Only a 20 minute “ocean cruise” from Horseshoe Bay (West Vancouver) lands you in Snug Cove on Bowen Island, an idyllic getaway for locals and visitors alike with its sheltered waters, beaches and 5,261 hectares (13,000 acres) of forest to explore. A laid back island lifestyle makes Bowen a favourite destination for Vancouverites looking for a quiet retreat or a place to get together with friends. Enjoy a wonderful day trip or overnight excursion by staying at one of the many bed & breakfasts and cottages for rent around the Island. There are a number of galleries and artist studios to peruse, as well as a wide variety of dining establishments, pubs and a world famous chocolatiere for some of the best hot chocolate available in Canada (according to “North America’s bet hot chocolate” book). A popular all day hike is up Mount Gardner, a 2,838 foot climb with a spectacular 360 degree view. Summer brings the Saturday Farmers Market and the Snug Cove Weekend Market with its host of vendors and locally made products. A new nine hole golf course with a perimeter walking trail provides magnificent views of Howe Sound.

Historians Museum
Visit the museums on Bowen and relive some of the history of the “Happy Isle” and the Union Steamship Days of dance cruises and company picnics. The Bowen Island Historians have been collecting material related to the history of the Island since 1967. The two small museums, in their park-like setting, exhibit the unique history of Bowen Island.

Crippen Regional Park
The 650 acres of Crippen Regional Park are a perfect place for exploration. Enjoy an easy hike around Killarney Lake or take the Killarney Lake Loop Trail (4 km round trip) through marshland, red cedar and hemlock forest rich with wildlife.

Marinas
With two marinas and a government dock, Bowen Island is an ideal day or overnight destination for boaters. Year round moorage is available, and the marinas are all within walking distance of shops, restaurants and parks.