North Central Island Region
Fertile valleys dotted with farmgates, vineyards, bistros and markets. Pods of Orca whales swimming past bucolic northern Gulf Islands. World-class music festivals. First Nations culture, regional museums and history in the raw. Exhilarating downhill and cross-country skiing. Emerald green championship golf courses. Serpentine mountain bike trails. And some of the best salmon fishing in the world. Add it up and you’ve got a taste of the getaway pleasures in Vancouver Island’s North Central region.
FACT > Campbell River was home to famed sport fisherman, author and conservationist Roderick Haig-Brown.
This band of varied terrain stretches coast-to-coast across the Island’s mountainous spine just above its geographic waistline. On the easy-access east coast are three cities packed with character and creature comforts. Courtenay and Comox sit in close proximity on either side of the Comox Harbour; both are known for their boutiques, spas, cafés and bistros serving fresh food sourced from nearby farms in the valley (named after a K’omoks First Nation word meaning “land of plenty’). Further north is Campbell River, globally known for its ocean, river, lake and downtown pierside fishing options.
Grrrr – For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, take a day trip with one of the local operators across the strait to search for grizzly bears while they feed on Salmon in nearby river estuaries.
Offshore from the east coast are a collection of hospitable, B&B-endowed islands where one can de-stress and tune out the world. Mount Washington is an all-season draw for active types eager to tackle the slopes on skis, snowboards and mountain bikes. Driving and cycling tours circle through the lively heritage town of Cumberland and quaint Merville and Black Creek.
The region’s heartland is watched over by the Golden Hinde, the highest point on the island at 2,200 meters and surmounted only by the hardiest climbers. Much more accessible is Strathcona Provincial Park, BC’s very first provincial park founded a little over a century ago. This is classic postcard wilderness complete with pristine lakes, alpine meadows and old-growth forest. Explore it at a comfortable pace with friends and family.
Whether you slide on one plank or two, you’ll love the views from the top of
Mount Washington.
Or sign the kids up for courses in kayaking, rock climbing, backcountry basics and leadership skills at Canada’s original outdoor education centre.
On the far western side of the North Central region is the open Pacific coastline. The highlight excursion here is to Yuquot (Friendly Cove), site of an ancient First Nations summer village and whaling centre. It was here in 1778 that Captain James Cook first met the area’s traditional inhabitants. There’s few more exciting daytrips for history buffs than booking passage on the comfortable freight boat from Gold River and sailing via Nootka Sound to this historic destination with its sentinel lighthouse.
Reaching the North Central Island is a breeze via Comox’s international airport or after an hour’s drive north from Nanaimo’s ferry terminals. Stop at the brand new Vancouver Island Visitor Centre near Cumberland for expert advice, accommodation booking services, museum-quality exhibits and kid-friendly interactive displays.
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April Point Resort & Spa
A west coast paradise away from the crowds, April Point Resort & Spa combines natural beauty, serenity and adventure to create the ultimate vacation experience. Discover a thrilling whale watching adventure, rejuvenate with a massage at the Aveda spa, or simply relax and enjoy the best of Quadra Island, BC.
More InformationQuadra Island • North Central Island
250-286-1102
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Tsa-Kwa-Luten, The Oceanfront Resort at Cape Mudge
Gilakasla, or welcome to Tsa-Kwa-Luten Lodge, a nature based Resort located on the southern tip of Quadra Island offering ocean view main lodge and beachfront cottage accommodation. The Lodge is adjacent to the Cape Mudge Lighthouse established in 1898 and is situated at the location where Captain Vancouver came ashore in 1792, both are just a 10 minute walk on scenic shoreline paths. The Dining Room offers traditional First Nation menu items and specializes in West Coast Seafood Cuisine. The Nuyumbalees Cultural Centre, formerly the Kwagiulth Museum is located in Cape Mudge Village just a 5 minute drive from the [...]
More InformationQuadra Island • North Central Island
250-285-2042
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BC Ferries Vacations
BC Ferries Vacations™ connects you with Vancouver Island’s world-class destinations and provides unique vacation experiences to the avid traveller. Offering several packages for one and two-nights or longer, BC Ferries Vacations™ travel experts have hand-picked the best accommodations and activities and packaged them with the ferry travel to bring you all-in-one convenience, quality and value.
More InformationMany Communities • Across Vancouver Island
1-888-BC FERRY (1-888-223-3779) Ext 3
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I-Hos Gallery
“Cedar. Silver. Gold. Our culture is expressed through our art.” At I-Hos Gallery we invite you to see our extensive and ever-changing collection of Northwest Coast masks, gold and silver jewelry, numbered serigraph prints, woodcarvings, giftware, cards and books, as well as textiles and clothing produced by First Nation artists. Our knowledgeable staff encourages visitors to browse the gallery and discover the broad range of talent represented in this warm and graceful setting. It is a place of discovery, exploration, and friendship. Representing many of British Columbia’s finest First Nations artists, the I-Hos Gallery is located on the original K’ómoks [...]
More InformationCourtenay • North Central Island
250-339-7702
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Painter’s Lodge
Nestled on the pristine shores of Vancouver Island, Painter’s Lodge offers exhilarating outdoor adventure in a stunning natural setting. From legendary salmon fishing, whale watching and wildlife viewing to relaxing in the new Aveda spa, experience the best of British Columbia at Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River.
More Information1625 McDonald Rd • Campbell River • North Central Island
250-286-1102
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Golf Vancouver Island
GOLF VANCOUVER ISLAND IS A CENTRAL RESERVATIONS SERVICE FOR GOLF PACKAGES, VACATIONS AND TEE TIMES on the Vancouver Island Golf Trail. Golf Vancouver Island is your “one-stop shop” for Island Golf Getaways and Vacations. From airfares and ferry reservations to tee times, accommodations and even après golf activities, they take care of it all! Owned and operated by the golf courses on Vancouver Island, consumers save time and money, while choosing from 10 golf courses and 5 accommodation options on the internationally renowned Vancouver Island Golf Trail. Golf Vancouver Island provides complimentary information, vacation planning assistance and reservations for Vancouver [...]
More InformationCourtenay, Duncan, Parksville, Victoria • Central Island, Cowichan, North Central Island, South Island
1-888-465.3239
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Tourism Campbell River
Welcome to the North Central Island -a spectacular region so full of outdoor recreational adventures that the hardest decision you’ll have to make is what activity to enjoy next. World renowned fishing, whale watching, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, deep sea diving, surfing, caving, golfing, hiking, mountain biking, and skiing – challenge yourself a little or a lot. Campbell River & Region has an irresistible lure to visitors from around the world in search of great outdoor experiences, tranquil beauty, spectacular scenery, and traditional First Nations heritage and culture. Journey through Discovery Passage and Desolation Sound to Quadra and Cortes Islands then [...]
More InformationCampbell River • North Central Island
1-877-286-5705
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BC Ferries
British Columbia Ferry Services Inc. (BC Ferries) is one of the largest ferry operators in the world, providing year-round vehicle and passenger service on 25 routes to 47 terminals, with a fleet of 35 vessels. The company provides an essential transportation link that connects coastal communities and facilitates the movement of people, goods and services throughout coastal British Columbia. BC Ferries’ diverse service area includes connections between the Vancouver Mainland and Vancouver Island; from Vancouver Island or the Vancouver Mainland to many small island communities; from Prince Rupert on the province’s north coast to Haidai Gwaii and to Port Hardy. [...]
More InformationMany Communities • Across Vancouver Island
1-888-BC-FERRY (1-888-223-3779)
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Discover Comox Valley
Perched on the eastern edge of Vancouver Island, the Comox Valley is more than just a location, it’s a lifestyle. The rolling mountains, rushing rivers, pristine lakes and lush rainforest of the Comox Valley create an outdoor lover’s paradise where it really is possible to enjoy the best of all seasons in a single day. You can be knee deep in an alpine wonderland, then within half an hour be dusting the snow off your boots on a golf course. Locals and visitors both soon discover that in the Comox Valley, outdoor adventure doesn’t take the winter off! The perfect [...]
More InformationComox, Courtenay, Cumberland • North Central Island
1-855-400-2882
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Pacific Coastal Airlines
We’re in the Business of British Columbia Pacific Coastal Airlines (PCA) supports local business and the economy by providing efficient and competitively-priced travel and transportation options, creating local jobs, and servicing new and existing trade-and-travel routes throughout BC and western Canada. PCA With over 35 years experience serving British Columbia, and being family-owned and operated, Pacific Coastal Airlines is People Friendly, People first. PCA is made up of two divisions: wheeled-aircraft, based in Vancouver, and floatplane service, based in Port Hardy and Port McNeill. PCA serves 65+ communities in BC—check out our route map on our website. Reservations Please call [...]
More InformationNorth Island (Port Hardy and Port McNeill), Central Island (Campbell River and Comox), and South Island (Victoria Int'l) •
1-800-663-2872
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Harbour Air
Experience Vancouver Island from a new point of view with a breathtaking seaplane adventure. Enjoy a 20 minute Victoria panorama flight featuring unique views of the city & the Olympic Mountains in the distance. Day trip to the world-renowned Butchart Gardens or downtown Vancouver. A variety of exciting tours await. Discover British Columbia’s spectacular coastlines with Harbour Air Seaplanes. Harbour Air Seaplanes also offers frequent and convenient scheduled flights connecting downtown Victoria, downtown Vancouver, Richmond (YVR Aiport), Comox, Nanaimo, Sechelt and the Sunshine Coast, the Gulf Islands and Whistler (seasonally). Travel like a local and experience a true West Coast [...]
More InformationComox, Duncan, Ganges, Nanaimo, Victoria • Central Island, Cowichan, Gulf Islands, North Central Island, South Island
1-800-665-0212
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Tourism Mount Washington
Tourism Mount Washington will help you discover Mount Washington Accommodations and facilities. Explore all of the cultural attractions, activities, shopping and dining options within 45 minutes drive of the mountain. Whether looking for an active family getaway, a reunion, wedding location or company retreat, Mount Washington, Vancouver Island’s all-season alpine to surf destination treats visitors to the perfect combination of rugged west coast beauty and outdoor adventure. Winter highlights skiing and snowboarding in the mile high alpine.
More InformationMount Washington • North Central Island
250-338-0226
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Old House Village Hotel & Spa
Considered one of the best Courtenay hotels – the Old House Village Hotel & Spa is a 79 room West Coast inspired boutique hotel committed to offering its guests great value. Located in the heart of Comox Valley, British Columbia and only blocks from downtown Courtenay, its river front location is just a three hour drive from Victoria and 15 minutes from the Comox Airport. The hotel features spacious studio, one and two bedroom suites designed with comfort in mind. Rooms include: a petite or full kitchen, a fireplace, soaker tub, TV(s), DVD player and free wireless internet. Guests can [...]
More Information1730 Riverside Lane • Courtenay • North Central Island
250-703-0202
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Kenmore Air
Fly with Kenmore Air from Seattle, Washington over 45 spectacular Northwest destinations. Daily scheduled seaplane flights leave from Seattle’s downtown Lake Union to Victoria’s Inner Harbour, Nanaimo, the Gulf Islands, Sunshine Coast, Desolation Sound, Blind Channel and the Northern Inside Passage. Skip the ferry lines & and avoid long lines at the boarder. With Kenmore Air you’ll be in Victoria in about 45 minutes. It’s fast, convenient and stress-free! Charter flights are also available!
Nanaimo, Victoria • Central Island, Gulf Islands, North Central Island, South Island
1-866-435-9524
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Best Western Plus The Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre
Courtenay’s only full-service hotel with convenient acces to downtown shopping, restaurants and attractions. Easy access to Mt. Washington Ski Resort, Strathcona Provincial Park and first class golfing. Our property features 140 guest rooms and suites, inclusive of our new 36-room Mountainside Living. We offer complimentary full hot buffet breakfast, wireless internet, local phone calls and parking. We have three on-site Food & beverage outlets including a pool lounge, pub & breakfast room. Additional hotel facilities include a heated indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, fitness facility, ski & bike storage, guest coin laundry, games room and sports team locker rooms.
Courtenay • North Central Island
1-800-668-7797
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Heron’s Landing Hotel
New cozy boutique hotel ~ 1 & 2 Bedroom Suites ~ Full Size Kitchens ~ Heavenly king beds ~ Balconies with ocean view ~ Rooftop patio ~ Healthy breakfast included ~ Underground parking ~ Free wireless internet
Campbell River • North Central Island
1-888-923-2849
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Discovery Marine Safaris
Make your Canadian Dream come true! Our covered vessels depart daily from Campbell River, the gateway to the Island’s unique wildlife sightings: watch awe-inspiring, giant killer whales breach high out of the water, follow playful dolphins and swift porpoises or observe majestic grizzly bears hunt for salmon. We operate our tours with respect to the pristine coastal environment and its animals, and our passionate guides will add the icing to your experience of a life time! Our comfortable boats are heated and feature full washrooms to make your trip as awesome as you could wish for! WIR SPRECHEN DEUTSCH!
Campbell River • North Central Island
1-866-501-6722
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Travelodge Campbell River
The Travelodge Campbell River, truly is close to adventure. Famous for salmon fishing, Campbell River also has exceptional whale, bear and wildlife watching. The seven km. Rotary sea walk right outside our door is very popular for leisure and/or exercise, and many more activities can be found nearby. We offer free continental breakfast, indoor pool, hot tub, and coin laundry. All 40 rooms have A/C, mini fridge, microwave and in-room coffee. Free wireless internet is available throughout the hotel. Our ocean view Is highlighted in the summer by the cruise ships heading to and from Alaska.
Campbell River • North Central Island
250-286-6622
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Comox Valley Airport
Your Vancouver Island journey begins at the Comox Valley Airport. At YQQ you get friendly, personalized service and daily direct flights to/from Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver, plus seasonal service to Mexico. With stunning views, a gift shop, café and car rentals on site, YQQ has everything you need to start your vacation out right. Skip the ferries, the traffic and the lineups! Fly direct to YQQ where journeys begin.
Comox • North Central Island
250-890-0829
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Mount Washington Resort
Mount Washington is home to one of the most spectacular coastal alpine settings in North America. With the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop on one side and scenic Strathcona Park bordering the other, Mount Washington offers a pristine environment for your vacation. In winter, Mount Washington receives a legendary 10.5 metres of snowfall annually. The resort is acknowledged as the home of Canada’s deepest snow base and activities include skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. However, it’s not all about the snow! In summer, the mountain and surrounding resort community transforms itself into a major destination for mountain bikers, hikers, [...]
Mount Washington • North Central Island
1-250-338-1386
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Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community
Crown Isle Resort and Golf Community located in the heart of the Comox Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Full Resort including 2 restaurants, 90 Guest Rooms, Car Museum, Pro Shop, Conference facilities and of course our Master Planned golf course. Come for a tee time, stay for a lifetime.
Courtenay • North Central Island
250-703-5050
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Strathcona Park Lodge & Outdoor Education Centre
Let our wilderness lodge be your comfortable home base for exploring the beauty of Strathcona Provincial Park. Overlooking the shores of Upper Campbell Lake and a procession snow capped peaks, our accommodations include timber-framed chalets and cottages. Adventure options include: rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, white water paddling, backpacking, survival skills, ropes course and zipline, wildlife viewing.
Campbell River • North Central Island
1-250-286-3122
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Travelodge Courtenay
91 Room Motel located in Downtown Courtenay next to the Driftwood mail and Rialto Movie Theatre. We offer Pet Friendly Rooms as well as Standard and Kitchenette rooms. All Rooms have Air Conditioning and Free wireless Internet. A Deluxe Continental Breakfast is included in the room rates each morning. We have a Seasonal Outdoor Heated Pool and an area to have a Picnic or Barbeque (Bring your own). Truck, RV and Boat parking available on property.
Courtenay • North Central Island
250-334-4491
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Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa
Defining casual elegance and tranquility – Beachfront Suites, an award winning Spa and spectacular Oceanside Dining are nestled between old growth forest and the Georgia Straight. Our Pacific Mist Hydropath is a one of kind spa experience. Eagles and seals play outside your patio door. Come visit, you deserve it.
Courtenay • North Central Island
1-800-663-7929
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Steep Island Lodge
Spectacular Private Island Lodge, all inclusive fishing and adventure packages, day trips, eco-tours, kayaking, private cabins with ocean views capacity 22, reserve lodge for group of 12 or more exclusively. Ideal for wedding, family reunions and corporate retreats.
Campbell River, Steep Island • North Central Island
250-830-8179
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Salmon Point Resort RV Park & Marina
Salmon Point Resort is located midway between Campbell River and Courtenay on the Morningside of Vancouver Island offering stunning views of the Georgia Strait & Coastal Mountains. Open year-round, spacious, full-hook-up sites & fully equipped cottages.
Campbell River • North Central Island
1-866-246-6605
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Brown’s Bay Resort
Nestled in the Salmon Capital of the world known as Campbell River, Brown’s Bay Resort is just a short 5km drive off hwy 19. This unspoiled resort includes new Rental Cabins, an oceanfront RV Park, full service Marina with fuel barge, tackle shop, restaurant and launch facilities. Please visit us at brownsbayresort.com for more information and reservation details.
Campbell River • North Central Island
250-286-3135
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National Car & Truck Rental
Discounts on Golf, Mount Washington Winter Lift Tickets and Summer Scenic Chairlift Ride & Butchart Gardens Low daily, weekly & monthly rates Special weekend packages Entertainment & AAA rates One way drop off on Vancouver Island & Vancouver Cars, mini-vans & 4×4′s Free local pickup & drop off
Campbell River, Courtenay, Duncan, Nanaimo, Port Hardy, Victoria • Central Island, Cowichan, North Central Island, North Island, South Island
1-800-CAR-RENT (227-7368)
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Holiday Inn Express & Suites, Comox Valley
Welcome to Courtenay, home of the 100% smoke-free Holiday Inn Express & Suites. Combining the best of business and leisure world, our hotel stands out from the crowd. Opening in 2009, your stay offers complimentary amenities such as hot breakfast, swimming pool, hot tub and the Valley’s only in-hotel waterslide.
Courtenay • North Central Island
778-225-0010
