Your Insider’s Guide to Campbell River. Campbell River is a vibrant coastal community located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Known as the salmon capital of the world, it’s a destination for anglers seeking to test their skills against the abundant salmon and other fish species found in the surrounding waters. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy the myriad of activities available, including whale watching, Boat tours, hiking, kayaking, skiing, snowboarding, and mountain biking.
There are also numerous natural attractions, such as the Elk Falls Suspension Bridge, Discovery Passage Aquarium and the Quadra Island Caves. Culture seekers can visit the Museum at Campbell River, which showcases the history of the region’s indigenous people, early settlers, and local industries. The city boasts a lively arts and culture scene with various festivals and events throughout the year. With its stunning natural setting, rich cultural heritage, and diverse recreational opportunities, Campbell River is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of British Columbia’s west coast.
Insiders Guide
HOW TO GET TO CAMPBELL RIVER?
BY SEA
Vancouver Island can be reached by ferry via Vancouver (Horseshoe Bay > Departure Bay or Tsawwassen > Duke Point) Powell River, or Prince Rupert. BC Ferries runs sailings frequently throughout the day, but in the summer months, a reservation is strongly recommended!
BY LAND
Once on Vancouver Island, Campbell River can easily be reached by car. It is about an hour and a half drive North from Nanaimo along Highway 19, or a little bit longer if you choose to take the scenic route 19A.
BY AIR
Pacific Coastal Airlines and Central Mountain Air have daily flights arriving in Campbell River from Vancouver's (YVR) South Terminal. The Campbell River Airport is only a 15 minute drive from downtown Campbell River. Other airport options include Comox and Nanaimo.
Insiders Guide
WHERE TO STAY IN CAMPBELL RIVER?
There are a variety of different accommodation options in Campbell River, from Vacation Rentals, to Rustic Cottages and 5 star resorts. There is something for everyone! There is something for everyone! Here are just a few of our favorites.
Brown's Bay Resort
Brown's Bay is where we call home! It really is one of Vancouver Island's best kept secrets. Accommodation options include luxury cabins, first class RV Park, Oceanfront Tenting Sites, and even rustic Glamping Tents. Discovery West Adventures is onsite and departs right from Brown's Bay Marina!
Dolphins Resort
Dolphins Resort is located on a spectacular, ocean front property overlooking Discovery Passage and the Coast Mountain Range.
The property consists of cozy cabins with wood burning fireplaces and personal hot tubs! Be sure to check out Anglers for breakfast in the morning!
Painters Resort
Painters resort is located just 5 minutes from the downtown core of Campbell River. It's ocean view rooms, and cabins in the woods, are first class. Their on-site restaurant has the most breath-taking view! Also check out their sister resort, April Point, on Quadra Island.
For more recommendations on where to stay in Campbell River, check out CampbellRiver.Travel!
If you are looking for something a bit more secluded and remote, check out Nanook Lodge or Shoal Bay. Both of these resorts are boat access only, but Discovery West Adventures can offer water taxi services to both resorts either from Brown’s Bay or Campbell River.
Insiders Guide
THINGS TO DO IN CAMPBELL RIVER
TAKE A TOUR
Campbell River is an outdoor lovers paradise! Take a Whale Watching Tour or Sunset Adventure with us or join us for one of our Cleanup/Whale Watching Tours for an Adventure you can feel good about!
We are fortunate enough to be surrounded by the most incredible wildlife and scenery. Let us show you why we love where we live. Even if you have lived here your whole life, you’ll gain a whole new appreciation for our area when you see it from our perspective! We have trips departing daily from Brown’s Bay Marina, be sure to book in advance to avoid disappointment!
TAKE A HIKE
Campbell River and the surrounding area is filled with hikes, and is an outdoor lovers dream! There are far too many to mention here, but here’s a few of our favorites!
Elk Falls
This leisurely 6km hike will take you through some serene old-growth forest trails, across a giant suspension bridge where finally you can look down and marvel at the wonder that is Elk Falls! The hike is 4km and takes roughly 1.5 hours, it's relatively easy with minimal elevation gain.
How to get there? From Campbell River, take Highway 28 North towards Gold River for approximately 3km. Drive past Quinsam Campground, and you'll see the signs for Elk Falls on the right.
Lower Myra Falls
Lower Myra Falls is a short but rewarding hike with a beautiful rewarding view! It's a great place to bring a lunch and just hang out on the rocks watching the falls. The hike is 1.5km and takes roughly 45 minutes, it's perfect for kids of all ages (just be mindful of the slippery rocks if you get close to the falls).
How to get there? From Campbell River, take Highway 28 North towards Gold River for approximately 87km. Once you have passed Buttle Lake Campground, the road will turn into Westmin Road. You'll see signs on the right for Lower Myra Falls which will lead you to a dirt parking lot.
Ripple Rock Trail
The story of Ripple Rock is one Campbell River is famous for, and if you've had a chance to join us on one of our tours, then you've likely heard it. The Ripple Rock trail will take you on a scenic 8km hike through the forest and eventually take you to a viewpoint for Seymour Narrows, one of the three fastest tidal streams in the world. We suggest checking out the tides ahead of time to make sure you get the best show. The hike is 8km and takes roughly 3-4 hours round trip, so be sure to bring plenty of snacks and water!
How to get there? From Campbell River, head North on the Island Highway for approximately 16km. Once you pass Bloedel, you'll see signs and a parking lot on the right.
Insiders Guide
wHERE TO EAT IN CAMPBELL RIVER?
GRAB A BITE
There are plenty of fantastic restaurants in the Campbell River area, whether you are looking for fresh seafood to bring home, or a nice sit down meal overlooking the water, we’ve got you covered!
The Narrows Floating Restaurant, Brown's Bay Resort
The food, view and ambiance of the Narrows Floating Restaurant is one that you simply have to experience for yourself. If you're lucky enough to be around during one of their All-You-Can-Eat Crab nights, don't forget to make a reservation and come hungry!
Anglers, Dolphins Resort
Anglers oceanfront restaurant is open year round and one of Campbell River's hidden gems. The rustic decor is warm and inviting, and makes a great place for a casual meal . Their breakfast menu is absolutely incredible and the view is not bad either 😉
Dicks Fish & Chips
Fresh and delicious, and a favorite among the locals. Dicks is a great place to grab a bite and either sit inside or head to the pier. Don't forget to finish off your meal with an ice cream from Discovery Pier Ice Cream Shop!
Crabby Bob's Seafood
If you're looking for some fresh seafood to take back to cook yourself, Crabby Bob's is the place to go! From Oysters to Dungeness Crab, all of their seafood is locally sourced and sustainable, so you know exactly where your food is coming from.
CHECK OUT THE TOWN
- Stroll down Discovery Pier, grab some ice cream and watch the boats come in
- Visit Discovery Passage Aquarium
- Take a walk down Tyee Spit and watch for whales!
SHOP 'TILL YOU DROP
Are you looking for that unique gift to take back to a friend or loved one? Or even yourself for that matter 😉 These Campbell River shops are a just a few of our local favorites. All of them feature locally designed items, from hand-crafted carvings to west coast inspired apparel, we doubt you’ll be able to walk out empty handed!
ANNUAL CAMPBELL RIVER EVENTS
On a regular year, Campbell River and the Comox Valley have plenty of festivals and activities to keep you busy. Of course with the pandemic, things are constantly changing, so please check out the event websites for updates!
