Residents and visitors enjoy kayaking in calm bays, hiking scenic trails, and golfing at premier courses like Fairwinds. With a small but welcoming collection of local shops, cafes, and community events, Nanoose Bay blends rural charm with upscale comfort. Whether you’re exploring for a weekend or planning to settle down, this oceanside haven promises tranquility, recreation, and a close connection to nature. It’s the perfect blend of natural escape and upscale living, ideal for visitors and residents alike.
Community Guide
Nanoose Bay, BC
Nestled between Parksville and Nanaimo on Vancouver Island’s eastern shoreline, Nanoose Bay is a peaceful and picturesque community known for its natural beauty and elevated coastal lifestyle.
Surrounded by forested hills, quiet beaches, and scenic oceanfront, it offers a slower pace of life with easy access to both nature and nearby urban centres.
On The Map
Nanoose Bay sits between the communities of Parksville to the north and Nanaimo to the south, along the Island Highway (Highway 19 and 19A). This picturesque seaside area is part of the Regional District of Nanaimo and is nestled along the shores of the Strait of Georgia.
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Get Outside
From coastal paddles to forest hikes, Nanoose Bay delivers unforgettable adventures in a peaceful seaside setting.
Nanoose Bay beckons outdoor lovers with its rich mix of coastal and wilderness experiences. Begin your day kayaking or paddleboarding in calm, sheltered waters, where scenic coves and hidden beaches await exploration.
On land, discover a network of forested trails winding through cedar and fir groves—perfect for hiking, trail running, or birdwatching. Golfers can tee off at nearby premier greens like Fairwinds, while divers explore marine life in clear tide pools and rocky outcrops. With abundant fishing, boating, and shoreline picnicking opportunities, Nanoose Bay combines natural beauty with active pursuits, making every day an invitation to connect with the outdoors.
SHOP & DINE
Discover a quiet seaside shopping and dining scene full of local flavor and hidden gems.
Nanoose Bay offers heartwarming small-town shopping and dining experiences right by the water. Local cafés and bakeries serve up fresh pastries, hearty breakfasts, and friendly conversations—perfect for starting your day before a coastal adventure.
Boutique shops feature locally made crafts, artisanal goods, and unique home décor, creating a warm, community-centered shopping atmosphere. When mealtime rolls around, charming bistros and cosy eateries focus on fresh, regional ingredients—often caught or grown just minutes away—served with spectacular views of the bay. Whether you’re browsing handcrafted treasures, sipping coffee by the shore, or enjoying farm-to-table fare, Nanoose Bay blends relaxed coastal elegance with genuine West Coast flavor.
Accommodations
Accommodations in Nanoose Bay provide a peaceful retreat on Vancouver Island’s scenic east coast.
Whether you're looking for an upscale oceanfront resort, a private vacation rental tucked among the trees, or a quaint B&B with personalized charm, this coastal community has something for every type of traveler.
Many stays offer easy access to beaches, marinas, golf, and hiking trails—making it simple to enjoy both relaxation and adventure. With quiet surroundings, beautiful views, and a welcoming atmosphere, Nanoose Bay is the perfect place to unwind and reconnect with nature.
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Real Estate & Rentals
Parksville’s real estate market blends coastal appeal and investment potential.
From beachfront rentals to modern family homes, Parksville offers desirable living options for every lifestyle and budget
Parksville’s real estate market blends relaxed coastal living with savvy investment opportunities, featuring everything from charming heritage houses and contemporary detached homes in quiet neighborhoods to brand-new townhouses and condominiums close to the waterfront. For those not yet ready to buy, the rental scene is robust—ranging from long-term single-family homes ideal for growing families to fully furnished, short-term vacation rentals overlooking sandy shores. Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer seeking a tight-knit community, a retiree in search of easy access to amenities and recreation, or an investor eyeing vacation-rental potential, Parksville delivers a diverse selection of properties that reflect its scenic locale and vibrant coastal vibe.
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Amenities
Nanoose Bay combines small-town convenience with natural appeal.
Nanoose Bay offers a range of well-rounded amenities that make it a comfortable and connected place to live, visit, or settle.
The local community centre and seasonal halls host workshops, fitness classes, and gatherings, fostering social connection and belonging. Need some activity options? Public parks, playgrounds, and off-leash dog areas provide relaxed outdoor spaces for all ages. The marina and boat launch support boating and fishing needs, while local markets, corner stores, and a few cafés keep day-to-day errands within easy reach. Add in reliable postal services, a volunteer fire hall, and scenic walking paths weaving through neighbourhoods, and you’ll find Nanoose Bay effortlessly blends rural charm with thoughtful services—all framed by its peaceful coastal setting.
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