Bowen Island is accessible via a ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. You can not reserve a place on the ferry in advance as on some of the larger ferries, and so it’s a good idea to show up an hour before the scheduled sailing you hope to catch. Visit this local site for the ferry schedule and live information about arrival and departure times: https://bowenferry.ca

Cormorant Marine operates foot passenger water taxi service in Howe Sound and is available for charters. Book online at Cormorant Marine. Sometimes locals coordinate shared water taxis for late night returns to Bowen after events in the city. If that’s something you want more info on, reach out to Cormorant Marine directly, or let me know and I will try to help you.

If you want to get to on foot, without a car, you can travel to Horseshoe Bay from several spots throughout downtown Vancouver and along Marine Drive on the North Shore. Look up the bus schedules for the 250 and 257 (Express) buses.

Bowen is a small island, but things are spread out. The terrain is infamously hilly, so walking between areas isn't always practical. Most visitors find it easiest to explore by car, but e-bikes, scooters, or regular bikes are a great option too.

There’s limited public transportation, and taxis/Ubers are not available. If you’re walking off the ferry, your ticket is good for free passage on one of our two buses (the 280 and 281), with schedules that work with ferry departure and arrival times. Check the Translink schedule for Bowen Island here, or talk to the bus drivers and they will orient you. If you see the bus driving by and need a ride, simply flag it down!

Parking is free in most areas, but can be limited in Snug Cove in peak season.

There's one gas station on the island (across from the Recycling Centre on Mt. Gardner Road), and it is closed on Sundays and holidays.

For more on where to go, visit the Explore Bowen section of our site for curated activity guides, hidden spots, and local tips.

Bowen has a few small but well-stocked shops in Snug Cove for your everyday needs.

The Ruddy Potato is a local favourite for fresh produce and organic goods.

The General Store has a bit of everything—snacks, household items, and basics.

Be sure to check out Millers Meatcraft next to the Ruddy for local, high quality meat.

The Alderwood Farm Shop mid island for a selection of delicious savoury pizzas and pies, and other delicacies, mostly organic. The shop has a very special feeling too, and there are a selection of gifts.

For wine, beer, and spirits, visit the Bowen Beer & Wine Store across from The Pub. There’s one ATM next to the General Store. Keep in mind that hours can be limited, especially in the off-season, and most places close early.

Bowen has its own fire department, ambulance, and volunteer emergency responders. Here are some essential details:

Closest Emergency Services

Fire, Police, Ambulance – Dial 911

RCMP Non-Emergency: 604-947-0516

Poison Control (BC): 1-800-567-8911

Coast Guard (marine emergency): Channel 16 or 1-800-567-5111

Medical Care

Bowen Island Community Health Centre
1037 Miller Rd (near Snug Cove)
☎️ 604-947-2223
Open weekdays only – limited hours

Nearest Emergency Room:
Lions Gate Hospital, North Vancouver
(requires ferry to mainland—call the paramedics for emergency e-vac to hospital so you can skip the ferry lines).

Did you know that one of the big events at Bowen Island’s annual BowFest is a slug race? That’s not accidentally symbolic! Island time is real, and it’s part of the charm of Bowen. 🐢

And, it’s helpful to be prepare for some differences if you’re used to living on the mainland. Some key points:

Businesses may open late or close early (or not at all without notice). Most restaurants stop serving by 8pm.

Many spots are closed Mon.–Tues.

Call ahead, be flexible, and enjoy the slower rhythm.

Expect patchy service in forested or remote areas, and even right in Snug Cove depending on your service provider. Most Discover Bowen partner properties have excellent, high speed wifi, but it’s important to ask us about wifi reception if it’s important for you. The library has excellent fast service and it’s possible to book a private space to conduct important online meetings if you want to be safe.

If you’re heading out on the trails, it’s a good idea to download maps before heading out.