The Courtenay River Estuary is one of the most ecologically rich and scenic estuaries on Vancouver Island. The paddling here is easy to access and offers calm waters, making it ideal for kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Launch points are close to town, yet within minutes you feel immersed in a quiet, natural world. Whether you’re gliding through mirror-like water at sunrise or watching the tide shift through the salt marshes, the estuary offers a paddling experience that is both relaxing and deeply connected to nature. And the scenery is breathtaking: lush tidal marshes, mountain backdrops, and wide-open skies create a serene environment. Bald eagles, herons, seals, and a variety of migratory birds are commonly seen, offering exceptional wildlife viewing, especially during spring and fall migrations. The estuary is especially unique for its blend of freshwater and saltwater ecosystems which support an incredible diversity of life. Rich eelgrass beds and mudflats are vital nurseries for salmon and other marine species.

The area also holds cultural and historical importance for the K’ómoks First Nation. The estuary was, and remains, a vital source of food, transportation, and spiritual connection. Its rich ecosystems supported traditional harvesting of salmon, shellfish, seaweed, and other marine life, and numerous archaeological sites in the region speak to a long-standing relationship between people and place.
With European settlement in the 19th century, the estuary saw dramatic change. Logging, agriculture, and urban development altered its natural flow and degraded habitat. Yet, even as the land was reshaped, the estuary remained central to the region’s economy and identity. The Courtenay River became a key transportation route, and the surrounding marshlands supported farming and industry.
In recent decades, growing awareness of the estuary’s ecological value has spurred conservation efforts. Today, it is recognized as one of the most important estuaries on Vancouver Island for biodiversity. It supports migratory birds, endangered species, and acts as a critical nursery for salmon.

As both a historical and ecological treasure, the Courtenay River Estuary serves as a powerful reminder of the connections between land, water, and people—past, present, and future.