Blog

Early Spring Fishing Report

The salmon sport fishing season for West Coast Vancouver Island for 2026 is closing in on us very quickly.   The month of March was very cool and wet with little sunshine.  April has warmed up with some warm afternoons.  With May closing in on us the rugged but scenic West Coast is most often looked […]

Funtastic 2026: Slo-Pitch, Live Music & Summer Fun in Port Alberni

Celebrate summer in the Alberni Valley at Funtastic 2026, a community tradition combining a co-ed slo-pitch tournament with two nights of live music. From June 27 to 29, 2026, Port Alberni comes alive with friendly competition, live music, and a strong sense of community—all in support of local programs and initiatives. Okee Dokee Slo-Pitch Tournament […]

Camping in the Alberni Valley

Your Guide to Camping on Vancouver Island [Updated for 2026] Camping is one of the best ways to experience the Alberni Valley, whether you’re planning a full Vancouver Island getaway or a quick family staycation close to home. From waterfront RV sites and family-friendly campgrounds to quiet forest escapes, the Alberni Valley offers a wide […]

Easy Outdoor Adventures in the Alberni Valley

Outdoor Spots That Work Well for Mixed-Ability Groups Spending time outdoors in the Alberni Valley doesn’t have to mean long hikes or full-day adventures. If you’re travelling with a mixed-ability group [families, grandparents, casual walkers, or anyone who prefers a relaxed pace], there are many ways to enjoy fresh air, water views, and forest scenery […]

Spend a Day at Sproat Lake

A Laid-Back Itinerary from Morning to Sunset Just a short drive from Port Alberni, Sproat Lake stretches more than 25 kilometres, with a mix of quiet shoreline pull-offs and well-used day areas. It is not a single beach or viewpoint, but a place people experience differently depending on where and when they arrive. For many […]

Best Hikes Near Port Alberni

Easy, Moderate, and Advanced Trails for All Skill Levels. Port Alberni offers a wide range of hiking options, but early spring conditions can vary significantly depending on elevation and weather. March is a good time for trip planning and lower-elevation outings, while higher alpine routes often remain snow-covered. This guide focuses on publicly accessible trails […]

The Great Port Alberni Fish & Chips Debate

Favourite restaurants that came up again and again when locals were asked where to get fish and chips in Port Alberni. Fish and chips is one of the most recognizable Vancouver Island seafood meals, and it’s easy to find in Port Alberni. Recently, a lively local Facebook conversation asked a simple question: Where are the […]

Hiking Mount Arrowsmith

Above the Valley, Beyond the Trail: For as long as people have lived in the Alberni Valley, the jagged peaks of Mount Arrowsmith have drawn the eye upward. The mountain’s dramatic profile dominates the skyline, visible from town, nearby lakes, and the highways that connect the valley to the rest of Vancouver Island. Long before […]

2026 Micro-Grant Fund Now Open

Applications Now Open for Local Event Organizers. The Alberni Valley Tourism Association is now accepting applications for the 2026 Events & Experiences Micro-Grant Fund. This program supports local organizers who are bringing new events and creative experiences to the Alberni Valley Regional District. Whether you’re planning a new festival, cultural event, outdoor experience, or community […]