Where to eat: the 50 best restaurants in the Comox Valley (2024)

Nestled on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa offers modern accommodations with ocean views and spa amenities. The resort's dining room provides outstanding West Coast cuisine with stunning views over Gartley Bay. Situated in an old growth forest, guests can enjoy lovely gardens, beachfront access, and wildlife viewing from private balconies and patios. Just a short drive from Courtenay, this elegant seaside retreat is the perfect escape for relaxation and indulgence.

Review is for Spa only, as I have not had the pleasure of experiencing the food or rooms.Excellent!! is all I can say, professional courteous, experienced knowledgeable staff, felt treated like a princess during my visit a year ago, treated myself to the mermaid body scrub. Kat was super accommodating and and attentive to detail and to my sensitive skin and allergies. Amazing person overall, (Sad to hear she has retired) Overall amazing experience

Mari G — Google review

We had a sister (3) trip and we felt very pampered and spoiled. Every area of service was exceptional and friendly. We stayed a week and were sad to go home. The spa treatments were so good and relaxing. We tried new foods and drinks and were not disappointed. Will highly recommend. Enjoyed the gardens and fire bowls at night. A truly relaxing and fun trip.

Karen B — Google review

It was a tranquil experience, a very beautiful atmosphere. The Hydropath is a must try!! 😍Only downfall, an was quite upsetting.We didn't get to try the Ocean 7 restaurant. It was always booked up. Even a week prior to arrival, calling every day, no availability. This is cause they also allow the public to come in for reservations. They do not keep any open spots for guests of the resort. The bistro was on a first come, first serve basis. If they close the part joining the outdoors. There becomes next to no room for guests to come eat, without an hour - 2 hour wait. Taking a taxi, the wait it also an hour - 2 hours. As they cater the airports travel first. Ordering food from in town. Was also a no-go as the resort is located just outside delivery locations. Other than not being able to eat. It was a great experience.

Anna A — Google review

The water spa is always amazing and has been same for so many years. Seems a little more rushed now then before so make sure you get the most out of each station. My wife and I die the spa and lunch deal and this too has changed very much from 3 years ago. Be cautious as when you buy that deal you only get a $50 credit towards lunch. So only $25 per person. Why is this important you ask???? Well the prices have also raised significantly in the restaurant too so the $25 per person does NOT cover a single meal. You will pay overages whether you want or not. Don’t get me wrong food was fantastic but brunch is usually a minimum of $27 and up no drinks included. Just be aware when arriving of what your package contains. Overall still very good.

Aaron L — Google review

All and all, beautiful place. Dinner was amazing and so was breakfast, the beds are super hard and the rooms are no different than a 3 star hotel. Our service guide for the hydro path was next to none. Didn't smile or even feel welcomed. Just shoed us through. And hot tub,pool and steam room need to be cleaned.

Jake's W — Google review

Usually love visiting the spa here. Whatever you do, do NOT book a manicure here. I was charged $275 for two manicures both of which started chipping after 1.5 days. I was informed 2 days before the service date that they do not use gel polish nor remove any old gel polish. I literally cannot believe they charge that much for a regular polish manicure…. mind blown.

Caitlyn N — Google review

Anniversary lunch a few days ago. Our waitress, Christine, was fantastic. Lunch menu choice great. Wife had the mushroom open face sandwich and I had the mussels. Both very tasty. Unfortunately, my mussels were not heated all the way through .Save room for dessert!!!!The gardens were beautiful, even for late October. Though the artificial flowers and branches in some of the beds were a little silly.

Christopher P — Google review

We Loved the Spa, it was perfection. Next time, I would ask for the newer rooms, they are in the process of up grading, there was confusion on our dinner reservations so I would make dinner reservations directly with the restaurant next time. The bath water was brown, they fixed it night 2.The room was spotless, the bed was very comfy. Linens were clean and new looking. The staff was excellent.

Sherry S — Google review

Solid 3 star hotel. Needs renovations, ocean front ground floor rooms have a great view but 410$ a night in August seems to be an overblow for a 3 star hotel. No a/c, fans are barely working, carpets. Water in the room is 5$/bottle, but with that price of the room could be complimentary? Tasty coffee pods - complimentary, surprisingly.Amazing spa, hands down, super ambient atmosphere in the evenings by the fireplaces with an ocean view. Good enough gym for the hotel.Everything needs a deposit on the credit card - dinner, spa treatment, that’s on top of the room deposit. Why not just make people pay for the services they use on the spot?Anyway, loved it more than didn’t, but few adjustments are needed

Oleksandra D — Google review

I recently celebrated my birthday at Kingfisher Spa and Restaurant, and it was an absolutely fantastic experience! From the moment I stepped foot into the establishment, I was greeted with warm smiles and friendly staff, setting the tone for a memorable day.After the blissful spa session, I headed to the restaurant for a delightful dining experience. The menu offered a wide variety of delicious dishes, and the presentation of each plate was nothing short of artistry. Not only were the meals aesthetically pleasing, but they were also incredibly tasty.What truly impressed me was the attentive and courteous service. The staff members at Kingfisher Spa and Restaurant went above and beyond to make sure my birthday celebration was special. They surprised me with birthday macaroons.The venue itself is captivating, nestled in a serene natural setting that added to the overall ambiance. The combination of the spa, restaurant, and picturesque surroundings made my birthday celebration a memorable and enchanting affair.I wholeheartedly recommend Kingfisher Spa and Restaurant to anyone looking for a rejuvenating spa experience or a delectable dining escapade. Whether it's a special occasion or just a day to treat yourself, you won't be disappointed. I'm already looking forward to my next visit!Thank you, Kingfisher Spa and Restaurant, for making my birthday so memorable! Keep up the excellent work, and I'll be back soon.

Sukhi S — Google review

Went for brunch with friends who were staying in a suite. The suite - lovely. View from the room - gorgeous. Waitress in the dining room - prompt, attentive. Eggs Benedict - mediocre at best. Salty hollandaise that was very, very cheesey. For $27, absolutely not worth it.

Beth H — Google review

Better than Tigh-Na-Mara resort. MUST have the oysters in the oceans 7 restaurant, scallop risotto was amazing. Great service in the restaurant, at the front desk, and the spa. The Outdoor heated pool and hot tub is a mighty fine touch. Beautiful gas fireplaces to enjoy and relax. Definitely recommend a garden/ocean view room. I cannot wait to take my husband for our anniversary. It is definitely a place I will keep returning to.

Page C — Google review

Kingfisher Resort is by far one of the best experiences on Vancouver Island. With the incredible views overlooking the ocean from the restaurant - The delicious entrees, bar menu, and selection of cocktails. Every team member was approachable, helpful and friendly, with phenomenal customer services. The hydropath is one of a kind, perfect for a relaxing spa getaway weekend. 10/10 great vibes. Can't wait to go back for the healing caves. Thanks so much!

Jessie F — Google review

Incredible Spa and restaurant. Oceans7 is very high end with amazing food...deserves a Michelin rating!Renovated rooms are awesome.Christmas light garden is spectacular and grounds are impeccable with outside fireplace intertwined with landscaped paths and creeks.

Rudy G — Google review

The grounds and outdoor dining space were nice enough but the outdoor pool and sitting area is small and not very intimate. The food is highly priced but it is above average. The rooms were (at best) average and reminiscent of motel than that of a spa resort. Furniture was old, ripped fabrics and paper thin walls. Also, the outdoor decks are not very private and you could hear your neighbor as if they were right next to you. All that aside, the spa was pleasant as were the staff, even though the staff did forget a few specific requests I had made, which I found disappointing. I was not a fan by the masseuse telling me that if I wanted them to apply more pressure on my massage that it would be $20 extra! Really?!? That took me right out of the entire experience and was just not something you tell a customer on your table. Bottom line, this is a small town spa, with big city prices.

S. T — Google review

Meh.Food was plenty, and flavorful, Daniel our server was wonderful. On the pricey side, but worth it.Dishes in the suite were on a high shelf. The dishes had a high lip. I didn't see the small plate that was inside the big plate. Pulled the big plate down and had the small one land on my head. Happy I didn't get a concussion, but I definitely got a massive goose egg bump on my head.I moved all the dishes to a lower shelf,and separated the sizes for safety ,so such an accident doesn't happen to someone else.Girls in the spa were rude and condescending. Insisted we needed to 'buy' a spa service to use the pool. The pool needs its own entrance for guests, better than dealing with the snooty spa girls.According to the book in our suite, you do not need to 'buy' a spa service.Bed was horrible. Hard as a rock.I've been to nicer, more modern and friendlier resorts on Vancouver Island.

Allison A — Google review

I had a great experience overall with my Mom at Kingfisher Resort. We stayed in an Orca room on the ocean and booked the Relax, Refresh, Renew package during the week.The hydrotherapy experience was great. It was cold outside so the staff assumed we were not using the outdoor facilities and did not offer us a locker either. We came early to use these facilities. This is my 4th hydrotherapy experience and felt the other 3 were more inviting. We still had a good time.The garden lights are beautiful. The ocean views are fantastic

Pam J — Google review

The courtyard room was beautiful with a garden and ocean view, and the food at the restaurant was amazing! Definitely some of the best food we’ve ever had! The gardens were decorated with cool lights, and all the fire pits to sit at outside of our room were really nice for the winter. The spa was so relaxing and so was the outdoor pool and hot tub. Such a nice stay here! Thank you

Shelby V — Google review

We went to the spa and had lunch. We did not stay at the hotel.I would totally go back for the hydro therapy. It is very relaxing and an incredible experience. Lunch was great! If I had to mention anything, it would be the bottom of the tables need a good cleaning. We would definitely visit here again.

Tracy L — Google review

We had an amazing time at Kingfisher Spa! From the moment we arrived, everything was perfect. Booking was simple and hassle-free, and the prices were very reasonable compared to other spas we've considered. We were greeted with great service, and there was ample parking, which made the visit stress-free.The head and shoulder massages were incredibly relaxing, and the facilities were top-notch. The beautiful decor and calming ambiance added to the overall experience, making it a truly rejuvenating day. We couldn't have asked for a better spa day, and we'll definitely be returning!

Samantha G — Google review

We were here celebrating an anniversary, the room itself was a bit dated but for a package deal was well worth what we paid. My biggest shock was the courtyard being full of tacky flower lights, it is pretty at night but i found it reduced the feelings of tranquility you would expect from a spa and there are definitely more tasteful ways of lighting the path as amber tones from the fire pits were muted by the sheer brightness of the other lights. The hydropath experience was very memorable but felt slightly rushed, thankful we had access to the pool and hot tub during our stay. Every staff member we met was exceptional and the meals at the restaurant on site are beyond expectation. All in all we would stay again but have hopes they can take the light show suggestions into consideration as it seemed to reduce the feelings of connecting with nature. Thank you kingfisher for helping us celebrate a milestone. And we cant wait to check out your newly renovated suites in the future.

Hayley D — Google review

☆I love staying at this resort. I love the gardens and the water features. The gardens include a decent amount seasonal interest so there is something blooming no matter when you come.☆The spa is also good, we love doing the hydropath and getting hot stone massages.☆The restaurant is expensive but very tasty, good variety of options. Drink menu is extensive as well.☆The rooms are nicely renovated, beds are comfortable and pillows are not too hard or soft. I really wish you could reserve the top floor, which they do not accomodate (even on our wedding night years ago). It's really loud. I'd even pay extra just knowing I could get the top floor in advance.☆It's a spa resort, I wish children were more restricted. Either to a certain wing or not at all. I don't enjoy hearing them run around in the morning because you can hear everything through the rooms. I don't enjoy having random children show up at our fire pit when we're consuming alcohol. I don't enjoy watching them throw rocks in the pond at the poor fish because their parents are trying to relax and let their children become the resorts problem.The last couple points aside, I still love this place and enjoy coming back annually. This is our 4th time staying here.

Aleisha L — Google review

Came here for a solo vacation hoping to get some rest and relaxation - well, you better hope your neighbours are here for the same thing (and like to wake up when you do) because you are at the mercy of their schedule and noise levels. The rooms are so loud, my ear plugs were useless, and even trying to sleep with white noise pumping directly into my ear from an ear bud, did nothing to hide the stomping (the room is actually vibrating). Guess I'm waking up early! I get a better sleep at home with my young children. I'm sure an upstairs room or possibly a newer room (I stayed in standard partial ocean/garden view) would have been better. Heed my warning and choose wisely.I would also include, no bathtub, chipped paint, poor light blocking curtains, sad coffee station, broken window lock, and outdated TV. The bed and pillows were decent, but that's the only good thing I have to say here.Massage with Lori B was great, and the grounds are beautiful and relaxing. The staff were also lovely. Fitness centre is well equipped as well. Unfortunately, despite these positives, I can't recommend staying here due to my experience with the room.

Madelynn K — Google review

Speaking for myself and my experiences, this is a terrific weekend get away resort. There are some elements that feel quite dated like the bathtub, the swimming pool area and restaurant furniture. But the service is friendly and fast, the rooms are nice and the views from the patio are unbeatable.The hydropath is well worth it for someone looking to relax and unwind the tensions.Food was good but not great. Had some hits and misses.

Kris C — Google review

Beautiful location & exceptional service in the spa. West Coast Chowder was incredible!Slow in the restaurant - seemed the servers had too many tables to effectively handle this level of food service, especially for the price.

Amanda B — Google review

Our waitress was great. However, I reserved one of their "sky domes" as it was my wife's birthday. The dome was uncomfortably cold. They had put two small heaters in it and hadn't turned them on until shortly before we arrived it seemed. One of them didn't even work. The meal was good and the waitress tried her best to accommodate us but in my view, management had dropped the ball.

Chris B — Google review

Had a first-time 60 minute relaxation massage along with my husband and brunch. It was glorious!Very professional and friendly staff. We were delighted with our visit. Beautiful location.

Madeline C — Google review

We had a lovely time. The grounds are beautiful. The staff are welcoming.The restaurant serves good food, but it is quite expensive for what you’re getting.

Hayley D — Google review

Lovely resort, the rooms are nicely appointed. It would be nice if the towels were a better quality, they are on par with hotels that are significantly less expensive. The spa and pool were really nice. We enjoyed both dinner and brunch at the restaurant, the food was excellent.

Mary L — Google review

As a final destination on Vancouver Island before heading back to the mainland Kingfisher is a truly luxurious finale. The spa is wonderful and the restaurant is superb. The Oceanside suite was everything we could hope for and the quick access down to the beach was a delight. This is truly a 5 star resort.

Jim H — Google review

Lovely atmosphere. Even with snow outside when we visited, it actually made the experience a little nicer! Sitting outside by a firepit the first night was a treat. The staff were so friendly and would chat with us to check in from time to time which felt so welcoming. You could feel that the staff wanted you to feel welcome and they did a great job of it. I also got to meet a cat sitting in the lobby by the fireplace one evening. The whole experience felt magical and like a dream

Becky B — Google review

The resort is absolutely beautiful and the service is outstanding. We got a room with view of the gardens and partial view of the ocean, whichbis the perfect combination. The sunset and sunrise are both beautiful and the resort has these beautiful fireplaces where you can sit down and relax. The food options are really good at both restaurants and the Domes are a work of art.We did not use the full service spa, which is a shame, we did use the pool, hot tub and the steam cave which are beautiful and such a relaxing way to end a day of exploring.Please give yourself a treat and visit this resort, family and pet friendly as well!

Marcela R — Google review

For the price, really overpriced, except the food and wait-staff were both very good. I'd never go back there again though, the rooms are garbage. No air-conditioning, the beds are soft, tiny bathroom with only a shower in it, not microwave, thin walls you can hear your neighbours doing everything...for over 300.00 per night... you've got to be kidding. Not worth the price, so many better places to stay and enjoy on the Island

A. D — Google review

Love love love the kingfisher … we have gone 2 years in a row and had a wonderful time. Our room was great, bedding awesome, view outstanding, can’t say enough. My only complaint would be the massage rooms are too bright and could use a little more spa like decor.

Keekeeklean — Google review

We recently stayed at a 3-star hotel/spa for three nights for our anniversary celebration and unfortunately, it was quite underwhelming and stressful. The hotel rooms were nothing out of the ordinary, resembling those of a REGULAR budget hotel. However, the real disappointment came with the spa facilities and customer service. Despite the promise of relaxation, the spa fell short of expectations. The amenities were lacking, steam room broken, sauna is super small and the overall experience was far from relaxing.Additionally, the customer service left much to be desired; most staff members seemed indifferent and unresponsive to guest needs. The Hydropth session was interesting, despite the rush and impolite attendant hurrying things up.To top it off, the exorbitant prices only added insult to injury, making the whole experience feel like a colossal waste of time and money. If you’re seeking relaxation, look elsewhere, as this hotel/spa is more likely to induce stress than alleviate it.

Sara A — Google review

Rooms - we stayed as a group and had 5 rooms. The older rooms at front of the building were a large disappointment. The hotel needs to invest in air conditioning. We were there early May and the rooms were unbearable. The heat was off but the room was 25 degrees! A measly old fan to accomodate. The room was crawling with large ants approx one inch long that needed “relocating” constantly. Approx 5 each night, and those are just the ones I saw! Sounds silly but no tray for the soap, $5 for basic water and the coffee offering was subpar for a “resort”. The locks on the windows were coming apart. For a motel like entrance, didn’t feel safeService - front desk and servers were great. Spa staff were terrible, aside from Sheena who was the only knowledgeable professional. The other staff were unorganized and didn’t seem experienced in a spa setting at all. They didn’t offer sandals so everyone’s walking around barefoot and when we asked there was a service charge of $40 that took around 10 minutes to figure out. Only for us to return them, they didn’t keep track and then ended up trying to charge us. No service on the pool deck at all. Worse of all, after the hydro treatments I have developed hives… so not entirely sure how sanatized or clean the baths were: which is too bad because that was about the only positiveLocation - this is the only plus, but really just a product of location. The grounds are beautiful and the fire pits are a nice touch. However they mandatory light them regardless of if you want them lit or not at a certain time, which seems odd and made for it to be too warm at times.Overall I think esthetic updates can only improve a location so much. Work to be done in the other areas I’m afraid. I would skip this resort if your expecting a resort/spa like experience

Jennifer W — Google review

The resort and grounds are beautiful. We were booked in the newly renovated Eagle suite. For such a significant renovation, the management should look at upgrading the well used one cup Cuisenart coffee machine in suite. There's a plate ware for 4 ppl, a better coffee experience would be a hit. Also, provide more than one set of mini sized toiletries. If you wish to sell a luxury experience, don't present the extras in such a frugal manner.

Laurel W — Google review

We went with friends and had a bite to eat before doing a hydrotherapy session. Went to the Aqua Bistro and sat on patio. The menu is small but the food is delicious. Then we did the Hydropath treatment. An awesome experience in relaxation. Overall if you are in the area, book a few hours to enjoy some great food, relaxation and a casual stroll around the grounds. Well worth it

Tim S — Google review

Nice quiet spot with gardens and beach for a romantic stroll. Fairly average room and good, but pricey food. Hot tub and pool are nice, spa amenities extra. Luxury spot to day trip skiing at Mt.Washington

Amanda W — Google review

My husband and I recently celebrated out 40th anniversary at the Kingfisher. The facility and gardens were beautiful, the rooms, very clean and comfortable, the food delicious, the spa fantastic, the views breathtaking but best of all was the friendly and attentive staff. Without exception they were all so friendly and courteous and made us feel very special on our special occasion. We can't remember all of their names but our server Daniel in the Ocean 7 restaurant made our anniversary dinner very enjoyable. Richard did a great job welcoming and seating us at both the lounge and the restaurant every time we wandered in. He exemplified the personable service we received from all of the staff. Rieki (sp?) gave me probably the best massage I have ever received and was a pleasure to talk to as well. We would highly recommend a stay at the Kingfisher.

Liz S — Google review

The Bistro serves very good food and the service is very good but they have not yet figured out how to serve shared food. No tongs or anything to share the fries and even the Charcuterie plate needed small tongs to move the pickled bits to a cracker. I guess they make it but they have never say down to see how it eats.

John C — Google review

Had the pleasure of taking my partner here for his birthday and I was absolutely blown away!We booked a nights stay, massages and the hydropath.Our stay started off with arriving and being told a couple staying in our room was wanting to stay an extra night so our room had been upgraded!We received a room with an excellent view of the courtyard, rooms were immaculately clean and modern while also being super cozy!We had the twilight ritual massages which were absolutely lovely, the massage therapist was not afraid to get in there, lead with consent first, draped accordingly and we left with our own body oil scented with our essential oil of our preferred flavour.Room service was restaurant quality, super fresh and so flavourful!The hydropath was an excellent experience and I suggest anyone tries it once, however it was not my preferred treatment for my skin as it is VERY drying being a predominantly mineral/salt based experience.From a skincare standpoint I would suggest a nourishing/hydrating product to finish it off rather than a sea salt scrub but that’s just me being nit-picky.Staff was super friendly, overall it was an amazing experience and worth every penny!

Griffin F — Google review

I have been a guest at the resort for over 20 years and love our experience there. Was there just this past weekend and was so excited and looking forward to buy the signature kingfisher body lotion BUT SO DISAPPOINTED to discover that all the toiletries brands have changed! Please bring back the Kingfisher brand lotion. The scent of the lotion reminds me of the beautiful resort and keeps me looking forward to my next visit during the dreary winter months

Fanny W — Google review

had a wonderful lunch this afternoon & our server Erin was extremely lovely, professional, kind, soft spoken & went completely above and beyond. water glasses never went empty, she checked in with us quite often & was happy to answer any questions. Thank you very much, Erin

Brenna O — Google review

Where to eat: the 50 best restaurants in the Comox Valley (2024)

References

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Recommended Articles
Article information

Author: Lilliana Bartoletti

Last Updated:

Views: 6429

Rating: 4.2 / 5 (73 voted)

Reviews: 88% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Lilliana Bartoletti

Birthday: 1999-11-18

Address: 58866 Tricia Spurs, North Melvinberg, HI 91346-3774

Phone: +50616620367928

Job: Real-Estate Liaison

Hobby: Graffiti, Astronomy, Handball, Magic, Origami, Fashion, Foreign language learning

Introduction: My name is Lilliana Bartoletti, I am a adventurous, pleasant, shiny, beautiful, handsome, zealous, tasty person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.