Protection Island Real Estate
About The Protection Island Neighbourhood in Nanaimo, BC
Homes for sale on Protection Island in Nanaimo offer a unique island lifestyle just minutes by ferry from downtown. The neighbourhood features a mix of waterfront cabins, log homes, cottages, and modern bungalows along streets like Pirates Lane, Captain Morgans Boulevard, and Captain Kidds Terrace. Residents enjoy access to the island’s parks, beaches, and nature trails, with every home a short walk to the shoreline. The community is family-oriented, with school-day ferry service for students funded by the school board. Amenities include the popular Dinghy Dock Pub, a floating restaurant accessible from the marina near Port Place Mall. Protection Island is serviced by city water, sewer, hydro, phone, and cable, and is zoned for low-density residential living. There are no schools or grocery stores on the island, but downtown Nanaimo’s shops and services are a 10-minute ferry ride away. The island’s quiet, forested setting and close-knit community make it a rare opportunity for waterfront living within city limits.
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Protection Island Parks and Beaches Nearby
- Gallows Point Light Park (Protection Island)
- Amenities & Features: Scenic views of Nanaimo and Mount Benson, sandy beach, marine wildlife viewing, dog off-leash area (the only one on the island), and opportunities to stick your toes in the sand.
- Directions: Located on Protection Island at 208 Colvilleton Trail. From anywhere on Protection Island, follow Colvilleton Trail towards the southern tip of the island. The park is a short walk from the Protection Island ferry dock and is marked by the historic Gallows Point Light.
- Landmarks: Near the ferry dock and the prominent Gallows Point Light structure.
- Saysutshun (Newcastle Island Marine) Park
- Amenities & Features: Multiple sandy and pebble beaches, tidal pools, hiking and biking trails, panoramic views, historic sites (Snuneymuxw village sites, sandstone quarries, fish saltery, coal mine sites), interpretive programs in summer, camping, kayaking, swimming, and cultural experiences (such as traditional salmon barbecues and walking tours).
- Directions: Accessible by a 10-minute foot passenger ferry from Maffeo Sutton Park, located just north of downtown Nanaimo on Highway 1. The ferry drops you at the main dock on Newcastle Island, from which all amenities and beaches are easily accessible on foot.
- Landmarks: Ferry departs from Maffeo Sutton Park, near Nanaimo’s downtown waterfront.
- Jack Point and Biggs Park
- Amenities & Features: Pristine beaches, excellent views of the Nanaimo River estuary, downtown Nanaimo, Protection Island, and Gabriola Island. Popular for wildlife viewing (bald eagles, sea lions, seals, harbour porpoises), sunset watching, and hiking. The park has a 2.5 km trail loop with stairs and boardwalks over bluffs.
- Directions: Take the Protection Island ferry to Nanaimo, then drive or take a taxi to 655 Jackson Road. Park at the designated lot and use the pedestrian tunnel under the Duke Point Highway to access the park.
- Landmarks: End of Jackson Road, parallel to the Duke Point ferry highway connector.
- Pipers Lagoon Park
- Amenities & Features: Large lagoon, rocky shores and bluffs, walking trails, beaches with driftwood, birdwatching, swimming, kid-friendly driftwood forts, arbutus and Garry Oak groves, eagle nests, and wide ocean views. Shack Island can be reached on foot at low tide.
- Directions: From the Protection Island ferry dock, head north on Stewart Avenue, then east on Departure Bay Road, and turn left onto Hammond Bay Road. The park entrance is off Hammond Bay Road, with parking available near the lagoon.
- Landmarks: Look for the narrow dyke between the lagoon and the ocean, and Shack Island visible offshore.
- Departure Bay Beach
- Amenities & Features: Calm water for swimming, sandy beach, tide pools, mountain and ferry views, picnic areas, playground, washrooms, and ample parking. Very family-friendly and great for day trips.
- Directions: From the Protection Island ferry dock, drive north on Stewart Avenue, then east on Departure Bay Road. The beach is located near the intersection of Departure Bay Road and Loat Street, close to the BC Ferries terminal.
- Landmarks: Adjacent to the BC Ferries terminal and Kinsmen Park.
- Neck Point Park
- Amenities & Features: Rocky beaches, clear water for swimming and snorkelling, scuba diving, walking trails, scenic views, and a parking lot near the entrance. Accessible by car or public transport from downtown Nanaimo.
- Directions: From the Protection Island ferry dock, drive north on Stewart Avenue, east on Departure Bay Road, then north on Hammond Bay Road. Turn onto Morningside Drive to reach the park entrance and parking lot.
- Landmarks: Located just west of Pipers Lagoon Park, along the coast.
- Beach Estates Park
- Amenities & Features: Short walking trails, wooden paths, waterfalls, and access to a natural beach. The park is known for its tranquil setting and scenic beauty.
- Directions: From the Protection Island ferry dock, drive north on Stewart Avenue and turn right onto Departure Bay Road. The park entrance is at 2150 Departure Bay Road.
- Landmarks: Located near Departure Bay Road, with wooden bridges and paths leading to the beach.
- Long Lake Beach (Loudon Park)
- Amenities & Features: Freshwater lake, sandy beach, cordoned swimming area with a dock, fishing pier, picnic tables, shaded parkland, and boardwalk trail. Ideal for swimming, paddling, and family outings.
- Directions: From the Protection Island ferry dock, drive north on Stewart Avenue, then north on Island Highway (Highway 19). Turn onto Norwell Drive, then onto Victoria Avenue to reach the parking area at Loudon Park.
- Landmarks: Located in the Uplands neighbourhood, at the end of Victoria Avenue.
- Westwood Lake Park
- Amenities & Features: Freshwater lake with sandy beach, swimming areas, picnic spots, a trail circling the lake, and plenty of parking. Popular for swimming, paddling, walking, and family picnics.
- Directions: From the Protection Island ferry dock, drive west through downtown Nanaimo, then south on Jingle Pot Road, and turn onto Westwood Road to reach the park entrance and parking lot.
- Landmarks: Near the Westwood Lake Tennis Club, at the end of Westwood Road.
Protection Island Schools Nearby
- Elementary School
École Pauline Haarer Elementary
Address: 400 Campbell Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3G7
Phone: 250-753-5621
Email: [email protected]
Grades: K-7
Program: English and French Immersion
Notes: This is the designated elementary school for Protection Island residents.
- Secondary School
Nanaimo District Secondary School (NDSS)
Address: 355 Wakesiah Avenue, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3K5
Phone: 250-740-2000
Email: [email protected]
Grades: 8-12
Program: English, French Immersion, and a variety of academic and extracurricular programs
Notes: This is the designated secondary school for Protection Island residents.
- School District Contact
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools (School District 68)
Address: 395 Wakesiah Avenue, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3K6
Phone: 250-754-5521
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.sd68.bc.ca
Notes: For catchment confirmation, registration, and transportation information.
Protection Island: Location and Accessibility
Location
Protection Island is a small island situated approximately 1.5 km northeast of downtown Nanaimo, British Columbia, within Nanaimo Harbour. Its coordinates are 49°10′44″N 123°55′12″W. The island is part of the City of Nanaimo and offers scenic views of the harbour and Mount Benson.
- Distance from downtown Nanaimo: ~1.5 km
- Located within Nanaimo Harbour
- Part of the City of Nanaimo, BC
View Protection Island on Google Maps
Accessibility
- Ferry Access: The island is accessible by the Protection Island Ferry (also called the Protection Connection), a small passenger ferry departing from the N-dock in the Nanaimo Boat Basin, opposite Port Place Mall on Front Street. The ferry lands at the Dinghy Dock Pub, Canada’s only floating pub.
- Private Boat: Visitors can also reach the island by private vessel, kayak, or rowboat. There is a community dock and boat ramp available.
- Walking: At low tide, it is possible to walk between Protection Island and Newcastle Island (Saysutshun).
Ferry Details
- Departs from downtown Nanaimo (N-dock, Boat Basin)
- Typical schedule: Hourly departures from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm (subject to seasonal changes)
- Ferry ride duration: 10–15 minutes
- Return fare: Approximately $9–$10 per person
- Not wheelchair accessible; limited accessibility for those with mobility issues
Protection Island Neighbourhood Association
On-Island Transportation and Amenities
- No paved roads; all roads are gravel with a 20 km/h speed limit
- Most residents and visitors walk, cycle, or use golf carts
- Vehicles are permitted but must be registered and insured
- No public washrooms; limited services (the Dinghy Dock Pub is the only restaurant/pub)
- Several public parks, a small library, museum, and community centre at Gallows Point
Additional Resources
Scenic Views from Protection Island, Nanaimo, BC
Panoramic Ocean and Harbour Vistas
Protection Island offers sweeping views across the Salish Sea and Nanaimo Harbour. From the island’s shoreline and beaches, you can gaze back at the city skyline, watch ferries and seaplanes come and go, and enjoy the sight of boats moored in the bustling harbour. The vantage points provide a unique perspective of downtown Nanaimo, especially stunning at sunset or after dark when city lights reflect on the water.
The Dinghy Dock Pub, Canada’s only floating pub, is a favourite spot for visitors. Its deck offers uninterrupted views of the Nanaimo waterfront, making it an ideal location for a meal or drink while soaking in the scenery.
Natural Beauty and Wildlife
The island is surrounded by natural landscapes, including rocky shores, sandy beaches, and forested trails. Walks around the island reveal rustic cabins, charming cottages, and beachfront homes with beautiful outlooks over the water. The beaches and coves, such as Smuggler’s Cove, are perfect for tide pooling and observing marine life like starfish and crabs.
Birdwatchers can enjoy the variety of seabirds and the heron nesting grounds near the pub. Parks like Pirates Park offer excellent ocean views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
Trails and Lookouts
A scenic 4 km loop trail circles the island, allowing visitors to explore coastal beaches, parks, and historical sites. The unpaved roads and pirate-themed street names add to the island’s charm. Along the way, you’ll find several lookout points with breathtaking views of Vancouver Island, Newcastle Island, and the surrounding Gulf Islands.
At low tide, you can even walk across to Newcastle Island, adding another dimension to the scenic experience.
Atmosphere and Setting
Despite being just a short ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, Protection Island feels worlds apart. The peaceful, laid-back atmosphere is enhanced by the absence of cars—most residents and visitors get around by foot, bicycle, or golf cart. The island’s rustic and welcoming vibe, combined with its spectacular views, makes it a memorable destination for nature lovers and photographers.
More Information
Shopping Experiences Near Protection Island, Nanaimo, BC
On Protection Island
- Dinghy Dock Pub – Canada’s only registered floating pub, offering food, drinks, and a unique experience right off the island’s dock. While not a shopping destination, it’s the only commercial establishment on the island and a must-visit for visitors.
- Island Supply Services – Residents and visitors can arrange for grocery and supply deliveries from Nanaimo retailers directly to the island.
Shopping in Downtown Nanaimo (Nearest Mainland Access)
Protection Island is a short passenger ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo, where a variety of shopping experiences are available:
- Port Place Shopping Centre – A full-service shopping mall featuring grocery stores, pharmacies, and retail shops.
- Harbourfront Walkway Shops – Eclectic tourist shops, coffee shops, and ice cream parlours along the scenic waterfront.
- Downtown Nanaimo Boutiques – Independent shops such as Artzi Stuff, NYLA Fresh Thread, and Flying Fish offer local art, fashion, and home goods.
- London Drugs & Dollarama – For everyday essentials and household items.
Access & Transportation
- Protection Island Ferry – The Protection Connection foot-passenger ferry runs regularly between the island and downtown Nanaimo, making it easy to access shopping and amenities.
- Kayak or Private Boat – Many residents and visitors use kayaks or private boats for quick trips to Nanaimo for shopping.
Nearby Shopping Centres in Nanaimo
- Woodgrove Centre – The largest shopping mall in Nanaimo, offering major retailers, fashion, electronics, and dining.
- Old City Quarter – Historic district with unique boutiques, galleries, and specialty stores.
Summary Table: Shopping Options
| Location | Type | Highlights | Distance/Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Protection Island | Pub, Delivery Service | Dinghy Dock Pub, Island Supply grocery delivery | On island |
| Port Place Shopping Centre | Shopping Mall | Groceries, pharmacy, retail | 10 min ferry to Nanaimo |
| Harbourfront Walkway | Tourist Shops | Souvenirs, coffee, ice cream | 10 min ferry to Nanaimo |
| Woodgrove Centre | Shopping Mall | Major retailers, dining | 20 min drive from ferry terminal |
| Old City Quarter | Boutiques | Local art, fashion, gifts | 15 min walk from ferry terminal |
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