Wessex Inn By The Sea: Review And Personal POV
Here is my review of the Wessex Inn By The Sea in Cowichan Bay, Vancouver Island. This charming spot combines comfort with unbeatable views of the ocean.
As one of the best motels in Cowichan Bay, Wessex Inn has clean rooms, friendly service and direct access to the shore. This motel in Cowichan Bay is a great home base for exploring the area’s shops, marina and natural beauty.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay and want to know more about this motel, here is my personal experience.
When we arrived, the salty breeze hit me the moment I stepped out of the car. We walked across the road straight to the shoreline, just a few steps from the motel. Check in went smoothly and that evening, we sat on the balcony with wine, watching the sun sink into the ocean.
The waves, the gulls and big ships out on the bay. It felt like the kind of moment you don’t get in everyday life. I didn’t expect to feel so grounded, but this place surprised me in the best way.
Wessex Inn By The Sea Review
For the first part of our stay, we were in one of the unrenovated rooms. It was definitely dated, with older furniture, carpets and finishes. But it was spotless and had that unbeatable ocean front view.
Halfway through our trip, we were lucky enough to upgrade to one of the newly renovated rooms, and the difference was night and day. The new space felt fresh, modern, and calming, with a minimalist design and thoughtful details throughout.
It really elevated the whole experience and gave us a glimpse of how amazing this motel will be once all the updates are complete.
things to love about Wessex Inn
1. Ocean Front Motel in cowichan bay
This ocean front motel in Cowichan Bay is in the middle of a stunning renovation, and it’s already clear it’s going to be one of the best places to stay when you are visiting.
Even if you are not in an oceanfront room, the ocean is right across the road with lots of places to sit and enjoy your vacation.
2. Beautiful New Rooms
The newly renovated rooms are a true highlight. With a sleek and minimalist design, they feel open, airy, and thoughtfully styled. The updates blend modern design with the cozy, welcoming feel of a small town getaway.
Light wood tones, soft bedding, and simple but elegant décor make the space feel like a modern retreat. If you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, the new rooms provide the kind of comfort that makes you want to extend your stay.
Even during the renovation stage, the property is clean, quiet, and well-managed, making it a relaxing home base right on the water.
At the time of our stay I noticed some rooms that pets are allowed but make sure you double check to see if that is still available at your time of booking.
3. That Fresh, Clean Smell
It might seem like a small thing, but walking into a room that smells brand new instantly sets the tone for a great stay. In our room, 42, there is a kitchenette with modern fixtures and a good sized fridge.
The clean scent of freshly painted walls, new floors, and spotless bathroom is refreshing and makes everything feel extra cared for. It’s the kind of detail that shows the owners are putting real effort into the renovation.
Something that I noticed right away was the proper mirror. This type of mirror is absolutely perfect for doing your makeup and you can adjust the lighting and temperature. Good Job!
4. On Site Laundry Room
For longer stays or travel with kids, the on site laundry room is a huge bonus. It’s clean, easy to access, and a thoughtful addition that makes travel more convenient. No need to pack too much or search for a laundromat in town, you can wash and go without leaving the property.
At the time of our stay the washer was $2.50 and the dryer was free.
5. Exceptionally Friendly Staff
The staff here are genuinely some of the nicest I’ve met while traveling. They go out of their way to make sure you feel welcome, comfortable, and taken care of. They’re there with a smile whether you have a question about your room, need local recommendations, or just want a friendly chat.
6. Peaceful and Quiet Stay
Even with renovations happening on site, the motel still manages to offer a peaceful and quiet environment. The work is done thoughtfully, and we never felt disturbed. It’s the kind of place where you can truly unwind, read a book by the water, take a nap with the balcony door open or just enjoy the stillness of the bay.
7. Estuary Right Across the Street
One of the best parts about this motel is the beautiful estuary right across the street. Complete with benches and picnic tables, it’s a perfect spot to relax, watch the wildlife, and take in the tranquil surroundings.
It adds a peaceful, nature filled element to your stay. It’s just steps away from the motel, making it easy to enjoy a moment of calm right by the water. You can watch seals, Blue Herring and all kinds of other birds and wildlife.
8. Close to Shops and Cafés
The location is fantastic if you love exploring on foot. Just a short stroll down the road and you’ll find local shops, cozy cafés and the marina.
Cowichan Bay has a laid back, artsy vibe with lots to see and do, and staying here means you’re right in the heart of it all. I bought some amazing handmade soap. And you must check out the perfumery if you love custom perfumes.
9. Seals Just Off the Shore
One of the most magical surprises of this stay was seeing seals swimming right near the shore. They popped up every day, and we walked to the boat launch right across the road to see them. It was definately a highlight of the day!
Watching them play in the water or sun themselves on rocks added an unforgettable touch to the oceanfront experience.
10. Easy Access to the Boat Launch
The public boat launch is right across the road. If you’re traveling with a kayak, jetski, or small boat, the easy access to the nearby boat launch is a huge plus. The launch makes it simple to get out on the water and explore Cowichan Bay from a new perspective.
Whether you’re heading out for a fishing trip, morning paddle or an afternoon cruise, the convenience of having the launch so close adds to the adventure friendly vibe of staying here.
11. Close to World Class Restaurants
The motel’s location makes it easy to enjoy some of the best dining Vancouver Island has to offer. Cowichan Bay itself has charming local spots, and just a short drive away in Mill Bay, you’ll find incredible oceanfront restaurants.
We drove there one evening and had dinner right on the water at Bridgeman’s restaurant, watching the sunset as we ate. It was unforgettable. You’re never far from a great meal with a view.
12. A Motel That’s Only Getting Better
One of the best parts of staying here was seeing its transformation in real time. I spent the first part of the visit in an older room and then moved to one of the new ones.
It was like watching the future of the motel unfold. It’s already a great place to stay, and as renovations continue, it’s clear this will soon be one of the top spots in Cowichan Bay.
While the lower rooms haven’t been renovated yet and definitely feel more dated in terms of style, they are extremely clean and well kept. I had the chance to chat with the manager, who mentioned that once the top floor ocean front rooms are finished, they’ll be moving on to update the lower-level rooms next.
You can tell the staff take great pride in maintaining the space, and the views from the lower rooms are just as stunning. It’s exciting to see the improvements being made, and I can’t wait to come back once everything is complete.
Thanks to everyone at Wessex Inn for a great stay!
