Island in British Columbia, Canada
Photo: Shannon LaBelle - User: (WT-shared) Minnow at wts wikivoyage, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Mayne Island is in the Southern Gulf Islands. The island is approximately 21 km² and has a permanent population of about 1100 people. There is evidence of human habitation up to 5000 years ago, however, Captain George Vancouver is the first non-native to alight on the island, having camped there in 1794 (his crew left a coin and a knife found over a century later by early settlers). The first permanent homesteads were built in the 1860s. The island is named after Royal Navy lieutenant Richard Charles Mayne.
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Located within Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, The lighthouse was built in 1885 and marks the eastern entrance to Active Pass. A great place to watch passing boats, and marine life such as harbour seals and orca whales.
This garden is maintained year round by local volunteers. It is a tribute to the Japanese-Canadians sent to internment camps during World War II. There is no charge to enter, but donations are gratefully accepted.
Contains many buildings of historic interest including Springwater Lodge (1885), St Mary Magdalene Church (1897), Plumper Pass Lock-up (1896, now a museum), and the Agricultural Hall (1900).
At Bennett Bay, stroll through a small section of the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve (Gulf Islands National Park Reserve is a mosaic of properties spread over 15 islands, islets and reefs). Park at the end of Isabella Lane, and take the short trail out to Campbell Point, which features remnant old-growth forest and views of Mt. Baker, Georgeson Island and Saturna Island. Bennett Bay Beach (which can be accessed via Bennett Bay Road) has the reputation of being one of the best sandy beaches on the island, and it is the primary launch point for kayakers and small boaters pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/gulf/visit/brochures.
Hike Mount Parke to access one of the best viewpoints on Mayne Island. There are several hiking options, including an easy stroll through thick forest and an extended loop trail. It takes about 45 minutes to hike to the viewpoint. The Mayne Island Conservancy Society provides the official guide and map for Mount Parke Regional Park.
The Mayne Island Fall Fair is the oldest fall fair on the Gulf Islands. Includes a parade, farmers' market, and other events/activities. Held annually on the third Saturday in August.
Offers Kayak rentals and tours.
Open daily from 7AM.
Secluded tent campsites, a 2 bedroom cottage, and 1800 ft of low bank beach access.
Meet many of the Island's artists and farmers at the market which is on the Agricultural Hall Grounds.
Fine art gallery and shop. Seasonal hours or by appointment.
Mixed media paintings on canvas & paper reflecting the region's nature; local birds & landscapes. Prints, cards & gift items available.
Pottery studio and gallery. Functional wares, sculptural vessels, hand-made architectural tile & clay garden ollas. Home of Kim Koral Studio & Kristine Webber Ceramics
By plane
Floatplane service is also available to and from Mayne Island. Several companies provide regular scheduled service in and out of Miners Bay.
On foot
Mayne Island is small enough that it is possible to travel a fair distance on the Island on foot. You should be reasonably fit and prepared for long walks.
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Victoria · International · YYJ
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