9 Welcoming Towns to Retire in British Columbia
Known for its stunning natural beauty, laidback lifestyle, and friendly communities, British Columbia is home to charming towns where retirees can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life. Beyond its well-known cities lies a wealth of scenic small towns that offer a high quality of life, with access to nature, healthcare, and vibrant local culture. With welcoming locals and a relaxed pace, retirees can look forward to finding the perfect place to settle down and savor the golden years in one of these picturesque and inviting communities in British Columbia.
Tsawwassen
Tsawwassen, located in the southwestern corner of British Columbia, is known for its scenic beauty and sunny weather, making it a perfect retirement spot. With stunning waterfront views at Centennial Beach and outdoor adventures in Boundary Bay Regional Park, retirees can enjoy the natural charm of the area. For a day of fun, Big Splash Water Park is nearby, while shopping enthusiasts can explore the Tsawwassen Mills.
The town hosts exciting events like the Tour de Delta, a bicycle race held in July, and the annual Sun Festival during the August long weekend, featuring parades, live music, food tents, and games. For golf lovers, Tsawwassen Springs Golf offers an enjoyable course with scenic views. Healthcare needs are well provided for at Delta Hospital, ensuring peace of mind for retirees. Those looking for a senior living community can consider The Waterford - A Bria Seniors Community, offering a comfortable, community-oriented lifestyle.
Courtenay
Courtenay, nestled in the heart of the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, is an ideal town for retirees looking for a vibrant yet peaceful lifestyle. Surrounded by stunning natural beauty, Courtenay offers excellent medical services at the North Island Hospital Comox Valley, ensuring peace of mind for residents. For those looking to live among peers, Comox Valley Seniors Village Assisted Living provides a comfortable and welcoming environment.
The town is alive with numerous events and festivals throughout the year, keeping retirees engaged and entertained. Every July, the Island Music Fest, one of Vancouver Island’s largest music festivals, takes place, offering a three-day celebration of diverse music and camping. Other local festivals include the North Island Festival of Performing Arts, Fiddlefest, and the Comox Valley Highland Games, all of which bring the community together. The Comox Valley Piano Society also puts on performances at the Stan Hagen Theatre, located in downtown Courtenay. The town's downtown area is bustling with eateries, shopping, and entertainment, with the Sid Williams Theatre serving as the hub for live performances. Retirees can explore local attractions such as the HMCS Alberni Museum, Courtenay Museum and Palaeontology Centre, Comox Air Force Museum, and the I-Hos Gallery.
Parksville
For retirees looking to settle in a serene beachside community, Parksville offers an idyllic environment with plenty of activities. Nestled along the coast, Parksville is well-known for its expansive sandy beaches at Parksville Bay and Craig Bay, making it a great spot for those who love the outdoors. The Parksville Qualicum Beach area offers access to stunning beaches for a day of fun with friends. Besides that, Paradise Mini Golf and Fun Park, as well as the scenic Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, are ideal for strolls and picnics.
The town hosts various annual events that make life more engaging for retirees. The city’s famous "Parksville Beachfest," running from mid-July to mid-August, showcases incredible sandcastle-building competitions and is the only World Championship Sand Sculpting qualification event in Canada. Every January 1st, locals gather for the “Polar Bear Splash” at Parksville Community Park Beach to kick off the new year. Additionally, a lively summer night market is held every Tuesday to support local vendors and artisans. Medical care is readily accessible for retirees at Oceanside Health Centre, while senior living options include Arrowsmith Lodge and Stanford Seniors Village.
Ladner
For seniors, the town of Ladner offers a peaceful, community-focused lifestyle with plenty of attractions and activities. Ladner is home to historical sites such as the Delta Heritage Society, Ladner Harbour Park, and the Douglas J. Husband Discovery Centre, providing a blend of culture and nature for retirees. Memorial Park offers a scenic spot for walks and outdoor relaxation.
Every spring, the town hosts the Ladner Pioneer May Days, Delta’s longest-running festival, first celebrated in 1896. The event features a parade, carnival, and local festivities, bringing the community together. During the summer, Ladner Village Market is held every other Sunday, transforming the streets into a lively farmers’ market with live music, fresh produce, and homemade crafts, perfect for retirees to enjoy. Medical care is easily accessible at Delta Hospital, ensuring that retirees can live care-free. For those seeking assisted living, Augustine House offers senior living options. Golf enthusiasts can also enjoy a game at Kings Links by the Sea.
Port Alberni
Port Alberni, nestled beneath Mount Arrowsmith and surrounded by mountains, is a paradise for nature-loving retirees. The town boasts stunning natural beauty with over 100 hiking, walking, and mountain biking trails throughout the Alberni Valley, including favorites like the Horne Lake Trail and the Log Train Trail. For fishing enthusiasts, Port Alberni is a prime destination, with waters home to five species of salmon and seasonal runs of steelhead, making it a popular spot for anglers.
Retirees have plenty of scenic locations to explore, including the Alberni Valley, Cathedral Grove with its towering ancient trees, the picturesque Hole in the Wall, and serene spots like Taylor Arm and Stamp River Provincial Parks. For a relaxing day in town, Harbour Quay and Victoria Quay offer charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants with views of the inlet, perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the local atmosphere. When it comes to healthcare, Port Alberni’s West Coast General Hospital ensures retirees have access to quality medical services. For those considering assisted living, Timberline at North Park provides excellent senior living options.
Cranbrook
Cranbrook offers a welcoming environment for retirees, with plenty of amenities to make life comfortable and enjoyable. It is home to the largest hospital in the region, the East Kootenay Regional Hospital, ensuring retirees’ medical needs are well taken care of. The town also offers the Better at Home program, which supports older adults by helping with non-medical tasks, allowing them to continue living independently in their homes. For those who prefer to live in a senior community, Kootenay Street Village and Tamarack Cottage provide excellent options.
Cranbrook’s outdoor attractions are perfect for retirees looking to explore the area. The Canadian Museum of Rail Travel showcases old passenger rail cars, offering a glimpse into the town's historical significance. The Cranbrook History Centre, Rotary Park, Moir Park, and Cranbrook Farmers' Market also provide plenty of opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Retirees who enjoy a healthy, competitive game of golf can visit Wildstone Golf Course or Cranbrook Golf Club, both offering stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere. With its key role as a Canadian Pacific Railway hub, Cranbrook allows for easy travel to the United States, making it convenient for retirees who wish to stay connected with family or explore further afield.
Mission
Mission is nestled on the southern slopes of the Coast Mountains, offering stunning views of the Fraser River Valley. This scenic town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with its abundant hiking, biking, and fishing opportunities. Retirees can enjoy fishing for great white sturgeon and Fraser River salmon in the town. Seniors in town can also enjoy a range of local attractions, including the peaceful Rolley Lake and Rolley Lake Provincial Park for hiking and picnicking. For a more exciting day, head to Mission Raceway Park for motorsport events or visit the historic Westminster Abbey for a serene experience. Trout Creek Farm also offers a scenic outdoor spot for exploration.
Medical needs for retirees are well catered for at Mission Memorial Hospital, ensuring peace of mind for those settling down in the area. Seniors can stay active and social at the Boswyk Seniors Activity Centre, where recreational programs and events are held year-round. For those seeking senior living, Chartwell Carrington House provides excellent care and a welcoming environment.
Fort St. John
Fort St. John offers a wonderful retirement experience for seniors who enjoy the outdoors and a friendly community. Located in northeastern British Columbia, this town combines small-town charm with modern conveniences. Seniors can immerse themselves in the arts at the North Peace Cultural Centre, which hosts concerts, theater performances, and community events year-round. For history lovers, the Fort St. John - North Peace Museum provides fascinating exhibits on the region’s past. Nature lovers can explore the scenic Beatton Provincial Park, ideal for walking and picnicking, or enjoy a round of golf at Fort St. John Links Golf Course. Seniors can also try their luck at Chances Casino Fort St. John or grab a bite at Just Jacks Restaurant. From May to October, the Fort St. John Farmers Market offers fresh local produce, crafts, and a chance to connect with the community.
Medical needs are well taken care of at Fort St. John Hospital & Peace Villa, ensuring that seniors have easy access to healthcare services. For added support, the Fort St. John & Area Senior’s Care Foundation is dedicated to helping seniors with their needs. Independent and assisted living options are available at Heritage Manor, making Fort St. John a fantastic retirement destination.
Squamish
Squamish is a fantastic retirement destination, offering a blend of outdoor adventure, community engagement, and support services tailored to seniors. Nestled between the mountains and the ocean, Squamish provides breathtaking scenery and a peaceful environment for retirees. The Squamish 55+ Community Society offers a vibrant Seniors Community Hub and Resource Directory, fostering connections, organizing social activities, and providing community resources to enrich the lives of residents aged 55 and older. For those seeking senior living options, Shannon Falls Retirement Residence offers comfortable accommodations and a supportive environment. Medical needs are taken care of at Squamish General Hospital, ensuring that healthcare services are readily accessible.
Squamish is a haven for nature lovers, with outdoor attractions perfect for family outings or peaceful walks. The Sea to Sky Gondola offers stunning views of the mountains and the ocean, while Shannon Falls Provincial Park provides scenic hiking trails. Seniors can also explore the iconic Stawamus Chief, a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing, or delve into history at the Britannia Mine Museum.
Retirees can enjoy a diverse range of activities in the scenic beauty of British Columbia. From the stunning mountains and ocean views to the abundance of outdoor trails, parks, and beaches, British Columbia offers endless opportunities for exploration and relaxation. With vibrant cultural hubs, museums, theatres, and festivals, many towns provide the same amenities as larger cities. Whether you're looking for senior living communities or independent housing, BC has options to fit every lifestyle and budget. Enjoy your golden years in a province that balances nature, culture, and all the essentials for a fulfilling retirement.
