Coastal Living Along the Old Island Highway
Stretching south from Courtenay along the eastern shoreline of Vancouver Island, the communities of Royston, Union Bay, Fanny Bay, and Bowser offer a laid-back, coastal lifestyle surrounded by stunning ocean views and natural beauty. These seaside villages are known for their charm, community spirit, and access to some of the island’s best beaches, seafood, and recreational activities. Royston is a favourite for those who want to live just minutes from Courtenay while enjoying oceanfront walks, bike trails, and a tight-knit neighbourhood feel. Many homes boast views of the Comox Harbour and coastal mountains.
Union Bay is undergoing exciting revitalization with future plans of a new marina and commercial development on the horizon, making it a standout for future growth. Historic homes and new builds alike enjoy sweeping Salish Sea vistas and direct access to the waterfront.
Fanny Bay, famous for its world-renowned oysters, offers peaceful rural living with a strong artisan and farming
community. It’s a hidden gem for buyers seeking character homes, acreages, or coastal cottages. For more off grid and rural living, take the Buckley Bay Ferry over to Denman and Hornby Islands and discover another piece of paradise.
Bowser, further south, is a quiet enclave offering a mix of oceanfront homes, family residences, and recreational
properties. With nearby forest trails and beach combing spots, it’s perfect for those looking to reconnect with nature while still being within driving distance of Qualicum Beach and Courtenay.
Whether you’re drawn by the view, the lifestyle, or the investment potential, these communities deliver West Coast living at its most authentic.