Cowichan Bay Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Cowichan Bay which includes a bay or harbour
Visit this pretty bayside village to find a fantastic local culinary scene, artists’ workshops and a long maritime history.

The seaside village of Cowichan Bay looks into a scenic inlet on the southeast coast of Vancouver Island. The small community is known for fine local produce and artisan workshops. Stroll down the village’s seafront promenade and visit a café or studio or head onto the water in a kayak or boat. Spot whales in the beautiful bay and enjoy local wines and cheeses from Vancouver Island.

Walk along the waterfront and see the collection of charming shops and cafés fringing the shore. Visit artisanal bakers, ceramicists, cheese-makers, an old-fashioned ice cream parlor and several restaurants. Spot the gently waving masts of the ships docked in the marina. Cowichan Bay, once a busy deep-water port, is still occasionally frequented by tankers and container ships.

Explore the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre and walk onto its scenic wooden boardwalk. Here, you’ll find the Cowichan Wooden Boat Society, dedicated to the preservation of the town’s long tradition of boatbuilding.

Join a whale-watching or scenic boat tour for a fascinating insight into the waters around Vancouver Island. You might see humpback whales, orcas, seals and sea lions streaking through the water below your boat and bald eagles flying overhead. Alternatively, rent a kayak and explore the coastal waters or the mouth of the Cowichan River. Join guided tours or cruise along the coastline at your own pace.

Look for morning birds atCowichan Estuary Nature Centreat Hecate Park. Then head to the village’s waterfront pub for a relaxing lunch and drinks. Appreciate stunning views of the bay and surrounding hillsides while you sample local seafood and regional wines. Looking north, you’ll see Mount Tzouhalem and its forest reserves.

Cowichan Bay is on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, a 1-hour drive north of Victoria and the same distance south of Nanaimo. Reach Victoria by ferry from Tsawwassen, Anacortes or Port Angeles. Nanaimo Airport is located in Cassidy.

Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay
Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay
3 out of 5
1681 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay, BC
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is NZ$245 per night from 11 Nov to 12 Nov
NZ$245
includes taxes & fees
11 Nov - 12 Nov
Stay at this 3-star beach hotel in Cowichan Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a full-service spa. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (1,006 reviews)
"The front desk staff are awesome"

Reviewed on 28 Oct. 2024

Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay
Wessex Inn By The Sea
Wessex Inn By The Sea
2 out of 5
1846 Cowichan Bay Rd., Cowichan Bay, BC
The price is NZ$151 per night from 6 Nov to 7 Nov
NZ$151
includes taxes & fees
6 Nov - 7 Nov
Stay at this hotel in Cowichan Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and balconies. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our reviews. Popular ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (821 reviews)
"Friendly people. Great location. Easy walk to the marina to see Sea lions."

Reviewed on 25 Oct. 2024

Wessex Inn By The Sea
Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites
Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites
2.5 out of 5
9775 First St, Sidney, BC
The price is NZ$219 per night from 16 Nov to 17 Nov
NZ$219
includes taxes & fees
16 Nov - 17 Nov
Book a stay at this beach hotel in Sidney. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
9/10 Wonderful! (567 reviews)
"👍👍👍👍👍👍"

Reviewed on 31 Oct. 2024

Sidney Waterfront Inn & Suites
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Welcome To the Ocean Front Cowibbean Guesthouse
Welcome To the Ocean Front Cowibbean Guesthouse
Cowichan Bay
Stay at this apartment in Cowichan Bay. Popular attractions Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre and Cowichan Wooden Boat Society are located nearby.
8.8/10 Excellent! (19 reviews)
Cowichan Bay stay
"I really enjoyed my stay at Cowichan Bay in Danielle's guest house. The suite was quiet, nicely decorated, cozy and comfortable. There is a private sitting area with a partial view of the marina. I enjoyed hearing the sealions on the doc in the morning. The town is lovely with an excellent coffee ..."

Reviewed on 21 Oct. 2024

Welcome To the Ocean Front Cowibbean Guesthouse
Cusheon Lake Resort
Cusheon Lake Resort
3 out of 5
171 Natalie Lane, Salt Spring Island, BC
Stay at this 3-star beach cabin in Salt Spring Island. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Popular attractions Cusheon Lake and Salt Spring Vineyards ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (180 reviews)
"Lovely resort with lovely staff! Will be back!"

Reviewed on 16 Oct. 2024

Cusheon Lake Resort
Westover Bed and Breakfasts
Westover Bed and Breakfasts
Salt Spring Island
Stay at this cottage in Salt Spring Island. Enjoy free breakfast, patios, and in-room fireplaces. Popular attractions Saltspring Marina and Ganges Marina are ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (76 reviews)
Sweet Little Getaway in the Woods
"This is a special place, we thoroughly enjoyed our time in this unique private getaway. Loved being surrounded in trees, peaceful and beautiful. Really enjoyed using the outdoor shower, it was kind of exciting! The bed was super comfortable and room was decorated in a very artistic manner. Thanks ..."

Reviewed on 31 Jul. 2024

Westover Bed and Breakfasts
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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Reviews of Cowichan Bay

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Great whale watching experience

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