Shop and Spa
The slowdown of fall invites relaxed days wandering between independent boutiques and intriguing little corners of the Comox Valley. It’s the perfect time to plan little and head to one of our communities’ main streets: Comox Avenue in Comox, Dunsmuir Avenue in Cumberland, or 5th Street in Courtenay. Pick up a cozy beverage from a cafe, step into thoughtfully curated boutiques that stock local and Island makers, find your next favourite read in independent bookstores, and delight in specialty food stores like cheese, meats, and chocolate. Time your visit with harvest and spooky season-themed markets that celebrate our farms and create a memorable afternoon of activities.
With all that wandering, however relaxed, round out your perfect fall weekend by decompressing and rejuvenating at one of our independent spa experiences, from traditional-style saunas and classic treatments to unique experiences and therapeutic marine ingredients you’re unlikely to find easily anywhere else.
Visit in October to delight in the pumpkin season and the abundance of farms and rural businesses, particularly in our northern communities of Merville and Black Creek.
Coastal Black Pumpkin Fest runs until October 31 from Thursdays to Mondays (closed Tuesday and Wednesday). Wander through the pumpkin displays and meet the barnyard animals, including two miniature Highland cows. Enjoy festive games, wagon rides, a corn maze, and lots more to keep the whole family entertained. Pick a pumpkin to take home and enjoy a tasty meal, treat, or pumpkin spiced latte in the country kitchen, wine and cider garden, or fireside cafe.
For spooky season lovers, the Haunted Squash Market at Fireweed Farm Stand is an atmospheric must-visit. The greenhouse is stacked full of pumpkins and squash in all kinds of shapes and colours. Stay awhile to enjoy story time, indulge in a hot apple cider, and have a go at the “Very Curious Halloween Adventure” game. The market is open on weekends in October from 10 am to 4 pm, with a focus on whimsical magic rather than anything too scary!
For a more traditional harvest market, Shamrock Farm has its Fall Harvest Market open 6 days a week (closed Mondays) from October 1 to 30th. Marvel at how many types of pumpkin are on display; they grow some 59 heirloom types every year. Pick pumpkins for carving or squash for eating, along with beautiful bundles of heirloom garlic and lots of other seasonal veg. There are also other made-on-the-farm goodies like goat milk soaps, preserves, and lavender-infused beauty products. It's a wholesome way to spend some time and support our passionate growers on a real working farm.
The Comox Valley Farmers Market also runs year-round, simply shifting indoors for the fall and winter months.
Unforgettable, atmospheric wellbeing journeys
For a unique experience that is imbued with the Comox Valley landscape and the wellbeing benefits of nature, head to the Pacific Mist Spa at Kingfisher Pacific Spa and Resort. Book into one or both of their deeply immersive experiences: the Healing Caves and the Hydropath for a rejuvenating journey through pools, caves, and spaces that blend traditional and contemporary wellness practices, covering everything from red light and heat therapy to mineral-rich hydrotherapy pools. Finish your experience with unparalleled, waterfront sea-to-sky views in the relaxation lounge or restaurant. You can also book spa treatments.
For an experience beyond the classic social sauna, visit The Lost Faucet Sauna House in Courtenay. You’ll benefit from the typical sequence of a traditional dry sauna and invigorating (cool or bucket) shower, but you’ll also receive an Aufguss experience and complete a body exfoliation and facial.
Flow State Float House provides the benefits of floating in our salty ocean year-round without the need to brave the elements or inclement weather in fall and winter. Drop into a deeply calming mental and physical reset, gently held by the water and free from noise, light, or distraction. They also have tailored massages for those seeking further restoration and tension release.
Day Retreats and Private Sauna Sessions
Right beside the river, Ohspa is a tranquil sanctuary perfect for a day retreat. Set within the Old House Hotel, they offer spa treatments like facials and massages, using organic and local products, and can tailor a package to make the most of your time.
The social setting, health benefits, and grounding atmosphere of the sauna can be booked at Island Sauna or Smith Lake Farm in Black Creek. If you want to bring a sauna to your stay, you can book a private, mobile sauna rental with Nomadic Sauna. Several other spas with specialized and coastal-themed treatments await discovery, with many in the heart of our communities of Courtenay and Comox, walkable to shops, restaurants, and stays.
