Cedar Real Estate
About The Cedar Neighbourhood in Nanaimo, BC
Cedar, a tranquil neighbourhood south of Nanaimo, features a blend of rural charm and modern amenities. Homes for sale range from classic bungalows on Cedar Road and Yellow Point Road to waterfront estates along Nelson Road, offering scenic views of the Gulf Islands. Residents enjoy access to top outdoor spaces like Hemer Provincial Park on Hemer Road, with extensive walking trails and birdwatching, and Roberts Memorial Provincial Park, known for its sandstone shoreline and ocean vistas. The Cable Bay Trail, accessible via Nicola Road, is popular for forested hikes and wildlife sightings. Cedar’s community hub includes the Cedar Farmers Market on Woobank Road, local shops, and dining at the historic Mahle House on Hemer Road and Wheatsheaf Pub on Cedar Road. Families benefit from proximity to Woodbank Primary School and easy commutes to Nanaimo’s urban conveniences. With a mix of acreages, family homes, and exclusive waterfront properties, Cedar offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by nature, local eateries, and vibrant community events.
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Cedar Parks and Beaches Nearby
- Blue Heron Park
- Amenities & Features: Picnic tables, swimming area, beach access, tide pools, unique sandstone formations, blackberry picking (seasonal), wildlife viewing (sea stars, kelp crabs, sea cucumbers), day-use parking.
- Directions: From Cedar, take Cedar Road south, turn right onto Yellowpoint Road, then right onto Westby Road. The park is located at 13485 Westby Road, just past Yellow Point Park and Yellow Point Lodge.
- Landmarks: Near Yellow Point Lodge and Mermaid Cove Resort.
- Cable Bay Trail & Joan Point Park
- Amenities & Features: Forested hiking trail (approx. 2 km one way), old-growth maple trees, sandstone shoreline, marine wildlife viewing (sea lions, orcas, eagles), access to waterfront at Dodd Narrows, scenic views of Gabriola and Mudge Islands.
- Directions: From Cedar Road, turn onto Nicola Road and follow it to the end where the trailhead parking lot is located.
- Landmarks: Near Duke Point ferry terminal; trail leads to Dodd Narrows.
- Hemer Provincial Park
- Amenities & Features: 11 km of easy walking trails, marsh and lakeside views (Holden Lake), birdwatching, wildlife viewing, forested areas, picnic spots, dog-friendly.
- Directions: From Cedar Road, follow signs to Hemer Road; the park entrance is off Hemer Road.
- Landmarks: Holden Lake, marshlands.
- Departure Bay Beach
- Amenities & Features: Large sandy beach, playground, grassy field, seawall pathway, tidal pools, swimming, shell and crab hunting, wooden swim platform, coffee shops nearby, washrooms, historical signage.
- Directions: From Cedar, take Cedar Road north to the Trans-Canada Highway, follow signs to Departure Bay Road, and continue to the waterfront at the end of Departure Bay Road.
- Landmarks: Across from the Departure Bay ferry terminal, near Kinsmen Park.
- Cedar Boat Ramp & Beach
- Amenities & Features: Boat launch, small beach area, access to Nanaimo River estuary, scenic views, opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
- Directions: Located in Cedar, follow Cedar Road towards the Nanaimo River bridge, then take local signage to the boat ramp and beach area.
- Landmarks: Near the Nanaimo River bridge and close to the Cedar community centre.
- Nanaimo River Regional Park
- Amenities & Features: River swimming, hiking trails, picnic areas, forested surroundings, wildlife viewing.
- Directions: From Cedar, take Cedar Road north, turn left onto Raines Road, and follow signs to the park entrance.
- Landmarks: Along the Nanaimo River, near the Cassidy area.
Cedar Schools Nearby
- Cedar Elementary School
- Address: 2215 Gould Road, Nanaimo, BC V9X 1J4
- Phone: 250-722-2722
- Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 7
- Features: Strong Start program for parents and children ages birth to 5, current population approximately 334 students
- School Mascot: Timberwolves
- Cedar Community Secondary School
- Address: 1640 MacMillan Road, Nanaimo, BC V9X 1L9
- Phone: 250-722-2414
- Grades: 8 to 12
- Contact Email: [email protected]
- School District: SD68 Nanaimo-Ladysmith
- Features: Focus on growth mindset, social and emotional learning, and school culture development; serves the semi-rural Cedar community
Location and Accessibility of Cedar, Nanaimo, BC
Location
Cedar is a small, rural community situated on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. It lies approximately 8–10 kilometres southeast of downtown Nanaimo, along the banks of the Nanaimo River. The area is known for its picturesque countryside, forested landscapes, and proximity to the waters of Stuart Channel in the Strait of Georgia.
- Main settlement: Cedar-By-The-Sea, located on Yellow Point Road
- Coordinates: 49°07′N 123°51′W
- Nearby communities: South Nanaimo, Ladysmith, Yellow Point
- Notable nearby parks: Nanaimo River Regional Park, Hemer Provincial Park, Morden Colliery Historic Provincial Park
Learn more about Cedar on Wikipedia
Accessibility
Cedar is accessible by road, with Cedar Road being the main thoroughfare connecting the community to Nanaimo and surrounding areas. The area is serviced by public transit through BC Transit, and improvements to public infrastructure continue to enhance accessibility for all residents and visitors.
- By Car: Cedar is easily reached via Cedar Road from Nanaimo, with a drive of approximately 10–15 minutes from downtown.
- Public Transit: Regional District of Nanaimo and BC Transit provide bus services connecting Cedar to Nanaimo and neighbouring communities.
- Community Facilities: Cedar Village Square offers essential amenities, including a grocery store, pharmacy, bank, and cafes.
- Accessibility Initiatives: The City of Nanaimo and the Regional District of Nanaimo have implemented accessibility plans and improvements, such as wheelchair-friendly surfaces in parks, accessible public transit, and inclusive community programming.
- Schools and Community Halls: Cedar is home to several schools and community facilities, such as Cedar Community Hall at 2388 Cedar Road.
Notable Features
- Predominantly rural and tranquil, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts
- Abundant parks, trails, and beaches for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing
- Growing residential development, including family homes and luxury waterfront properties
Scenic Views from Cedar, Nanaimo, BC
Coastal and Countryside Vistas
Cedar offers a blend of lush countryside, rolling farmland, and dramatic oceanfront landscapes. The area is renowned for its peaceful rural charm, with meandering roads passing by green acreages, forests, and the iconic Western Red Cedar trees. Many properties and parks in Cedar provide sweeping views of the Salish Sea, nearby Gulf Islands, and distant mountain ranges.
Top Spots for Scenic Views
- Cable Bay Trail: This popular trail leads through old-growth forest to a rocky shoreline, where visitors are rewarded with panoramic ocean views. From the waterfront, you can spot Gabriola and Mudge Islands, watch tugboats and marine wildlife, and enjoy the rugged coastal scenery. The trail continues to Joan Point Park, offering more vistas over Dodd Narrows.
- Hemer Provincial Park: Known for its tranquil marshes and lakeside trails, this park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. The walking paths wind through forests and along Holden Lake, providing peaceful water views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
- Blue Heron Park & Yellow Point: Just east of Cedar, Blue Heron Park features unique sandstone formations, tide pools, and picnic areas with ocean views. Kayaking along the shoreline reveals carved sandstone cliffs and abundant sea life, including sea stars, kelp beds, and the occasional seal or eagle overhead.
- Roberts Memorial Provincial Park: A short drive south, this park offers a forested trail leading to a secluded sandstone beach. The shoreline is dotted with natural rock formations and provides unobstructed views across the Strait of Georgia.
Nature and Wildlife
Cedar’s natural setting is rich in biodiversity. The marshes, forests, and shorelines are home to eagles, herons, sea lions, and a variety of marine life. Tide pooling at low tide reveals colourful sea stars and crabs, while the quiet countryside is perfect for spotting deer and songbirds.
Nearby Viewpoints and Parks
- Neck Point Park: North of Cedar, this waterfront park is famous for its rugged coastline, pebbled beaches, and panoramic views of the Georgia Strait and distant mountains. It’s a favourite for sunset watching and photography.
- Mount Benson: For those seeking a challenge, hiking to the summit of Mount Benson offers a sweeping 360-degree view over Nanaimo, the Gulf Islands, and the mainland Coast Mountains.
Useful Resources
Shopping Experiences Near Cedar, Nanaimo, BC
Major Shopping Centres
- Woodgrove Centre
Vancouver Island’s largest shopping centre, featuring over 140 stores and services including Walmart, Hudson’s Bay, Old Navy, Chapters, Sport Chek, and Save-On-Foods. Located in north Nanaimo, it’s a hub for fashion, electronics, and family shopping.
- Nanaimo North Town Centre
A spacious mall with leading and local brands such as Canadian Tire, Lowe’s, Galaxy Theatres, Fairway Market, and Fit4Less by Goodlife Fitness. Conveniently located along major roadways with easy public transit access.
- Port Place Shopping Centre
Centrally located downtown, this mall offers a mix of retail, grocery, and dining options, making it a practical stop for everyday needs.
- Country Club Centre
A family-friendly shopping destination with over 50 stores, including Best Buy, Starbucks, and local favourites. Features a play area for children and pet facilities.
- Brooks Landing Mall
Offers sports shops, office supply stores, and a convenient location for both locals and visitors.
Local and Unique Shopping Experiences
- Old City Quarter
A charming district known for its local boutiques, artisanal shops, vintage finds, and a variety of cafés and eateries. Ideal for those seeking unique gifts and local products.
- Cedar Farmers Market
Located right in Cedar, this market is a community favourite for fresh produce, local crafts, baked goods, and handmade items. Open seasonally on Sundays.
- Value Village (University Village Mall)
A large thrift store offering secondhand clothing, books, housewares, and more—perfect for bargain hunters and vintage enthusiasts.
Specialty and Artisanal Shopping
- Nanaimo Art Gallery
Shop for local art, crafts, and unique gifts while supporting the local arts community.
- Yellow Bird Arts Gallery
Discover works by Vancouver Island artists, including paintings, jewellery, and ceramics.
Convenient Shopping for Everyday Needs
- Fairway Market (Nanaimo North Town Centre) – Groceries and specialty foods.
- Save-On-Foods (Woodgrove Centre) – Full-service supermarket.
- Canadian Tire (Nanaimo North Town Centre) – Home, automotive, and outdoor supplies.
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