Nestled along the serene shores of Cowichan Lake, Honeymoon Bay is a charming village in British Columbia that blends rich history with vibrant community life. At its heart stands the Honeymoon Bay General Store, located at 10056 South Shore Road, a beloved establishment that serves as more than just a retail space. Positioned next to the fire hall, this store is a vital part of the community’s infrastructure, offering a wide range of food and general merchandise to residents and tourists alike. This article explores the store’s history, its role in the Honeymoon Bay community, its diverse offerings, and its contributions to the local area.

A Historical Perspective on Honeymoon Bay

To appreciate the significance of the Honeymoon Bay General Store, one must first understand the history of the community it serves. Honeymoon Bay’s story began in 1887 when Henry March, an English pioneer, arrived and cleared land for what would become the March farm. The original farmhouse still stands today, a symbol of the area’s enduring legacy (Honeymoon Bay Local History). March’s arrival marked the beginning of a community that would grow significantly in the 20th century.

By the mid-20th century, Honeymoon Bay had become a bustling mill town, centered around the Western Forest Industries (WFI) Mill. The mill, established in the 1940s, provided employment for many residents and spurred the development of community amenities, including a fire department, post office, and community hall. However, a devastating fire in 1948 destroyed the mill, leaving 500 workers unemployed. Rebuilt by 1950, the mill continued operations until its closure in 1981, a pivotal moment that led to economic challenges and population decline as many residents sought work elsewhere.

Despite these setbacks, Honeymoon Bay has reinvented itself as a tourist destination. The area’s natural beauty, including Cowichan Lake, Gordon Bay Provincial Park, and the Wildflower Reserve, attracts campers, hikers, and golfers. The community’s infrastructure, including the general store and post office, supports this tourism-driven economy, ensuring that visitors and residents have access to essential services (Vancouver Island Tourism).

The General Store’s Historical Role

While specific historical records about the Honeymoon Bay General Store are limited, general stores in small communities like Honeymoon Bay typically serve as longstanding pillars of daily life. Likely established decades ago, the store would have provided essential goods to mill workers and their families during the town’s industrial heyday. As the community transitioned to a tourism-based economy, the store adapted to meet the needs of both locals and visitors, offering a mix of groceries, prepared foods, and other necessities.

The store’s location next to the fire hall places it at the center of Honeymoon Bay’s civic life, alongside other key institutions like the community hall and post office. General stores in such settings often double as social hubs, where residents exchange news and visitors learn about local attractions. The Honeymoon Bay General Store’s enduring presence underscores its importance as a community anchor, a role it continues to play today.

Recent Developments and Community Engagement

In 2022, the store entered a new chapter under the ownership of Laura Fevez, who has made significant efforts to enhance its appeal and strengthen its community ties. One of Fevez’s first initiatives was to commission local artist Tom Hutchings to create four nature-themed murals for the store’s exterior. Inspired by the lush forests surrounding Honeymoon Bay, these murals add a touch of beauty and local character to the store, making it a more inviting space. Fevez noted, “I liked Hutchings’s art and wanted some of it to bring beauty to the shop and showcase the local environment” (Cowichan Valley Citizen).

The murals, installed in May 2023, have become a point of pride for the community, enhancing the summer scene in Honeymoon Bay. Fevez also introduced practical amenities, such as picnic tables and a bike rack, encouraging customers to linger and enjoy their purchases in a comfortable outdoor setting. These changes reflect a commitment to fostering community interaction and supporting the area’s tourism-driven economy.

The store’s engagement with the community extends beyond its physical space. Its proximity to the Honeymoon Bay Market, held every Saturday from spring to fall across from the store, creates a synergistic relationship. The market, featuring local vendors selling arts, crafts, preserves, and baked goods, draws crowds and boosts foot traffic to the store. This vibrant atmosphere, complete with music and food, underscores Honeymoon Bay’s appeal as a destination for both residents and visitors (Lake Cowichan Gazette).

Diverse Menu Offerings

The Honeymoon Bay General Store is renowned for its diverse menu, which caters to a wide range of tastes and dietary preferences. Based on the provided menu images, the store offers a variety of food options, from hearty meals to quick snacks, ensuring that customers can find something to suit their needs.

Menu Highlights

The menu is organized into several categories, each featuring a range of items:

• All Day Breakfast: Customers can mix and match ingredients like eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese to create a personalized breakfast. This customizable option is ideal for early risers or those seeking a hearty start to the day.
• Sandwiches to Go: Perfect for those on the move, these sandwiches provide a convenient and delicious option for lunch or a quick snack.
• Crispy Cravings: This section includes appetizers such as:
  • Zucchini Sticks ($4.49 for 5 pieces)
  • Mozzarella Sticks ($6.50 for 6 pieces, $4.40 for 4 pieces)
  • Chicken Wings ($13.49 for 10 pieces, available in flavors like Honey Garlic and BBQ)
  • Vegetable Samosas ($5.49 for 1 large piece)
  • Pakora ($5.49 for 6 pieces, served with mango chutney)
• Classic: Featuring traditional favorites, this category includes:
  • Hot Dogs and Veggie Dogs ($5.49 each)
  • Burgers, including Hamburger ($8.49) and Veggie Burger ($8.49)
  • Fish & Chips ($10.99 for 2 pieces, $14.99 for 3 pieces)
  • Poutine ($7.49)
• Pizza: Made with Italian flour and stone-baked, pizza options include:
  • Cheese ($13.99)
  • Pepperoni ($14.99)
  • Hawaiian ($14.99)
  • Veggie ($14.99)
  • Meatlover’s ($15.99)

Dietary Inclusivity

The menu includes several vegan and vegetarian options, such as veggie dogs, veggie burgers, vegetable samosas, and pakora, ensuring that customers with diverse dietary needs are accommodated. These offerings reflect the store’s commitment to inclusivity and its ability to cater to the varied preferences of its clientele.

General Merchandise

In addition to its food offerings, the store functions as a general store, providing a range of merchandise such as groceries, household items, and other essentials. This makes it a one-stop shop for residents who may otherwise need to travel to larger towns like Lake Cowichan for supplies.

Supporting Tourism and Local Economy

Honeymoon Bay’s natural attractions, including Gordon Bay Provincial Park, the Wildflower Reserve, and March Meadows Golf Course, draw thousands of visitors each year. The general store serves as a critical resource for these tourists, offering snacks, meals, and supplies for outdoor activities. Whether hikers need a quick bite before exploring the trails or campers require groceries for their stay, the store meets their needs with convenience and quality.

The store’s role in supporting tourism is complemented by its participation in the local economy. By sourcing some of its offerings from local vendors and promoting community events like the Honeymoon Bay Market, the store contributes to the area’s economic vitality. The market, held across from the store, features local artisans and producers, creating a vibrant hub of commerce and culture (Honeymoon Bay Market).

Community Impact and Future Outlook

The Honeymoon Bay General Store is a lifeline for the local community, providing essential goods and services in an area with limited retail options. Its high rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 42 reviews on Google Maps indicates strong customer satisfaction and underscores its importance to both residents and visitors (Google Maps).

The store’s recent enhancements, including the murals and outdoor amenities, demonstrate a forward-thinking approach to community engagement. By supporting local artists and creating a welcoming environment, the store strengthens its role as a community hub. Its proximity to the Honeymoon Bay Market and other local attractions further amplifies its impact, drawing visitors and fostering a sense of community pride.

Conclusion

The Honeymoon Bay General Store is more than a place to shop; it is a symbol of the community’s resilience and adaptability. From its historical roots in a mill town to its modern role in a tourism-driven economy, the store has consistently met the needs of those it serves. With its diverse menu, community-focused initiatives, and strategic location, it remains a cornerstone of Honeymoon Bay, enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike. Whether you’re a local seeking daily essentials or a tourist exploring the beauty of Cowichan Lake, a visit to the general store is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can also find us on the store’s Facebook page.