Vacation rentals in Shawnigan Lake

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Top-rated vacation rentals in Shawnigan Lake

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness, and more.

Guest favorite

Guest suite in Duncan

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 119 reviews

Guest suite on a quiet country property

LisaRating, 5 stars1 month ago
We had a very comfortable stay at Bob's lovely well appointed place. Everything was exactly as described and Bob's warm greeting made us feel right at home. We would definitely stay here again next time we need a quiet spot on the island.
Superhost

Condo in Salt Spring Island

4.77 out of 5 average rating, 22 reviews

Salt Spring Island - 2BDRM/2BATH - Mariner's Loft

LouiseRating, 5 stars6 months ago
What a beautiful place! Perfect for our family vacation. Walkable to the very sweet downtown. Great view of the harbor. Clean and well-equipped. Highly recommend!
Guest favorite

Cottage in Shirley

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 128 reviews

Exclusive Oceanfront 4-bedroom w/ incredible views

MananRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
Amazing host and amazing place! It’s the perfect getaway from the busy city noise. This place has the perfect sunset with a hot tub outside which adds to the beautiful sunset view. Enough space to accommodate 8-10 people and ample area outside for BBQ. Highly recommended, definitely visiting again! Shoutout to Dominic for being a perfect host!
Guest favorite

Cabin in Brentwood Bay

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 71 reviews

Waterfront cabin in Brentwood Bay.

SharonRating, 5 stars1 month ago
Gail's House is a beloved family getaway filled with quirky and interesting marine and nautical pictures and gadgets so lovingly collected. It's very comfortable and right on the dock and the views are amazing. Lucky for us, we were there in prawn season and our hosts gave us the best prawns we have ever had, fresh from the water. I want to return.
Superhost

Vacation home in Port Renfrew

4.79 out of 5 average rating, 29 reviews

A slice of paradise with Hot Tub + Pet Friendly

PatrickRating, 5 stars5 months ago
Wits End is a beautiful property and easy to find. The enclosed yard was prefect for our dog. We enjoyed the outdoor hot tub after a cold day at the beach. The kitchen was clean and had everything we needed to make meals. As a family of 4, we had to use the pullout to sleep on and use a blowup mattress which meant things were a little cramped but we made do. The mattress needed to go into the kitchen next to the table during the night. I would recommend staying at this property but definitely no more than 4 people at a time.
Superhost

Townhouse in Ladysmith

4.76 out of 5 average rating, 34 reviews

Beachfront paradise

RuslanRating, 5 stars6 months ago
Pat's place is awesome. We, a family of four - two adults and two kids (one is at teen age and another one is younger), spent a great long weekend there. Bright, cozy condo with great view from almost any window. It fits all of us, has a nice kitchen with everything you need for your stay. Heated pool with a hot tub, which we and kids enjoyed, just downstairs. The Bay is very good for paddle boarding. We did twice over our stay. If tide is low, you can reach a tiny island where you can find lots of purple and orange sea stars, crabs, and oysters. Ladysmith and Nanaimo suggest great dinner options. Nanaimo also has a nice walkable Marina merging into Maffeo Sutton park. If you like hikes, we tried Extension Ridge Trail hike near Nanaimo and can strongly recommend it to anyone. Malahat Tower is a fun place to visit, just one hour of driving from "Inn of the Sea" resort, we've been there, and were not disappointed. Will definitely stay again at Pat's place.
Guest favorite

Place to stay in Sooke

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 29 reviews

BCingU Majestic Ocean, Alcove Beachfront

TristanRating, 5 stars4 months ago
Beautiful place to stay! Entire bottom floor of a gorgeous 3 story house overlooking the bay. Not difficult to find and peaceful surroundings. Dm is a lovely host with lots of ideas and suggestions. Things to note: Hot tub hours are limited - our window was 6-10pm, for example. Using washer, dryer, firewood, and kayak cost extra so bring a little cash. We loved our stay and would definitely come back.
Guest favorite

Home in Lake Cowichan

5 out of 5 average rating, 23 reviews

Big Pool Cottage

MurielRating, 5 stars2 months ago
A beautiful setting that is a great place to relax with a few couples. It is roomy and has great gathering and relaxation spots inside and out. There lots of kitchen implements for cooking, tons of linen, and it’s very clean.
Superhost

Condo in Ladysmith

4.75 out of 5 average rating, 48 reviews

Affordable Seaside Getaway~Pool/Hot Tub/Dock

samaraRating, 5 stars5 months ago
Loved staying in this beautiful area. The pool and hot tub right next to the ocean were the cherry on top. Tammy’s place was very clean. Felt cleaner than most hotels we’ve been to. Her instructions were crystal clear and we had zero issues accessing the condo and the amenities. Our only feedback; we were missing our creamer in the morning for our coffee. There’s a chance it was there but we didn’t find it! Other than that, we loved it and highly recommend!
Superhost

Apartment in Ladysmith

4.87 out of 5 average rating, 69 reviews

Beautiful ocean views.

SandraRating, 5 stars4 months ago
This is a great place to stay Gloria and John are great people, This is our second stay here. I cannot praise this place enough. Comfy beds plenty of hot water , and all else you might needs
Guest favorite

Guesthouse in Salt Spring Island

5 out of 5 average rating, 107 reviews

Rainbow Ridge B&B Cottage

LoganRating, 5 stars4 weeks ago
Absolutely loved our stay! The view was stunning, and the property was private and peaceful. The cabin was super cozy and was very well decorated. The cabin was very clean and had wonderful ammenities as well. Jim was a wonderful and kind host! Would definitely stay here again!
Superhost

Apartment in Nanaimo

4.77 out of 5 average rating, 39 reviews

Breathtaking Oceanfront Condo

JacobRating, 5 stars4 months ago
We loved our time at this condo and will definitely be back! The views and pool are amazing. It’s quiet, bright and well equipped and furnished.

Popular amenities for Shawnigan Lake vacation rentals

Stay near Shawnigan Lake's top sights

The Lakehouse at Shawnigan47 locals recommend
Subway38 locals recommend
Shawnigan House coffee and chocolate36 locals recommend
West Shawnigan Lake Provincial Park27 locals recommend
Black Swan Pub & Liquor Store21 locals recommend
Shawnigan Jen20 locals recommend

Other great vacation rentals in Shawnigan Lake

Guest favorite

Home in Ladysmith

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 37 reviews

Oceanfront Villa

CaitlynRating, 5 stars2 months ago
The views were spectacular and the house was spotless and beautiful. Lots of space and beds for everyone, nice big dining table for family meals and the heated patio was amazing. We visited in November and enjoyed sitting out there and listening to the rain on the metal roof. We would definitely come back — everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves! The hot tub was also a big hit.
Guest favorite

Home in Shawnigan Lake

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 32 reviews

Luxury Lakeview House w/ Dock & Hot Tub

QuinaRating, 5 stars4 months ago
We had a beautiful stay at Sandra’s gorgeous home! She was such a lovely, communicative host who gave us all sorts of great suggestions for the area. The location is perfect- relaxing and quiet, but not too far from fun activities! We’d definitely stay again, thanks so much for having us, Sandra!
Guest favorite

Home in Victoria

4.93 out of 5 average rating, 28 reviews

Full sun lake front. Private dock and hot tub

TriciaRating, 5 stars2 months ago
Beautiful and convenient location for our Victoria trip. Lake view and private dock was a bonus. We went during Thanksgiving so we appreciated the view and hot tub. Only complaint was the very limited cooking pans and pots
Guest favorite

Apartment in Duncan

4.95 out of 5 average rating, 392 reviews

Alegria Vacation Suite

EmilyRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
What a lovely spot, cozy accommodations, and welcoming host! Thanks Jane!
Guest favorite

Cabin in Pender Island

4.9 out of 5 average rating, 58 reviews

Currents at Otter Bay, Pender Island Cottage

LeslieRating, 5 stars6 months ago
We had a wonderful stay. Carlene was easy and quick to communicate such, the cottage had everything we needed, and we loved sitting on the deck enjoying the view. The resort the cottage is part of was helpful since we had our 10-year-old with us. The pool is a big reason we booked here, and the lawn games were an extra bonus we hadn’t expected. We even got to see an otter below the marina dock on our first day - a perfect sighting in Otter Bay!
Guest favorite

Home in Langford

5 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews

2 bedroom Vacation House with Hot Tub!

StephanieRating, 5 stars7 months ago
The place was great. Easy access to trails and near town
Guest favorite

Home in Mill Bay

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 33 reviews

Centrally located ocean view suite!

AprilRating, 5 stars4 weeks ago
We had a great stay at Zoe's! The area was so quiet! It was walking distance to the grocery, a little sushi place and a few local shops. It was also a short drive into Duncan and not too far from Victoria. Zoe was always very responsive and provided helpful information about the area. It was just a great time!!!
Guest favorite

Cottage in Sooke

4.96 out of 5 average rating, 296 reviews

Poirier Cove - house on the beach

MichaelRating, 5 stars2 weeks ago
The house is in an absolutely stunning location, private and quiet with amazing views. The spacious and comfy living room has big windows that look down onto the beach so you can really enjoy the view. We were able to sit and watch seals swimming by. The house itself was spacious and comfy with everything exactly as described. Corinne provided lots of helpful information and local recommendations. It's just a short drive into Sooke for groceries and restaurants and there is plenty of scope for exploring the island either by driving further along the coast or up into the hills to do one of the walks. We absolutely loved our stay here.

Quick stats about vacation rentals in Shawnigan Lake

  • Total rentals

    70 properties

  • Nightly prices starting at

    $30 before taxes and fees

  • Total number of reviews

    2.7K reviews

  • Family-friendly rentals

    40 properties are a good fit for families

  • Pet-friendly rentals

    20 properties allow pets

  • Rentals with a pool

    10 properties have a pool

Your guide to Shawnigan Lake

All About Shawnigan Lake

Located on the edge of an idyllic village of the same name, Shawnigan Lake, is surrounded by pine-covered hills around 30 miles north of Victoria on Vancouver Island. In town, you’ll find a handful of grocery stores, mom-and-pop restaurants, welcoming coffee shops, and a small museum where you can learn more about the local history.

The village is often used as a base to explore the magnificent scenery surrounding it. Take a walk to the picturesque Kinsol Trestle Bridge, one of the tallest wooden railway trestles in the world, standing an impressive 144 feet above the Koksilah River or take a swim or a peaceful paddle on the lake. Just 15 minutes away at Cowichan Bay, you can spot orcas and humpback whales, and it’s not uncommon to see seals and sea lions basking on the beach. After a day of exploring, the tasting rooms at the nearby wineries are the perfect place to try locally produced wine or indulge in a farm-to-table meal as you gaze out at the sprawling vineyards.


The best time to stay in a vacation rental in Shawnigan Lake

Thanks to a slew of activities on offer and the relatively temperate weather of Vancouver Island, securing a Shawnigan Lake rental is a year-round proposition. During the summer, the days are long, hot, and sunny, perfect for heading out onto the Cowichan Valley Trail or hitting one of the lake’s sandy beaches.

The weather is cooler in the spring and fall, and the nearby forests are splashed with the colors of spring flowers and autumn leaves. These months can also be a little rainy, so you may want to bring an umbrella and a waterproof jacket with you. During the winter, the summer crowds thin, and although the weather can be a bit grey, it is perfect for spending time relaxing at your rental cabin or checking out the local businesses.


Top things to do in Shawnigan Lake

Cowichan Valley Trail

This 75-mile-long multi-use trail weaves its way through southern Vancouver Island and is a wonderful spot for hiking and cycling. The trail leads you through lush forests and past four different railway trestles paying homage to the pathway’s original use as a railway line. It is part of the much longer Trans-Canada Trail, which connects the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans through a series of parks, trails, and waterways. The flat terrain makes it ideal for people of all ages and fitness levels.

Shawnigan Lake

This tranquil lake stretches for a whopping five miles and is set amidst pristine pine forests. There are sandy beaches to explore where you can take a dip in the water, as well as waterfront parks that serve as the perfect launching point for kayaking or paddle-boarding. If you are feeling really adventurous, there is even an island in the middle of the lake that features its own secluded park.

Old Mill Park

This waterfront park on the edge of Shawnigan Lake was the site of a lumber company from 1881 until 1945, and once had its own company store. You can still find ruins and artifacts from the mill located throughout the grounds. Today, it is a popular spot for swimming and other water sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Are there pet-friendly vacation rentals in Shawnigan Lake?

    Four-legged friends are welcome in Shawnigan Lake. Choose from more than 20 vacation rentals for guests traveling with pets.

  • Are there vacation rentals with a dedicated workspace in Shawnigan Lake?

    Yes! Work meets play with ease at over 30 vacation rentals in Shawnigan Lake featuring dedicated workspaces. Stay connected and productive in your home away from home.

  • Are there Shawnigan Lake vacation rentals on Airbnb with pools?

    Yes! Dive into the perfect getaway at one of over 10 vacation homes with pools in Shawnigan Lake, available on Airbnb. Make a splash and soak up the sun in style!

  • Do house rentals in Shawnigan Lake have a bbq area?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 house rentals with a bbq area in Shawnigan Lake. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • Are there family-friendly house rentals in Shawnigan Lake?

    Shawnigan Lake has more than 20 family-friendly house rentals. Amenities on the property may include high chairs, travel cribs, or strollers.

  • How much does it cost to stay in house rentals in Shawnigan Lake?

    Experience the best of Shawnigan Lake with our house rentals, starting at about $40 per day, before taxes and fees. Embrace comfort and style while staying within your budget in your home away from home.

  • Do private suite rentals in Shawnigan Lake have wireless internet?

    Absolutely! We offer over 10 private suite rentals with wireless internet in Shawnigan Lake. Enjoy a tailored experience with all the comforts you desire.

  • What are the most popular amenities for House Rentals in Shawnigan Lake?

    Enhance your stay in our House Rentals with the most popular amenities: over 20 homes with wireless internet, over 10 homes with a bbq area, and more. Indulge in the ultimate retreat, tailored to your preferences.

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