"Saturna" comes from the Spanish sailing ship Saturnina, which was under the command of Jose Maria Narvaez during his exploration of the Pacific Northwest coastline in 1791. The Island was first settled in the late 1800's. 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 Georgia Strait on the East side and Haro Strait to the south. It is a rural hideaway with abundant wildlife and great natural beauty. It features scenic trails, spectacular views and easy-access beaches. Rent a kayak and tour the coastline, or shop for local arts and crafts at local galleries. Island amenities include two general stores, a pub overlooking the ocean, a bakery, a caf and a fine-dining restaurant. Saturna Vineyard offers tours, a bistro and tasting at the wine shop.

Our adventure began with a one-hour ferry ride from Swartz Bay to Lyall Harbour. We arrived late in the afternoon, had a quick tour of Winter Cover Marine Park (one of the most beautiful spots on Saturna and the site of the July 1st Lamb BBQ) and drove to our accommodation 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 off to Saturna Lodge for an evening dinner. The manager, Ingrid Gaines was there to greet us and we thoroughly enjoyed our three-course dinners. The scallops were divine and for the main course we savoured fresh halibut and tenderloin steak. Chef Kevin Davidson presented the dinners superbly. Although we did not need dessert, we thoroughly enjoyed Kevin's creations.

Thoroughly satiated, we headed back for a great night's sleep next to the water's edge at East Point Resort. When we arrived, the owners and managers of the Resort already had a roaring blaze going in the outdoor fireplace. We shared a bit of their wine and great company for a few hours before retiring. Good food, great company and comfy accommodations - Our trip was off to a fine start!

East Point Resort consists of a small number of cabins with kitchens and is situated on oceanfront property on the southeastern tip of Saturna. It is a great place for an extended stay retreat and is family oriented with a sandy beach. Serene, comfortable, and views that go on forever best describe this resort. From East Point you can see many of the San Juan Islands and you can see much of the coast of the mainland from Vancouver south into Washington State. There's a beach below the Resort that is easily accessed and there's a Lighthouse next door, as well as a Regional Park. The cabins face Tumbo Island, which is part of the Gulf Islands National Park.

The next morning, we started off with breakfast at the Lyall Harbour Bed and Breakfast, with our tour organizers Len and Donna Digance. They have a beautiful B&B that overlooks Lyall Harbour 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. The breakfast was sensational including West Coast eggs benedict, with warm scones, fresh fruit salad, juice, coffee and tea and more. It was delightful.