Victoria Quay sits at the foot of Johnston Road (Hwy #4) and runs parallel to the Somass River. It is flanked by two towering Welcome Figures created by local Hupacasath First Nations carvers. You'll notice one of the figures faces the water whereas the other faces the land. This is purposeful as the Welcoming Figures are positioned to 'welcome' people from the water and the land. The accompanying Welcome Centre features prominent First Nation's artwork and is the the perfect place to learn about the rich history of the First Nation people in this region.
This picture courtesy of Chaisson Creative. Taken from across the river in the Somass Estuary featuring Port Alberni's backdrop - Mt. Arrowsmith
Bear Watching
Yes, this correct! Port Alberni is a Bear-Smart community and for good reason. We have lots of them! From early Spring through to late Fall one has a good chance of seeing bear activity across the river from the Victoria Quay. Best times for success are during low-tide events (2 X per day) as its then when the bears can more easily access the nutrients (read: fish) along the river. The Victoria Quay is set up for viewing with a Chamber of Commerce sponsored Hi-Spy Binoculars - free to use. There is a also several benches, a Rotary funded picnic area under shelter and just a few steps away is a newer addition to the Quay area - Millstone Park. Port Alberni is a fishing community so you'll almost certainly see many boats along the river as they exit out or return from the well-known fishing spots along the Alberni Inlet.
