Mayne
Island was created by the earth's shifting tectonic plates millions
of years ago. Native people were fishing near the island around 3000
B.C. Spanish explorers visited the area in the late eighteenth century.
George Vancouver camped on Georgina Point in 1794. The island was later
named after Richard Charles Mayne, a lieutenant on the HMS Plumber visiting
in the late 1800's. The earliest registered land claims were in the
Miners Bay area in 1858. Early farmers gave Mayne island its open rural
ambiance.
There
are places to buy provisions, activities,
restaurants, nightlife,
studios and galleries and shops and numerous
businesses on Mayne Island. There is
also a good selection of accommodations.
Wildlife
is abundant. Eagles soar over the island. Otters, seals and Orcas swim
in the ocean. In the spring, migrating bird life visit the island. The
island is a birdwatchers paradise. Hummingbirds, swallows, goldfinches,
cedar waxwings, are some of the many birds that visit or live on the
island. There are also over two hundred and fifty wild flowers that
grow on Mayne Island. Black-tailed deer are the only large mammal living
on Mayne. The largest animal is the raccoon. Otters, mink, squirrels
also live on the island.
Walkers,
hikers and cyclist enjoy the quiet country roads and trails. Sculptured
sandstone cliffs can be observed during low tides at Campbell Bay. The
lighthouse at Georgina Point is spectacular and the park is open to
visitors. It is a great spot to watch Ferries and other craft
moving through Active Past.
Drop-in
at the Island's studios and galleries. Spend an afternoon at Bennett
Bay beach or hike 45 minutes to the top of Mount Parke. Boaters
can dock at the government wharf at Miners Bay or at the dock at Horton
Bay.
Scuba
diving in the clear, clean costal water is among the best in the world.
Strong currents and temperate waters provide variety and abundance of
marine life that is quite exceptional. Fishing in coastal waters is
very good. Several species of salmon provide year round fishing!
As
the climate is mild year round, you can kayak, canoe, sail and boat
in the protected areas for the majority of the year. The island has
numerous small adjacent islands and coves to offer protection and interesting
sites.
Camping
is available. There are two private campsites on Mayne Island. See information
below.
OTHER MAYNE ISLAND INFORMATION
Businesses
Active
Pass B&B and Fishing Charters - (250) 539-5034
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Albatross
Charters - (250) 539 2244
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Blue
Vista Kayaking, Bike and Scooter Rentals - (250) 539-2463
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Catamaran
Cruises - (250) 539 5390
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Island
Charters- (250) 539-5040
|
Kayak
& Canoe Rentals - (250) 539-5599
|
Mayne
Mast Charters (250) 539 3056
|
Mayne
Island Kayak, Bike and Scooter Rentals - (250) 539-5599
|
Turtle
Island Dive Adventures -(250) 539-2437
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