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Resort-Style Retirement Living in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter

Jul 28, 2026 | 8:00 AM

For many retirees, and those nearing retirement, staying in their home can be difficult.

The time spent on day-to-day maintenance, plus dealing with bigger repairs usually required on an older home, can cut into time they’d rather spend enjoying their retirement. And if they’re traveling, they don’t want to worry about home while they’re away.

The Williston Oceanview is a new, all-inclusive resort-style retirement community under construction in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter.

With amenities including community gardens, weekly housekeeping, a café, a pub, and a rooftop terrace, it’s designed for active, independent living.

It has 145 units, ranging from studios to one and two-bedroom apartments to corner suites.

Each unit includes an in-suite washer-dryer, a kitchen, a private, covered balcony, and large windows providing lots of natural light. One wing of the building is pet-friendly.

Residents of The Williston Oceanview can cook for themselves in their suite, or they can enjoy the dining room.

Meals are prepared by two Red Seal chefs who strive to create a fine dining experience every night. And the dining room itself features spectacular views in all directions, a patio, and a private dining space that can be booked for small events.

Executive Director Lianne Ketcheson says The Williston, “provides a sense of community” for retirees.

For those who do a lot of traveling, one big appeal of The Williston is that they can enjoy their trip without worrying about home. The maintenance is taken care of, and the building is secure, without any extra work or cost on their part. And residents know that if a problem does come up, it will be dealt with by staff.

The Williston Oceanside isn’t their only all-inclusive retirement community.

Williston also runs Harbour Landing in Regina and The Refinery in Winnipeg.

At each location, they’ve brought their values of kindness, freedom, and choice, plus great food and fun.

The goal is to provide retirees with a home where they can enjoy life on their terms, staying active and independent, without spending time or money on upkeep.

Show suites are now open, and they’re taking applications with an expected move-in date this winter.

Prospective residents are invited to book a tour of the show suites by calling or visiting the website. Then, they can choose a unit and put down a deposit to place a hold on their new home. It’s an opportunity for people to live life on their terms, in a community designed for retirees.

To learn more about The Williston Oceanview, visit www.thewilliston.ca/your-next-home/ocean-view-nanaimo/.