Portrait of Carly Carey, Realtor®

Carly Carey

Realtor®

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Luxury In Downtown Nanaimo

Departure Bay Waterfront Real Estate

One of the most exclusive neighbourhoods in Nanaimo, Departure Bay is recognized for its vibrant community life and beautiful ocean views. The broad sweep of the bay offers residents ample outdoor activities, and is also home to a major ferry terminal. Waterfront real estate in Departure Bay is considered some of the most exclusive in the city. With its notable sandy beach, this community provides a wonderfully unique lifestyle that combines private locations with abundant urban amenities. Contact the Carly Carey Real Estate Team today, or read more about Departure Bay waterfront real estate.

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Waterfront Living
Beach Access

Departure Bay Real Estate Statistics

Average Condo Price $859K
Lowest Priced Home $399K
Highest Listing Price $1.5M
Total Departure Bay Listings 9
Avg. Days On Market 43
Avg. Price/SQFT $478

Property Types (active listings)

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Three Hundred And Sixty Degree Views

Depature Bay Waterfront Real Estate Highlights

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    Range of different property types, from single-family homes to condos, available on the market
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    Properties that offer scenic views of Nanaimo's downtown and the oceanfront
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    Departure Bay offers a safe, family-friendly community, ideal for commuters and retirees alike
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    Close to some of the area's biggest highlights, including Departure Bay Beach and parks
The Waterfront Lifestyle In Departure BaySoak in the ocean views and the adventure that a Departure Bay waterfront property has to offer.
Sunrise over Departure Bay beach in Nanaimo, BCCamera Icon
Playground at Kin Park in Departure Bay neighbourhood Camera Icon
Amenities Abound

Departure Bay At A Glance

Residents of Departure Bay like living in the neighbourhood for many reasons. However, the biggest ones are that the area is very family-friendly and there are a lot of things to do—for those of all ages. 

During the warmer months, Departure Bay Beach and Kinsmen Park has a swimming area, though those who live in the nieghbourhood also enjoy various water activities, such as kayaking, paddle boarding, boating & more. On land, Departure Bay's neighbourhood parks are local options to play and get some fresh air, with the trails at Linley Valley Cottle Lake Park appeal to those looking for a hike.

Or, kick back, relax and soak in the sun as you lay on the beach. For the early risers, watching the rising sun light up the morning sky with a golden glow is a must. Don’t worry if you’re not a morning person though, the Departure Bay sunsets are equally as breathtaking and colourful.

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Friendly Community
Scenic Beaches
View from the Departure Bay neighbourhood in Nanaimo, BCCamera Icon
Traditional Style Homes

Discover Waterfront Real Estate

Waterfront real estate in Departure Bay often features spacious accommodations, with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms fit for families of any size. While lots do vary in size, they tend to be slightly larger than some other established neighbourhoods in Nanaimo.

The architectural styles of Departure Bay waterfront homes do vary, ranging from character (primarily Craftsman and West Coast) and split-level to custom, often Contemporary, luxury homes.

For those wishing to bring their dream home to life, empty lots offer the perfect opportunity to build from the ground up, exactly as you see fit. While these are quite rare to find on the market (the most popular being single-family homes), vacant lots are priced well for the amenities they offer. 

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Vibrant Area
Charming Properties

Explore Departure Bay Waterfront Amenities

Departure Bay, which curls around the beach with Newcastle Island in the distance, is known for its exceptional location. It is about a 10-minute drive to downtown Nanaimo, but also has the sought-after privacy that comes with neighbourhoods a little further away from the hustle and bustle. One of Departure Bay's most recognized amenities is the access to Departure Bay Beach, as well as the two waterfront parks: Departure Bay Centennial Park and Kinsmen Park. The former has a splash pad and sports fields, while the latter has a playground and benches.

This neighbourhood is also home to the Nanaimo Golf Club, a favourite for the adults, seven small community parks, a favourite for the kids, and a dog park for the furry friends. There are three schools in and around the area: Departure Bay Elementary School, Cilaire Elementary School, and Wellington Secondary School.

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Pacific Ocean
Aerial view over Departure Bay's waterfront region in Nanaimo, BC

Departure Bay Waterfront Homes Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What do residents of Departure Bay like to do for fun?

A: Perhaps the greatest appeal of a Departure Bay waterfront home is the easy access to the water it affords. Residents benefit from the myriad of water activities in the area and certainly don't shy away from enjoying the great outdoors! From swimming, to kayaking and boating, there's no shortage of opportunities for those who like to get active.

Q: How far is Departure Bay from the ferry?

A: Fortunately, there's a ferry port right in Departure Bay! Now how's that for convenience? Getting to and from the mainland has never been easier.

Q: Does Departure Bay have an HOA/strata fees?

A: The properties in Departure Bay can belong to the Departure Bay Neighbourhood Association, which also oversees the neighbourhoods of Sherwood Forest and Lynburn. Charging a small annual fee, this organization is optional for residents.

Carly Carey
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If you would like to discuss your central Vancouver Island real estate questions from Lake Cowichan through Qualicum and everywhere in between, please reach out. I love talking about Naniamo real estate and I can’t wait to meet you to discuss your next home with you.