North of Halfmoon Bay are three communities surrounding “the Harbour”: Madeira Park, Garden Bay and Irving’s Landing. Pender Harbour first became famous for its fabulous fishing; now artists, photographers, hikers, canoers, kayakers and golfers have discovered the area’s stunning natural beauty and attractive resorts that anglers have long known about. Charter or rent a canoe, kayak or motor boat to explore the area by water. Divers say “the Harbour” is one of the world’s best sites for underwater exploration and photography ­ especially in the winter months. In September, there is an annual jazz festival. (604) 883-2561 (May - Sept.)

• Chatterbox Falls. A waterfall at the head of Princess Louisa Inlet whose roar is all the louder for the silence of the surrounding wilderness. Access to this enchanted inlet some 50 nautical miles from Sechelt is by charter boat or float plane. Tours for the falls leave from the Pender Harbour area or Egmont.