town

About Chemainus

Did you know…?

Chemainus is a thriving community with both young families and seniors alike. This is largely a retirement community and is best known for its famous Chemainus murals. People come from near and far to partake in the beauty, character and the arts in this quaint ocean side town.

Chemainus is a town on the east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.

Founded as a logging town in 1858, the town is now famous for its 39 outdoor murals. This outdoor gallery has given birth to 300 businesses, including a theatre, antiques dealers, and eateries. The tourist industry stemming from the murals saved the town after its mill closed in the early 1980s.

The name “Chemainus” comes from the native shaman and prophet “Tsa-meeun-is” (Broken Chest). Legend says that the man survived a massive wound in his chest to become a powerful chief. His people took his name to identify their community, Chemainus First Nation.

The railroad arrived in the 1880s and by the early 1920s the town’s population had ballooned to 600 people. Today, Chemainus has a population of approximately 5,000.

Chemainus Secondary School is located in the town, and serves as a secondary school for students living in Chemainus, Crofton, and Saltair.

Don’t miss the renowned Chemainus Theatre, beloved by locals and visitors alike. An award winning neo-classical building houses the 274 seat theatre and Playbill Dining Room, where professional stage productions, musicals, concerts and first class dining are offered year round.

Chemainus is the perfect Island holiday destination.

• Be pampered in one of our hotel/motels or charming bed and breakfasts.
• Join in one of the many festive, entertaining weekend celebrations.

Chemainus is situated in a central spot affording many delightful day trips.

• Mount Brenton Golf Course challenges golfers.
• Camping, boating, fishing, and trails for hiking and mountain biking are all close by.
• Take a scenic one-hour drive to Victoria, or visit the beautiful Cowichan Valley-right next door.
• A BC Ferries terminal is located in Chemainus, which provides service to Thetis Islandand Kuper Island.