Hiking
The countryside offers a number of memorable hiking experiences for all levels of hikers. In addition to the trails found here, including the Trans Canada Trail and the Cowichan River Corridor, the provincial parks offer many great options for wildlife viewing, inspiring views and an opportunity to commune with the best that nature has to offer. From peaceful, easy walks to more strenuous, rugged climbs, the parks and beaches of Cowichan have something for every outdoor enthusiast

• Cowichan River Footpath
• Hill 60
• Lomas Lake
• Maple Mountain
• Mt Tzouhalem
• The Trans Canada Trail

Sport Fishing
The protected waters of the local area provide year round fishing. The Chinook/King fishing in August and September is unbelievable with fish in the 25-pound range being an average and many in the 30 to 40 pound range. Coho fishing is late here, starting at the end of September and lasting well into November. Salmon are fished by trolling, mooching, spin casting, drift fishing or on a fly (what a blast on a fly). Cod and crab are plentiful and well worth the effort. If fly-fishing on a lake is your thing, you’ll be happy to know that Cowichan River is ranked as one of the best fly-fishing destinations in the world!

Water Sports
Vancouver Island is the destination for Sea Kayakers from around the globe. From your kayak you will encounter an environment that cannot be found anywhere else. Vast wilderness, hundreds of miles of rugged unspoiled coastline, natural hot springs, thundering waterfalls, white shell beaches, old growth rainforests, unique sea life, dolphins and orca whales, snow capped mountains, and first nations treasures are just some of the things you discover on your once-in-a-lifetime kayak excursion.

If you are into windsurfing, Nitnat Lake has received international acclaim for those who have braved her winds. You will also find good windsurfing on Cowichan Lake and in Maple Bay.
Don’t let the cold water throw you off if scuba diving is more your style. In fact, Jean Michel Cousteau rated the area around Vancouver Island as second best in the world! The Northern Pacific Ocean offers some of the very best opportunities for artificial reef diving and boasts the most colourful sea vegetation in the world.

If speed is your game, then don’t miss an opportunity to water ski on Shawnigan and Cowichan Lakes. You’ll find instructors and guides readily available to take you skiing, no matter what your level of experience may be.

To say that the sailing and boating opportunities around the Central South Island is excellent would be an understatement! Every major sailing and boating magazine in the world has checked out our waters, and their experiences always rate with 5 stars. The endless coves, natural springs and waterfalls and a treasure chest of First Nations artifacts are just some of the reasons for our international boating reputation.

Arts and Culture
There are over 20 galleries and studios to visit in the Cowichan Valley. The area is home to many distinguished artists and artisans, many of whom have reached international acclaim. There are many artist and artisan festivals and shows throughout the year that are known for their magic and inspiration.

In Chemainus, thirty-five larger-than-life historic paintings and many statues now greet the gaze of hundreds of thousands of visitors each year. Chemainus thrives as a result, but it remains a small town, with just over 4,500 residents. These welcoming people still dish out island hospitality, along with ice cream and afternoon tea and scones just as they always have. It has gained worldwide acclaim for the integrity and superb artistry of its huge depictions of the town's history In Duncan, take a totem tour and stop at the Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre! The Centre offers all guests an authentic First Nations Experience - Interpretive Tours, Traditional Art Work and Native Food. See and learn traditions still practiced by the local First Nations people today.

No adventure is complete without a walking tour of Cowichan Bay Village. This picturesque little fishing village where time stands still, is custom made for anyone who likes to wander about exploring the eclectic shops or stop in for a bite of fresh seafood at the local restaurants, or just sit on the dock and watch the sun set reflecting off Mount Tzouhalem. In the heart of Cowichan Bay you will find the Maritime Centre and the Coast Salish Journey art gallery. The Maritime Centre offers custom designed boat building courses throughout the summer, and a workshop and support services for boat builders throughout the rest of the year. The unique Maritime Museum extends along the pier from the Centre and houses exhibits and artifacts from the Bay’s eventful history. The pavilion at the end of the pier exhibits a historical perspective of sailing, through a private collection of beautifully detailed model sailboats.

Cowichan Bay and boat building go hand in hand and the village hosts an annual boat building contest, which attracts boat building teams with their unique designs from near and far. Cheer your team on in the competitive and highly entertaining boat races that take place at the end of the day.