Bowser is located in Lighthouse Country, a stretch of Highway 19A that runs along the oceanside from Qualicum Beach to Fanny Bay across from Denman and Hornby Islands. Lighthouse Country got its name from the two lighthouses in the area, Chrome Island and Sister's Lighthouse, and incorporates the small communities of Horne Lake, Qualicum Bay, Bowser and Deep Bay.

 

Rich in history, folklore and Native culture, Lighthouse Country offers its many visitors a genuinely friendly welcome and a vacation destination in a charming rural atmosphere.  Back in the 1930's, the now famous Bowser Hotel made history, and was featured in Ripley's Believe It Or Not, for having a bartending dog who served beer to patrons, collected their money and returned with their change. While many folks mistakenly believe that Bowser was named after this famous little pup, our little west coast community was actually named after William John Bowser, B.C. Premier in 1915-16.

 

You'd be surprised at the amenities offered right in 'downtown' Bowser. Deitmar and Angelica along with their team can help you fill most, if not all, of your grocery needs at Tomm's Food Village. Dave and Lo at Georgia Park Store offer a full service Post Office and Liquor Store. Mac and Betsy at Bowser Builders Supply offer everything a big hardware store would offer but with small town heart and service. Ted at Bowser Esso can not only fill your gas tank, but also has a licensed mechanic on staff just in case you need it. You'll find a Credit Union for your convenience, Lighthouse Gift Shop, Vancouver Island Public Library and Powerhouse Fitness if you feel the need to have a good workout.

 

Have your hair done at Crops and Bobbers, enjoy lunch or a latte at the Bean Counter Cafe where Daryl and Sheila and team offer wonderful home-cooked breakfasts, lunches and treats (ohhh, the treats...), or get an amazing massage with Colin at Bowser Massage Therapy. The jewel of downtown Bowser though, is the Salish Sea Market. Folks drive from all over the island specifically to come to visit this artful little shop. At the Market you'll find

artistic expression in all mediums (clay, wood, metal, paint, glass, culinary,

jewellery etc.)  by artists who create their work with in sight of the Salish

Sea - which means all of the art comes from within about two hours of

travel from Bowser. It's as local, as local can be. A must see, for sure.

 

While enjoying all the downtown Bowser has to offer, make sure you

stop by Lighthouse Feed and Garden and say hi to Brian. He's one of our

favourite locals - a.k.a. "The Fresh Prince of Bowsaire". :)

 

The many recreational activities within easy access from Bowser

include swimming, hiking, golf, horseback riding, wildlife viewing,

cave spelunking, kayaking, boating and fishing. Bowser attractions

include clam and oyster picking, whale watching and many

galleries and artisan in the area - every activity imaginable is within

driving distance of Bowser.