From stadium excitement to island calm in one hour
If you’re visiting Vancouver for the FIFA World Cup™, Bowen Island is the doable getaway that offers iconic West Coast experiences. Come for the day or, better yet, stay at one of the island’s unique accommodations during, before, or after the tournament. Bowen is approximately one hour by public transit from the stadium, so you can enjoy both island time and soccer excitement all on the Same Day Game Day. We invite you to connect with nature and discover the island’s coastal beauty, laidback lifestyle, and small-town charms.
Public Transit and Scenic Ferry
It’s easy and inexpensive to take public transit buses from the stadium to Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. The #257 Horseshoe Bay bus is a direct route from Downtown Vancouver. The #250 Horseshoe Bay bus takes slightly longer but it’s the scenic coastal route. Once you arrive in Horseshoe Bay, purchase your return ferry ticket to Snug Cove. The short 20-minute ferry ride across Átl’ka7tsem / Howe Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Region, offers stunning vistas. Plan your trip and find ferry and bus schedules on our Getting Here webpage.
Arriving in Snug Cove
Snug Cove is Bowen Island’s historic town centre and commercial hub. When you disembark the ferry you’re walking distance to restaurants, shops, parks, beaches, activities, forest trails, and some accommodations. You don’t need a personal vehicle to enjoy a day visit. If you want to explore more of the island, please be aware the community shuttle buses operate a limited schedule and there are no taxi or ride-sharing services. Bowen e-bikes offers electric bike and golf cart rentals. Learn more about Getting Around Bowen Island and view map.
Connect with Nature
While sailing across Howe Sound, watch for marine life, such as seals, dolphins, and maybe even whales. Look towards the sky and you may see Bald Eagles soaring. When you walk forest trails quietly you’re more likely to hear deer rustling in the bushes or wood peckers hunting insects. Of course there is never any guarantee that you’ll see any wildlife in their natural habitats, but we encourage you to be observant and respectful while you explore the waters and lands of Bowen Island.
Accommodations: Stay Longer, Relax More
Bowen Island has a small collection of accommodations and vacations rentals, some a short walk from the ferry terminal and others spread across the island. We invite soccer fans to stay longer and relax more either before, after, or even during the soccer tournament. Yes, it’s feasible to stay on Bowen and commute daily to soccer matches as long as the soccer matches end prior to 9 PM, so that you can catch the last 11 PM departure from Horseshoe Bay. Before you book, be sure your host is aware you’re attending the soccer tournament. Accommodation providers can assist with logistics and some are offering special island shuttle services, if needed. Learn more and view Accommodations.
Dine & Drink Island Style
From ocean-view to farm-view, Bowen Island offers a diverse collection of flavours, internationally-inspired cuisines, locally grown foods, and artisan creations. Soak up the sun and the views when you dine at a seaside patio restaurant. Indulge in handcrafted sweet treats at The Chocolate Café. Sample locally made organic spirits and visit two award-winning cideries. We invite you to sip and savour island-style foods and beverages. Learn more at Eat & Drink.
Outdoor Activities
Whether you’re seeking a simple nature experience or want to try a new adventure, Bowen Island offers a variety of ways to explore any time of the year. From shoreline kayaking tours to sightseeing boat and fishing excursions. From meandering forest walks to cardio-challenging hikes and mountain peaks. You can swim in the ocean at sunset. Jog the trails at sunrise. Or swing a golf club at the island’s award-winning 9-hole course. Learn more Outdoor Tours & Activities.
Cultural Offerings & Shopping
Creativity abounds on Bowen. All of the island’s businesses are small, independent owner-operated enterprises. No big box stores or franchises here! When you visit, you’ll find one-of-a-kind artwork and artisan wears at the local galleries. You can meet local artists and artisans at this year’s Bowen Arts Tour May 23 and 24. Visit the local museum to learn about Bowen’s history as a seaside resort. Find unique gifts, curated products, local designers, and internationally-recognized skincare products produced on right here on island. Learn more at Unique Shops and Boutiques.
Rest, Relaxation & Wellness
Seeking a little time and space to relax and rejuvenate? We recommend unplugging the phone and embraciing Bowen’s simpler, slower, and nature-based way of being. Yoga on the pier is a much -loved spring and summer experience, or attend one of the many retreats and workshops offered throughout the year. A shiatsu massage will relieve tension and stress. Give your skin a little extra TLC at the island’s medispa. Rejuvenate your body with a private sauna and cold plunge experience under nature’s forest canopy. Learn more at Relaxation and Wellness.
We hope you’ll visit Bowen Island soon. Contact us if you have questions or need assistance.
