“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 colonized 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 borders the Strait of Georgia on the east side and the Strait of Haro on the south. It is a rural refuge with abundant wildlife and great natural beauty. It has scenic trails, spectacular views, and easily accessible beaches. Rent a kayak and cruise the coast, or shop for local crafts at local galleries. Island amenities include two general stores, an ocean-view pub, a bakery, a café, and a fine-dining restaurant. Saturna Vineyard offers guided tours, a bistro and tastings in the wine shop.
Our adventure began with a one-hour ferry ride from Swartz Bay to Lyall Harbor. We arrived in the late afternoon, took a quick tour of Winter Cover Marine Park (one of the most beautiful places on Saturna and the place for the lamb barbecue on July 1), and drove to our accommodation at East Point Resort.
Just steps from East Point Regional Park, we had an oceanfront 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. The manager, Ingrid Gaines, was there to greet us and we really enjoyed our three course dinners. The scallops were divine and for the main course we relished fresh halibut and sirloin steak. Chef Kevin Davidson presented the dinners excellently. Although we didn’t need dessert, we thoroughly enjoyed Kevin’s creations.
Fully satiated, we returned for a good night’s sleep by the waterside at East Point Resort. When we arrived, the owners and managers of the Resort already had a roaring fire in the outdoor fireplace. We share some of his wine and good company for a few hours before we retire. Great food, great company, and comfortable accommodations – our trip got 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 end 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’s coastline from South Vancouver to Washington State. There is a beach below the Resort that is easily accessible and there is a lighthouse next door, 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 well organized B&B services. Len and Donna are exceptionally hospitable hosts and Len is a professional chef. Breakfast was sensational, including West Coast Eggs Benedict with hot scones, fresh fruit salad, juice, coffee and tea and more. Was delicious.
