Located in the Southern Gulf Islands, Pender Island was originally inhabited by Coast Salish peoples speaking the North Straits Salish language. Today there is reserve land at Hay Point on South Pender Island, which is home to members of the Tsawout and Tseycum First Nations.
Pender Island consists of two islands, North Pender and South Pender, separated by a narrow canal connected by a one-lane bridge. Open farmland, rolling forested hills, several lakes and small mountains, as well as many coves and beaches make up the island’s diverse, lush landscape. Explore it on hikes along Beaumont Marine Park on Bedwell Harbor, or up Pender’s highest point, Mount Norman, as well as on kayak tours, cycling trails, and scuba diving expeditions. The island is also home to a 27-hole disc golf course.
The Pender Island Farmers’ Market draws crowds on Saturdays from May to September. Experience local eclectic restaurants featuring farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy a tasting flight at Sea Star Vineyards’ modern tasting room and patio, or a crisp cider from island-grown apples at Twin Island Cider. Local shops are clustered at the central Driftwood Centre, as well as dotted around the island.
Learn more about what to see and do on Pender Island.
