An artisan village
Since the beginning of the Chemainus murals in 1987, creative travellers have been embarking on self-guided walking tours around Chemainus to take them in. Today, the Chemainus Festival of Murals Society maintains approximately 60 murals while also commissioning new ones. Meanwhile, the Chemainus Theatre Festival has welcomed audiences to take in vibrant live theatre performances in their eye-catching stone building for thirty seasons.
Coastal charm
Many other artists call the community of Chemainus home—fibre artists, painters, sculptors, and jewellery makers. But before Chemainus transformed into the creative heart you’ll experience today, it transitioned from a First Nation village to bustling with industry. Run by enthusiastic members of the Chemainus Valley Historical Society, the Chemainus Valley Museum warmly invites visitors to engage in the colourful history of this coastal village.
Learn MoreOutdoor pursuits
Not to be outdone by its nature-focused neighbours, Chemainus offers many opportunities for outdoor pursuits for those who seek them. Hidden offshore, an artificial reef created by a sunken Boeing 737 draws cold water divers with exceptional diving conditions and many diverse species to admire. Other recreational draws on the water include fishing, kayaking, sailing, or simply wandering along the water’s edge. Chemainus is also the entry point for routes to our region’s Islands of Penelakut and Thetis. Valdes Island does not have its own ferry service but boaters and kayakers can leave from the public boat launch at Kinsmen Beach Park.
Explore
Along with the authentic Indigenous culture Cowichan offers, check out what other quirky and unexpected things there are.
Explore Cowichan