Further Ashore
Now that you are snugly berthed, it’s time to go ashore to enjoy dining, shopping and the many activities this lively city offers. Nestled beside the southern shores of the Discovery Passage, the famed “Salmon Capital of the World” boasts a host of natural wonders and cultural attractions waiting to be explored. On this page, you will find information on recreational activities, attractions, shopping, hospitality and local transportation. There are also many community events that welcome visitors.
We love to tell you about our community. Come to the Campbell River Visitor Centre Located at our Maritime Heritage Centre – 621 Island Highway, Campbell River, BC
MARINE SERVICES
Use the On the Waterfront tab to find marine services adjacent to the ocean. There are many more outlets to serve you. Use online search “Campbell River marine services.”
OUTDOOR RECREATION
Stretch your legs on the Seawalk north to Dick Murphy Park or south past a series of parks and beaches. It is only a short walk to downtown from the waterfront. You can hike or pedal your way along the shore, through the city, and to our many parks. It is less than a mile from shore to the ERT Trail leading to the Beaver Lodge Forest Lands mountain-biking trails system, with several circle routes along creeks. There are many nearby regional parks, including STORIES BEACH — 15 minutes south of Campbell River with great swimming, windsurfing and beachcombing and SARATOGA BEACH — located 20 minutes south of Campbell River off of Saratoga Beach Rd, with beautiful white sand and an excellent view of the mainland mountains. If you are yearning to hit a golf ball, good news: Campbell River has some spectacular golf courses from which to select and book your tee time.
To get even further ashore, rent a bicycle or take an extended hike with an experienced guide. Want to get up close and personal; snorkel with wild salmon. Take your dinghy up the Campbell River, fish in season, and hike to Elk Falls suspension bridge. Dramatic, unforgettable landscapes await you in Strathcona Provincial Park. We know you’ve come by boat, but why not go on a kayak or canoe trip; either on the sea or further inland. This is the wild heart of the Island. (See list of car rentals at bottom.)
ATTRACTIONS
Every community on BC’s coast has its own personality. The residents of Campbell River are proud of living in a community with ties to First Nations peoples, pioneers, sea-farers and fishermen; and proud of the energetic city they have helped to build. This pride, and the reasons for it, are plain to see. Here is your guide to local attractions:
The Museum at Campbell River
The past of Northern Vancouver Island is brought to life through vibrant exhibits featuring the heritage of First Nations peoples and the development of early coastal lifestyles. The Museum Shop specializes in regional books and in First Nations’ carvings and artwork. Catch some short films at the Van Isle Theatre and take a walk through the Changing Gallery. Guided Tours are available, and the facility is wheelchair accessible!
Discovery Passage Aquarium & Explorer Lab
The Discovery Passage Aquarium is a seasonal, capture-and-release facility that showcases the wonders of our local marine life accessible through hands-on experiences and expert interpretation. Through establishing the Aquarium and subsequent projects, DPAS aims to enhance knowledge, appreciation, and stewardship of our natural resources and ecosystems. The Explorer Lab is fit with a classroom and a wet lab where students and campers can get their hands salty learning about marine life in ways not possible on the beach or in a traditional school setting.
Maritime Heritage Centre
The Maritime Heritage Centre is located on the shores of Discovery Passage in Campbell River, BC. MHC’s focus is on the preservation and presentation of local marine heritage. Stop by and view the beautifully restored seine boat BCP 45. This vessel was once featured on our Canadian five-dollar bill and has been designated a National Historic Site. MHC also houses a vast and eclectic marine exhibit showcasing the history of Vancouver Island.
Tidemark Theatre
This art deco, 467-seat performing arts venue is one of the most prominent buildings downtown, distinguished by its bright pink exterior. The Tidemark Theatre is open ten months of the year, presenting both professional and community performances. The lobby features a free monthly art display in partnership with the Arts Council.
Campbell River Art Gallery
The Art Gallery opened in 1994 and remains Campbell River’s sole public gallery, serving the surrounding regional districts and islands. We exhibit contemporary art by professional artists in our Main Gallery and Satellite Gallery. The annual exhibition program is at the core of all the activities at the Gallery, directing workshop themes, lectures, school tours and community outreach.
Haig-Brown BC Heritage Property
2.5 acres of formal gardens, orchards and trails surrounded by 18 acres of woods, streams and wetlands. Group tours of the house and property can be booked through the Museum. Drop-in visitors are welcome. To ensure a tour of the house and library, please call ahead of time.
Quinsam Salmon Hatchery
Observe juvenile salmon all year (returning salmon from mid-August to mid-November). This self-guided tour is open to visitors every day from 8 am-4 pm. Learn about the life cycle of salmon and the hatchery techniques. Picnic sites and nature trails nearby. Wheelchair accessible.
Shelter Point Distillery
While their single malt whiskey is quietly aging in barrels, you can relax and enjoy an educational tour and tasting from Friday to Sunday, 12–5 pm. Or call to arrange a private tour. You can also find more ‘spirited’ gifts in their gift shop!
SHOPPING
Campbell River is the centre for shopping on Northern Vancouver Island, which means you will find just about anything you need here. The downtown core is within walking distance of marinas, mainly along Shoppers Row. Check out a searchable directory of stores. It’s also home to a number of unique and local shops.
Discovery Harbour Centre Shopping 1320 Island Highway. Campbell River’s newest mall, within easy walking distance of Discovery Harbour Marina.
Tyee Plaza 287 Shoppers Row. Located within easy walking distance from marinas.
Campbell River Common Shopping Centre, the City’s only enclosed mall, is located on Ironwood Street, about a 15-minute stroll from the waterfront.
RESTAURANTS
A variety of restaurants near your berth are shown On the Waterfront. There are many others to choose from. These are handily listed in the City’s restaurant guide.
LOCAL TRANSPORTATION
The City’s bus service takes you just about everywhere in town. Service extends south as far as the Oyster River, so you can visit the many beaches south of Campbell River.
Land Taxi
Taxi 250-287-8383
Water Taxi
Discovery Launch Water Taxi 250-287-7757
Way West Water Taxi 250-286-3050
Car Rentals
National Car Rental 250-923-1234
