 Beach in Comox, Tourism BC/Adrian Dorst photo
Comox Area HighlightsNearby Strathcona Provincial Park has a monopoly on superlatives: It’s the oldest and largest provincial park on Vancouver Island. Its flat-topped Comox Glacier ranks as largest glacier on Vancouver Island. And Della Falls, eight times higher than Niagara, is both the highest falls in Canada and one of the 10 highest in the world.
Comox Attractions Pick up a copy of the Town of Comox Heritage Walk brochure from the Comox Valley Visitor Centre and get acquainted with the quiet, friendly rhythm of Comox on this 8-stop walk. Check out the boutiques and spas. Take a gander at the old Lorne Hotel. Built in 1878, it’s the oldest licensed hotel in BC. Stroll Fisherman’s Wharf, or visit the Heritage Hanger at the Comox Air Force Museum to see a genuine WWII Y2K Spitfire aircraft under restoration. Wind up at Goose Spit Goose Regional Park for sunset and maybe a midnight walk under the full moon.
Local Produce Take a drive and learn what the K’omox First Nations, who flourished here for as much as 9,000 years, meant when they named the area "Land of Plenty". European settlers discovered plenty when they arrived in 1862 to find an excellent natural harbour, abundant fish, extraordinarily fertile land and fresh water. Today the Valley and its 500 farms embrace orchards, nurseries, dairy farms, berry farms and incomparable produce.
Specialty FoodsPurity of produce prompts haute expectations. A growing number of restaurants showcase local bounty in worldly ways. They anoint superb ingredients with the accents of the global village kitchen. From sumptuous breakfasts to black truffle pizza, Comox can surprise and delight.
Where to StayComox accommodation offers a range of choices including a lodge, hotels, motels, B&Bs, rental cottages and campgrounds. The grand resort nearby is the Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community, 7.4km/4mi from central Comox, a 336ha/831ac complex marrying award-winning, Platinum-rated, championship course and golf community.
Getting ThereComox town centre is approximately 12km/7.5mi off Highway 19 at exit 117. Highway 19A or the Oceanside Route is the slower but more scenic approach recommended for leisurely travellers. Access is southeast of Parksville at exit 46 off Highway 19. Visitors can also arrive by BC Ferries from Powell River, on the "Malahat" train from Victoria to Courtenay, by air from Vancouver and Calgary and bus from Victoria and Nanaimo.
Where to StartVisit the Comox Valley Visitor Centre at 2040 Cliffe Ave in Courtenay for advice, maps and brochures on what to see in town.
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