Chemainus: A Side Trip Worth Stopping For, A Vacation Worth Staying For
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The Perfect Stop Between Victoria and Nanaimo — or the Perfect Place to Stay
Chemainus sits between Victoria, Nanaimo, Parksville, and Qualicum Beach — a seaside town that transforms a simple drive into a memorable experience. Many travelers plan a quick stop to see the murals and end up staying longer once they discover its theatre, cafés, trails, and small-town charm.
A Town Built for Wandering and Relaxing
Willow Street Charm
Victorian-style lamps, brick-paved sidewalks, and character storefronts line Willow Street, the beating heart of Chemainus. Browse local boutiques, enjoy a coffee on the patio, and take in the mural-lined streets that make the town feel like an open-air gallery.
Old Town: Waterfront Strolls & Island Views
A short walk from the Visitor Centre and Waterwheel Park leads down Maple Lane to Old Town, the original heart of Chemainus. Here, visitors find more shops, murals, and cozy restaurants beside the Chemainus Marina, where fishing boats, sailboats, and kayaks share the harbor.
From Old Town, you can catch the ferry to Thetis Island, a peaceful destination known for its beaches, trails, and unspoiled coastal beauty — an ideal day trip from Chemainus.
Stay the Night: Quaint Bed & Breakfasts & Local Hotels
Chemainus’ bed-and-breakfasts and small inns are as much part of its charm as the murals themselves. Many are set in Victorian-style homes with picket fences and wraparound porches, where you can wake up to a homemade breakfast and a short walk to everything the town offers.
Perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers, Chemainus invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
- B&Bs with history and heart – Ideal for those who love character and storytelling.
- Hotels with modern amenities – Convenient for families and groups.
- Walkable and connected – Everything from the theatre to the beach is minutes away.
Arts, Entertainment & Dining
Chemainus Theatre Festival
A cornerstone of the community, the Chemainus Theatre Festival produces five to six live shows annually, including summer musicals and festive holiday performances. Visitors often make it a full evening out with dinner in the Playbill Dining Room before the curtain rises.
Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society
The Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society (CVCAS) fills the town with music all summer long, hosting outdoor weekend festivals at Waterwheel Park that draw visitors from across Vancouver Island. These events often lead visitors to explore the murals, local shops, and restaurants that surround the park.
Nature at Your Doorstep
For those seeking outdoor beauty alongside culture, Chemainus delivers:
- Mount Brenton Golf Course – A 75-year-old course shaded by towering trees, with a pub overlooking the greens.
- Kin Beach – Ideal for swimming, picnicking, and sunsets.
- Askew Creek Park – A tranquil old-growth forest walk with towering cedars and Douglas firs.
- Cowichan Valley Trail – A scenic cycling and hiking route connecting Ladysmith, Crofton, and Duncan.
A Jumping-Off Point for Island Adventures
Staying in Chemainus gives you access to some of the best nearby destinations on Vancouver Island:
- Thetis Island – A quiet retreat just a short ferry ride away, perfect for cycling, beachcombing, and kayaking.
- Crofton Ferry to Salt Spring Island – Gateway to artisan shops, farmers markets, and local wineries.
- Duncan – The City of Totems, rich with Indigenous art and history.
- Ladysmith – Heritage architecture, harbor views, and a lively main street.
- Parksville & Qualicum Beach – Famous for sandy beaches and oceanfront parks.
- Victoria & Nanaimo – Easy day trips for urban exploring and dining.
A Community That Works Together
Chemainus is a town defined by collaboration. From its murals to its live events, local organizations and volunteers ensure visitors experience a place that celebrates art, history, and hospitality.
Become a Member —
Be Part of the Story
Join the community that turned history into art.
Your membership helps preserve Chemainus’ outdoor art gallery, restore murals, and support future art projects and events.
Support the Murals —
Donate Today
Keep the colours of Chemainus shining bright.
Your donation directly funds mural maintenance, artist commissions, and community art initiatives. Every gift makes a difference.