Last Sunday night, my phone buzzed with aurora alerts. Within the night, my social media feeds exploded with photos from neighbours across the island – incredible green curtains dancing over Rathtrevor Beach, purple streaks above Nanoose Bay, and ribbons of light reflecting off Piper’s Lagoon.

The best part? Most of these shots were taken right from people’s homes.

Vancouver Island’s Aurora Boom

While everyone else drives hours north chasing the northern lights, we islanders have discovered something pretty amazing: Vancouver Island sits in a sweet spot for aurora viewing. We’re far enough north to catch the shows, but not so remote that you need to camp in the wilderness.

This year especially has been incredible. The current solar maximum means more geomagnetic storms, and that translates to more frequent light shows right here at home. I’ve had clients tell me stories about stepping onto their decks for a late-night snack and suddenly finding themselves witnessing nature’s greatest spectacle.

The Hotspots (And Hot Properties)

Nanoose Bay has quietly become aurora central. Madrona Park, Cottam Point, and Dolphin Beach offer some of the clearest northern views on the island. The waterfront homes here aren’t just buying ocean access – they’re buying front-row seats to the sky. Properties along this stretch have been moving fast, and it’s not hard to see why.

Parksville’s Rathtrevor Beach consistently ranks as the island’s top aurora spot. The homes backing onto this area, especially those with elevated lots, offer year-round sky-watching potential. Plus, you’re getting that famous Parksville beach lifestyle as a bonus.

Nanaimo surprises a lot of people. Yes, it’s a city, but spots like Blueback Beach and Piper’s Lagoon are dark enough for great aurora viewing. The homes in nearby neighborhoods like Departure Bay give you urban conveniences with quick access to prime sky-watching real estate.

Head up to Campbell River and the North Island, and you’re entering serious dark-sky territory. Lakefront properties here come with virtually zero light pollution. I’ve shown homes where you can see the Milky Way from the living room window – imagine what the auroras look like.

What Aurora Chasers Want in a Home

After working with several clients who prioritize open sky clean view on a bigger lot, I’ve noticed some patterns in what they’re looking for:

Northern exposure is everything. Whether it’s a deck, large windows, or just an unobstructed yard, having that clear view north makes all the difference.

Distance from light pollution matters. Properties even a few kilometers outside town centers offer dramatically better sky conditions.

Community connection is huge. Aurora chasers tend to be social – they join local Facebook groups, share photos, and tip each other off about incoming shows. Neighborhoods with active outdoor communities are gold.

Easy outdoor access. Being able to step outside quickly when alerts come in (often with little warning) is a real advantage.

The Tech Side

Today’s aurora hunters come prepared. Apps like “My Aurora Forecast” send push notifications straight to your phone. Websites like auroraforecast.com give three-day predictions. The cool thing is how this technology connects island communities. When someone spots auroras in Parksville, word spreads instantly to Nanaimo, then up to Campbell River. It’s like having your own island-wide early warning system.

Why This Matters for Real Estate

Here’s what I’ve learned: Properties with great aurora-viewing potential aren’t just selling faster – they’re holding their value better too. There’s something special about knowing your home comes with built-in entertainment that you can’t get anywhere else.

We’re also seeing buyers specifically asking about northern exposure and light pollution levels. It’s becoming a legitimate selling feature, right alongside ocean views and mountain access.

Plus, let’s be honest – how many homes can offer late-night entertainment that has your guests staying past midnight, mesmerized by dancing lights above your backyard? It’s the kind of lifestyle moment that turns a house into a home.

Ready to Find Your Aurora-Watching Home?

Whether you’re new to the island or looking to relocate within it, there’s never been a better time to find a property where the northern lights are just another Tuesday night perk.

Contact Shanon Kelley Realty Group today. Let’s find you a home where your backyard view includes some of nature’s most incredible shows.

Because life’s too short for boring skies.