General Info & Climate

Pender Island consists of two islands, North Pender and South Pender, which are separated by a narrow canal originally dredged in 1903. In 1955 the islands were connected by a one lane bridge, as it remains today.  The islands were named for Staff Commander Daniel Pender, who surveyed the coast of British Columbia from 1857 to 1870.

Most of the population and services reside on North Pender Island, with the highest concentration surrounding Magic Lake.  South Pender Island is generally more rural, but features the popular Poets Cove Resort and Spa.

Climate

As part of the Southern Gulf Islands, Pender Island BC enjoys a sub-Mediterranean climate. Drier than Vancouver and more protected than Victoria, the Gulf Islands are blessed with the mildest weather in Canada.

• Spring comes as early as February, when blossoms begin to appear on trees and colourful bulbs emerge.
• Summer is warm, sunny, and dry and never sweltering hot.
• Fall is a magnificent season of vibrant colour, with temperatures remaining pleasant.
• Winter frost is rare, and while the chance of rain is greater, the mild temperatures encourage hikers, cyclists, and kayakers to carry on with their activities right through the season.

Annually, the Southern Gulf Islands BC receive approximately 90 cm (36″) of precipitation and 2,000 hours of sunshine.