Our Story
Rooted in Wilderness, Inspired by the Land
Into the Woods We Go
In 1980, Craig and Deborah Murray were seeking a more sustainable lifestyle for their young family. They felt there had to be a simpler way of life—one with more opportunity for connection to what matters most. They set out to create a life immersed in nature and to welcome the world to experience the majesty of nature at Nimmo Bay. Surrounded by ancient forests, natural ecosystems, clean air and water, the Murrays knew this was their chance to reconnect and co-exist in harmony with the land, while creating the world’s best wilderness destination.
Welcoming Guests for 45 Years
The first guests of Nimmo Bay arrived in June of 1981, eager to experience this remote wilderness. With grit and determination, the Murrays developed a salt-water fishing lodge, soon to evolve into the heli-fishing destination that garnered world-wide attention. Today, under the modern leadership of their eldest son Fraser and his wife Becky, the Murrays continue to evolve, welcoming all those in search of culinary, wellness and adventure pursuits in their wild backyard.
Creating a Sustainable Future
From the beginning, the Murray family has pursued their dream of living off the land while minimizing their environmental footprint. You’ll find landmark innovations like our hydro power system fueled by streams and waterfalls, providing clean drinking water and up to 80% of our resort’s power needs, as well as floating docks in lieu of deforested land. We sustainably source our culinary ingredients, support local communities through tourism and education, convert our waste water to clean water and fund groundbreaking wildlife research and fin-fishing aquaculture activism.
WHERE WE’RE HEADED
What began as a quaint fishing lodge has expanded naturally into a world-renowned destination. At Nimmo Bay, we’re at the leading edge of experiential travel. Our focus for the future is on sustainability, immersive wilderness experiences and authentic connections. Now more than ever, we recognize the importance of tuning out the buzz of modern life and stilling the mind through adventure, wellness and culinary-based activities. We warmly invite you to return to nature, and experience reconnection for yourself.
Water, Wilderness and Family
1979
Together with his new wife Deborah, Craig Murray begins to dream of creating an off-grid fishing lodge where their young family can live amongst nature and welcome guests from around the world.
1981
Nimmo Bay welcomes its first guests on June 1, 1981.
1982
On May 27, an efficient Pelton wheel hydroelectric system is installed, fueled by snowmelt and rainwater, and propelled by the adjacent natural waterfall.
1983
Nimmo Bay becomes known as a West Coast saltwater fishing destination.
1984
Nimmo Bay introduces heli-guided trips for guests to access remote freshwater fishing, dubbed the “most unbelievable sport fishing adventure of a lifetime.”
1984
To protect these remote freshwater rivers and the mighty fish that run them, an always-on catch and release program is implemented at Nimmo.
1994
The sound of hammers and saws fills the air as the six inter-tidal cabins are built, making it possible for the resort to provide greater privacy and luxury for guests.
1999
The Government of British Columbia presents Nimmo Bay with the Environmental Award for Industry, Business, and Labour.
2005
The popular US television show Boston Legal films an episode at the resort called Finding Nimmo, which continues to help introduce new guests to us to this day.
2005
The BC government recognizes Nimmo as the province’s first official Stewardship Partner of the 50,000 square miles of land and water we operate in.
2006
The floating fire dock is built and installed, a place for guests and family to gather for cocktails and trade stories under the night sky.
2013
Namaste at Nimmo! The first yoga studio is built and introduced as a popular wellness activity for guests.
2013
Through our Wilderness and Wildlife Adventure program, guests are encouraged to reunite with the natural world by embracing outdoor adventure: whale watching, foraging, hiking and more.
2017
The lodge is remodeled and expanded to include the restorative Cedar Room wellness space, yoga studio, fitness room and the Cascade Room, built alongside the waterfall.
2017
Nimmo Bay makes the decision to shift exclusively to catch-and-release fly-fishing.
2018
Nimmo Bay receives the Vancouver Island EcoStar Awards for Lodging & Accommodation, recognizing excellence in environmental achievement and leadership.
2019
The Nimmo boat fleet expands, offering more guests the opportunity to connect with the magic of the coastal Great Bear Rainforest.
2020
After years of dreaming, design and determination, the new restaurant—Little River—and lodge building is completed, providing new life to our culinary programs and to our team.
2021
We launch Confluence Nimmo Bay, our online store! Now, our curation of the best locally made products and one-of-a-kind pieces crafted by local artisans can be purchased online as well as at the resort.
2022
We launch two week-long retreats, a rejuvenating wellness journey and a culinary exploration of the senses. Led by our experienced team and inspired by nature, these retreats receive high praise.
2023
Inspired by a Thunderbird, Little River’s full vision is realized as we install its two wings: the September Lounge and Melody Room.
2024
Nimmo Bay wins BC Hotel Association’s Accommodation of the Year and Culinary Excellence awards, plus TIABC’s Remarkable Experience award.
Proud to Partner with
Ready for an adventure?
Book your trip today with the help of our expert concierge team. They can answer any questions and help you customize your Nimmo package to reflect your ultimate vision for a wild getaway you won’t soon forget.