The Chamber of Commerce operates a self serve Info Center located in the Driftwood Mall. Here you will find members business cards and brochures. It is open from dawn to dusk daily. You may also want to pick up our Visitor's Guide which has a good map of North and South Pender Island.
Recreation
Pender offers many beach accesses as well as dozens of trails ranging from easy to vigorous hikes. Kayaking, canoeing, boat charters, swimming, tennis and cycling are popular local activities. Pender boasts a 9-hole golf course as well as a 27-hole disc golf course. Several island marinas accommodate the many boaters who take advantage of the spectacular cruising and sailing opportunities. Boaters entering from the US can use the Canada Customs facilities at Bedwell Harbour to make their entry an easy one.
Natures
The Gulf Islands National Park Reserve and our local Parks include several choice Pender sites. Forest and intertidal ecosystems provide newcomers and experts alike with much to explore. Bald eagles, hummingbirds, orca whales, deer, arbutus trees, fawn lilies and rattlesnake orchids are among the many wonders to enjoy. Tidal pools on local beaches provide endless hours of family entertainment with their hermit crabs, tubeworms, starfish and anemones.
Accommodations
Not surprising for such popular islands, there is a wide range of accommodation available from bed and breakfasts to farm stays to vacation rentals by the week or month as well as resorts, lodges and inns. Campground facilities are available for a more back to nature exerience. It would be unwise, however, to travel to any of the Gulf Islands in the summer or holiday weekends without reservations.
Galleries, Shops, Food and Essentials
Wonderful galleries, shops, restaurants and coffee shops are scattered throughout Pender, with the largest concentration of shops and facilities at the Driftwood Centre. There, visitors will find ATMs, a bank, pharmacy, liquor store, post office, grocery store and the island’s only gas station. The Driftwood and Hope Bay centres offer not-to-be missed retail outlets, eateries and many other services.
Farmers Market
On Saturday mornings from April to November the Farmers Market at the Community Hall offers organically grown produce, preserves and home-baked goodies as well as a variety of arts and crafts. The Community Hall also hosts theatrical events, concerts and other special events. Not far away from the hall, you will find our famous NU-TO-YU secondhand store with bargains galore.
Health and Wellness
The clinic on the Penders has medical and dental facilities as well as optometry, physiotherapy and acupuncture services. Other health facilities and services include a pharmacy, fitness centre, alternative medicine and spas.
Community Services
A library with internet facilities, a museum and a recycling facility all provide valuable services to residents and visitors alike. Our churches welcome visitors and include a United Community Church, an Anglican Church and a Catholic Chapel. There is also a Marriage Commissioner on island.
Real Estate and Trades
New development and renovations keep our Building Centre and trades busy and if you are interested in purchasing property, there are several real estate agents to assist you.