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 spent immersed in nature, with their sights on welcoming 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, ready to see what this remote wilderness could offer them. 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, now welcoming all those in search of culinary, wellness and adventure pursuits in their wild backyard.

Craig and Peter 1984

Gallery

  • Murray Family | Nimmo Bay History
  • 1981 Nimmo Bay
  • Murray Family
  • Craig - Saltwater Fishing
  • 1998 Nimmo Bay
  • Catch and Release Heli-Fishing

    WHERE WE’RE HEADED

    What began as a quaint fishing lodge has expanded naturally into the world-renowned destination that Nimmo is known as today. With renewed design and inspiring architecture and a team professionals to care for you, there is no shortage of imaginative ways to experience this remarkably wild place. 

    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.

    Craig and Deborah Murray

    1981

    Nimmo Bay welcomes its first guests on June 1, 1981.

    Nimmo Bay 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.

    Pelton wheel hydroelectric system

    1983

    Nimmo Bay becomes known as a West Coast saltwater fishing destination.

    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.”

    Catch and Release Heli-Fishing

    1984

    An always-on Catch and Release program is immediately implemented at Nimmo Bay in an effort to sustain and protect these remote freshwater rivers and the mighty steelhead salmon and other species of fish that run them.

    Catch and Release Heli-Fishing Adventure

    1994

    The sound of hammers and saws filled the air as the six inter-tidal cabins were built, making it possible for the resort to provide greater privacy and luxury for guests.

    Luxury guest cabins

    1999

    The Government of British Columbia presents Nimmo Bay with the Environmental Award for Industry, Business, and Labour.

    Nimmo Bay Resort

    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 this day.

    Boston Legal films an episode at Nimmo Bay

    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.

    Stewardship Partner

    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.

    Floating Firedock

    2013

    Namaste at Nimmo! The first yoga studio is built and introduced as a popular wellness activity for guests.

    Yoga Studio at Nimmo Bay Resort

    2013

    Wilderness and Wildlife Adventure program launches to help reunite guests with the natural world through less fishing, and more outdoor adventure activities like whale watching, foraging, hiking, and kayaking.

    Wilderness and Wildlife Adventures

    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.

    Wellness Cascade Room

    2017

    Nimmo Bay makes the decision to shift exclusively to catch-and-release flyfishing.

    Sea To Cedar Foundation

    2018

    Nimmo Bay receives the Vancouver Island EcoStar Awards for Lodging & Accommodation, recognizing excellence in environmental achievement and leadership.

    Nimmo Bay Resort

    2019

    The Nimmo boat fleet expands offering more guests the opportunity to connect with the magic of the coastal Great Bear Rainforest.

    Nimmo Bay boat fleet

    2020

    After years of dreaming, design and determination, the new restaurant and lodge is completed and towed into Nimmo Bay. Housing the re-imagined restaurant, Little River, the new lodge provides new life to our culinary programs and to our team.

    Top Luxury Travel Bucket Lists in 2021 | Nimmo Bay

    2021

    We launched Confluence Nimmo Bay, our online store! We’ve long enjoyed curating the best locally made products and working with local artisans to create one-of-a-kind pieces to share with our guests. Now these high-quality products can be purchased online as well as at the resort.

    2022

    This year, Nimmo Bay launched two, week-long retreats! A rejuvenating wellness journey and a culinary exploration of the senses. Led by our experienced team and inspired by the surrounding nature, these retreats received high praise.

    2023

    The inspiration for Little River was a Thunderbird, and the original design always included two wings. Due to the cost of the build, we had to delay the completion of the full vision. We officially installed both wings in 2023, named the September Lounge and Melody Room.

    2024

    In 2024, we were recognized by the BC Hotel Association, winning the awards for Accommodation of the Year and for Culinary Excellence. In the same year, the Tourism Industry Association of BC gave Nimmo Bay the award for Remarkable Experience.

    Proud to Partner With

    We’re proud to be a part of The Conservatory Collective, a group of destinations known for the best hospitality experiences offering a deep connection to nature.

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