Vancouver Island, BC : Newcastle Island Provincial Marine Park

Newcastle Island Provincial Marine Park

Nanaimo

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Address http://www.newcastleisland.ca Nanaimo Harbour Nanaimo, BC (250) 754-7893

Directions
Access the island via passenger ferry from Maffeo Sutton Park on Nanaimo's waterfront. Maffeo Sutton park is accessed from the Island Hwy at the junction with Comox street.

Description:
Situated a few hundred metres offshore in Nanaimo’s harbour, lies Newcastle Island. Picturesque with lush forests, sculpted sandstone cliffs, and sandy beaches in numerous bays and coves, the islands is a popular destination for boaters, picnickers, hikers, and campers. Getting away from it all was never so easy! The wildlife and colourful history add to the mystique of the park, which has been designated "one of the most intriguing parks in British Columbia."

As no vehicles are allowed on Newcastle Island, from May 1 through to Thanksgiving, passenger ferry service is offered from Nanaimo’s waterfront Maffeo Sutton Park. The ferry, usually piled with camping gear and bicycles, takes 10 minutes to deposit you at the dock on Newcastle. Large, four-wheeled carts offer free transport to haul your camping gear to one of the 18 secluded campsites. In the evening, mingle quietly with the grazing black tailed deer. Raccoons, including the unique Blonde Raccoons make nightly visits to your campsite. An evening swim with the harbour seals in the warm waters of Brownie Bay is a must. Group camping areas are available.

For hikers and bikers, 18 kilometres of well maintained shoreline and forest trails crisscross the island with lookouts to view seals, sea lions, eagles, and the occasional whale. Numerous birds are found at the inland lake and marshes. Day visitors enjoy the picnic and large, covered, group barbeque areas. Boat moorage is available dockside.

Designated a park in 1961, the island has a rich history dating back to early Salish villages. In 1849, coal was discovered in the area. Named after the British coalmining town, the island was mined from 1853-1883 while sandstone was quarried from 1869-1932. In 1931, the southern part of the island was the site of the Canadian Pacific Coastal Steamship Resort. The pavilion is still in use as a visitor center and restaurant and can be reserved for dances and wedding receptions. The new gazebo serves as a wedding chapel.

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