Pender Island is a peaceful, scenic getaway on the Pacific Coast of British Columbia, part of the beautiful Southern Gulf Islands. Just a 40-minute ferry ride from Sidney, BC, it’s easily accessible from both Vancouver Island and the mainland—making it perfect for a weekend escape that still feels like a true retreat.
The island is actually two islands—North Pender and South Pender—connected by a narrow canal and a one-lane bridge. Together, they offer the best of both worlds: natural beauty and small-town charm.
Whether you’re into hiking, kayaking, cycling, or simply soaking in the views, Pender Island is full of outdoor adventures. But it’s also a great place to slow down, with local shops, cozy restaurants, and art galleries waiting to be explored.
Camping on Pender Island is a fantastic way to experience the island’s natural side—but spots are limited, especially in summer. If you’re planning a trip, be sure to book your site well in advance.
Located on North Pender Island, Prior Centennial Campground is a peaceful, forested spot just a 10-minute drive from the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal. As part of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, it offers a quiet, natural setting surrounded by trees. The campground has 17 drive-in sites, ideal for tents or small campers.
Amenities at Prior Centennial Campground Include:
You can camp at Prior Centennial Campground every year from May 15th to September 30th. To book a spot, visit reservations.pc.gc.ca.
You’ll find Prior Centennial Campground at 5714 Canal Road on North Pender Island. From the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal, follow Otter Bay Road until you reach the stop sign across from the Community Hall. Turn right onto Bedwell Harbour Road and continue past the main shopping area. Shortly after, you’ll see Prior Centennial Park on your right—just beyond the Woods on Pender.
Learn More: Prior Centennial Campground - Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Port Browning Marina is a beautiful and lively spot on Pender Island, nestled in a sheltered harbour. It’s where my family camped every summer when I was a kid, and it’s still a favourite for many visitors today.
The resort offers oceanfront camping along with plenty of amenities, including a restaurant, pub, marina, general store, and even a seasonal swimming pool. With lots of open space and a fun, social atmosphere, it’s a great place to camp with friends or enjoy a relaxed weekend by the water.
Amenities at Port Browning Marina include:
Port Browning Marina is located at 4605 Oak Road, just a short drive from the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal. To get there, follow Otter Bay Road until you reach the stop sign across from the Community Hall. Turn right onto Bedwell Harbour Road and continue past the main shopping area. Take the next left onto Oak Road, then follow it downhill and turn left into the main parking lot.
Learn More: Port Browning Marina Resort Camping
Shingle Bay Campground is a peaceful, oceanside spot on North Pender Island, just a 10-minute drive from the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal. Set right on a gravel beach, it offers 10 walk-in campsites that are perfect for kayakers, hikers, and anyone looking to immerse themselves in nature.
The campground is open seasonally from May 15 to September 30. Each site includes a picnic table, and basic pit toilets are available. While there’s no drinkable water on-site, the natural beauty more than makes up for the rustic setup.
Keep in mind that all campsites are walk-in only. From the overnight parking area at the end of Shingle Bay Road, it’s a short 0.24 km walk downhill to reach the campsites. You can also access the campground by water—ideal if you’re arriving by kayak.
For a nearby adventure, consider hiking to Roe Lake, a quiet and scenic trail that begins not far from the campground.
Amenities at Shingle Bay Campground include:
From the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal, follow Otter Bay Road and watch for South Otter Bay Road on your right. Turn onto South Otter Bay Road and continue until you reach Shingle Bay Road. Turn left, then drive about 500 metres—you’ll find the parking area for the campground at the end of the road.
Learn More: Shingle Bay Backcountry Camping
The Woods on Pender is a unique retreat that lets you enjoy the outdoors without giving up the comforts of home. With a range of whimsical accommodations—like vintage Airstream campers, cozy rustic cabins, and a charming motel—there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family escape, The Woods offers an unforgettable experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Amenities at the Woods On Pender include:
The Woods on Pender is located at 4709 Canal Road on North Pender Island. From the Otter Bay Ferry Terminal, follow Otter Bay Road until you reach the stop sign across from the Community Hall. Turn right onto Bedwell Harbour Road and continue past the main shopping area. Just a short distance beyond, you’ll see The Woods on Pender on your right. If you reach Prior Centennial Campground, you’ve gone too far.
Learn More: Woods on Pender - Glamping Resort + Motel
Beaumont Marine Park is a scenic backcountry campground located on South Pender Island. As part of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, it offers a quiet, natural setting that’s only accessible by water or hiking trail—making it a great choice for adventurous campers, paddlers, and hikers.
The park is open year-round, but keep in mind it’s not regularly maintained between October 1 and May 14, so services may be limited during the off-season.
Please note: Overnight camping is currently not permitted at Beaumont Marine Park. Gulf Islands National Park Reserve will continue to offer only daytime visits to Beaumont on South Pender Island, as well as use of the mooring buoys. Overnight camping will not be offered in 2025, while they continue to explore the potential for an alternate camping area. Please respect all on-site signage. Be sure to check out the Parks Canada Backcountry Camping Information Page for up-to-date information.
Amenities at Beaumont Marine Park include:
Beaumont Marine Park is located on South Pender Island adjacent to Mt. Norman. It can be accessed via hiking trails or by boat. It’s just a short five-minute paddle from Poets Cove Marine if you’re lucky enough to have access to a kayak.
Hike in From Canal Road: This trailhead offers parking. The difficulty of the trail is rated as “Advanced” and is 2.13 km. This should take you around two hours. Begin your hike by hiking up Mount Norman, then continue down the path toward Ainslie Point.
Hike in From Ainslie Point Road: There is no parking available at this trailhead, so plan accordingly. The distance is 1.6 km and should take about 1 hour. This hike is also rated as “Advanced.” Once on the trail, just follow the signs to Beaumont.
Learn More: Beaumont Marine Park - Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
The most popular way to get to Pender Island is via BC Ferries. There are daily sailing from Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Swartz Bay (Vancouver Island) to Otter Bay Terminal on Pender.
Learn More: BC Ferries - Southern Gulf Islands
Some visitors choose to fly to Pender Island via floatplane. There are a few float companies that can get you there, which is a scenic and beautiful way to experience the Gulf Islands. Floatplanes typically land at Port Washington on North Pender Island.
Learn More: Seair Seaplanes With Service to Pender Island
Because of the remote nature of Pender, most visitors will want to bring a vehicle to get around. Cycling is another popular option, but it is not recommended for the beginner. The roads are narrow and winding with a lot of hills and can be quite dangerous if you don’t ride defensively.
Another option unique to Pender is Car Stops. Think of it like legal hitchhiking, and this mode of ride-sharing is encouraged to provide a more economical means of travel on Pender. There are signs located throughout the island where you can wait for a ride from a friendly stranger. Drivers don’t have to take the first in line. You’re not obliged to accept a ride, that’s fine. You accept a ride at your own risk. But the ride is free so consider it a gift.
Whether you’re planning your first camping trip to Pender Island or returning for another adventure, here are a few key takeaways to keep in mind as you plan your getaway:
Discover the best camping on Gabriola Island. Campgrounds, tips, trails, and local spots for the perfect coastal escape.
Fuel your mornings with these easy and delicious camping breakfast ideas for every type of camper, from no-cook to campfire favourites.
Hiking Vancouver Island is a great way to explore the beauty of British Columbia up close. Embark on an unforgettable journey and experience nature like never before!
Subscribe to our newsletter to get the outdoors delivered right to your inbox.
