Pender island is one of the more secluded of the Gulf Islands we've visited. Very few people live on the island year-round. Many of the homes are holiday rentals or second homes.
There is one main location for shops on the island. Driftwood Center. Here you find a book/gift store (Talisman), a pharmacy, bakery, cafe, liquor store, and small grocery store among a few other services. There are a few outdoor tables and a patch of grass and its a pleasant spot to stop and hangout for awhile.
Other small businesses and shops are scattered around the island including a few small restaurants, marinas, camping, and boat/SUP rentals. There is a farmer's market on Saturday.
Short hikes are plentiful around the island - but don't be deceived by their distance. Even a 2km hike can be quite technical given the hilly terrain in many areas.
Lots of small beaches around which tend to be pretty rocky but going at the right time means you might spot starfish, sea cucumbers, crabs and rocks..... lots of rocks....
The small size of the island is most illustrated through its services - the only "public transit" on the island is hitchhiking.... sanctioned by sporadic "Car stops" where you can wait for a ride (and generally be successful in finding one). There is no garbage collection - instead, all trash is taken to a collection center on the island.
This is a great option for low budget camping, higher budget camping, a family vacation, or quiet weekend away. read more