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Ingrid Taylar
Whale watching tours are popular and an exciting attraction in the area.
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A bald eagle at The Raptors (formerly known as the Pacific Northwest Raptors) in Cowichan Valley.
the raptors, Pacific Northwest Raptors, Cowichan Valley, British Columbia
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Cowichan Bay offers convenient waterfront access.
Words by Steve Fennell
Cowichan Bay is known as one of the earliest developed areas north of Victoria as settlement dates to the mid-1800s when the Hudson Bay Company established its fort and the region was renowned for hunting, fishing and logging. By the 1900s, however, it became a tourism mecca that still stands today with its diverse attractions for many types of travellers.
While Cowichan Bay is popular to visit by car or RV, its convenient, waterfront access accommodates a steady stream of transient boaters throughout the season. Those who idle in commonly stop for fuel, stock up on essentials, or are just looking for a few days to spend off the water. A popular spot among cruisers is Fisherman’s Wharf, which offers a plethora of marine services, including washrooms, showers, even laundry facilities and WiFi. If space is limited during summer however, there are a series of marinas and mooring options as well.
Fisherman’s Wharf is also less than a two-minute walk to Cowichan Bay’s waterfront village where there’s unique, local shops featuring the works of local artists and craftsmen plus a choice of restaurants with many overlooking the water. Some popular places include Hilary’s Cheese Company Ltd. and if you have time, try the more formal setting at The Masthead Restaurant.
Need a break from the berth on your boat? Many types of accommodations are available including Cowichan Bay Guest Suites, Anchors Guest House, or Seasons Above the Bay Guest Suites and B&B, to name a few. All are ideal for a good night’s rest and if you prefer, there’s a series of hotels nearby.
When it comes to attractions, you’ll appreciate The Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre. Operated by the non-profit Cowichan Bay Wooden Boat Society, this maritime museum was originally a wooden boat building workshop in the 1980s, but has since expanded into a museum to preserve, exhibit and demonstrate maritime heritage. Along with exhibits, it hosts wooden boat building courses for adults and children as well as workshops for hauling and cleaning of boats. It even maintains a small fleet of traditional small craft.
Lots to See and Do in Cowichan
If you’re a serious birder, the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre consists of a 400-hectare area where resident and migratory birds call home. Great for all ages, there’s shellfish, echinoderms, plus pinnipeds and otters to admire up close and personal.
To observe more wildlife, whale watching and marine wildlife tours are available where you can see harbour seals, sea lions, plus Orca, Humpback, Grey and Minke Whales. Kayaking opportunities abound, and rentals are available along the waterfront. Be sure to inquire about some the top spots to explore as there are many.
Back on land, there are many trails in and around the area that range from easy to difficult or its advisable to take a guided tour in Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park (just outside of Cowichan Bay) to observe some of the world’s largest spruce trees and the thick lush greenery. You’ll be impressed.
Cowichan Bay is also home to great golfing at the Cowichan Golf & Country Club, which consists of an 18-hole, 6,189-yard course, as well as the Arbutus Ridge Golf Club that has a Four Star Rating by Golf Digest and was even voted the Best Destination Golf Course in British Columbia by readers of Golf Nerve Magazine.
Regardless of your interests, this section of Vancouver Island is a great destination to plot a course. It provides a wonderful place to refuel or relax with many natural attractions to discover and enjoy with every return visit.
For information about Cowichan Bay and all the attractions visit www.cowichanbay.com.