Portrait of Carly Carey, Realtor®

Carly Carey

Realtor®

Ocean Views From Your Window

Vancouver Island Waterfront Real Estate

From Qualicum Beach in the north to the charming community of Chemainus in the south, the eastern coast of Vancouver Island comprises a number of desirable waterfront communities—including those on Vancouver Island proper and the major islands that encircle it. These areas are recognized for their vibrant culture, specifically in regards to the arts, its outdoor recreation (including provincial parks and reserves), and stunning properties with scenic views. Contact Carly Carey today to start your home search, or click to learn more about Vancouver Island waterfront real estate.

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Walk On Waterfront
Private Beaches

Vancouver Island Waterfront Statistics

Average Price $1.9M
Lowest Price $625K
Highest Price $11M
Total Listings 208
Avg. Days On Market 109
Avg. Price/SQFT $906

Property Types (active listings)

Vancouver Island Waterfront Real Estate For Sale

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Sunset through silhouette of trees at Nanoose Bay waterfront Camera Icon
Beach & Boat Enthusiasts

Vancouver Island Waterfront Real Estate Highlights

  • 01
    Variety of property types, for both permanent residences and vacation properties
  • 02
    Exceptional views of the island's ocean, rivers, or lakes, with sought-after privacy
  • 03
    Water access a common feature, with docks and boat slips for motorized watercrafts
  • 04
    Friendly communities and a range of great amenities (including beaches and parks) nearby
The Vancouver Island Waterfront LifestyleWith private beach access and boat slips, a waterfront property on Vancouver Island makes for the perfect outdoor getaway.
Ducks in a row swimming during sunset, Nanaimo waterfront Camera Icon
Cottages, Condos, and Great Escapes

Vancouver Island Waterfront Real Estate

Start with a blank slate and empty lot to custom build, fix up an oceanside cottage, or move into a luxury home with views of lapping waves. The options for living in a Vancouver Island waterfront home are endless.

Each home presents a unique combination of features, in large part varied by the type of water it borders. Riverfront and lakeside homes may straddle sandy beaches, while oceanfront homes often boast dockage and views from rocky bluffs. What they all have in common is access to the outdoor lifestyle so coveted by island residents. If you’re the boating type, inquire about homes for sale near marinas or look for a property with a private dock.

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Ample Amenities
Custom Homes
A Part Of A Community

Vancouver Island Waterfront Highlights

West coast living goes hand-in-hand with waterfront ownership: uncover the wildlife, journey through the trails, and glide across the cool waters of the eastern edge of Vancouver Island.

Local culture is teeming, and on any given weekend you can find farmers markets, art studio tours, and dinner specials at world-class establishments. Ask the locals about their favourite spots, and you'll soon have a long list! Those who make the move to the area, such as Nanaimo, Lake Cowichan, or one of the Gulf Islands, love their community for the things to do—especially outdoors! Residents enjoy boating with the family, taking a swim in one of the lakes during the summer months, or exploring the old-growth forests while camping.

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Festivals & Events
Friendly Neighbours

Explore Vancouver Island Waterfront Amenities

From larger cities like Nanaimo to the Gulf Islands in the north, there's so much to do and explore with a waterfront property in this region. Both single-family and multi-family homes have some of the most sought-after views around, but are also typically situated within private neighbourhoods for a more laid-back, tranquil lifestyle. Condos may also have additional amenities for their residents, including event spaces, fitness centers, storage, and access to the beach or waterfront trails.

The waterfront communities also like to host events and festivals. Nanaimo, for example, hosts the famed Bathtub Races every summer, while Transfer Beach Park in Ladysmith is a popular place for hanging out with the family, with the option to book space for private events.


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your Vancouver Island waterfront home now

Enjoy an all-access pass to the amazing oceanfront properties on the Vancouver Island market – they're yours to discover.

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Waves on rocks at Neck Point Park, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island
Aerial view of southern Gabriola Island, BC

Vancouver Island Waterfront Homes Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are there ferries to all of the Gulf Islands?

A: There are ferries to a few of the Gulf Islands (Gabriola Island, Lasqueti Island, Salt Spring Island) but not all. This means that a personal watercraft is a requirement for some areas.

Q: Do all waterfront homes in Vancouver Island have private docks/boat slips?

A: While many homes that are located on the waterfront do, this is not a guarantee, and it is dependent on the region and body of water, as well.

Q: Do waterfront homes in Vancouver Island make for good vacation properties?

A: With the sought-after privacy and great views, waterfront homes in Vancouver Island make for excellent vacation properties. This includes the islands, but many who live there do so full-time.

Carly Carey
Get In Touch

Start the conversation

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.