
• Cates Bay: A peaceful beach tucked away from the main roads with lovely views of Howe Sound.
• How to Find Them: Ask locals or pick up a Bowen Island beach map at the Snug Cove Visitor Centre.

5. Enjoy a Yoga Session at Nectar Yoga Retreat

For something unique and relaxing, visit Nectar Yoga Retreat—a hidden gem surrounded by nature.

• What to Do: Join a drop-in yoga class or meditation session in their geodesic yoga dome.
• Why Visit? It’s a perfect way to rejuvenate and experience the island’s tranquil energy.
• Location: ~5 minutes’ drive from Snug Cove.

6. Go Whale Watching or Bird Watching

Bowen Island’s coastal waters are a great place to spot wildlife.

• Whale Watching: While not as common as other coastal areas, you might see orca whales or dolphins near Hood Point.
• Bird Watching: Bowen Island is home to eagles, herons, and songbirds. Bring your binoculars to Killarney Lake or the Snug Cove Marina.

7. Explore Local Markets and Farm Stands

If you’re visiting on a weekend, check out the Bowen Island Farmers’ Market for fresh produce, handmade goods, and artisanal products.

• Market Location: Typically held near Snug Cove or Artisan Square.
• What to Buy: Locally grown honey, organic vegetables, and unique handmade crafts.

Top Things to Do on Bowen Island

1. Explore Snug Cove

Start your trip at Snug Cove, a charming village full of shops, cafes, and local culture.

• Snug Cove Marina: Take a relaxing walk along the waterfront.
• Local Shops: Browse for art, books, or souvenirs made by Bowen Island artisans.

2. Hiking Trails on Bowen Island

• Dorman Point Hike: Easy hike with views of Howe Sound. (~2 km round trip).
• Mount Gardner Hike: The island’s highest peak with stunning views. (~10 km round trip).

3. Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Bowen Island Sea Kayaking and explore the coastline.

4. Visit Local Beaches

• Sandy Beach: Near Snug Cove, family-friendly.
• Tunstall Bay: Great for sunsets and swimming.

Cost Breakdown for a Day Trip to Bowen Island

Option 1: By Car

Item	Cost
Gas (Round Trip ~50 km)	$50.00
Ferry Ticket (Car + Driver)	$74.60
Ferry Ticket (Passenger)	$10.10 (each)
Food (Lunch + Snacks)	$30.00 to $40.00 per person
Miscellaneous (coffee/snacks)	$10.00
Total Cost	~$160 to $185 (for 2 people)

Option 2: By Public Transport

Item	Cost
Bus to Horseshoe Bay	$6.30 (round trip)
Ferry Ticket	$10.10 (round trip)
Food (Lunch + Snacks)	$30.00 to $40.00 per person
Miscellaneous (coffee/snacks)	$10.00
Total Cost	~$50 to $70 per person

Where to Eat on Bowen Island

Affordable Dining Options

• Artisan Eats Café: Sandwiches, pastries, and coffee.
• Snug Café: Popular for breakfast and casual bites.

Mid-Range Options

• Doc Morgan’s Pub: Pub classics with ocean views.
• Tuscany Restaurant: Wood-fired pizzas and Italian dishes.

Sample Day Itinerary

8:00 AM – Head to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal

By Car:

• Drive from downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal (~25-30 minutes).
• Park your car at the terminal if you prefer to walk on the ferry ($5-$10 for parking).
• Alternatively, take your car onto the ferry for easier island exploration.

By Public Transport:

• Take the #257 Express Bus or #250 Bus from downtown Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay.
• Duration: ~45 minutes.
• Cost: $3.15 (one-way with Compass Card).

9:00 AM – Ferry Ride to Bowen Island

• Board the BC Ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Snug Cove (20-minute ride).
• Cost:
  • Walk-on Passenger: $10.10 round trip.
  • Car + Driver: $74.60 round trip.
• Enjoy the scenic views of Howe Sound.

9:30 AM – Arrive at Snug Cove and Explore

• Take a relaxing stroll through Snug Cove Village. Visit:
  • Local Shops: Find handmade crafts, Bowen Island souvenirs, and local art.
  • Snug Café: Grab a coffee and a quick breakfast pastry.
• Car Tip: If you brought a car, there’s free parking available near Snug Cove.

10:30 AM – Hike to Dorman Point or Killarney Lake

Option 1: Dorman Point Hike (Easy, ~1 hour round trip)

• Trail starts near Snug Cove. A short climb leads to stunning views of Howe Sound.

Option 2: Killarney Lake Loop (Moderate, ~2 hours round trip)

• Head to Crippen Regional Park and enjoy the serene forested trail to Killarney Lake.

12:30 PM – Lunch at a Local Eatery

• By Car: Drive or walk to Artisan Square for lunch at:
  • Artisan Eats Café: Fresh sandwiches, soups, and pastries with hillside views.
• Walk-On Option: Stay in Snug Cove and enjoy a waterfront meal at:
  • Doc Morgan’s Pub: Great seafood and pub classics with a marina view.

2:00 PM – Afternoon Activities

Option 1: Kayaking or Paddleboarding

• Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Bowen Island Sea Kayaking near Snug Cove Marina.
• Duration: ~1.5 hours.
• Cost: ~$30 to $50 per person.

Option 2: Relax at a Beach (Great for Car Travelers)

• Sandy Beach: Near Snug Cove, perfect for relaxing and enjoying calm waters.
• Tunstall Bay Beach: A peaceful spot for swimming and sunbathing (~10-minute drive).

Option 3: Artisan Square Exploration

• Visit The Gallery at Artisan Square for local art.
• Treat yourself to handmade chocolates at Cocoa West Chocolatier.

4:00 PM – Explore Local Hidden Gems

• Copper Spirit Distillery: Enjoy a tasting of handcrafted gin or vodka (for adults).
• Bowen Island Heritage Museum: Learn about the island’s fascinating history.
• If you’re lucky, catch sight of eagles or seals near Snug Cove.

5:30 PM – Ferry Ride Back to Horseshoe Bay

• Walk or drive back to Snug Cove Ferry Terminal.
• Board the BC Ferry to Horseshoe Bay.
• Enjoy the golden hour views of Howe Sound on the way back.

6:30 PM – Return to Vancouver

By Car:

• Drive back to downtown Vancouver (~25 minutes).

By Public Transport:

• Take the #257 Express Bus back to Vancouver.

Tips and Tricks for a Perfect Bowen Island Day Trip

Here are some insider tips to help you maximize your time and enjoy your day trip stress-free:

1. Plan Your Ferry Trip in Advance

• Arrive Early: Ferries can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to secure your spot.
• Download the BC Ferries App: Stay updated on ferry schedules and delays.
• Walk-On Advantage: If you don’t need a car, walking onto the ferry is cheaper and avoids long wait times.

2. Public Transit is a Budget-Friendly Option

• The #257 Express Bus from downtown Vancouver is faster and more convenient than the #250 Bus.
• Bring a Compass Card for seamless payment.

3. Pack Essentials for the Day

• Comfortable walking shoes for hiking or exploring trails.
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated (many trails don’t have water stations).
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days.
• A light jacket or sweater since it can get cool, even in summer.

4. Travel Light

• If you’re walking on, pack only the essentials to avoid carrying too much while exploring.
• For car travelers, leave extra items in the vehicle for easy access.

5. Use the Bowen Island Visitor Centre

• Stop by the Visitor Centre in Snug Cove for maps, brochures, and local tips. Staff can suggest hidden gems and current events happening on the island.

6. Timing is Everything

• Morning Ferry: Take an early ferry (9:00 AM or earlier) to enjoy quieter trails and avoid crowds.
• Golden Hour: Catch the evening ferry back to Horseshoe Bay to enjoy stunning sunset views over Howe Sound.

7. Explore Beyond Snug Cove

• If you bring a car or rent a bike, venture to:
  • Tunstall Bay Beach for sunsets.
  • Artisan Square for unique local shops and treats.
  • Pebbly Beach for a peaceful, secluded spot.

8. Bring Snacks and Water

• While there are great eateries, some beaches and trails don’t have food options nearby.
• Stop by a local café like Artisan Eats or Snug Café to pick up snacks before exploring.

9. Respect the Environment

• Follow the “Leave No Trace” principles:
  • Pack out all garbage and recycle when possible.
  • Stay on marked trails to protect the natural landscape.
  • Avoid disturbing wildlife.

10. Have a Backup Plan

• If the weather turns, explore indoor spots like Copper Spirit Distillery, Cocoa West Chocolatier, or the Bowen Island Heritage Museum.
• Bring a book or notebook and relax at a café for a cozy alternative.

11. Check for Local Events

• Bowen Island often hosts local events like farmers’ markets, art shows, or music performances. Check event calendars on local websites before you go.

12. Cash and Cards

• While most places accept cards, it’s always handy to carry some cash for small purchases like ferry snacks, farmers’ markets, or local art stands.

13. Make Time for Relaxation

• Bowen Island is all about slowing down. Whether it’s a quiet moment at the beach, a peaceful forest walk, or enjoying a cup of coffee at Rustique Bistro, take your time to unwind.

These tips ensure you’re fully prepared to enjoy the best of Bowen Island—whether you’re exploring hidden gems, relaxing by the water, or savoring local food. Save this section to make your trip smooth and memorable! 🚤🌿

Plan Your Bowen Island Day Trip

Bowen Island isn’t just a place to visit—it’s an experience to savor. Whether you’re hiking up to Mount Gardner, sipping artisanal hot chocolate at Cocoa West, or kayaking along the island’s peaceful coastline, you’ll find something unique to fall in love with.

This guide is your perfect companion for planning a day full of adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Save it, share it with friends and family, and make your Bowen Island day trip unforgettable!