Things to Do in Chemainus
Looking for things to do in Chemainus? From outdoor adventures and local attractions to great food and shopping, there’s always something to discover. Here’s our guide to getting the most out of Chemainus, British Columbia.
Outdoor Activities
The Chemainus waterfront and nearby Fuller Lake Provincial Park offer walking and swimming. The town is also a stopping point for cyclists on the E&N Rail Trail. Browse our parks and outdoor listings to find trails, lakes, and natural areas near you. Don’t forget to check seasonal conditions and hours before heading out.
Food and Drink
One of the best things about Chemainus is the local food scene. Start your morning at a local cafe, explore restaurants for lunch and dinner, and wind down at one of the area’s local bars. Local seafood from the Chemainus waterfront and farm produce from the Cowichan Valley are features of the best local restaurants. Check ratings and reviews on each listing to find the top-rated spots.
Arts, Culture & Attractions
Discover Chemainus’s cultural side through its local attractions, galleries, museums, and community events. Chemainus is famous for its 50+ outdoor murals depicting the town’s logging and sawmill history — the Festival of Murals Society has made this one of Canada’s top outdoor art destinations. The Chemainus Theatre is a professional dinner theatre operating year-round. Many attractions are family-friendly and affordable, making them perfect for a rainy day or a leisurely afternoon.
Shopping
Support local businesses by shopping in Chemainus’s downtown core and surrounding areas. From boutique clothing stores and gift shops to specialty food shops, you’ll find unique items you won’t see in big-box stores. Browse our full shopping listings to see what’s nearby.
Plan Your Visit
Use our interactive map to see all businesses at a glance, or search for specific categories from the homepage. New to Chemainus? Check out our First Time in Chemainus guide for tips on getting around, where to stay, and what to expect. Save your favourites to our Saved Places list to build your personal itinerary.