Stretching across central Vancouver Island this community of approximately 138,000 people includes the cities of Nanaimo, Parksville (Oceanside), and Port Alberni, the town of Qualicum Beach, the districts of Tofino and Ucluelet and the most populous of the gulf islands, Gabriola Island. 

Here you will find a relaxed island culture and attractive quality of life with diversified local economies ranging from technology and manufacturing to agriculture and tourism.  Locals and visitors alike will find plenty of recreation and relaxation opportunities within this area which boasts of a temperate climate, miles of sandy beaches, bustling harbours and multiple provincial parks.  Some of the more popular activities include whale watching, scuba diving, beachcombing, windsurfing, kayaking, fishing, and wilderness hiking. 

Fun fact: Tofino and Parksville (Oceanside) are both recognized by the United Nations as biosphere reserves based on marine, alpine and meadow ecosystems co-existing in a small geographic area. 

Nanaimo, Oceanside and Alberni-Clayoquot is in the traditional territory of the Coast Salish and Nuu-chah-nulth Indigenous people.

To find out more about this community please visit Health Match BC’s link Communities on the Island.