Graham
Cowichan Bay is a gateway to a myriad of water- and land-based activity.
Words by Steve Fennell
Visiting Cowichan Bay is almost like stepping back to a simpler time. While you can re-fuel, purchase basic supplies, grab a quick bite, and then move on, you would be missing a world of new island adventure in this seaside community.
At first glance, fishing seems prevalent and in fact, it is. Nonetheless, the fishing vessels mix in with contemporary cruisers and yachts, which reflect the popularity of recreational boating in the area. After all, it’s no surprise given that Cowichan Bay has one of the few maritime Mediterranean climatic zones, offering the warmest temperatures in Canada throughout year.
For these reasons (and many more), Cowichan Bay has evolved from the earliest developed community north of Victoria (that dates back to the mid-1800s) to a tourism hub that attracts all types of boaters from late May through to September.
Tracey Adams
Part of the area’s rustic shore.
Its popularity becomes apparent while visiting Fisherman’s Wharf. Consisting of a wharf with two separate float systems, (with 10 floats in all), this is a federal dock that’s sheltered by a floating breakwater and offers 243 m (800 ft) of transient moorage. It also features washrooms, showers, laundry facilities, WiFi, gated security, picnic and grill areas, and pump outs. If space becomes limited, don’t worry, there are an array of other marinas and mooring options as well.
Visiting Cowichan Bay’s waterfront village is simple. It’s only a two-minute walk to a series of local shops featuring the masterpieces of many artists with many eateries offering a range of menu items. You’ll want to visit the award-winning True Grain Bread with its offerings of organic baked breads and pastries (and other decadent menu selections). In fact, it’s a well appreciated establishment that has earned many awards, including being named one of the 20 best bakeries in Canada by Huffington Post in 2016. And if you have a little more time, try the more formal setting at The Masthead Restaurant, or for more casual dining experiences, check out the many other restaurants in the area.
Once you learn about the local wineries, more dining options, and guided kayaking and whale tours, you may to want to stay an extra day or two. Cowichan Bay Guest Suites, Anchors Guest House, or The Dreamweaver B&B are great choices. Reservations are strongly recommended.
Gord Iverson
Cowichan Bay is also a haven for many talented artists.
The Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre, operated by the non-profit Cowichan Bay Wooden Boat Society, is a former wooden boat building workshop that rebuilds, preserves, exhibits, and demonstrates maritime heritage. It’s a worth a visit to admire all the exhibits, take a boat building course (for adults and children) or sign up for a workshop to learn more about the hauling and cleaning of boats.
Cowichan Bay is also on Mother Nature’s doorstep. Birders will be delighted by the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre that overlooks the Cowichan Estuary. This 400 hectare estuarine ecosystem is an internationally designated Important Bird Area (IBA) and provides habitat for resident and migratory birds, along with Pacific salmon, shellfish and a diversity of inter-tidal life.
Rather than exclusively plan a day trip to the many nature sites, perhaps ‘wing it’ on one of the many local hiking trails that lead to further natural beauty. Hiking trails range from easy to difficult. For a more competitive type of walking experience among greenery, you can practice your game at Cowichan Golf & Country Club – an 18-hole, 6,189-yard course – or the Arbutus Ridge Golf Club. See why this course 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.
This region of Vancouver Island is worthy of more than a quick stop. By taking a day or three, you won’t regret all the new found adventure, insight and activity that Cowichan Bay can offer. It’s not only relaxing, but will provide a great, new sense of what island life is all about.
For information about Cowichan Bay and all the attractions visit www.cowichanbay.com
Marneejill