Otter Bay, tucked along the northern end of Pender Island, is a gateway to some of the most rewarding paddling in the Southern Gulf Islands. Its sheltered waters provide a calm and inviting launch point, perfect for both beginner and experienced paddlers. Setting out from the bay, you’ll find yourself surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Salish Sea—rocky shorelines, forested headlands, and gentle beaches that invite exploration. Wildlife encounters are common here: seals often surface alongside kayaks, river otters dart playfully near the rocks, and bald eagles soar overhead while seabirds skim the water’s edge.

For shorter paddles, the coastline around Otter Bay offers numerous hidden coves, kelp beds, and quiet beaches that make for excellent rest stops or picnic spots. Those looking for a longer excursion can follow the coastline toward Plumper Sound or cross to nearby islands, where the scenery shifts from sheltered inlets to expansive ocean vistas. The tides and currents add variety and challenge, rewarding paddlers with a true sense of adventure. Whether you’re enjoying a peaceful sunrise paddle close to shore or embarking on a full-day journey weaving between the Gulf Islands, Otter Bay delivers a paddling experience that blends accessibility, natural beauty, and the quiet charm of island life.