Denman Island

Denman Island, British Columbia is characterized by its beautiful natural environment. Inspired by the peaceful atmosphere, Denman residents produce an abundance of unique arts & crafts and have helped the small Gulf Island earn an esteemed reputation around the world.

Denman Island is located in the northwest corner of the Georgia Strait, approximately 2 1/2 hours north of Victoria, 1 hour north of Nanaimo, and 20 minutes south of Courtenay. The 2 km ferry ride provides wonderful views of Denman, as well as Vancouver Island's Beaufort Mountain range.

19 km long and 5 km wide, Denman is marked by a rolling ridge on the eastern side that rises 60 to 100 metres toward the western side of the island. There are sandy beaches, rocky coves, hiking trails, lush forests, and picture-perfect farmlands to enjoy. The beauty of Denman's natural environment appeals to artists and outdoor enthusiasts. One can closely observe deer, pheasants, herons, hawks and even the majestic bald eagle!

Denman Island's temperate climate is unique among West Coast ecosystems. Avid gardeners can plant and harvest year round, while cyclists can enjoy their sport throughout the winter. The land has been farmed here for over 120 years and it shows.

There are three beautiful provincial parks on Denman Island and plenty of hiking trails in between. Boyle Point Provincial Park, located at the south end of the island is an ideal spot for eagle watching, especially during the spring herring run. From this hiking trail one can see the Chrome Island lighthouse. Twice a year, at the lowest tide, Chrome Island can be walked to for a look at the ancient Aboriginal petroglyghs carved onto the yellow rock face.
Fillongley Provincial Park is located on the east side of the island and features some of the largest remaining stands of Douglas Firs and Cedars in the region. This is the only site on Denman Island for public camping, and advanced booking is recommended in order to secure a spot in this picturesque beachfront campground.

Denman's Sandy Island Provincial Park offers a home to a prolific population of birds and butterflies. This provincial park is a popular base camp for tourists throughout the summer months, providing excellent swimming, kayaking, and fishing.

Denman Island has something for everyone. Whether you chose to visit Denman as a tourist or end up buying land and becoming a resident, you'll find that Denman's convenient location, beautiful natural environment and abundance of local arts & crafts will make it a hard place to forget.

Denman and Hornby Islands boast the highest number of artists per capita in Canada, as well as some of the loveliest hikes, beaches, and quiet retreats. From Buckley Bay, 20 kilometres (12 miles) south of Courtenay, a 15-minute ferry ride takes you to Denman Island where, after a 15-minute drive, you can take a connecting ferry to Hornby Island. Reservations are advised for accommodations. Denman and Hornby Islands have plenty of activities to satisfy the outdoor enthusiast.

Denman Island is one of the Northern Gulf Islands and part of the Comox Valley Region of British Columbia, Canada. Regular ferry service links Denman Island to both Hornby Island from Gravelly Bay on the east side of Denman and across Baynes Sound to Buckley Bay on Vancouver Island on the west side.

Denman Island has long been a haven for people escaping from busy urban centers. Downtown Denman consists of one general store (containing the gas station and government liquor store), post office, a natural foods store, hardware store, bookstore, dental bus (shared with Hornby two weeks a month), craft stores, a bakery/cafe, two real estate offices, an insurance brokerage, two community halls, the Dora Drinkwater Volunteer Library, a community school, and the museum.