When you begin exploring Vancouver Island, you will hopefully discover the quaint, eclectic charm of Chemainus. Home of the world-famous Chemainus murals.

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Vancouver Island is known for many things: lush, green forests, gorgeous beaches, temperate climate, and lovely cities and towns to name just a few.

When you begin exploring Vancouver Island, you will hopefully discover the quaint, eclectic charm of Chemainus. Home of the world-famous Chemainus murals.

Located one hour north of Victoria and 35 minutes south of Nanaimo, Chemainus sits right on the ocean and boasts such a beautiful charm, it’s easy to see why people come from all around to visit.

To convey some of my love of this small, coastal town, here are my top 3 reasons why you should visit Chemainus.

1. Unique Shopping

When walking the main streets of town, it’s almost like stepping back to a simpler time where stores offered goods made by local artists and craftsmen. Pottery shops, soap and candle stores, small art galleries, a bakery, cafe, and my children’s personal favourite – the candy store all line the street.

Imagine walking into a store entirely devoted to all things sweet.

The saying “you’re like a kid in a candy store” may have just started here in Chemainus. Chocolates, candies, gummies, and more await in Hansel and Gretle’s and even if you don’t have a child with you, you will be sure to purchase something for your sweet tooth.

The anticipation on my middle son’s face is priceless… I think he is anticipating something. 

During the summer months, local musicians come to the outdoor amphitheatre in Waterwheel park and there is even a weekly outdoor market that gives even more opportunity for local artists to share their craft and farmers to share their goods.

Horse-drawn carriages even appear during the summer to take you through the streets and share even more the history of Chemainus.

2. World Famous Chemainus Murals

A few decades ago, as it’s only industry was possibly coming to an end, Chemainus found itself in danger of becoming a ghost town. In an effort to rebuild itself, Chemainus mayor pitched the idea to tell the history of the town through massive wall paintings. In a few years’ time, this charming seaside town became know world-wide for its unique Chemainus murals.

I have visited many times and every time I find a new mural I haven’t seen before.  Follow the yellow footprints on the sidewalks and learn the history of the town and surrounding areas on these Chemainus murals.

Find the kind-faced man who follows you with his eyes as you walk by and watch as the team of oxen switch directions as you pass them in the parking lot.  Hop on the bike attached to the side of the wall or become part of a mural yourself and watch the cars drive by as my children like to do.

3. Dinner Theatre

Stop and visit the vibrant and fully professional stage theatre in Chemainus.

With actors from all across Canada, The Chemainus Theatre Festival offers wholesome performances throughout the year and the theatre’s Playbill Restaurant offers wonderful dinners before each performance. The luxurious theatre getaway packages which includes an overnight hotel stay, dinner, theatre and breakfast is well worth it.

The theatre is small and intimate with not a bad seat in the house. See one of our experiences for yourself! 

We have never been disappointed in a show or a meal at the Playbill and The Chemainus Theatre has provided us with such wonderful date nights. When you visit Chemainus, be sure to allot enough time to enjoy whatever is playing at the time of your visit.

Choosing the Best Western in Chemainus opens the door to the entire Cowichan Valley. We have enjoyed stays here as a couple and as an entire family and every time we spend the night here we throughly enjoy ourselves. 6 reasons to stay at the Best Western Plus Chemainus Inn.

For more information on Chemainus you can visit the town’s website.

Hope you can enjoy a visit to this charming town soon on your Vancouver Island Vacation or “Staycation”!