The Southern Gulf Islands were initially settled by Europeans during the 1860’s. Many pre-empted land for farming, while others logged or fished. Most island populations stayed small and very rural until the development boom of the 1970’s, when many small lot subdivisions were created, notably Magic Lake Estates on Pender Island, and Village Point on Mayne Island. This development pressure resulted in the birth of the Islands Trust as the primary local government and land use authority, in an effort to preserve the rural nature of the islands. In large part, these efforts have been successful, slowing and controlling the rate of population growth and development.

Although the physical landscape has been greatly altered over the last hundred years, it is possible today to see remnants of the large farms that the pioneers developed in the central portion of the island, and at Miners Bay, some of the early houses and the original Springwater Lodge building still stand.

Unaltered by the years of human presence, though, is the dreamy sense of time slowing down for both visitors and residents. Fresh salt air, the rhythmic slap of the waves, and the harsh cries of eagles, all combine to create a profound sense of peace and relaxation. Living in the Gulf Islands is …living in paradise.