Categories: Travel

This small city in BC is near an enchanting waterfall and sandy beach

Courtenay is by far one of the most lively small cities our province has to offer, operating as the urban centre for the scenic Comox Valley.

Situated two hours from Victoria and one from Nanaimo on the traditional territory of the K’omoks First Nation, Courtenay is a vibrant community with tons of pubs, breweries, and ‘slow food’ restaurants to check out. Supported by produce from over 500 local farms, you’re in for a fresh, delicious meal where you choose to dine!

Visitors can also visit the Courtenay & District Museum & Paleontology Centre and a plethora of art galleries.

Enchanting waterfall

As for the great outdoors, the magical Nymph Falls is a must-visit, doubling as excellent picnicking and swimming spot!

According to the Regional District of Comox Valley, Nymph Falls protects over 60 hectares of second-growth forest on the north end of the Puntledge River, which flows into the falls that cascade over the exposed bedrock.

Steps to the river can be accessed 40 metres downstream of the falls, which are a half-kilometre stroll from the parking lot. The trail is wheelchair-accessible and leads to one of the most scenic views in the Valley, according to the District.

Note that the popular swimming hole Stotan Falls is still closed to the public until further notice.

Saratoga Beach

Another beautiful spot to visit is Saratoga Beach, situated halfway between Courtenay and Campbell River.

The scenic beach has a sandy shoreline that glistens under the sun, as well as a beach resort with individual cabins available to rent nightly.

Visitors can enjoy the changing tides and calm, clear waters.

Recent Posts:
This island with clear waters has one of the prettiest towns in BC
10 beautiful lake towns to visit in BC this summer

Photo via Saratoga Beach

If you’re looking for even more water fun – there’s a family waterpark and outdoor pool in town that’s completely free to use!

Looking to extend your trip? The oldest park in the province is just a hop, skip, and a jump away!

Happy exploring, BC.

Courtenay

Where: Courtenay, BC

Recent Posts

Calgary’s first combined pump track and skatepark is officially opening this weekend

Calgary just got a new spot for skateboarding, biking, and other wheeled sports, and it's…

33 minutes ago

John Cena and Ron Perlman among celebs coming to Fan Expo in Edmonton

With names like Karl Urban and Ron Perlman too!

47 minutes ago

This small town in Quebec is the ‘funniest town in Canada’ thanks to its name

While passing the sign for Saint-Louis-du-Ha! Ha! on a highway in Quebec, drivers and passengers…

1 hour ago

WestJet is upgrading its planes with redesigned cabins and new features

If you’re flying with WestJet soon, your next flight could look a little different, with…

3 hours ago

This Calgary distillery is throwing a fake wedding and you’re invited

Ever wish you could go to a wedding without having to sit through the ceremony,…

19 hours ago

The Vancouver Group Chat: What your friends are talking about this week (Aug. 18)

Welcome back to the Vancouver Group Chat, a roundup of some of the city's biggest updates…

19 hours ago