“Saturna” comes from the Spanish sailing ship Saturnina, which was under the command of José María Narváez during his exploration of the Pacific Northwest coast in 1791. The island was first settled in the late 19th century. The first and largest landowners were Warburton Pike and several of the Payne brothers.
Saturna Island’s moderate climate and quality accommodations make it an ideal year-round destination. Saturna is bordered by the Strait of Georgia on the east side and the Strait of Haro on the south. It is a rural hideaway with abundant wildlife and great natural beauty. It has scenic trails, spectacular views and easily accessible beaches. Rent a kayak and cruise along the coast, or shop for local crafts at local galleries. Island amenities include two general stores, a waterfront pub, a bakery, a coffee shop, and a fine-dining restaurant. Saturna Vineyard offers tours, a bistro and tastings in the wine shop.
Our adventure began with a one-hour ferry ride from Swartz Bay to Lyall Harbour. We arrived in the late afternoon, took a quick tour of Winter Cover Marine Park (one of the most beautiful spots on Saturna and the site of the July 1 lamb barbecue), and headed to our accommodations at East Point Resort.
Just steps from East Point Regional Park, we had an ocean view cabin with a spectacular view of the entire east side of Saturna Island. The view was to die for. We checked in and headed to Saturna Lodge for dinner in the evening. The manager, Ingrid Gaines, was there to greet us and we thoroughly enjoyed our three course dinners. The scallops were divine and for main course we savored the fresh halibut and the strip steak. Chef Kevin Davidson presented the dinners magnificently. Although we didn’t need dessert, we thoroughly enjoyed Kevin’s creations.
Completely satiated, we return to enjoy a good night’s sleep by the water’s edge at East Point Resort. When we arrived, the Resort owners and managers already had a roaring fire in their outdoor fireplace. We shared some of his wine and his great company for a few hours before retiring. Good food, great company, and comfortable accommodations – our trip is off to a good start!
East Point Resort consists of a small number of cabins with kitchens and is situated on a beachfront property on the southeastern tip of Saturna. It’s a great place for an extended stay retreat and is family oriented with a sandy beach. Serene, comfortable, and views that last forever best describe this community. From East Point you can see many of the San Juan Islands and you can see much of the mainland coastline from south of Vancouver to Washington state. There is a beach below the Resort that is easily accessible and there is a Lighthouse next to it as well as a Regional Park. The cabins overlook Tumbo Island, which is part of the Gulf Islands National Park.
The next morning we started with breakfast at Lyall Harbor Bed and Breakfast, with our tour organizers Len and Donna Digance. They have a beautiful B&B overlooking Lyall Harbor and the North Vancouver Mountains. It is a spectacular house with very well organized B&B services. Len and Donna are exceptionally hospitable hosts and Len is a professional chef. Breakfast was sensational and included West Coast Eggs Benedict, with hot scones, fresh fruit salad, juice, coffee, tea and more. it was a delight
