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Looking for the top spots to spend some quality time with family and friends? We have compiled a list of some of the most popular parks in Nanaimo.

Pipers Lagoon Park, Nanaimo BC

1. Pipers Lagoon

Located on Place Road, Pipers Lagoon sits on eight hectares with winding hiking trails that lead you to the water's edge.

• Picnic areas
• Bird watching - Seagulls, Blue Herons and Sandpipers to name a few species
• Fishing
• Ability to watch sailboats
• Beachcombing
• Kites
• Possible swimming for die hard enthusiasts

2. Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park

Take a ferry or your boat to Newcastle Island for a unique experience with nature and history.

• Year-round campgrounds with access to hot showers
• Bicycling
• Hiking
• Buoy mooring and docks available
• Historical sites including Indian ruins
• 363 hectares
• Fishing
• Pets allowed on leash
• Picnic areas
• Playground

3. Neck Point Park

Situated on Morningside Drive with 36 acres of land and shore to explore; those that choose to go diving may even get a greeting from the friendly resident octopus.

• Birdwatching
• Beachcombing
• Ability to see Orcas, Sea Otters, and Sea Lions
• Herring roe is abundant on the shores in January
• Hiking
• Picnics
• Photograph opportunities
• Scuba diving

4. Bowen Park

Closed on weekends, but a wedding and private events are easy to schedule with two barbecues to use for events.

1. Swimming pool
2. Picnic areas
3. Sport fields including tennis courts
4. Playground
5. Sand and standard volleyball courts
6. Horseshoe areas
7. Native flowers
8. Curling club

5. Westwood Lake Park

More than 50 hectares to explore during the week, the park is closed on weekends and at 4:30 p.m. each day.

• Small playground by the gravel parking lot near the second beach
• Off-leash dog park
• Hiking trails
• Frisbee
• Mountain climbing
• Play areas
• Fishing
• Boating
• Boardwalk

Get out and explore Nanaimo! The parks are full of wildlife and native plants to view. You may just find that you love them all! Thinking of making Nanaimo home? Contact us today to discuss your real estate goals.

The main level of this home features 4 large bedrooms and 2 bathrooms including a 4 piece ensuite. The living area is bright, spacious, and has a desirable open concept. The kitchen has newer stainless steel appliances, lots of counter/cupboard space, and a large breakfast bar. Enjoy the distant ocean and coastal mountain views you're your balcony, accessible from the living room. The master bedroom is equipped with a large closet and ensuite. Downstairs there is a spacious 2 bedroom 1 bathroom legal suite with a private entrance. Plenty of room for an RV, boat, or extra parking out front. Situated on a quiet street close to Colliery Dam, VIU, Downtown Nanaimo, and many other local amenities. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS 429557

Vancouver Island is home to one the most diverse ecosystems in the world. It features rain forests, mountains, lakes, rivers, meadows, marshes and beaches. It’s one of the world’s best locations for birding, whale watching, and trout and salmon fishing. While the whole region is known for its natural beauty, mild climate and vibrant art scene, the Nanaimo area especially offers many desirable waterfront real estate opportunities.

Nanaimo Area Waterfront Real Estate | Image Provided by VIREB

Nanaimo

Home to over 84,000 residents, Nanaimo is Vancouver Island's second-largest urban area. Despite its municipal characteristics, it has an unparalleled natural beauty. For example, Nanaimo has over 3,400 acres (1,400 hectares) of protected green space, which includes an abundance of trails and parks open for exploration. Nicknamed the Harbor City, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the nation’s most desirable island destinations.

Nanaimo has many recreational and cultural opportunities. Residents can enjoy assorted culture, sporting, community arts and special interest groups. As such, home owners can take advantage of an energetic city pace while enjoying the relaxed ambiance of their neighbours and environment. With a mild climate to boot, Nanaimo offers a lifestyle you can’t get anywhere else in Canada.

Nanoose Bay and Fairwinds

If you can’t decide between golfing and water sports, the communities of Nanoose Bay and Fairwinds offer both. This area has many opportunities for canoeing, hiking, fishing and sailing. Despite its maritime presence, Nanoose Bay has one of the nation’s driest climates. The subdivision of Fairwinds offers luxurious golf course and oceanfront properties close to the amenities of Nanaimo and Parksville.

Qualicum Beach and Parksville

Centrally located, the Vancouver Island neighbourhoods of Qualicum Beach and Parksville are popular for their sandy beaches, year-round golfing and coastal wildlife. Both have excellent island amenities and make the ideal locale when you want to have easy access to the rest of the island. Qualicum Beach is home to around 9,000 inhabitants and has a laid-back, friendly vibe. Parksville is slightly larger and features an active environment where families with young children and retirees enjoy a high quality of life in natural surroundings.

No matter which locale you prefer on Vancouver Island, you can choose from a variety of coastal real estate options, such as urban condominiums, modern retirement homes, heritage waterfront houses or single-family residences in developed oceanfront communities. Plus, you get to enjoy outdoor activities year-round because the island has the mildest climate in all of Canada.

5 bedroom 3 bathroom character home close to all amenities. This three storey 2,289 sqft home is a truly unique find. The main floor has new hardwood flooring, cove ceilings, thermal windows, a beautiful stone fireplace, and a master bedroom with 2 closets. Upstairs you will find 2 more bedrooms and a bathroom. Downstairs there is 2 more bedrooms, and 2 storage rooms, perfect for keeping things organized. The backyard has a large covered balcony, a separate patio, large garden area for gardening, and a fully grown apple tree with tons of fresh apples. Looking for a private office space or guest house? There is also a spacious carriage house on the property. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS 429435

Located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo offers many opportunities to take in all the natural beauty that this region has to offer. Looking for something a bit more exciting? Take a look at theses five adrenaline-pumping activities!

The Nanaimo River offers plenty of opportunities for cliff jumping. Popular diving spots are scattered throughout the area’s rugged rock formations. They are easily accessible from the hiking trails. Natural cliffs jut out beneath bridges and create a perfect place to take that flying leap into the river. Nothing matches those exhilarating seconds midair before hitting the cool, refreshing water. Remember to gauge your distance to the water, and always practice safe diving techniques.

If you want to practice your prowess in hand-eye coordination, axe throwing is surely the most fitting for this land of outdoorsmen. If you have never pitched an axe at a bull’s-eye, you will discover that it brings to mind darts or range shooting. Simply book a lane or drop in on a Friday night. It may look a bit dangerous, but this is an astonishingly fun activity for groups.

As a seaport, Nanaimo abounds in aquatic life. Did you know that you can actually swim with the seals? Snorkeling off of Snake Island, you will find that its Harbour Seals are friendly and curious about people. Many seem unaware that Nanaimo promotes this as eco-tourism, so you will have plenty of freedom to explore the sea and get to know the seals. Remember to demonstrate an appropriate respect for their domain as you swim in their habitat.

Flyboarding is another activity common to the region. The flyboard itself resembles a snowboard but it’s the two Jet Skis that takes this to the next level. Propelled above the water, maintaining balance can be a challenge at first. The coordination this unusual sport requires means that you will be working muscles you might have forgotten you had! Flyboarding provides a uniquely memorable experience that many find addictive.

Last but not least, head back to the Nanaimo River for some bungee jumping. Experience the raw thrill of flying backwards 150 feet through the air only to be caught just in time from hitting the water. Nanaimo offers unparalleled natural beauty. Bunjee jumping provides crazy angles to view it from and appreciate it anew.

Enjoy Nanaimo’s unique physical environment when you engage in one or all of these fun activities.

Beautifully updated 4 bedroom 2 bathroom family home minutes from Departure Bay Beach. This 2,144 sqft main level entry home has a fantastic open concept with endless updates including new kitchen flooring, laminate countertops, stainless steel appliances and cupboards. Both the interior and exterior have been completely redone with designer paint and the windows have been upgraded with a lifetime warranty. Downstairs there is a large family room with a brand new bathroom, a stone fireplace, and a fourth bedroom, giving this home great in law suite potential. The backyard is fully fenced, has a brand new bottom deck, and a large balcony, perfecting for hosting an end of summer barbecue with friends and family. Lots of room for an RV, boat, or extra parking. Situated in a quiet neighbourhood close to all local amenities, all levels of schooling, malls, restaurants, and the Nanaimo Golf Club. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS 429293

This exclusive 3 bedroom 3 bathroom town home built by Ira Lewis Construction LTD is truly a unique find. The main floor of this 1,815 sqft home is bright and has a beautiful open concept with vaulted ceilings. The kitchen has slate tiles, new stainless steel appliances, huge breakfast bar/island, and endless amounts of cupboard space along with an enclosed pantry for extra storage. The living room is equipped with west coast fir flooring and a custom stone fireplace, really making this house feel like home. The Master bedroom has a spacious walk in closet and a 3 piece ensuite. Downstairs you will find the third bedroom, laundry room, and a huge garage that has its own 2 piece bathroom. Stepping onto your backyard patio, you will see there is plenty of room for hosting summer barbecues and a gorgeous landscaped backyard, full of greenery. Located minutes from Neck Point Park, Pipers Lagoon, Woodgrove Mall, and many other local amenities. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS 429189

Exploring Nanaimo

Located on the southeastern edge of scenic Vancouver Island, the dynamic community of Nanaimo in British Columbia offers many interesting events and activities. If you intend to relocate to this lovely part of Canada, you'll want to plan in advance to attend some of these upcoming activities:

Family Fun Night

Between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. on August 31, 2017 (a Thursday) your household will enjoy attending the third (and final) summer monthly Family Fun Night celebration in 2017 at Harewood Centennial Park located at 740 Howard Avenue. This public festival provides a great opportunity to meet your neighbors and become better acquainted. Bring along your entire family to enjoy arts and crafts, music and entertaining games! Musician Ian Johnstone will perform at this free event. With plenty of snack foot and a salad bar, you don't want to miss this excellent opportunity to meet other people in the community before the academic school year commences! The Nanaimo Parks and Recreation Department joined with the Harewood Neighbourhood Association Partnership Project to sponsor this fun-filled recreational evening.

The Nanaimo Downtown Farmers Market

Every Friday through October 6, 2017 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. foodies enjoy the opportunity to explore the Nanaimo Downtown Farmers Market. Now in its 19th year of operation, this event usually attracts well over 50 vegetable and fruit growers. If you crave fresh, nutritious veggies and delicious homemade snacks, you won't want to miss this regular summer and autumn event! Residents of Nanaimo can obtain ripe produce readily, one of the many perks of living in this friendly coastal community.

Celebrate Nanaimo Culture Days

Visit the Nanaimo Museum on September 30, 2017 between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. for a fun-filled day of free family Nanaimo Culture Days events. Toddlers and elementary school age children will learn about life in Nanaimo schools at the turn of the 1900s. Activities include arts and crafts. On September 30 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., the 100 block of Selby Street in the Old City section of Nanaimo conducts a dance and art fair.

Do you expect to move to Nanaimo soon? This vibrant community offers fun events for your entire household. Mark your calendar now!

Spacious 2 bedroom 1 bathroom condo close to all local amenities. This 891 sqft condo has a fantastic open concept and boasts in natural lighting from the large balcony located just off the living room. Recent updates include new carpet, tile flooring, and kitchen appliances. Rentals are allowed, along with one cat or one dog under 10kg. Located minutes from Buttertubs Marsh, Bowen Park, VIU, and the Nanaimo Aquatic Center. This condo is priced to sell, and would be ideal for a first time home buyer or one looking to purchase an investment property. All measurements are approximate and should be verified if important. MLS 429002. 

Oliverwood is a new subdivision in the coveted North Nanaimo neighbourhood. Comprised of 34 brand new single-family detached homes, Oliverwood is prime Nanaimo real estate that's perfect for anyone looking to combine the beauty of nature with the convenience of urban living.

Nature is always present in Oliverwood: many of the houses overlook a wetlands area and duck pond, and several parks are within walking distance. That doesn't mean you're in the middle of nowhere, however, as all the conveniences of urban life are just a short distance away. Nanaimo North Town Centre, which is only a few streets away, has a cinema, a drug store, a market, and several other important shops and services. The Oliver Woods Community Centre is a state of the art facility that hosts a full schedule of recreational programs for all ages in its fitness studio and gymnasiums. Several local and chain restaurants are also conveniently located for anyone looking for a fun night out.

The family-friendly pricing of the modern homes for sale in the Oliverwood neighbourhood make them perfect for anyone wanting to start out their lives right. The floor plans are modern and open, and the houses themselves have a traditional yet unique look. All appliances are fully included and of the highest quality; the kitchens contain designer cabinetry, quartz counter tops, and modern hardware. The single and two-storey homes all have garages, some capable of holding multiple cars. Window blind packages are included, as are the fully fenced and landscaped yards. Stylish, modern homes in an idyllic country setting truly provide the best of both worlds.

Oliverwood was developed by InSight Holdings, a Nanaimo-based real estate developer and builder that has completed hundreds of successful residential and commercial developments. Their projects are known for their consideration towards the community and environment, and their excellence in design and quality of their homes. Would you like to learn more about Oliverwood and it's residential offerings? Contact Sims Real Estate today at (250) 591-1160.