Article courtesy of Destination BC
You may have previously travelled to Nanaimo after arriving on Vancouver Island from a BC Ferries voyage, and then continue to another destination. But this harbour city is also the mainstay of an outdoor, coastal getaway. Culture, dining, beach walks, waterfalls, whale watching, and forest adventures are all on the roster after navigating to this classic West Coast city.
With ample opportunity for new experiences, only a little planning is required to make the most of your visit. Whether you tie off in a slip at any one of the accessible marinas or slowly cruise along its dynamic shoreline, here are few ways to enhance your trip in Nanaimo.
A Davey
Approaching Nanaimo Harbour.
Day 1: Explore Downtown
The geography around Nanaimo was once the traditional gathering grounds for the Coast Salish peoples and the city remains a gathering place for travellers to this day. It has grown plenty since its beginnings as a small Hudson’s Bay Company outpost and coal mining community in the 1800s, though Nanaimo has managed to maintain its historic feel. Book a timed admission to the Nanaimo Museum to learn about the city’s vibrant culture and history – the Snunéymuxw Exhibit is an interesting showcase of Indigenous culture, art, and traditions.
You can also spend time browsing boutiques, sampling local food, and enjoying the architecture in The Old City Quarter where you’ll find a collection of independent businesses and heritage buildings. Download the On This Spot app to learn more about popular historic sites around town.
Ben Giesbrecht
Like many destinations around the island, the fishing is excellent.
For some physically-distanced art appreciation, stroll through Nanaimo’s outdoor art, which showcases 25-plus murals on a building at the corners of Commercial St, Terminal Ave, and Wallace St. Or, grab a rich French-style coffee at Mon Petit Choux before heading back to your vessel for a short run to the boat accessible-only Saysutshun/Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park. If you prefer a break from the helm, there’s also a ferry service to the park – it’s about a ten-minute ride.
Either way, this island perch offers views of Nanaimo Harbour and the many moods of the Salish Sea (also known as the Strait of Georgia). Hike the trails, view old village sites, and book an interpretive tour with an Indigenous guide to learn about Snuneymuxw traditions and present culture. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive albino raccoon that inhabits the island.
After an afternoon of exploring the park, round out the day by visiting Nanaimo’s newest craft brewery, Cliffside Brewing, followed by ax throwing at the Axe and Grind Nanaimo across the street. When hunger strikes, there’s a variety of restaurants in the heart of downtown. Dig into a gourmet burger at Top Notch, try elevated fusion cuisine at Melange Restaurant, or savour West Coast fare at Modern Cafe (known for its Nanaimo Bar Martini). After night falls, wind down with a stroll along the ambient-lit Nanaimo Waterfront Walkway.
Don’t forget your kayak for close-up views of the rich nature and marine life.
Day 2: Enjoy an Outdoor Adventure
Nanaimo is surrounded by forest or ocean and is the perfect launchpad for outdoor adventure. For every forest to explore there’s a shoreline to paddle or route to leisurely cruise. The landscape offers a kaleidoscope of colours – from cotton-candy skies and earthy coastal foliage to emerald forests and glittering ocean.
Start your day with an oceanfront java at Drip Coffee Social. Then, visit nearby Sugarloaf Mountain to capture views of Departure Bay and Saysutshun or continue to the waterfront parks like Pipers Lagoon or Neck Point Park for a scenic stroll and photo ops.
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Ben Giesbrecht
The Harbour City offers many establishments to quench your thirst or enjoy the local cuisine.
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JordanD
The Harbour City offers many establishments to quench your thirst or enjoy the local cuisine.
Following a morning of activity, relax with a picnic lunch from Smokin’ George’s BBQ before you head out for a longer hike to Ammonite Falls. Westwood Lake Park at the foot of Mount Benson is a great experience where you can hike, go trail running, or fish for the abundance of stocked Rainbow trout. Although only non-motorized craft is allowed on the lake, it’s the perfect place for kayaking, paddleboarding, and refreshing swims.
When it comes to mountain biking, Nanaimo is a bit of a hidden gem on Vancouver Island with virtually year-round riding due to its temperate climate. There are three different areas to ride—Stevie Smith Bike Park, Doumont Trails, and Westwood Lake Trails – all offering plenty of options for most levels of riders.
Anderson
Nanaimo’s Commercial St.
If you’re happiest on the ocean, Nanaimo’s coastline delivers in spades. Kayaking is popular with many areas to explore and guided tours are available to further discover the variety of fascinating areas. While the local marinas are gateways to the city’s vibrant life, there are many opportunities off the shores to stay on the hook and then tour with a tender explore to enjoy the coastline.
After a good day of activity, a pint and a bite are always a good bet at one of Nanaimo’s BC Ale Trail stops – Longwood Brew Pub and Restaurant is a local favourite.
Courtenay
Pipers Lagoon Boardwalk is just one of nature walks you can enjoy here.
Day 3: Visit Gabriola Island
Dubbed the “Isle of the Arts,” Gabriola Island has one of the highest concentrations of artisans, makers, and creatives in the country. A quick shot by boat (or a 20-minute BC Ferries ride) from Nanaimo to Gabriola makes for a great day trip that’s filled with art, nature, and yummy bites.
If you’re visiting the island under power, perhaps plan a full experience here and stay the night at Page's Inn on Silva Bay. Its marina offers protected transient moorage for boats up to 21 m (70 ft) whether inn guests arrive by boat or you have one in tow. It’s easily accessible to excellent island cruising and salmon fishing and some amenities include a fish cleaning station, on-site barbecues, 30/15-amp power, complimentary Wi-Fi, a fuel dock (mid-grade gas/diesel – all year), plus washrooms, showers, and laundry facilities.
The marina also has bike rentals to explore the area as there is more than 120 km (75 mi) of trails (20 designated for bikes) in addition to beaches in Descanso Bay Regional Park, Sandwell Provincial Park, and Drumbeg Provincial Park.
Your Starting Point: Port of Nanaimo
Staying on the hook or mooring ball is always popular among boaters in the protected Nanaimo Harbour or other nearby anchorages with quick access to the city. But if you prefer the confines and services of a boat slip, the Port of Nanaimo consists of two marinas. Both combine to provide more than 2,133 m (7,000 ft) of moorage.
While the inner Boat Basin provides space for small to medium commercial and pleasure boats (with secured gates from 11:00 pm to 7:00 am), larger vessels are allocated space on the 183 m (600 ft) W.E. Mills Landing & Marina. It’s known among locals and returning boaters as the Visiting Vessel Pier and Cameron Island Marina. It, too, has restricted access with secured gates. An access code is available from the harbour master.
Services and amenities include two fuel barges, a 5 km (3 mi) walkway that leads to many services including museums, a chandlery, a farmer’s market, grocery stores, a post office, medical clinic, pharmacy, even a computer store. Canada Customs, buses, taxis, vehicle rentals, seaplane connections, and adventure activities are even nearby.