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Vanislander / Landmarks / Bays / Union Bay

Union Bay on Vancouver Island

Union Bay; A Historic Coastal Gem :Union Bay, a charming seaside village on Vancouver Island’s east coast, is celebrated for its deep harbor—the deepest in Baynes Sound—and its storied past as a bustling coal port from 1888 to 1960. Nestled in the Comox Valley, just 15 km south of Courtenay, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, scenic beauty, and modern oyster aquaculture. Visitors can explore Heritage Row’s restored buildings, savor fresh seafood at the iconic Highwayman Saloon, and enjoy coastal activities like kayaking and hiking. With its vibrant history tied to the K’ómoks First Nation and coal mining, Union Bay is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers. This article guides you through how to visit, top attractions, permit requirements, and travel tips to experience this historic Vancouver Island destination.

Why Visit Union Bay?

Union Bay, originally named Union Wharf in 1887, is steeped in history as a major coal shipping port for the Union Coal Company mines in nearby Cumberland. Its deep harbor facilitated coal exports, supporting a diverse community of Chinese, Japanese, European, and First Nations workers, earning it the nickname “The Friendly Port.” The name “Union” reflects the Union Company, formed in 1852 to exploit coal deposits discovered near Comox Lake.
Today, Union Bay thrives on oyster farming, with Baynes Sound producing some of Canada’s finest shellfish. Popular activities include exploring Heritage Row, kayaking in Baynes Sound, and dining at the Highwayman Saloon, known for its biker-friendly vibe and fresh oysters. The community’s rich K’ómoks and Pentlatch heritage, combined with its coal mining past, makes it a compelling destination for cultural and outdoor enthusiasts.

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Where is Union Bay? Location & Accessibility

Union Bay is an unincorporated community in the Comox Valley, located south of Hart Creek on the east coast of central Vancouver Island, British Columbia, along Highway 19A. Situated in Baynes Sound, a sheltered strait between Vancouver Island and Denman Island, it is approximately 93 km north of Nanaimo and 14 km south of Courtenay. The area is part of the traditional territory of the Pentlatch and K’ómoks First Nations.

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How to Get There From Victoria

From Victoria , BC (6 hr 50 min, 627 km via BC-19 N and BC-19 S, 6 hr 29 min without traffic):
 Start at Victoria Harbour Ferry (Victoria, BC V8W 9A4, Canada). Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N (4 min, 1.2 km).
Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Comox Valley. Take exit 117 from BC-19 S (6 hr 34 min, 610 km). Follow Royston Rd to Island Hwy S/BC-19A S in Union Bay (14 min, 15.7 km).

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How to Get There From Nanaimo

From Nanaimo, BC (5 hr 28 min, 516 km via BC-19 N and BC-19 S, 5 hr 14 min without traffic):
Start at Nanaimo Harbour (Nanaimo, BC V9R 6M6, Canada).
Follow Terminal Ave N and Island Hwy N/BC-19A N to BC-19 N in Lantzville (18 min, 13.6 km).
Follow BC-19 N to Comox Valley. Take exit 117 from BC-19 S (4 hr 57 min, 487 km).
Follow Royston Rd to Island Hwy S/BC-19A S in Union Bay (14 min, 15.7 km).

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Accessibility

Public Transport: No direct public transit serves Union Bay. The closest Via Rail flag stop (discontinued in 2011) was 8 km south at Buckley Bay. Visitors can drive or use IslandLink Bus from Nanaimo or Courtenay to nearby stops, then taxi to Union Bay.
Parking: Ample parking is available along Highway 19A near Heritage Row and the boat launch. The Union Bay Market and Highwayman Saloon also offer parking for visitors.

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Vancouver Island Activities near Union Bay

Camping in Circlet Lake Campground

Camping in Circlet Lake Campground

The fundamental core of life is your thirst for adventure; therefore, visiting Circlet Lake is a must. Circlet Lake Campground has enough attraction to fascinate you. Alpine forest, easy access, waterfalls, and lakes are just some attractions bewitching visitors and mountaineers for camping there. Some wooden plateau tent pads are provided on the lake, while some are off the lake for campers who need more seclusion.

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Camping in Ford's Cove Marina

Looking for a place on Hornby Island to stay the night while enjoying yourselves? You would better stop by camping in Ford's Cove Marina and camp with your RV or tent. This campground has cute oceanic views and glorious sunsets with gorgeous mountains. The Ford's Cove Marina Campground sites are charming, well-maintained, and spacious, with a pleasant grassy and treed atmosphere and beautiful scenery.

Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground

Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground

By camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground, the freedom you feel is seductive. The sandy beaches are perfect for spending some time walking or lounging on enjoying the lake's beautiful view and forest. So, do not miss another day of your vacation and head to the Camping in Cumberland Lake Park Campground to fulfil your desires for adventure.

Deep Bay Windsurfing

Deep Bay Windsurfing

Discover your windsurfing spirit while you are in the Deep Bay area. Waterfowl in the winter months have made these protected waters a hot spot for windsurfing. Due to Deep Bay's proximity to Baynes Sound, visitors can enjoy several other outdoor adventures. Also, more recreational opportunities are provided in the park and the golf club nearby.

Kitty Coleman Beach & Bates Beach Surfing

Kitty Coleman Beach & Bates Beach Surfing

Leave your job and its responsibilities for a few days and try to feed your soul. If you are looking for a way to add excitement to your journey, Kitty Coleman Beach & Bates Beach will provide you with great opportunities to embrace and skim the surface of the water. Wave surfing on Kitty Coleman Beach and the low-tide pools of Bates Beach would make you feel fully charged and ready to get back doing your job.

Mount Washington Snowmobiling

Mount Washington Snowmobiling

Snowmobilers and sledding enthusiasts have the chance to go snowboarding in the morning and waterskiing in the afternoon. The warm dressing is critical during snowmobiling in Mount Washington. Besides, the fantastic view there is fabulous for photography.

Stories Beach Surfing

Stories Beach Surfing

As a reward for your hard work, travel to Vancouver Island to fulfil your cravings for adventure and fun. Adjacent to Campbell River, Stories Beach is a vibrant spot attracting many visitors worldwide. The great waves heating the beach allow you to experience surfing for real. While you are in the area, keep in mind to fish; so, do not forget to bring your fishing rods.

Hiking on the Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk

Hiking on the Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk

The Courtenay Riverway Heritage Walk makes it possible for you to hike in a paved path where nature is around you. It is easy to find wildlife for photography while hiking. Take your dog with you and choose between hiking, walking, running, and biking. As the trail is suitable for all ages and is close to Courtenay, it is one of the popular hiking trails in the area that gets crowded on sunny days.

Goose Spit Regional Park Windsurfing

Goose Spit Regional Park Windsurfing

If you are craving a windsurfing opportunity during winter, Goose Spit Regional Park will provide you with the chance to meet your expectations of windsurfing along with kiteboarding. Nestled near Comox Valley, you are allowed to enjoy yourselves and the extraordinary scenery at the same time. Sandy and rocky beaches and diverse wildlife are other features of the Goose spit.

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Camping in Deep Bay RV Park

Despite its name, if you favour it, you can do tent camping with a sea view right in the center of Vancouver Island. one of the most significant fishing camps, Deep Bay s full of surprises for anglers. Not to mention that if you visit, you can observe various fantastic wildlife there. So, put your hesitates aside, and plan to visit Camping in Deep Bay RV Park this weekend.

Attractions & Things to Do in Union Bay

 Baynes Sound’s calm waters are perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Rentals are available at Union Bay Market or nearby Comox. Paddle past oyster farms and spot seals, sea lions, and bald eagles.

Nearby Attractions & Additional Exploration

Fanny Bay Conservation Area (10 km south)

 A protected coastal area with trails, beaches, and birdwatching opportunities. Ideal for spotting migratory birds and learning about oyster conservation.

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Denman & Hornby Islands (8 km south via ferry)

 Accessible from Buckley Bay, these islands offer artist studios, sandy beaches, and hiking trails like Helliwell Provincial Park. Perfect for a day trip.

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Comox Lake (20 km northwest)

A glacier-fed lake surrounded by mountains, offering fishing, kayaking, and hiking. The boat launch at Comox Lake Road is ideal for water activities.

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Strathcona Provincial Park (40 km west)

 BC’s oldest provincial park, featuring Della Falls, alpine lakes, and trails like Forbidden Plateau. Great for hiking, camping, and fly fishing.

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What you Can Expect to See Near Union Bay

Union Bay

Union Bay

Union Bay, a charming seaside village on Vancouver Island’s east coast, is celebrated for its deep harbor—the deepest in Baynes Sound—and its storied past as a bustling coal port from 1888 to 1960. Nestled in the Comox Valley, just 15 km south of Courtenay, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of historical intrigue, scenic beauty, and modern oyster aquaculture. Visitors can explore Heritage Row’s restored buildings, savor fresh seafood at the iconic Highwayman Saloon, and enjoy coastal activities like kayaking and hiking. With its vibrant history tied to the K’ómoks First Nation and coal mining, Union Bay is a must-visit for history buffs and nature lovers. This article guides you through how to visit, top attractions, permit requirements, and travel tips to experience this historic Vancouver Island destination.

Maple Lake

Maple Lake

Maple Lake, also known as the jewel of Comox Valley, is a nice scenic local lake with great fun opportunities. Surrounded by second-growth forests and excellent shorelines, Maple Lake provides its visitors with fabulous hiking trails in which you take a nice long walk while enjoying the magnificent scenery of the lake. As an important natural asset of Comox valley, Maple Lake is a peaceful destination to explore the nature.

Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward

Mount Albert Edward is the sixth-highest mountain on Vancouver Island. It is located in the center of Vancouver Island in Strathcona Provincial Park and is one of the most easily accessible mountains. Mt Albert Edward is a popular destination among mountaineers at 2093 m (6866 ft.) elevation. It was named for Albert Edward and was first ascended in 1890 by William Ralph. The mountain is a renowned place among mountaineers for skiing and snowshoeing in winters.

Comox

Comox

Comox is a town with fishing opportunities, local wildlife, year-round golf and proximity to the Mount Washington ski area, the Forbidden Plateau, and Strathcona Provincial Park. Based on archaeological evidence, there was a Coast Salish fishing settlement at Comox for at least 4,000 years. The area's signature landmark is the Comox Glacier.

Courtenay

Courtenay

Courtenay is the biggest community in the area with daily flights from Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. It has scenic beaches, rivers, lakes, and popular activities such as Mt. Washington Ski, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, snowboarding, and world-class golfing. Comox Valley is famous for year-round sports and recreational activities among them are bird watching and photography.

Parksville

Parksville

Parksville is known for its scenic, superb sandy beaches. This city is also famous for hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife, parks, entertainment centres, and many fantastic restaurants and pubs. The city's most popular annual festival is Sandcastle Competition. Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, and Englishman River Falls Provincial Park are among the most visited places.

Mount McBride

Mount McBride

Mount McBride with 2083 m (6834 ft.) height is the seventh highest mountain on Central Vancouver Island. Atop Mount McBride, the 360° panoramic view of Strathcona Provincial Park is rewarding, besides vistas of the highest mountains on Vancouver Island, including Golden Hinde, Mt Colonel Foster, King's Peak, Elkhorn Mountain, and Rambler Peak.

Goose Spit Park

Goose Spit Park

Goose Spit Park is a long narrow coastal park with a view of the Pacific Ocean and majestic mountains. Lots of driftwoods exist all over the beach. Have a nice walk on the long walkway to see lots of crab and starfish or find some sand dollars. Goose Spit Park offers excellent opportunities for water sports like swimming, kayaking, and surfing.

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens

Kitty Coleman Woodland Gardens is a fantastic natural garden with delightful paths, a creek, and great open spaces. It is home to plenty of native plants, wildflowers, and birds. The garden features one of the largest collections of rhododendrons in Western Canada, with over 3000 plantings. The best time to visit is from March to the end of June when the rhododendrons are in full bloom.

Nymph Falls

Nymph Falls

The Puntledge River cuts its way through the rocks, and it falls where the stunning drops of Nymph Falls appear. It is the crown jewel of Nymph Falls Nature Park, with two drops in the middle of the wood, the wonderful lush green forest. Just drive about 10 km (6.2 mi) from Courtenay to the west to discover the beauties.

Deer Falls

Deer Falls

A great place to heal and recharge on the Campbell River is Deer Falls, a little piece of heaven. Imagine the water descends into an emerald green pool with the sweetest melody that you could hear and the tall trees surrounding the falls. In summer and late spring, the rocks around the pool become moss-covered and create a fabulous view. Watching bears there in summertime eating salmon is fantastic, but don't limit your expectations; the area has a lot to offer as scenery.

Stotan Falls

Stotan Falls

It is a grace finding a waterfall along a river. The Puntledge River makes Stotan Falls a beautiful pond waterfall with a wide area. The waterfall sound melodious by the water pouring smoothly on the large rocks on its way that you can enjoy for hours. Swimming in summer would be delightful while you are in hot water where the green forest surrounds you.

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Tribune Bay Provincial Park

Tribune Bay Provincial Park, or Little Hawaii, has an expansive sweep of white sand surrounded by woods. The park is famous for its unusual rocky shoreline formations, tidal pools, and beautiful white sandy beaches. Its warm and shallow water is ideal for snorkelling and swimming. Being there watching sunsets and a beautiful full moon without any street lights to distract the view would impress you.

Rosewall Creek Falls

Rosewall Creek Falls

The flow of Rosewall Creek forms a waterfall in the middle of a rain forest surrounded by moss-covered rocks. Rosewall Creek Falls is one of the masterpieces done by nature that deserves multiple visits. The water is white and pure, and it seems like it's coming out of a wall made of trees. Visiting the waterfall in summer and spring would be perfect as the creek has a higher water level.

Brown's River Falls

Brown's River Falls

Along the Brown River, there is a river fall that completes its attractiveness. The river's stream cascades from rock cliffs and makes Brown's River Falls. It is also known as Medicine Bowl, a series of falls in a lush green forest. The landscape is worthy enough to sit on a rock and watch it for hours, and the sound of the waterfall is like a piece of music on repeat, which you would not become bored with it.

Best Time to Visit Union Bay

Comox Valley offers distinct experiences depending on the season. Spring and summer are ideal for outdoor activities like kayaking and shellfish tasting, attracting more visitors, especially during festivals. Fall and winter provide a quieter atmosphere, suitable for storm watching and heritage tours, though trails may be muddy and require appropriate gear.

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Variable; cooler temperatures with increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for wet conditions.

June

Mild temperatures; moderate rainfall.

Trail open; most campsites operational.

Increasing number of hikers; moderate weather.

July

Warmer temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

August

Warm temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

September

Cooling temperatures; increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for variable weather.

Practical Visitor Information: What You Need to Know before visiting union bay

General Access: No permits are required for public areas like Heritage Row, the boat launch, or Baynes Sound Trail. However, respect private property and oyster farm boundaries.
Development Areas: Union Bay Estates, a 309-hectare development project, requires development permits for construction and land alterations due to historical coal contamination. Visitors should avoid active construction zones for safety.

Events and Festivals at Nanaimo Harbour,Bc

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Union Bay Bed & Breakfast

  A cozy, family-run B&B on Highway 19A, offering ocean-view rooms and homemade breakfasts featuring local oysters. Its proximity to Heritage Row makes it ideal for history enthusiasts.

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Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay (25 km south)

Located in nearby Cowichan Bay, this upscale hotel offers spacious suites with balconies overlooking the water. Amenities include a pool and on-site dining, perfect for a luxurious stay.

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Travelodge by Wyndham Courtenay (15 km north)

 A budget-friendly option in Courtenay, featuring comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to Union Bay’s attractions. Ideal for families and solo travelers.

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Most frequent questions about Union Bay on Vancouver Island

Nanaimo's excellent harbor has supported trading, servicing, and distribution industries. Fishing and lumber industries have also grown since
the 1950s.
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Arina akhoundi

2025 April 29

Festival & Events: Don't Miss Out!

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