The area of Uplands is well-known for its beautiful views, including sights of Long Lake, Mount Benson and the nearby ocean.  Uplands Drive is a major residential road that starts at the end of Departure Bay Road and curves northwest past the Nanaimo North Town Centre. This area is popular with professionals and families for its standard house styles and easy access to local parks, most notably the natural area of Linley Valley and the new Oliver Woods Community Centre. Properties in the Uplands area are mainly residential, with many properties including large lot sizes due to the hillside landscape.