My Saturday was lovely, and yours?
Bowen Island is the perfect day trip for Vancouverites - and that includes me. When you’re out in the Howe Sound, you feel like you’re miles away from home, but the reality is you’re pretty much in your own backyard.
In fact, getting to the island is as easy as taking a 20-minute ferry ride from West Vancouver, which means you can spend all day long exploring everything Bowen has to offer. Quick tip: the ticket you purchase in Vancouver is good for a round-trip fare. It took me a few minutes to figure that one out, so I thought I’d do the right thing and spread the word.
For those of you who don’t know me, I’ve lived in Vancouver for over three years now (it still shocks me that it’s been that long!). After spending the day wandering the sparkling coves and delightful boutiques of Bowen Island, I have only one question for myself: how have I never been here before?
If you’re in for an adventure, Bowen has a lot to offer. You can hike, bike, kayak or even scooter your way around the island. A word of advice, make sure you book these things well in advance because it’s tough to get a reservation on the day of your arrival.
Lucky for me, reservations weren’t an issue as a fractured ankle forced me into a much more leisurely day on the Island. Here are a few of my favourite and crutch-friendly finds from my first trip to Bowen.
Rustique Bistro
Rustique Bistro is a French inspired bistro & creperie in the heart of Snug Cove. The food is sweet and the patio is sweeter. My favourite part is that you can wander through the garden as you wait for your French-infused food. Bon appetit!
If you’re not in the mood for French, Snug Cove has other options. There is a cluster of pubs and restaurants close to the water and - of course - an ice cream shop to indulge your sweet tooth! That's what I'm talking about.
Lighthouse Cove
Fun fact: Bowen Island is only 12 kilometres long and has one road bisecting the heavily forested, hilly terrain.
Using this road, it’s easy to visit coves on coves on coves. But, if you must pick one, I think you should go with the Cape Roger Curtis Lighthouse Cove. While it’s just a tiny little lighthouse, it’s charming nonetheless. What’s more? If you walk 10 minutes in, you’ll find a perfect stretch of sand called Pebbly Beach amongst low cliffs and tall arbutus trees. The perfect place to chill in my walking boot.
Artisan Square
This commercial and artisan square is just up the hill from Snug Cove. There’s not much too it, but it’s a lovely place to wander if you’ve got nothing but time. From art galleries to yoga to the delightful little flower shop you see below. And while I didn’t get a chance to visit, I’ve also heard it’s worth stopping in at the Artisan Eats Cafe for breakfast or a sweet treat.
Have a favourite spot on Bowen Island? Let me know in the comments below!
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