Living in Nanaimo

Discover Vancouver Island's vibrant hub - where urban amenities meet coastal living

The Island's Second Largest City

Where urban sophistication meets coastal charm

Nanaimo has evolved into a lively urban center with its smartly restored downtown and walkable harbor front. Many visitors arrive in Nanaimo via its ferry terminals, floatplane services, cruise ship terminal and revitalized airport.

100K+ Residents
3 Ferry Terminals
19 Golf Courses
Nanaimo Map
Explore Nanaimo

What Makes Nanaimo Special

Experience the best of Vancouver Island living in Nanaimo

Outdoor Adventures

Great hiking and cycling trails, kayaking and boating opportunities, ziplines, and even a bungy jump zone within walking distance of downtown.

Island Life

Explore the Old City Quarter before catching a passenger ferry to Protection Island for a pint at Canada's only floating pub and restaurant.

Recreation

Golfers can roam between 19 courses in the region while their partners enjoy shopping, culinary tours, and wildlife encounters.

Explore Nanaimo Neighbourhoods

From waterfront luxury to family-friendly communities, find your perfect home

Properties

Brechin Hill

Overlooking the ocean with views of Departure Bay and Newcastle Island. Walking distance to downtown with restaurants, shopping and pubs. Features an assortment of homes from renovated heritage properties to original character homes.

Schools: Brechin Elementary, Ecole Quarterway Elementary, Woodlands Secondary
Properties

Cedar

A small community 8km from South Nanaimo, named for the Western Red Cedar trees. Find single-family homes, condos, farms, and acreages. Cedar by the Sea offers waterfront condos perfect for weekend getaways.

Schools: North Cedar Intermediate, Woodbank Primary, Cedar Community Secondary
Properties

Central Nanaimo

Central location within 5-15 minutes of shopping malls, hospital, golfing, and airport. Great variety of homes including condos, older bungalows, and fixer-uppers. High rental demand makes it ideal for investors.

Schools: Claire Elementary, Quarterway Elementary, Woodlands Secondary
Properties

Departure Bay

Located on a hill surrounding Departure Bay Beach with ocean views of Newcastle Island and the mainland. Beach facilities include playgrounds, tennis courts, and a water park.

Schools: Departure Bay Elementary, Wellington Secondary
Properties

Hammond Bay

Runs along the coastline between Dover Bay and Departure Bay. Wide variety of homes from million-dollar oceanview properties to condos, all with stunning coastal access.

Schools: Hammond Bay Elementary, Dover Bay Secondary
Properties

University District

Desirable area close to Vancouver Island University, downtown nightlife, and recreation. Appeals to students, families, and young professionals with new condos and revitalized properties.

Schools: Mountain View Elementary, Nanaimo District Secondary
Properties

Old City Quarter

Key heritage area with buildings dating to the 1800s, beautifully restored. Features heritage homes, modern condos along the seawall, excellent dining, shops, and galleries.

Schools: Fairview Elementary, Nanaimo District Secondary
Properties

North Nanaimo

Offers some of the best ocean views in the city. Homes built in the last 25 years, including luxury waterfront properties. Close to shopping, dining, parks, and beach access.

Schools: McGirr Elementary, Dover Bay Secondary
Properties

South Nanaimo

Get more house for your dollar with affordable options including condos, townhouses, single-family homes, and acreages. Close to Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and shopping centers.

Schools: Bayview Elementary, John Barsby Secondary

Outdoor Paradise

Endless recreational opportunities right at your doorstep

Water Sports

Scuba diving, kayaking, boating, and swimming in pristine waters. Explore artificial reefs in Nanaimo's harbour.

Hiking & Cycling

Extensive trail networks for all skill levels, from gentle walks to challenging mountain bike trails.

Gardens & Parks

Visit Milner Gardens and Woodland, one of Vancouver Island's favorite public gardens and numerous community parks.

Golf Courses

Choose from 19 golf courses in the region, offering challenging play with stunning Island views.