Discover Departure Bay
Departure Bay is one of Nanaimo's top communities for anyone looking to be close to the ocean, while still being in close proximity to everything that Nanaimo has to offer. Ocean view homes in Departure Bay take advantage of a view overlooking the Departure Bay ferry terminal and Newcastle Island which is just a short kayak away!
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Explore Departure Bay
Departure Bay provides it's residents with many ways to enjoy the outdoors. While it's very clear that Departure Bay is a destination for anyone wanting to be near the ocean, it's important to remember that there are also elevated areas to give you a sea to sky vantage point. Sugarloaf Mountain is a prime example of this! A 5 minute walk up the stairs at Sugarloaf grants access to panoramic views of the bay all the way to mountain views with the City of Nanaimo in between.
Departure Bay Parks
Departure Bay is home to some of the most popular parks in Nanaimo. Of these parks, the most popular is Departure Bay Beach. This park includes a paved walkway, providing a nice flat walking space. You can also walk along the sandy beach and take a dip in the ocean. You will see people swimming here year round! This park also has a grassy picnic area with tables and ample space to lay down a picnic blanket. There is also a playground at this park, which means there is something for everyone to enjoy!
Minutes away from Departure Bay Beach is Departure Bay Spray Park, a water park as well as tennis and basketball courts. There is also Wardropper Park, a fully fenced, off leash dog park. With even more parks in the area, Departure Bay is a great area for anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors.
Departure Bay Amenities
From coffee shops to nail salons, Departure Bay has a wide array of amenities available. On all sides of Departure Bay there is shopping centres that include grocery stores and restaurants. During the warmer months of the year there are also food trucks that frequent the Departure Bay Beach area so that there is always something new going on. Nanaimo Golf Course also sits at the top of Departure Bay and there are homes that back right on to the golf course, making Departure Bay an ideal spot for the avid golfer!
Departure Bay Schools
Departure Bay features three elementary schools to ensure that no matter where you live in Departure Bay, you are in close proximity to schools. Departure Bay fits into the Wellington Secondary Catchment, which is just minutes from Country Club Centre.
- Cilaire Elementary
25 Cilaire Drive, Nanaimo, BC
(250) 758-7941 - Departure Bay Elementary
3741 Departure Bay Road, Nanaimo, BC
(250) 758-2434 - Rock City Elementary
1111 Dufferin Crescent, Nanaimo, BC
(250) 740-3500 - Wellington Secondary
3135 Mexicana Road, Nanaimo, BC
(250) 751-0126