Shawnigan Lake Travel Guide

Welcome to Shawnigan Lake!

Located on Vancouver Island a mere 40-minute drive north of Victoria, Shawnigan Lake refers to both the lake in the area and the small village of the same name.   Once home to logging companies and mills, Shawnigan Lake has today become a fashionable weekend destination known for its sunny, intimate beaches, recreational activities and rustic lakeside cottages. Summertime especially draws residents of Victoria wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city in exchange for kayaking, waterskiing and hiking the area’s many trails, most notably the Trans-Canada Trail which runs along the western shore of the lake. Beachcombers and birdwatchers enjoy Old Mill Park, the site of the former lumber mill which is today a waterfront park. Visitors can witness the community’s history at the town’s tiny but excellent Shawnigan Lake Museum or on a trip to the nearby Kinsol Trestle, an abandoned railway bridge spanning the Koksilah River and one of the highest wooden trestle bridges in the world. The arts and education also have a presence here with four international boarding schools calling the area home as well as many artisans and jewellers – evidenced by the hand-crafted items on display in the village shops and at numerous craft shows throughout the year. 

Tourist Attractions

Hotels & Motels