Fillinger Bay is one of the closest beaches to my home, and it’s a spot I visit often. This small stretch of shoreline feels tucked away, with a quiet trail leading down from the neighborhood. For anyone looking for a peaceful coastal walk near Nanaimo, Fillinger Bay is a hidden gem worth exploring. Discovering hidden beaches on Vancouver Island, like this one, adds a special charm to your visit. Among these are the fascinating Vancouver Island tide pools and sandstone shorelines, offering stunning sunset views.
Getting to Fillinger Bay
Access to Fillinger Bay is through the Fillinger Bayshore view off Leslie Crescent. From there, it’s only a short seven-minute walk down a wooded trail. The path runs between residential houses before opening into a fork that leads directly to the beach. It’s perfect for those interested in coastal walks that highlight the beauty of Vancouver Island tide pools and shorelines.
At the fork, you’ll find two sets of stairs. The first option is a steeper, rock-style staircase. The second is a man-made set of stairs that provides easier access to the shore. Both lead to the same beach, where rocky shoreline meets sandstone, showcasing the natural sandstone shoreline BC is known for.
Exploring the Rocky Shoreline
Heading left from the stairs takes you along a rugged, rocky coastline. Here you’ll find a large fallen tree that makes the perfect perch to sit and watch the sunrise or sunset. It’s a quiet place where you can take in the ocean views and listen to the waves crash against the rocks. Sunset beaches in Nanaimo offer an unparalleled view, often enhanced by the charm of nearby Vancouver Island tide pools.
Walking the Sandstone Shore
My personal favorite direction is heading right from the stairs. The rock beach slowly changes into smooth sandstone, creating a unique shoreline that’s easy to walk along. As you follow the sandstone, you’ll discover large cracks and tide pools filled with sea life. Vancouver Island tide pools are a delightful feature for exploration.
Why Fillinger Bay Belongs on Your Vancouver Island Itinerary
Fillinger Bay combines easy access with rugged beauty. Whether you want to sit on a driftwood perch and watch the sun set, or wander the sandstone shore and explore tide pools, it’s a beach that offers something special in every visit, adding to the allure of sunset beaches in Nanaimo. For me, it’s one of the most underrated places to enjoy Vancouver Island’s coastline and its mesmerizing tide pools.
