This 20-minute ferry ride will take you from Vancouver to a dreamy waterfront town
It's the ideal day trip from the city. 🏝️
BC Ferries trip to Bowen Island, B.C. from Vancouver.
This idyllic little town is tucked away on an island, just a short BC Ferries ride from Vancouver, making the perfect day trip away from the city.
The scenic community is home to cute boutiques, waterfront restaurants, and peaceful natural surroundings.
From West Vancouver, the ferry ride is just 20 minutes to Bowen Island's Snug Cove. You'll dock right in the action, with the charming shops and restaurants within walking distance of the waterfront. The small community feels like it's a world away from the city, trading the chain restaurants and big-box stores for independent businesses and local eats.
The Snug Cafe is a go-to here, serving up fresh baked goods, tasty meals, and coffee to fuel a day of adventure on the island.
While you could spend a while popping in and out of the nearby shops and wandering around the harbour, the little island is worth exploring to the fullest.
There are lots of trails around the island where you can take in the sights, or you can rent some e-bikes. A Bowen eBikes tour is a great option if you walk onto the ferry and don't have a car, since the tour will take you beyond the Snug Cove area. You'll see the forest trails, sparkling lakes, and coastal vistas along the way.
There's also sea kayaking here, fishing excursions, and cycling routes.
If you want a free activity you can make the hike up Mount Gardner, which is the highest peak on the island. From the lookout, you'll get incredible views of the surrounding mountains and other tiny islands speckling the ocean.
There are frequent ferries going back and forth from the island to West Vancouver, making it easy to get back whenever you’re done taking in the beauty of the island.
If you want to really soak it all in there are also some cozy spots to stay, like Alderwood Farm — which is home to a donkey and other adorable animals — or Nectar Yoga Retreat for a wellness-focused retreat.
Whether it's for the day or a weekend getaway, this island is the perfect break from busy city life.