Nanoose Bay

Travel Guide

Nanoose Bay showing a house and rugged coastline
Nanoose Bay featuring golf
Nanoose Bay which includes a bay or harbour
Nanoose Bay
Nanoose Bay which includes rugged coastline

Discover a popular wildlife spotting location on the east coast of Vancouver Island and take to the water to explore miles of untouched shoreline.

Nanoose Bay is a coastal community where lakes and sandy beaches are surrounded by forests and snow-covered mountains. This area of great beauty is a popular playground for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Hike along woodland trails, row across the bay and go bird and wildlife spotting.

Enjoy a range of recreational activities on the bay's waters. Stop by one of the beaches for a refreshing swim. Rent a kayak or canoe and visit a marina to charter a small boat for a fishing expedition. Cod, perch and flounder are among the species you can hope to catch here.

The bay is also known for its numerous scuba diving sites. Dive down to aquatic depths to see even more marine life, including sponges, scallops and Puget Sound king crabs. There are sites for all ability levels.

Experience more of the bay’s animals with a visit to the Qualicum National Wildlife Area. The 203–acre (82-hectare) lowland expanse encompasses meadows, marshes and mudflats and is home to nearly 200 animal species, including more than 100 different types of birds. Spot bald eagles and Brent geese in the sky, while on the ground you may encounter deer, otters and raccoons.

Familiarize yourself with some of the native aquatic flora by hiking the trails by Enos Lake and its nearby ponds. Walk up to the top of Notch Hill on the north side of Nanoose Harbour for the excellent views of the bay and estuary.

Sporting types may want to challenge themselves with a round or two at the Fairwinds Golf and Country Club. The course has a scenic setting with ocean and forest views and is open to players of all abilities.

Finish your day by dining on local fish specialties in a cozy restaurant or pub.

Nanoose Bay is situated between the towns of Nanaimo and Parksville and is less than a 30-minute drive from either of these locations.

Where to stay in Nanoose Bay

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Beachcomber

While Beachcomber isn't home to many top sights, Beachcomber Marina and Rathtrevor Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.

Beachcomber
Pacific Shores Resort & Spa

Pacific Shores Resort & Spa

3.5 out of 5
1600 Strougler Road, Nanoose Bay, BC
The price is CA $221 per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
CA $221
CA $266 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star beach hotel in Nanoose Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Popular attractions Parksville Beach and Parksville Museum ...
8/10 Very Good! (737 reviews)
"Great restaurant awesome food Rooms comfortable. Great stay"

Reviewed on Aug. 16, 2025

Pacific Shores Resort & Spa
Quaint Tudor Retreat - pet friendly, ocean view, minutes from beach

Quaint Tudor Retreat - pet friendly, ocean view, minutes from beach

Nanoose Bay
Stay at this B&B in Nanoose Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Enos Creek Community Park and Park Place Community Park ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (3 reviews)
"Lovely ocean view & walks dow to the beach! Lots of little extras like breakfast foods & shower supplies. Thank you so much Thomas!"

Reviewed on Aug. 17, 2025

Quaint Tudor Retreat - pet friendly, ocean view, minutes from beach
Ocean Oasis ★ Quiet ★ Oceanside ★ Kitchenette

Ocean Oasis ★ Quiet ★ Oceanside ★ Kitchenette

Nanoose Bay
The price is CA $180 per night from Aug 28 to Aug 29
CA $180
CA $367 total
Aug 28 - Aug 29
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this vacation home in Nanoose Bay. Enjoy a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a pool table. Popular attractions Parksville Beach and Parksville ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (139 reviews)
"The unit was comfortable and clean and conveniently located to the beach."

Reviewed on Aug. 14, 2025

Ocean Oasis ★ Quiet ★ Oceanside ★ Kitchenette
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Ocean Oasis ★ Quiet ★ Oceanside ★ Kitchenette

Ocean Oasis ★ Quiet ★ Oceanside ★ Kitchenette

Nanoose Bay
Stay at this vacation home in Nanoose Bay. Enjoy a fitness center, laundry facilities, and a pool table. Popular attractions Parksville Beach and Parksville ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (139 reviews)
"The unit was comfortable and clean and conveniently located to the beach."

Reviewed on Aug. 14, 2025

Ocean Oasis ★ Quiet ★ Oceanside ★ Kitchenette
Cozy Cabana with Large Outdoor Hot Tub

Cozy Cabana with Large Outdoor Hot Tub

Nanoose Bay
Stay at this cabin in Nanoose Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and patios. Popular attractions Crows Nest Community Park and Redden Road Community Park are located ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (18 reviews)
Fantastic spot
"Well stocked, cozy and quiet"

Reviewed on May 9, 2025

Cozy Cabana with Large Outdoor Hot Tub
The Lagoon Suite at The Estuary Inn

The Lagoon Suite at The Estuary Inn

Nanoose Bay
Stay at this apartment in Nanoose Bay. Enjoy free WiFi, patios, and cable/satellite TV service. Popular attractions Qualicum National Wildlife Area and Nanoose ...
10/10 Exceptional! (90 reviews)
"Beautiful property. Check in was so simple - code sent ahead of time and all seamless. We didn’t cook but the kitchen was well equipped for all we needed - breakfasts, lunches etc. Everything was fabulous - and the host was right there if we’d needed anything. We’re hoping we’re lucky enough to come ..."

Reviewed on Aug. 3, 2025

The Lagoon Suite at The Estuary Inn
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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