FACTS & QUESTIONS
— quick reference facts and common questions —
We have thought of everything you need to know and compiled the most commonly asked questions for your quick reference.
FAST FACTS
North Cowichan : A diverse Municipality which includes a number of distinct communities (South End, Crofton, Chemainus, and Maple Bay). Located between Victoria and Nanaimo in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, the Municipality offers a serene, easy-going lifestyle among forest lands, mountains, lakes, rivers, and ocean inlets. North Cowichan offers an enticing variety of recreational pursuits.
48°55’N 123°43’W
4,033* directly in Chemainus with approximately 820 residents in the greater surrounding areas *Statistics Canada 2021
Because the murals are so walkable, we pride ourselves on accessibility. The town is an easy walk for seniors with many rest stops along the walking tour as well as being very wheelchair friendly. Most stores that are not directly at ground level offer ramps and switch backs that aid in you being able to move freely throughout the town. Most of our parks, and the small trials within walking distance, also allow for the same accommodations. We implore you to go and explore.
Most days are bright, sunny, warm and perfect for a light coat or shirt. The most asked question we get is: “Does it rain all the time?” Our answer: The rain is only an occasional nuisance in the winter months (typically November to March). Our region, North Cowichan, sits in a rain shadow. Rainfall is significantly lighter and often just a light mist thanks to this.
Canadian Dollars (CAD).
Money: Canadian Funds accepted throughout town. Shopkeepers generally ask you to spend a minimum amount or use a smaller denomination if getting change. Anything above a $50 dollar bill is typically requested to be broken into smaller bills at the bank, but not always discouraged by shop keepers.
ATMs: Available throughout the town, most notably at financial institutions (CIBC, Coastal Community Credit Union, and Island Savings).
Debit Card: Canadian issued debit cards. Alternatively, should your debit card be international but possess the Visa or MasterCard symbol; you are able to use your card with most debit machines around town.
Credit Card: Visa and MasterCard is accepted in most locations, with very few accepting AMEX.
Fluctuating daily the typical currency exchange is available at any banking institution which is around $1 USA Dollar (USD) = $1.50 Canadian Dollars (CAD)
The name “Chemainus” is derived from a local native shaman and prophet “Tsa-meeun-is” roughly translated to Broken Chest. Legend says that the man survived a fatal wound to his chest becoming a powerful chief. His name was taken to identify the Stz’uminus First Nation (formerly Chemainus Indian Band) community – Chemainus. Click here for more information.
We currently have over 50 murals, with many others planned. We also have 10 sculptures, statues, and carvings; plus many other artistic embellishments throughout the town. Simply follow the yellow foot prints.
We love families, and families love us. We have so much to do from beach combing and a beautiful playground by the water, to a walking labyrinth and wooden playship in Waterwheel Park, among many other fun things to do. Plus many shops with ice cream and hot chocolate, kids shops and toys and even a fully outfitted candy store.
Yes! We are very proud of how much we love to embrace the furry members of your family. From hotel accommodations, to parks, snacks, resting posts, and cool water in the majority of stores; we cater to fido year round.
Old town simply refers to the original shopping area of town that is very much as active today as it once was. Beside the ferry dock, there is a lively group of merchants offering everything from delicious foods, to electronics, handmade soaps, art, antiques, collectables, and books.
They are a vibrant, established and fully professional dramatic arts theatre featuring some of the finest performers and performances in Canada. Broadway hit plays can be seen here all year round.
1 hour and 15 minutes by car. There are many ways to come from Victoria, including bus.
30 minutes to 1 hour by car - depending on the location.
We absolutely do have a marina! Click here for more information.
There are many different types of accommodations from hotels, motels, B&Bs, and slightly outside of Chemainus – camping. Click here for more information.
We have a whole host of activities for you and your family. Walk through old growth forests, golf, scuba dive our Boeing 737, ride around with our horse and carriage, putter through our arts community, or take a stroll through our unique townscape. Depending on your level of activity and want we have a list of itineraries for you to view so that you can select the one that best suits your need.
The Hermits Trail was created by a long departed resident who found his home in the grove; building, exploring, and living within the woods. The pathways are carved through a sanctuary of trees and is a set of twisting old stone paths, walkways, and flower gardens. He has been forever immortalized in Mural #36. A copy of this stunning mural has been turned into a painting and adorns our Visitor Centre walls.
The walk, however breathtaking, is inaccessible due to too many impediments like fallen trees, degraded paths and rain run-off that has washed out the trails. Trip and fall hazards.