Departure Bay Beach

Departure Bay is a sandy beach destination in the community of Nanaimo, BC on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. On the waterfront of Departure Bay is a small beach park providing great views of the ocean and marine traffic.

The beach is set in a horseshoe shaped cove surrounded by waterfront homes and high cliff banks. During low tides the beach waters recede back into the ocean revealing small tidal pools, marine life and more wet sand.

Activities enjoyed at the beach include swimming, beachcombing and sightseeing. The beach is also a beach launch site for kayakers looking to explore the coastline. There are islands along the coastline worth exploring like Newcastle, Jesse, Snake and Brandon Islands.

There is parallel parking available on the street in front of the beach providing easy access to the shoreline. Across the street from the beach are some shops serving coffee, ice cream and other goodies. At the south end of the beach is a grass lawn area with picnic tables and viewing benches.

How to Get to Departure Bay Beach

Travel to the community of Nanaimo, BC. Continue traveling through the community along the highway to Departure Bay Road. Turn onto Departure Bay Road and continue driving to the beach.