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OVERVIEW
The waterfront fishing village of Cowichan Bay sits at the head of a beautiful and natural harbour, which is the main focal point of the town, where shops, cafés, galleries and homes float on the water. Dine out on some of the best seafood in the area, relax in waterfront cafés, or take part in a variety of water activities.
Top things to do
Credit: Design Pics Inc / Alamy Stock Photo
Hike local trails
Hike or bike up Mount Tzouhalem or along the Cowichan Valley Rail Trail—complete with trestle bridges (including the famous Kinsol Trestle), scenic views and great opportunities for birdwatching.
Credit: Destination BC / Boomer Jerritt
Taste local wines and beers
Taste local wines, beers, ciders and spirits on a self-guided or organized local tour, or pick up a bottle or two for later.
Credit: Vancouver Island Expeditions
Join Taste of Cowichan Tour
Satisfy your west coast cravings with the Taste of Cowichan Tour. Enjoy the mouth-watering wines and visit the local farms where they're made.
Credit: CC Image courtesy of Stephen Colbourne on Flickr
Enjoy the Cowichan River
Swim or go tubing in the Cowichan River, or take a stroll along the Cowichan River footpath, winding through ancient forest.
Credit: Destination BC / Graeme Owsianski
Visit nearby farms
Visit nearby farms or the Saturday farmers market for fresh fruits, vegetables and sweet treats.
Explore activities
Full Day Whale & Wildlife Adventure
Sail around the edges of the Southern Gulf Islands and get to know BC's marine wildlife up close on this full-day whale-watching tour. Learn about the local waters with an expert naturalist and encounter orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat.
Tour highlights
- See orcas feeding on migrating salmon in the Strait of Georgia and the Gulf Islands.
- Take in the breathtaking views of Cowichan Bay as you depart and keep your eyes peeled for Pacific white-sided dolphins, porpoises, sea lions, and harbour seals along the way.
- Travel with an expert naturalist and learn about the animals that reside in this ecosystem.
- Guaranteed whale sightings so you can sail with confidence.
Half Day Whale and Wildlife Adventure
Escape to the secluded waters of the Salish Sea on a 4-hour whale-watching expedition and experience intimate encounters with BC's coastal wildlife. Sail around the Southern Gulf Islands watching orcas, humpback whales, gray whales and more.
Tour highlights
- Watch orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, dolphins, and more in their natural habitat hunting for their next meal.
- Enjoy the scenic views of Cowichan Bay and the surrounding Gulf Islands.
- Travel in the comfort of an open air vessel with an expert naturalist and learn about the animals that reside in these waters.
- Guaranteed whale sightings so you can sail with confidence.
Nearby cities
Chemainus
Chemainus has won international acclaim for its successful revitalization project, which began in 1982 with the unveiling of five large murals, all professionally painted onto existing downtown buildings. It is also home to great theatre, restaurants and natural beauty.
Brentwood Bay
Visit the rapidly growing village of Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Inlet, a 30-minute drive north of Victoria, to enjoy waterfront restaurants, relaxing strolls along the bay and a warm, welcoming community.
Sidney
Visit the seaside town of Sidney, just a few minutes down the road from Swartz Bay terminal, providing the ideal stop-off before or after you take the ferry. Go on an adventure to see local wildlife, or take a stroll in the town to check out the shops, marina and restaurants.
Victoria
Visit the lush and beautiful oceanfront city of Victoria. The city is rich in British heritage, has the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and is home to the historic BC Parliament Buildings. You can enjoy lots of water and land activities, and taste a variety of craft beers and fresh seafood.
Known as the Garden City, Victoria is always in bloom and has one of the mildest climates in Canada—perfect for a trip any time of the year.
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