I consider myself a simple person. I love the ocean. I love the sun. But what I love the most is the ocean and the sun. Now, I know I could find those in various places around Vancouver. However, trust me when I say that you haven’t truly seen the sea and sun in all its glory until you make a trip across the Burrard Inlet to Bowen Island.
Dwindling conifer trees overlook the mystical steep hills. The sparkling ocean lapping gently against the rocky shore. Bountiful grass that stretches farther than you could imagine. Have I said enough?
I clearly haven’t seen enough, because I’ve been to Bowen Island three times and counting.
Whenever I get off the ferry at Snug Cove Terminal, the familiarity of the salty air comforts me and instantly washes away the stress I brought from the mainland. An inexplicable aura of homeliness is forever warped around the island.
The first thing I usually do at Bowen Island is rush to Tell Your Friends Cafe, a staple food daydream that I salivate over a few times a week. With soothing oceanic music, the smell of freshly baked goods and a quaint window overlooking the pier, my sandwich experience is always heightened. The staff are always so cheerful and welcoming, mirroring the aura of the island.
After my belly is filled to the brim, I usually hobble over to the lush grass field and watch the boats anchored at the pier sway gently. This is a perfect picnic spot; it is picturesque and quiet, a rare combination in today's world. When the sun is out, and my trip to Bowen Island is planned and not spontaneous, my friends and I love to gorge upon pasta, potatoes and chips from packed tupperware.
Moreover, this field just awakens my inner child. Having all this open space triggers an urge to run and be free of all my inhibitions. I remember the first time I was here. My friend and I balanced on the logs and skimmed rocks and there was something so indescribably healing about it.
The grass field is right near the Dorman Point trail, which is a beginner-friendly hike. The trail is stunning, with the towering trees and sunlight peeking through.
Other than the fact that there is an abundance of slugs around, this is probably one of my favorite trails. It gives me a challenge without making me feel like I’m out of shape, with a mix of short steep sections and gradual inclines within the 2.4 kilometre hike.
To me, the top of the Dorman Point trail is the best part of Bowen Island. The view always leaves me at a loss for words. I’m having trouble describing it now, so look at the picture and you’ll know what I mean.
A Sunday at Bowen Island is the perfect day for me. With the sun and sea in all of its glory, this is definitely a place to be.
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