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Vanislander / Landmarks / Lakes / Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake on Vancouver island

Shawnigan Lake bc :For over 100 years, Shawnigan Lake has been a favourite destination, providing cottages for get-away weekends. Besides tourists, people from both Victoria and Nanaimo can spend quality time with their friends and families, it can somehow be considered as the midpoint of Nanaimo and Victoria.For over 100 years, Shawnigan Lake has been a favourite destination, providing cottages for get-away weekends. Besides tourists, people from both Victoria and Nanaimo can spend quality time with their friends and families, it can somehow be considered as the midpoint of Nanaimo and Victoria.

Why Shawnigan Lake ?

Both the city and the lake offer tons of recreational activities and great campgrounds. If you take a look at the map, you can see the lake is surrounded by several parks and recreational sites in eastern and northern parts of it; for example, Old Mill Park and Masons Beach Park which can provide visitors scenic views featuring the lake and a chance to have fun. Shawnigan Lake, beloved by boaters, offers all kinds of water activities and can fulfil your favours for them. Activities such as boating, fishing, swimming, water-skiing. You don't own a boat?
Then don't worry the lake provides some station on the shore to rent a boat and also if you need to gas up your boats. If you want to relax after working hard for a week, there are calm coves in which you can lay down or play water sports during the day.

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Location of Shawnigan Lake 

Known to be a waterfront resort, this lake is located approximately 45 km (28 miles) north of Victoria and 60 km (37 miles) south of Nanaimo. Also, it is located west of Saanich Inlet in Southern Vancouver Island. Following the lakefront, from east to west, you can find several parks, resorts, campgrounds, and boat launches. If by any chance, you find the time to go to the southern part of the lake you can rent the boat and pay a visit to Memory Island Provincial Park. Aside from many parks included in the area, you can climb Mount old Baldy to the east of the lake.

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Things to Do around Shawnigan Lake

Looking for adventure? Pay a visit to Shawnigan Lake and the parks around it; such as West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park and Memory Island Provincial Park. As a result of having quiet and peaceful coves, almost every water sport is available in this lake, such as canoeing, fishing, swimming, and water-skiing. Other activities are hiking, windsurfing, and golf.

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Locations to Shawnigan Lake from Victoria

Starting from Victoria Harbour Ferry in Victoria, BC V8W 9A4, Canada, head west on Pandora Avenue towards Broad Street for 110 meters. Turn right onto Government Street and continue for 1.0 kilometer. Make a slight right towards Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 North and continue for 73 meters. Then, turn left onto Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 North and drive for 27.7 kilometers. Turn left onto Shawnigan Lake Road and continue for 5.9 kilometers. Next, turn left onto West Shawnigan Lake Road and follow it for 5.7 kilometers. Finally, turn right onto Hepworth Road and continue for 400 meters to reach Shawnigan Lake in Cowichan Valley, BC, Canada.

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 Locations to Shawnigan Lake from Nanaimo

Starting from Nanaimo Harbour in Nanaimo, BC V9R 6M6, Canada, take Front Street to Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 South for about 2 minutes (600 meters). Then, turn left onto Trans-Canada Highway/BC-1 South and continue driving for 49 minutes (60.9 kilometers). After that, take the exits for Shawnigan Lake Road, Renfrew Road, and West Shawnigan Road/West Shawnigan Lake Road, and continue following the route for 17 minutes (15.1 kilometers). You will arrive at Shawnigan Lake in Cowichan Valley, BC, Canada.

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Vancouver Island Activities Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Shawnigan Lake Wakeboarding and Waterskiing

Surrounded by parks and its proximity to a live community is at least two of many reasons why you should come to Shawnigan lake. Not only wakeboarders and water-skiers will benefit from the waters of this lovely lake, but also paddlers are given the best chance to have a great time onboard.

Willows Beach Windsurfing

Willows Beach Windsurfing

Protected waters lie along with a swimming shoreline, making Willows Beach an ideal place for those windsurfing lovers. If you happen to wander around Victoria and looking for a place to go windsurfing or even watch others doing it, keep Willows beach in mind. All kinds of amenities are provided for you to guarantee your convenience on this admirable beach.

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

As one of the best tourist attractions of Sooke and Vancouver Island, West Coast comprises many outdoor excitements that cannot be denied. You are provided with different wildlife to watch and various food to eat, not to mention that you observe a rare nature that is outstanding. So, chances are high to see different whales and other marine creatures.

Esquimalt Lagoon Windsurfing

Esquimalt Lagoon Windsurfing

If you are looking for a place to make immortal memories of your windsurfing experience, Esquimalt Lagoon would be an ideal place to do so. As one of the seven migratory bird sanctuaries, this lagoon with clear shallow water provides you with ample opportunity for water activities, including windsurfing. Also, beautiful birds travelling between North and South America are observable.

Sidney Whale Watching

Sidney Whale Watching

Gain sight for adventure during your stay on the coastline of the Salish sea and embrace the opportunities for whale watching there. In the Salish Sea, a habitat for killer whales, various vessels are provided for Sidney whale watching. These vessels are equipped with hydrophones to listen to the sounds of the whales. Not to mention that you can take out your cameras and capture these gigantic sea creatures.

Fisherman's Wharf Park Whale Watching

Fisherman's Wharf Park Whale Watching

Due to certified whale watching agencies, Fisherman's Wharf Park is a significant place to visit for whale watching enthusiasts. As one of the most prodigious and phenomenal creators worldwide, whales are ample during specific whale watching seasons.

James Bay Kiteboarding

James Bay Kiteboarding

As one of the kiteboarding attractions in southern parts of Victoria, this recreational resort is primed with services and equipment for surfing sports and other outdoor activities. Let your spirits free and be feeding on the abundant adventures provided for you in James Bay.

Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club Whale Watching

Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club Whale Watching

Looking for a reliable place to go whale watching for the first time on Vancouver Island? Why not starting with Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club, one of the famous Yacht Clubs on the island. You will have the opportunity to observe these gigantic creatures and probably other sea creatures in the waters of the Salish Sea.

Beechey Head Whale Watching

Beechey Head Whale Watching

Beechey Head and its loop are two of the hot spots for whale watching in Sooke. In addition to fantastic opportunities for whale watching, Beechey Head is a hiking and nature trip location that offers you excellent activities, such as birdwatching.

Race Rocks Diving

Race Rocks Diving

A fantastic offering for those who would like to dive and learn about the history of marine activities of Vancouver Island is lying on the grounds of Race Rock Lighthouse. The existence of this lighthouse adds up to the exceptionality of this diving adventure. However, you have to look out for the whales living there.

Additional information near Shawnigan Lake

LifeGuard: no
Picnic area: yes
Drinking water: yes
Vehicle accessible camping: yes
Pit toilets: yes

Things to Do around Shawnigan Lake

Looking for adventure? Pay a visit to Shawnigan Lake and the parks around it; such as West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park and Memory Island Provincial Park. As a result of having quiet and peaceful coves, almost every water sport is available in this lake, such as canoeing, fishing, swimming, and water-skiing. Other activities are hiking, windsurfing, and golf.

Hiking at Shawnigan Lake

How to hike to Shawnigan Lake
1. Cowichan Valley Trail: Shawnigan Lake to Koksilah River: It is a 13.4 km (8.3 miles) easy out and back trail with a 143 m (469.1 feet) located near Cowichan Valley Regional. Hiking this trail, you are provided with a view of a river and all kinds of activities for all ages and skill levels. Dogs are also allowed but they must be kept on leash. 2. Cowichan Valley Trail, Shawnigan Lake to Stebbings Rd: It is a 19.3 km (11.9 mile) easy out and back trail with a 322 m (1056.4 feet) elevation gain located near Cowichan Valley Regional. Want to enjoy your hike even more? Visit during March-November and during the hike enjoy the view of the wildflowers. Folks mostly use this trail for walking, hiking, and horses. You can bring your dogs but keep them on leash.
3. Lower Lookout via Cowichan Valley and McGee Main Loop: it is a 12.4 km (7.7 mile) easy loop with a 219 m (718.5 feet) elevation gain located near Cowichan Valley Regional. On this trail, you will be provided with a view of the lake and people with al skill-levels can use this trail for walking, hiking, and horses. Dogs are also allowed but must be kept on leash.

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Fishing

Beloved by the anglers, Shawnigan Lake is a lake full of trout. Note that any fishing activity requires a fishing license in British Columbia.

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Swimming

designated swimming, which is only permitted in the areas defined by the floats on the lake. note that there are no lifeguards on duty.

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Golf

Shawnigan Lake offers several golf grounds for golfers, Cowichan Golf and Country Club in Duncan, Duncan Meadows Golf Course, Mount Brenton Golf Course in Chemainus, and nearby Cobble Hill.

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Water-Skiing

 Shawnigan Lake is a popular destination for this activity. Water-skiing is available on this lake.

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What you Can Expect to See Near Shawnigan Lake Vancouver Island

Shawnigan Lake

Shawnigan Lake

For over 100 years, Shawnigan Lake has been a favorite destination, providing cottages for get-away weekends. Besides tourists, people from both Victoria and Nanaimo can spend quality time with their friends and families, it can somehow be considered as the midpoint of Nanaimo and Victoria.

Mount Douglas Beach

Mount Douglas Beach

Mount Douglas Beach is one of the fantastic beaches that you can visit on Vancouver Island.
Go there at sunset for an experience of peace, Mount Douglas is a small beach, but at low tide, the water opens a wide area, and you will able to see Marine life on the beach.

Iron Mine Bay

Iron Mine Bay

Nestled within East Sooke Regional Park, Iron Mine Bay is a rugged, lesser-known coastal paradise on southern Vancouver Island. Famous for its pebbly shoreline, dramatic cliffs, and historical copper mining roots, this bay offers a raw, untouched escape for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Located just 45 minutes from Victoria, Iron Mine Bay is part of a 1,400-hectare park that blends lush old-growth forests with jaw-dropping ocean vistas of the Juan de Fuca Strait.

Elk lake

Elk lake

Elk Lake is a serene freshwater oasis nestled on Vancouver Island, offering visitors a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty. Located on Victoria, Vancouver Island ,BC. this picturesque lake is ideal for swimming, water sports, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Whether you're planning a peaceful day trip or an extended camping adventure, Elk Lake is a must-visit destination that promises stunning landscapes and a host of recreational activities.

Gonzales Beach

Gonzales Beach

Gonzales Beach, located in the heart of Victoria, BC, is a hidden gem along the southern coast of Vancouver Island. This tranquil urban beach offers soft sandy shores, stunning ocean views, and a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. Known for its breathtaking sunsets, warm summer waters, and accessibility, Gonzales Beach is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day under the sun, a scenic stroll, or a place to launch your kayak, this charming beach has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from how to get there, the best activities, nearby accommodations, and essential travel tips to ensure you make the most of your visit.

Spiral Beach

Spiral Beach

Spiral Beach in Victoria is where the blue of the sea and sky and the Olympic Mountains at a distance is situated in a perfect picture. There are hills along the beach to stand on for a wide view. Walk on the sands and pebbles with the driftwoods around on the beach. Listen to the waves, walk on the shoreline, and have the storm watching pleasure in the fall and winter.

McNeill Bay

McNeill Bay

McNeill Bay has plenty of benches along the seawall to sit and enjoy the landscape of Trial Island, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Olympic Mountain. Do exciting water activities on McNeill Bay Beach and experience its wonderful esplanade and photogenic scenery. It is considered one of the fantastic off-leash dog beaches in Victoria.

Langford

Langford

Langford is a city on the south coast of Vancouver Island and heaven for golfers. You can stay at lodgings and play at challenging hillside courses and enjoy yourself at luxurious advantages like the Amatista Spa. Beautiful parks surround the city, so go hiking through scenic forests or have peaceful moments beside lakes. Langford offers shops, family activities, sheep farms, and a bike park.

Gonzales Bay

Gonzales Bay

Gonzales Bay is a small scenic bay with a crescent-shaped beach. Its sandy beach is often quiet and peaceful. Walking on the Gonzales Bay beach near the ocean can help to release the world's anxiety. Lie on the beach and see the peaks of Olympic Mountain and enjoy the Mediterrane climate. Dogs are allowed off-leash on the beach from September through May.

Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site

Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site

A trail leads you to Fisgard Lighthouse NHS, the first lighthouse on the west coast of Canada. This historic lighthouse is still operating, but the entrance is not allowed. The keeper's house is open to the public which comprises wonderful exhibitions. There you can see shipwrecks, far-flung lights, storms, and the working equipment the lightkeepers used about a century ago.

Sooke

Sooke

Sooke is known as the Tall Tree Capital of Canada. The area's popularity is mainly based on tourists visiting the wilderness parks, hiking the West Coast Trail and the extremely popular Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Sooke is also famous for its beaches and is a destination for cycling and mountain biking. The arts community of Sooke is vibrant and hosts the annual Sooke Fine Arts Festival.

Point Ellice House Museum and Gardens

Point Ellice House Museum and Gardens

Point Ellice House Museum and Gardens is a place for history enthusiasts and gardens and interior design lovers. It is a 19th-century Victorian home and garden full of everything nostalgic to you. As one of Victoria's oldest homes, it is located overlooking the scenic and historic Selkirk Water/Gorge Waterway. It includes vegetables, cut flowers, a small fruit orchard, and a greenhouse.

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria or AGGV is home to artworks from talented artists of Canada and Asia. The building complex of the gallery includes the Spencer Mansion and the exhibition galleries. It also has gardens with a Japanese Shinto shrine. The art gallery is kid-friendly, and the staff is knowledgeable and helpful. The gift shop has gorgeous merchandise.

The Royal BC Museum

The Royal BC Museum

Located in Victoria, the Royal BC Museum is one of Canada's most significant cultural and historical treasures. It showcases natural wonders and includes artifacts, documents, specimens, and everything slightly relevant to British Columbia's natural and human history. The museum also provides a dynamic forum and a safe space for discussion and reflection.

Best Time to Visit Shawnigan Lake

The best time to visit Shawnigan Lake on Vancouver Island is during July and August, when the weather is warm, dry, and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and lakeside relaxation. During these peak summer months, all trails and recreational facilities are fully accessible, offering visitors the best experience amid vibrant natural scenery. While these months are the busiest, the stunning conditions make it well worth the visit. For those seeking fewer crowds while still enjoying pleasant weather, June and early September are also excellent choices, offering mild temperatures and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

April

Cool, rainy, occasional sunshine; 8–13°C (46–55°F).

Trails muddy; generally open but slippery.

Quiet season; great for nature watching; rain gear recommended.

May

Variable; cool mornings, mild afternoons, more rain early month.

Trails accessible; some muddy areas.

Fewer crowds; excellent for photography; prepare for showers.

June

Mild and pleasant; 11–18°C (52–64°F).

Excellent trail conditions; all open.

Ideal hiking weather; increasing visitor numbers.

July

Warm and mostly dry; 13–24°C (55–75°F).

Optimal trail conditions; all open.

Popular time; early arrival recommended for parking.

August

Warmest and driest; 14–26°C (57–79°F).

Optimal trail conditions; busiest time.

Busiest season; combine lake visits with local events.

September

Cooling; more rain later in the month.

Good conditions; wet in parts.

Less busy; fall colors begin; waterproof gear essential.

October

Cooler and wetter; 8–14°C (46–57°F).

Trails open; wet and muddy areas.

Quiet season; prepare for rain; fewer tourists.

November

Wet and cooler; frequent heavy rain.

Challenging conditions; muddy and flooded areas possible.

Off-season; verify trail conditions before visiting.

December

Cool and wet; occasional frost.

Most trails open; check for flooding after storms.

Dress warmly; trail conditions vary after rainstorms.

January

Cool to cold; wet, with possible frost or snow flurries.

Some trails muddy or closed after heavy storms.

Plan flexible schedules; check for weather alerts.

February

Cold; wet with risk of snow at higher elevations.

Possible closures; check local updates.

Fewer crowds; excellent for bird watchers; chilly.

March

Cool and wet; signs of spring late month.

Partial access; trails improving late month.

Early spring blooms; variable trail conditions; layered clothing needed.

Most Frequent questions about Shawnigan Lake on Vancouver island

Shawnigan Lake offers a fantastic range of activities! Top things to do include: 
Swimming and Beach Relaxation:
Enjoy the refreshing waters and sandy shores at popular spots like West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park and the Shawnigan Lake Municipal Beach.
Boating and Watersports: The lake is ideal for boating, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding. You can find various access points and rental options. Waterskiing is also a popular activity here. 
Hiking and Exploring Trails: Discover scenic trails like those around West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park and sections of the Trans Canada Trail in the area. Don't miss a visit to the impressive Kinsol Trestle, a historic wooden railway bridge now open for pedestrians and cyclists. Picnics and Parks: Pack a lunch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings at parks like Old Mill Park (with historical significance) and Memory Island Provincial Park (accessible by a short paddle). 
Visiting the Shawnigan Lake Museum: Learn about the rich history of the area, from its logging past to its development as a recreational destination.
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Arina akhoundi

2025 April 28

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