Nanoose Bay, BC

Know the town

About Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay is a peninsula community between Nanaimo and Parksville, wrapped around a sheltered bay of the same name. It is mostly residential, with neighbourhoods tucked among the trees and rocky waterfront, and a strong appeal for people who want quiet, natural surroundings within easy reach of two towns in the Parksville–Qualicum area.

Fairwinds and the waterfront

The Fairwinds area on the peninsula includes a golf course, a marina and residential neighbourhoods with water and mountain views. Boating, kayaking and fishing are popular on the calm water of the bay and nearby coves, and small beaches offer spots for a picnic or a paddle.

Hikes and parks

Notch Hill, a short but steep hike, rewards walkers with sweeping views over the Strait of Georgia and the islands. Moorecroft Regional Park, once a summer camp, has forest trails, a quiet cove and a rocky shoreline perfect for a gentle ramble. Wildlife sightings, from eagles to seals, are common along the coast.

A naval test range

The waters off Nanoose Bay are home to a Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental and Test Range, and naval vessels are occasionally seen in the area — an unexpected detail in an otherwise peaceful setting.

Getting here

Nanoose Bay lies along Highway 19, about twenty minutes north of Nanaimo and a few minutes south of Parksville. Shopping and services are close by in either direction, and Lantzville is just to the south.

Nanoose Bay’s verified local businesses — many of them home-based trades and services — are listed below, with events nearby.

For council, permits, garbage and recycling, parks bookings and other local services, visit Regional District of Nanaimo — Area E.