Union Bay: A Hidden Gem in British Columbia

Nestled on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, Union Bay is a small community that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and rich history. With its stunning beaches, scenic trails, and charming local shops, Union Bay is the perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Attractions and Natural Wonders

Union Bay is home to a variety of attractions and natural wonders that are sure to delight visitors of all ages. Some of the must-see destinations in the area include:

Hart (Shipwreck) Beach: This picturesque beach is named after the Hart, a ship that ran aground here in 1947. Visitors can explore the remains of the ship and enjoy stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands.
Rosewall Creek Provincial Park: This park features a beautiful waterfall, lush forests, and a network of hiking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and coastline.
Union Bay Beach: This sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. Visitors can also enjoy a picnic or take a stroll along the nearby boardwalk.
Union Bay Historic Boat Tours: These guided tours take visitors on a journey through Union Bay's rich maritime history, showcasing the area's historic boats and landmarks.
Union Bay Festival: Held annually in August, this festival celebrates the community's history and culture with live music, food vendors, and a variety of family-friendly activities.

Parks and Trails

Union Bay is surrounded by a number of parks and trails that offer visitors the opportunity to explore the area's natural beauty. Some of the most popular parks and trails in the area include:

Comox Valley Regional Trail: This 20-kilometer trail runs from Royston to Cumberland, passing through Union Bay along the way. The trail offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby mountains, as well as access to a number of local parks and beaches.
Seal Bay Nature Park: This park features over 1,500 acres of forests, wetlands, and beaches, as well as a network of hiking and mountain biking trails.
Nymph Falls Nature Park: This park is home to a beautiful waterfall, as well as a network of hiking and mountain biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding forests and rivers.

Local Shops and Restaurants

Union Bay is home to a number of charming local shops and restaurants that offer visitors a taste of the area's unique culture and cuisine. Some of the most popular shops and restaurants in the area include:

The Little Red Church: This historic church has been converted into a charming gift shop that offers a variety of locally-made crafts and souvenirs.
The Ship's Point Restaurant: This waterfront restaurant offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby islands, as well as a menu that features fresh seafood and other local specialties.
The Union Bay Market: This local market offers a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and other locally-made products.

History of Union Bay

Union Bay was established in the late 1800s as a coal mining town. The community was named after the Union Steamship Company, which operated a shipping route between Vancouver and Union Bay. The town was officially incorporated in 1951, and today it is home to a thriving community of residents and visitors who are drawn to its natural beauty and rich history.

Conclusion

Whether you're looking to explore the area's natural beauty, learn about its rich history, or simply relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, Union Bay has something to offer everyone. With its stunning beaches, scenic trails, and charming local shops and restaurants, this hidden gem in British Columbia is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Sources

Comox Valley Regional District. (n.d.). Comox Valley Regional Trail. Retrieved from https://www.comoxvalleyrd.ca/parks-recreation/comox-valley-regional-trail
Discover Vancouver Island. (n.d.). Union Bay. Retrieved from https://www.discovervancouverisland.com/regions/north-central-island/union-bay/
Explore BC. (n.d.). Rosewall Creek Provincial Park. Retrieved from https://www.hellobc.com/plan-your-trip/regions-and-towns/vancouver-island-bc-islands/listings/rosewall-creek-provincial-park/4545/
Seal Bay Nature Park. (n.d.). About Seal Bay. Retrieved from https://www.sealbaypark.com/about-seal-bay
Union Bay Historic Boat Tours. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.unionbayboattours.com/about-us
Union Bay Market. (n.d.). About Us. Retrieved from https://www.unionbaymarket.com/about-us
Union Bay Festival. (n.d.). About. Retrieved from https://www.unionbayfestival.ca/about
Vancouver Island North. (n.d.). Nymph Falls Nature Park. Retrieved from https://vancouverislandnorth.ca/nymph-falls-nature-park/