Comox Valley is the heart of Vancouver Island’s east coast, where ocean, mountains, and farmland meet. Home to Courtenay, Comox, Cumberland, Royston, Merville, and Black Creek. This is where I now call home. I have lived in the Comox Valley for the past eleven years, and can say it's probably one of the best areas on the Island. With a population of 76,000 spread out throughout the six communities.
The valley offers everything from sandy beaches, lakes, rivers, kayaking, alpine hikes, waterfalls, golfing, paddleboarding, whale watching, and world-class mountain biking. With year-round recreation, local breweries, amazing restaurants, farm-to-table food, and easy access to Strathcona Provincial Park and Mount Washington, it’s a perfect base for both adventure and slow coastal living. There is also a large senior community that will blow your mind with how active they are.
With amazing accommodations from hotels, B&Bs, resorts, and camping. There are some great farms offering camping on their land. Hipcamp is a great app to find a small spot to tuck in and relax in peace.
Check out the food trucks around town, especially at the Comox Harbour.
If you love saunas and cold plunges, then book a time and head to Island Sauna in Merville.
Fly into the Comox Airport from Calgary, Edmonton, or Vancouver, and grab a vehicle rental for your ultimate road trip. Book in advance as cars are limited in peak seasons.
Walk down 5th St and support the amazing small businesses. The Comox Valley is full of artists and musicians. There are many tours in the area for artists, gardens, and wildlife.
In the Summer, we love a good festival! Key Summer Festivals & Events for 2026:
Downtown Comox Summer Fest: June 27, bringing artisans, food, and live music to downtown Comox.
K'ómoks First Nation Celebrations: Around June 22 for National Indigenous Peoples Day, featuring drumming, dancing, and storytelling.
Filberg Festival: A major arts and culture event at Filberg Park during the August long weekend, with music, artisans, and food/drink.
Comox Nautical Days: Also the August long weekend (August 1-3 in 2026) at Comox Marina Park, offering a parade, car show, kids' activities, and fireworks.
Simms Summer Concerts (Courtenay): Free concerts in Courtenay parks featuring local bands and diverse genres (check Courtenay.ca for dates).
Comox Valley Exhibition (CVE): A family-friendly fair usually held in August.
