Situated roughly in the central interior of Vancouver Island and at the end of a long narrow Inlet, Port Alberni is one of a few ports on the West Coast of Vancouver Island which allows shelter and safe haven against some of the powerful Pacific Ocean weather systems.
Not only does this allow us to take advantage of our moderate climate, but also allows our area to have some unique and breathtaking scenery.
Port Alberni is a working port with commercial as well as recreational facilities to suit the needs of all our area to have some unique and breathtaking scenery.
West of Parksville off Highway 4, Port Alberni is the gateway to Vancouver Island's awe-inspiring Pacific Rim region. Although located closer to the east coast of the Island than the west, this warm friendly city sits at the tip of a long salt water channel called the Alberni Inlet. A prime destination for sports fisher, Port Alberni is world renowned for incredibly exciting fishing adventures in both fresh and salt water. Fishing charters operate year-round and the rewards include halibut, cod, and of course, salmon.
Port Alberni is also a foresty community and its long and interesting logging history is best depicted at the McLean Mill Heritage Sawmill, a National Historic Site accessible by car, on foot or bicycle along the Log Train Trail or on board the 1929 steam train from the restored Railway Station at the foot of Argyle Street near Alberni Harbour Quay.
At the Alberni Valley Museum, you'll see fascinating exhibits on pioneer history, folk art, and First Nations culture.
The museum also has brochures with maps for walking tours of historic Port Alberni. The Rollin Art Centre showcases the works of local artists and features tea on the terrace in the summer.
Near Port Alberni, Sproat Lake Provincial Park is a haven for freshwater enthusiasts and anglers. The lake is also the home base for the Martin Mars Flying Tankers, the world's largest water bomber aircraft used for fighting forest fires. Other nearby spots to visit include the Robertson Lake Fish Hatchery, the J.V. Clyne Bird Sancturary, Paper Mill Dam Park, and Rogers Creek Park. For an unbeatable view, take the ten minute-walk to the old look out.
