As long ago as 3000 B.C. First Nations people were fishing and living throughout a territory that is now referred to as the Salish Sea. Mayne Island is a part of this territory and at the southern entrance to Active Pass lies Helen Point which has been cared for by the Tsartlip First Nations. It remains a significant place for the Tsartlip and for Mayne Island.
Mayne Island is home to a long tradition of abundant farms, including apple orchards flourishing before the turn of the century, and tomato greenhouses founded by Japanese immigrants, who lived on Mayne Island until they were forced to move to internment camps at the start of WWII. At Dinner Bay Park, once a pioneer farmstead, enjoy the tranquil Japanese Gardens dedicated to these early Japanese settlers.
The island’s surrounding waters offer world-class kayaking, and swimmers will appreciate the warm waters of Campbell and Piggott bays. For hikers, the trail to Campbell Point overlooks Georgeson Island, and Mount Parke Regional Park features a network of forested trails with cliffside views. Miners Bay is Mayne’s central hub, home to a heritage agricultural hall that now contains the Mayne Island Museum, as well as a variety of restaurants, a cafe, and a general store.
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