South Nanaimo Real Estate
About The South Nanaimo Neighbourhood in Nanaimo, BC
South Nanaimo offers a diverse mix of single-family homes, condos, and townhouses, with current listings along streets like Old Victoria Road, Haliburton Street, and Fifth Street. The neighbourhood is known for its affordability, with average home prices around $635,000, making it attractive for families and first-time buyers. Residents enjoy proximity to schools such as Bayview Elementary on View Street and École Pauline Haarer Elementary on Campbell Street. Outdoor amenities include Colliery Dam Park with its lakes and trails, Southside Community Park for sports and play, and Deverill Square Park with green spaces and walking paths. Bowen Park, accessible via Bowen Road, features sports facilities, gardens, and a petting zoo. The area is close to downtown Nanaimo, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and the waterfront at Maffeo Sutton Park. South Nanaimo’s blend of established neighbourhoods, public parks, and convenient amenities along major streets like Bruce Avenue and Nicol Street make it a vibrant community for homebuyers.
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South Nanaimo Parks and Beaches Nearby
- Westwood Lake Park
- Amenities & Features: Sandy freshwater beach, designated swimming area, picnic tables, benches, playground, washrooms, 6 km forested walking/biking trail around the lake, boat ramp (non-motorized craft only), fishing dock, dog-friendly areas.
- Directions: From South Nanaimo, take Wakesiah Avenue north, turn left onto Jingle Pot Road, then left onto Westwood Road. The park entrance is at the end of Westwood Road, just past the Westwood Lake Tennis Club. Landmarks include Mount Benson visible to the west.
- Maffeo Sutton Park & Swy-a-Lana Lagoon
- Amenities & Features: Grassy park, waterfront promenade, playgrounds, picnic tables, washrooms, small protected beach area, kayak/paddleboard launch, harbourfront walkway, views of Nanaimo Harbour and Newcastle Island, large parking lot, accessible by public transit.
- Directions: Head north on Nicol Street, which becomes Terminal Avenue. Turn right onto Comox Road, then left onto Front Street. The park is adjacent to the downtown waterfront, near the Bastion and the Nanaimo Harbour ferry terminal.
- Departure Bay Beach (Kinsmen Park)
- Amenities & Features: Large sandy beach, playground, grassy field, picnic tables, washrooms, cordoned-off swimming area with dock, tidal pools, scenic views of ferries and mountains, coffee shops across the street, ample parking.
- Directions: Take Nicol Street north, merge onto Terminal Avenue, then left onto Departure Bay Road. The beach is at the end of Departure Bay Road, across from the BC Ferries terminal and beside Kinsmen Park with Snuneymuxw First Nation totems.
- Pipers Lagoon Park
- Amenities & Features: Rocky and sandy beaches, tidal lagoon, scenic ocean viewpoints, walking trails, birdwatching, picnic spots, washrooms, limited parking, Garry oak meadows.
- Directions: From South Nanaimo, take Terminal Avenue north, then Hammond Bay Road east. Turn onto Lagoon Drive and follow signs to Pipers Lagoon Park. Landmarks include the lagoon and ocean bluffs.
- Neck Point Park
- Amenities & Features: Rocky beaches, swimming and snorkelling areas, scuba diving, extensive walking trails, picnic tables, benches, wildlife viewing, panoramic ocean and mountain views, washrooms, parking lot.
- Directions: Take Hammond Bay Road north, turn onto Morningside Drive, and follow signs to Neck Point Park. The park is west of Pipers Lagoon, near the Winchelsea Islands viewpoint.
- Jack Point and Biggs Park
- Amenities & Features: Scenic walking trails, pristine beaches, panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia and Nanaimo River estuary, wildlife viewing (seals, birds), well-maintained trails, parking near Duke Point ferry terminal.
- Directions: From South Nanaimo, take Maughan Road east toward the Duke Point ferry terminal. Follow signs to Jack Point and Biggs Park; parking is near the terminal entrance.
- Morningside Beach Access
- Amenities & Features: Sheltered, south-facing sandy beach, ideal for beachcombing and swimming with children, quiet location, not wheelchair accessible.
- Directions: Take Hammond Bay Road north, turn onto Morningside Drive. The beach access is at the right-of-way on Morningside Drive, near Neck Point Park.
- Blueback Beach
- Amenities & Features: Secluded sandy beach, clear calm water, ideal for swimming, beachcombing, and sunbathing, steep staircase access, limited street parking.
- Directions: Head north on the Island Highway, turn onto Dover Road, then right onto Blueback Road. Park along residential streets and descend the staircase at the road’s end.
- Long Lake (Loudon Park)
- Amenities & Features: Freshwater sandy beach, swimming area with dock, fishing pier, picnic tables, shaded grassy areas, playground, small parking lot.
- Directions: From South Nanaimo, take the Island Highway north, turn right onto Norwell Drive, then left onto Victoria Avenue. Loudon Park is at the south end of Long Lake, near the intersection with Wellington Road.
South Nanaimo Schools Nearby
- Chase River Elementary School
Address: 1503 Cranberry Avenue, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6R7
Phone: 250-753-8218
Email: [email protected]
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 7
Notes: Main elementary school serving South Nanaimo residents.
- Georgia Avenue Community School
Address: 625 Georgia Avenue, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3V9
Phone: 250-753-6891
Email: [email protected]
Grades: Kindergarten to Grade 7
Notes: Offers community programs and supports for families in South Nanaimo.
- John Barsby Community School (Secondary)
Address: 550 Seventh Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3Z2
Phone: 250-753-8211
Email: [email protected]
Grades: 8 to 12
Notes: Main secondary school catchment for South Nanaimo.
School District Contact:
Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools (SD68)
Address: 395 Wakesiah Avenue, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3K6
Phone: 250-754-5521
Email: [email protected]
For French Immersion or alternate program options, please contact the district directly to confirm eligibility and catchment status.
South Nanaimo: Location and Accessibility
Location
South Nanaimo is a neighbourhood situated directly south of Nanaimo’s downtown core on the east coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. It borders the Old City and University District, extending towards the historic Petroglyph Park. This area is centrally located within the city, providing convenient access to both urban amenities and major transportation routes.
Accessibility
- Road Access: South Nanaimo is easily accessible via the Island Highway (Highway 1), which runs along the city’s eastern edge and connects to other Vancouver Island communities.
- Public Transit: The Nanaimo Regional Transit System offers regular bus service throughout the neighbourhood, linking South Nanaimo to downtown, Vancouver Island University, and other parts of the city.
- Ferry Connections: Nanaimo is a major ferry terminal with routes to the British Columbia mainland via BC Ferries at Departure Bay and Duke Point, both within a short drive from South Nanaimo.
- Airport: The Nanaimo Airport is located south of the city, offering regional flights and accessible by car or public transit.
- Walkability and Cycling: South Nanaimo features a mix of residential streets, parks, and trails, making it accessible for pedestrians and cyclists. The area is undergoing revitalization, with improved infrastructure for active transportation.
- Accessible Parks and Facilities: The City of Nanaimo and the Regional District have implemented accessibility upgrades in local parks, including wheelchair-friendly trails, accessible picnic areas, and non-slip walkways at popular sites like Colliery Dam Park.
Neighbourhood Features
- Proximity to Amenities: South Nanaimo is close to the University Village Mall, schools, and community services, enhancing its convenience for residents and visitors.
- Heritage and New Development: The neighbourhood blends restored heritage homes with newer developments, offering diverse housing options and a unique character.
Relevant Resources
Scenic Views from South Nanaimo, BC
Westwood Lake
Located in South Nanaimo, Westwood Lake offers tranquil views of the surrounding forested hills and Mount Benson. The 5.5 km loop trail around the lake is popular for walking, jogging, and cycling, with several spots to pause and take in the reflections of the mountains and trees on the water. The area is especially picturesque at sunrise and sunset.
Mount Benson
South Nanaimo provides access to the trailhead for Mount Benson, the region’s most iconic peak. From the summit, hikers are rewarded with sweeping panoramic vistas of Nanaimo, the Strait of Georgia, the Gulf Islands, and, on clear days, the distant Coast Mountains. The view encompasses the cityscape, lush forests, and the blue expanse of the Salish Sea.
Jack Point & Biggs Park
Near the Duke Point ferry terminal, Jack Point and Biggs Park offer unique perspectives of Nanaimo’s harbour, Protection Island, and Gabriola Island. The trail follows the shoreline, with dramatic views over tidal estuaries, rocky outcrops, and passing ferries. This area is ideal for those seeking coastal scenery and birdwatching.
Nanaimo River and Lakes
South Nanaimo is bordered by the Nanaimo River and a chain of lakes, including the Nanaimo Lakes. Scenic viewpoints along the river and lakes showcase forested valleys, calm waters, and, in autumn, vibrant foliage. The area is popular for kayaking, fishing, and quiet nature walks.
The Abyss & Extension Ridge
The Extension Ridge Trail leads to “The Abyss,” a unique geological fissure. Along the ridge, hikers can enjoy elevated views over South Nanaimo, forested landscapes, and glimpses of Mount Benson and the city below.
Natural Features and Wildlife
- Rolling hills and forested slopes provide a lush green backdrop year-round.
- Native arbutus trees, ferns, and wildflowers add to the natural beauty.
- Birdwatchers can spot eagles, herons, and waterfowl near lakes and marshes.
- Deer and other wildlife are common in the quieter, less developed areas.
Neighbourhood Vistas
Many residential areas in South Nanaimo, such as Chase River and Cinnabar Valley, are set on hillsides, offering elevated views over the city, Nanaimo Harbour, and the distant mountains. New developments are planned to include green spaces and parks with scenic outlooks.
Additional Resources
Shopping Experiences in South Nanaimo, BC
South Nanaimo Neighbourhood Shopping Centres
- South Parkway Plaza
Located at Island Highway and Tenth Street, South Parkway Plaza is a central retail hub in South Nanaimo. It features a variety of shops and services including Pharmasave, Island Emerald Medical Centre, Be Beautiful Day Spa and Salon, Petro Canada, A&W, Subway, and Buckerfields. The plaza is shadow-anchored by a large Country Grocer supermarket, making it a convenient spot for grocery shopping and daily essentials.
- Southgate Shopping Centre
Directly across from South Parkway Plaza on Tenth Street, Southgate Shopping Centre offers a mix of businesses including Tim Hortons, Rexall, and Coastal Community Credit Union. Its proximity to Country Grocer and other amenities makes it a practical stop for residents.
Major Shopping Malls Accessible from South Nanaimo
- Port Place Shopping Centre
Located downtown and easily accessible from South Nanaimo, Port Place features over 30 shops including Thrifty Foods, London Drugs, and a liquor store.
- Woodgrove Centre
As Vancouver Island’s largest shopping mall, Woodgrove Centre is located further north but offers over 150 stores such as Hudson’s Bay, Walmart, Winners, and Sport Chek.
- Nanaimo North Town Centre
Another major mall with over 50 shops and services, including Canadian Tire, London Drugs, and Lowes.
- Country Club Centre
Offers a mix of local businesses and national retailers, with ample parking and convenient access.
Local Markets and Unique Shopping Districts
- Farmers Markets
South Nanaimo residents can visit several nearby farmers markets for fresh produce and handmade goods, such as the Cedar Farmers Market and Bowen Road Farmers Market.
- Downtown Nanaimo
The downtown area offers unique shopping experiences in the Arts District, Old City Quarter, and along the waterfront, featuring local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops.
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