16 Courtenay → Nanaimo
The absolute best seaside roads on Vancouver Island. Stage 16 follows the coast of the Strait of Georgia with non-stop ocean views, fishing villages, fresh oysters at Fanny Bay, and the stunning Rathtrevor Beach.
Overview
Stage 16 is widely considered the best paved stage of the Vancouver Island Grand Loop. The route follows the eastern coastline, offering near-constant views of the Strait of Georgia and the Sunshine Coast across the water. Villages like Fanny Bay, Bowser, and Parksville dot the route with places to stop, eat, and take in the scenery.
Morning is the best time to ride this stage — summer traffic from tourists and RVs can make it feel crowded by midday. Goose Spit Park in Comox makes an excellent sunrise start. The Fanny Bay Inn is legendary for fresh oysters, and Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park at the south end is considered the most popular provincial park on Vancouver Island.
Goose Spit Park in Comox — a unique narrow spit creating a calm harbour, with stunning morning light and views across the Strait of Georgia.
The Fanny Bay Inn for fresh oysters. French Creek Seafood Market for sustainably harvested local seafood. Multiple options in Parksville and Nanaimo at stage end.
Goose Spit Park — a distinctive narrow spit hosting migratory brant geese from March to May with spectacular harbour views. French Creek Seafood Market — fresh, sustainably harvested local seafood direct from the boats. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park — old-growth forest, 2km of sandy beach, and camping; considered the most popular park on Vancouver Island.
Summer traffic can be significant — morning riding strongly recommended. The route through Parksville and Qualicum Beach slows considerably on summer weekends.
Stage Map
Photos
