5 of the Best Places to Live on Vancouver Island
When you think of Vancouver Island, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? You likely think of our beautiful capital city, Victoria, and the iconic view of the capitol building and harbour downtown.
What you may not think of is the hidden treasures in the small towns up the island’s East Coast, which are full of beautiful places to live. Small towns are quieter and can offer a greater sense of community than a city, which might be something you’re looking for when considering where to live long-term.
Our team at The Nicklen Group is proud to be listing homes that are located in some of the best places to live on Vancouver Island. If you’re on the fence about where to buy a home, we’ve created a list to help you consider some of the best options on Vancouver Island.
Here are our top 5 picks for the best places to live on Vancouver Island:
Qualicum Beach
Qualicum Beach is a small town of only 9,000 people on the Strait of Georgia. It’s known for its miles of sandy beach and celebrations of local art and culture. Its celebrations of local art and culture are demonstrated in local attractions like the Village Theatre and Old School House, a historical building from 1914. Qualicum Beach is located within a short drive of many beautiful parks and trails, and home to many great family activities. It’s also located near Coombs, which is an eclectic village that features The Old Country Market.
Another great perk of living in Qualicum Beach is its airport, which gives you direct access to both YVR airport and Vancouver Harbour in just 20 minutes. Living in Qualicum Beach is a great option for those looking for a quiet home on Vancouver Island with activities to keep your family busy year round.
Parksville
Parksville, BC is a small city located on the East Coast of Vancouver Island, north of Nanaimo. It’s one of the fastest growing cities in BC and similar to Qualicum Beach, offers miles of beautiful sandy beaches. Parksville is close to a number of beautiful trails, beaches, and parks, and full of family activities like mini golf and farmers markets. Enjoy a show at the Parksville Outdoor Theatre or relax at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Its small size and family-friendly activities make it a great place to buy your first home.
French Creek
Between Parksville and Qualicum Beach, this small town is well known for its fishing and bird watching. If you enjoy wildlife, this could be a great place to call your future home. The annual salmon run provides great fishing opportunities. Then there’s the annual Brant Wildlife Festival, where you can join the fun of celebrating the migration of geese and over 200 other species of birds. With all of this, plus two provincial parks nearby, this is a great place for a nature lover to purchase a home.
Nanoose Bay
Located between Nanaimo and Parksville on the Island’s coast, Nanoose Bay offers beautiful views and campgrounds, including access to the beautiful Moorecraft Regional Park, the #1 park to visit in Nanoose Bay according to Trip Advisor. Let us find you a great home in Nanoose Bay and you’ll be going on vacation in your own backyard.
Nanaimo
Although these small towns all have their perks, maybe you still prefer city life. We get it. With its vibrant community, parks, and outdoor lifestyle, it’s not only a great place for a day-trip, but Nanaimo is also a wonderful place to call home. If you’re considering purchasing a home on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo could be the place for you.
There are many beautiful locations to purchase real estate on the East Coast of Vancouver Island. Each of these towns has a lot to offer, and the longer you live there, the more likely you are to discover new things that make it special. All five of these places are surrounded by some of the best golf courses that British Columbia has to offer. Moreover, moving to the East Coast of Vancouver Island will have you just 45 minutes from Mount Washington, which is a much-loved mountain by skiers and snowboarders alike.
Interested in living in one of these beautiful places? Contact us at The Nicklen Group and let us find your dream home.