British Columbia Travel Guide
The unofficial BC Travel & Tourism Guide

 
This marine paradise designed to play host to hundreds of leisure boaters and pleasure cruisers is located 26 kilometers north of Nanaimo off Highway 19 on Vancouver Island. It is known for spectacular ocean views, picturesque marinas and a challenging golf course. It has a country atmosphere while being close to city amenities.

Interesting fact: The notable military marine base is non-obtrusive and a portion is widely used as an international torpedo testing area operated by the Canadian Government.

Population: 5,000

Highlights:
Northwest Bay Trails horseback riding, biking and hiking are welcome
Qualicum National Wildlife Area
Local Artist Studios are indicated by road sign
Sail the Georgia Strait
Nanoose Hill hiking trail
Bald Eagle viewing
Harvest Bounty Festival (approx. August)

History:
The Coastal Salish First Nations tribe, "Nanoose", closely related to the Nanaimo Indians frequented this eastern area of the island. Tribes on Vancouver Island date back over 5,000 years and were the areas only known inhabitants following the last ice age.

Western settlers did not populate the area until the early 1800's.

The Canadian Forces Maritime Experimental Test Range (CFMETR)has operated from Nanoose Bay since 1965.

Climate:
Summer average 19 degrees Celsius
Winter average 4 degrees Celsius

 

Nanoose Bay Accommodations


Nanoose Bay Things to Do