COAST
— enjoy the Cowichan coast —
from outdoor greenspace to walking trails, murals, live theatre, and art spaces; we have it all
ALONG THE PACIFIC
explore all that the Cowichan Coast has to offer
Embarking on the tranquil waters of Chemainus opens up a world of aquatic adventures and unforgettable experiences. The Chemainus Coast offers an array of activities to delight visitors of all ages. Enjoy beachcombing and splashing in the refreshing waters of Kin Beach. Launch a kayak or paddle board from the picturesque pebbled shore and explore. Discover the captivating allure of the lighthouse Island during low tide or leisurely wander along the Pacific, discovering the rugged rocky outcroppings. Explore the sunken Boeing 737, and dive into an extraordinary experience.
TYPE: Beach
SURFACE: Ocean
LENGTH: 300m out, 60ft down
FEATURES: Diving
Located near Kin Beach Park are four wooden barges that were sunk in 2012. Here you can find a plethora of sea life to view. The swim out to the barges is about 300m and they lie about 60ft below the surface.
WARNING: The site in not maintained and could be derelict
BARGES DIVE SITE
diving
TYPE: Wharf
SURFACE: Ocean
LENGTH: N/A
FEATURES: Moorage + Amenities
The Chemainus Municipal Wharf offers not only day but also overnight moorage, reservations, power service, and washrooms with showers. Contact Chemainus Wharf Office for more information.
CHEMAINUS MUNICIPAL WARF
moorage + amenities
TYPE: Beach + Park
SURFACE: Mixed
LENGTH: N/A
FEATURES: Park + Picnic area + Beach
Pay a visit to the tranquil Cook Beach Park. This is the perfect destination to bring the whole family for a picnic and a swim. There are picnic tables and a wooded area at the top of the park for you and your family to enjoy.
COOK BEACH PARK
park + picnic
TYPE: Beach + Park
SURFACE: Mixed
LENGTH: N/A
FEATURES: Park + Picnic area + Beach
Daniel Street Park is a sweet small park right on the ocean. Here you can see Askew Creek spill into the sea and enjoy a newly built staircase down to the beachfront. It is best to visit at low-tide to explore more of the shoreline.
DANIEL STREET PARK
park + picnic
TYPE: Beach + Park
SURFACE: Mixed
LENGTH: N/A
FEATURES: Park + Swimming + Beach + Boats
Kin Beach Park is a Westcoast rocky beach located off of Pine Street. It is the perfect place to spend the day with the family and enjoy the playground, green space, beachcombing, and panoramic ocean view. You can even swim here in the summer!
KIN BEACH PARK
park + picnic
TYPE: Boat tour
SURFACE: Water
LENGTH: N/A
FEATURES: Boating
Charter a guided tour with Saltair Ocean Adventures Inc. Ride the Jenmar, a 30ft Tollycraft Sedan, and explore the stunning beauty of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, known for their calm, warm, and sheltered waters for an enjoyable experience.
BOAT CHARTER
scenic views
TYPE: Dive site by boat access
SURFACE: Ocean
LENGTH: 100ft out, 100ft down
FEATURES: Diving
Located just outside of the downtown area of Chemainus is a 737 Boeing Jet Plane that was sunk in early 2006 to make an artificial reef. The site is accessible by boat and is best done in fall, winter, or early spring. It is considered an advanced dive due to it's depth.
XIHUW ARTIFICIAL REEF
BOEING 737 JET PLANE DIVE
diving
Photo credit: Diver courtesy of Kat Fenner. Chemainus Wharf courtesy of Marinas.com; Boat Charter from saltairoceanadventures.com