10 Beautiful Swim Spots in Cowichan Valley
Photo by Will Brown at Flickr under CC-BY-2.0
Cowichan Valley is blessed with unspoiled waters and stunning landscapes. Swimming along the Cowichan river offers both adventure and relaxation.
Read this guide to learn about 10 Cowichan river swimming spots ideal for splashing, sunbathing, and basking in nature during summer.
DISCLAIMER: Before visiting a swimming spot, make sure the location is open to the public for swimming and check for any posted rules, safety guidelines, or water conditions.
10 Cowichan River Swimming Spots
Essentially Cowichan Valley is popular for vibrant nature and infusing adventure to family friendly swimming areas. Here are 10 must-visit lake Cowichan swimming spots that promise stunning scenery and great summers.
1. Masons Beach Park
Mason's Beach Park, an overlooked gem, is located a bit off Shawnigan village. It is perfect for casual outings with family. The Masons area ensures calm waters and soft sandy beaches
Photo: Unsplash
Details:
- Address: 1840 Renfrew Road, Shawnigan Lake
- Amenities: Kid-friendly swimming zone, soft sandy beach, change rooms, BBQ zones, seasonal washrooms, picnics, and parking zones
- Directions: From the Trans Canada Highway, turn onto Hutchinson Road. Take a left on Shawnigan Lake/Cobble Hill Road, then a right on Renfrew Road.
2. Old Mill Park
Rich with history, Old Mill Park on Shawnigan Lake blends industrial heritage with recreational charm. This place was once busy- the operations of a lumber mill, but has now transformed into a family-friendly adventure zone.
Details:
- Address: 2500 Recreation Road, Shawnigan Lake
- Amenities: Sandy beach, swimming area, picnic area, playground, trails, viewing platform, parking, toilet/change room facilities
- Directions: Go west on Shawnigan/Mill Bay Road off Trans Canada Highway. Make a left to Shawnigan Lake Road, and right to Recreation Road.
3. Shawnigan Wharf Park
Shawnigan Wharf Park is approximately a few minutes from Shawnigan Village, which gives it easy access to a beachfront. It has an enclosed zone where kids of all ages can enjoy safe swimming fun.
Photo by David Stanley at Flickr under CC-BY-2.0
Details:
- Address: 2720 Heald Road, Shawnigan Lake
- Amenities: Sandy beach, swimming area, boat launch, public wharf, volleyball courts, portable toilets, picnic tables, and parking with space for trailers
- Directions: From the Trans-Canada Highway, turn west onto Shawnigan Lake/Mill Bay Road, go straight through the intersection, left onto Heald Road, then right onto Thrush Road.
4. West Shawnigan Lake Park
Managed by the CVRD, West Shawnigan Lake Park is a recreational gem for outdoor enthusiasts. The lakefront is quiet and perfect for resting and swimming.
Details:
- Address: 2501 West Shawnigan Lake Road, Shawnigan Lake
- Amenities: Beach, swimming area, picnic areas, trails, parking lot, year-round toilet facilities, change-room shelter
- Directions: From the Trans-Canada Highway, go west on Shawnigan Lake/Mill Bay Road, right onto Shawnigan Lake Road (becomes Renfrew Road), then left onto West Shawnigan Lake Road.
5. Bright Angel Park
Families looking for a mix of adventure and leisure will find Bright Angel Park alongside the Koksilah River stunning for its lush trails and breathtaking suspension bridge.
Photo by David Stanley at Flickr under CC-BY-2.0
Details:
- Address: 2643 Riverfield Road, Cowichan Station
- Amenities: Suspension bridges, walking and jogging trails, Koksilah River swimming, playscape, outdoor gym equipment, picnic shelters and tables, and flush toilets
- Directions: Access from the C22 highway, take a left on Koksilah Rd, and a right turn on Tigwell Road.
6. Glenora Riverside Park
Glenora Riverside Park features peaceful walking trails and swimming locations that straddle the stunning Cowichan River. Its dual access points make it a versatile destination.
Photo by WikiPedant at Wikimedia Commons under CC-BY-SA-4.0
Details:
- Address: 4381 Sunrise Road, Glenora
- Amenities: Picnic areas, parking, a viewing platform, river swimming, and a multitude of maintained trails, and year-round toilet facilities
- Directions: From the Trans-Canada Highway, heading west on Cowichan Lake Road, left turn on Gibbins Road, straight onto Barnjum Road, then left onto Sunrise Road.
7. Lily Beach Park
Lily Beach Park is a scenic vista of Honeymoon Bay and is renowned for its stunning Pink Fawn Lilies. The Park is perfect for peaceful swimming and picnics.
Photo by David Stanley at Flickr under CC-BY-2.0
Details:
- Address: 10081 South Shore Road, Honeymoon Bay
- Amenities: Rocky/sandy beach, roped swimming area, floating dock, picnic area, trails, seasonal toilet facilities, change-room shelter, parking
- Directions: From the TransCanada highway, head west on Cowboy Valley (Highway 18), and turn left onto the South Shore through Lake Cowichan and Messachie Lake.
8. Blue Heron Park
Blue Heron Park in North Oyster is a peaceful retreat for swimming and picnicking. Its beachfront along Yellowpoint Road is perfect for a relaxing day.
Details:
- Address: 13485 Westby Road, Yellowpoint
- Amenities: Beach, swimming, picnic area, group picnic shelter, parking, toilet facilities
- Directions: From the Trans-Canada Highway, go east on Cedar Road, right onto Yellowpoint Road, then right onto Westby Road (after Yellow Point Park and Yellowpoint Lodge).
9. Elliott's Beach Park
Elliott's Beach Park in North Oyster offers stunning views across Ladysmith Harbour. Its accessible ramp and kayak launch make it a versatile swim spot.
Photo by Gerry Thomasen at Flickr under CC-BY-2.0
Details:
- Address: 11846 Elliot Way, Ladysmith
- Amenities: Beach, swimming, picnic area, parking (3-7 vehicles), toilet facilities, accessible ramp, kayak launch, snorkeling
- Directions: From the Trans-Canada Highway, go east on Brenton-Page Road to the end, right onto Shell Beach Road, then right onto Elliot Way.
10. Arbutus Park
Arbutus Park on Cowichan Lake stands out with lifeguards on duty during summer, ensuring a safe swim. Its clear waters and amenities make it a top choice.
Details
- Address: 10700 Alder Crescent, Youbou
- Amenities: Beach, swimming area with wharf, picnic tables/shelter, benches, swing set, parking, year-round washroom/change room, seasonal lifeguards, first aid facility
- Directions: From the Trans-Canada Highway, go west on Cowichan Valley Highway (Highway 18), right onto Youbou Road, then left onto Alder Crescent.
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