Explore the ocean, lakes, and rivers in Cowichan for the best paddling experiences!
Located in Canada’s only maritime Mediterranean Climatic Zone, Cowichan is home to the warmest year-round temperatures making it known as "The Warm Land". These warm year-round temperatures makes Cowichan an ideal community for paddlers. Not only is it bordered by the ocean, but Cowichan is also home to some beautiful lakes and rivers. Shawnigan Lake, Cowichan Lake, and the Cowichan River are just a few spots where you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and more! With a variety of different waterways Cowichan is a perfect spot to fit every paddlers needs.
Featured waterways in Cowichan
Here are some of the area’s best bodies of water to dip into.
Cowichan Itinerary
The Cowichan Valley is a 3,500-square-kilometer regional district located in the southern portion of Vancouver Island between the large cities of Victoria and Nanaimo. It includes the communities of Ladysmith, Duncan, and Chemainus and offers all manner of watersport experiences from paddleboarding on Lake Cowichan and sea kayaking the Saanich Inlet to whitewater canoeing on the Cowichan River. It’s also a renowned agricultural area that boasts food markets, wineries, cideries, farm-to-table restaurants, and multiple brewpubs.
ExploreMeet the specialists Cowichan
From guides and instructors to marina owners and sales reps, here are the people who will ensure you’re not sent up the creek without a, well, you know.
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Blue Dog Kayaking
Book a kayaking or SUP tour or lesson with Blue Dog Kayaking. Amber specializes in safety training before going out to explore.
Learn MoreCoastal Bliss Adventures Ltd.
Experience amazing sea kayaking tours with Coastal Bliss Adventures.
Learn MoreCowichan Bay Kayaking and Adventure Centre
Choose from different kayaking tours or check out their other watersports rental options at Cowichan Bay Kayaking and Adventure Centre.
Learn MoreKaatza Adventures
With tour and rental options Kaatza Adventures is a great way to explore Cowichan Lake.
Learn MorePalli Palli Mobile Ebike & Paddle Board Rentals
Rent a paddle board with Palli Palli Mobile Ebike & Paddle Board Rentals.
Learn MorePristine Paddleboard Adventures
Located on Cowichan Lake Pristine Paddleboard Adventures is the perfect place to rent a paddleboard and explore the lake at your own pace.
Learn MoreSealegs Kayaking Adventures
With many kayak and paddleboard rental and tour options Sealegs Kayaking Adventures has something for everyone!
Learn MoreSea to Sky Expeditions
Book an unforgettable guided kayaking tour with Sea to Sky Expeditions.
Learn MoreShawnigan Surf & Board co
Create your own adventure with paddleboard rentals from Shawnigan Surf & Board Co.
Learn MoreWilderness Kayaking Co
Wilderness Kayaking Co offers many different kayaking tours, lessons, and has many rental options for kayaks and paddleboards.
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