Chemainus

Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors from around the world discover the hidden secrets of Chemainus, one of Vancouver Island's jewels in the crown. This small seaside town is a tourist haven- nestled on the southeast shores of the island, 80 km north of Victoria and 30 km south of Nanaimo.

Founded in 1862, 5 years prior to Canada's birth as a nation, Chemainus has seen one layer of colourful history after another centered around the forestry industry. Mills powered by steam were the order of the early days but now, state of the art operations contribute to the towns economy. In 1983, one of the major mills in the area closed leaving the town to consider the future. Out of that grew a determination to survive- opening the way for cultural tourism- turning the town into one of the flagship turn- around towns in the world.

The history of the town is now painted for everyone to see- in one of the world's largest art galleries-the walls and streets of the town itself. Artists converged upon the town - turning it into a showcase of creativity - leaving the community with a new economy based on a blend of both forestry and tourism (and making it a popular and wonderful place to live as well). 

As you move through the pages of this site, you will learn more of the history of the murals as well as some of the other highlights that make our town unique. It is an artist's paradise and one of the most incredible places in Canada to visit-every season of the year.

More and more, visitors are discovering that Chemainus is a logical place to use for a base of operation- to make day tours into the surrounding countryside. With the water on one side, mountains on the other, lakes and streams to play in, golf courses, wine tours, shopping, easy access to ferries to Salt Spring and Thetis Island, hiking trails, biking routes, water activities, nearby cities to explore-what more could you ask for? 

So explore the pages, find out about our festivals, our live professional theatre, our entertainment, our year round garden opportunities, our local talented artisans and make plans to include Chemainus in your holiday adventures. You will not regret it. 

For more information contact:
Chemainus Chamber of Commerce
www.chemainus.bc.ca
or contact our Visitor InfoCentre at:
1-250-246-3944
P.O. Box 575,
9796 Willow St., Chemainus, B.C.
V0R 1K0
e-mail: ccoc@islandnet.com
Chemainus British Columbia

Chemainus Attractions - take a tour and see the world renowned Chemainus Murals, Museum, Dinner Theatre, Marine Center and Forest Museum.

Area Activities - Lake, river and ocean swimming, boating, fishing, sailing and kayaking charters, tennis, badminton and golfing.

Interests - Antiques, Annual Antique show, numerous gift shops, artisan studios, sculptures in wood and stone, native arts, blown glass, stained glass, pottery and paintings ,and of coarse our world famous murals.

If you didn't take part and in everything Chemainus has to offer in your first day, allow us to welcome you for the "Rest" of your Life to their smoke free, affordable, comfortable and meticulous Chemainus Accommodations.