Top Things to Do in Nanaimo

1. Walk the Harbourfront Walkway

Start your visit with a scenic stroll along Nanaimo’s Harbourfront Walkway. This paved path runs along the waterfront, offering stunning views, floating restaurants, and cozy cafés.

2. Explore Newcastle Island

A quick ferry ride from Maffeo Sutton Park takes you to Newcastle Island, a beautiful spot for hiking, picnicking, and learning about Indigenous history. The island is rich with stories from the Snuneymuxw First Nation and is a must-visit for nature lovers.

3. Hike to Ammonite Falls

If you’re up for a little adventure, Ammonite Falls is a rewarding hike through lush forests leading to a stunning waterfall. The trail is moderate, making it great for both beginners and experienced hikers.

4. Visit Neck Point Park

This coastal park is a haven for photographers, kayakers, and wildlife lovers. With rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and breathtaking sunsets, it’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in Vancouver Island’s natural beauty.

5. Take a Food Tour (and Try a Nanaimo Bar!)

No visit to Nanaimo is complete without indulging in its famous dessert—the Nanaimo Bar! Check out local bakeries or stop by a café like Mon Petit Choux for a delicious treat. You can also take a self-guided food tour to explore Nanaimo’s growing culinary scene.

6. Go Whale Watching or Kayaking

The waters around Nanaimo are teeming with marine life. Join a whale-watching tour to see orcas, humpbacks, and sea lions, or rent a kayak and explore the coastline at your own pace.

7. Discover the Old City Quarter

For a mix of history, shopping, and dining, head to the Old City Quarter. This charming area is home to heritage buildings, boutique shops, and unique eateries.

Nanaimo by the Numbers: Nature Facts

Forests & Green Space: Nanaimo has over 200 parks and green spaces, covering more than 1,400 hectares of land, making it a nature lover’s paradise.

Waterfalls: The region is home to several stunning waterfalls, including Ammonite Falls (20+ meters high) and Christie Falls, which cascade beautifully year-round.

Coastline: Nanaimo boasts 1,500 km of coastline, with breathtaking ocean views, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and wildlife spotting.

Marine Life: The surrounding waters are part of the Salish Sea, home to 3 resident orca pods, along with humpback whales, sea lions, and Pacific white-sided dolphins.

Weather: Nanaimo enjoys a mild coastal climate, with an average of 1,655 hours of sunshine per year—perfect for year-round outdoor adventures.

Where to Stay

• Luxury: The Grand Hotel Nanaimo – A refined stay with elegant rooms and great amenities.
• Mid-Range: Coast Bastion Hotel – Offers fantastic harbor views and a central location.
• Budget-Friendly: Painted Turtle Guesthouse – A cozy and affordable option for solo travelers and backpackers.

Best Time to Visit

Nanaimo is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is from late spring to early fall (May–September) when the weather is warm, and outdoor activities are at their peak. Summer is perfect for kayaking, hiking, and festivals, while fall offers beautiful foliage and quieter trails.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, Nanaimo delivers. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm island vibes, it’s a destination that deserves a spot on your travel list. Pack your bags, hit the trails, and get ready to fall in love with Nanaimo!

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Ready to explore Nanaimo? Let me know if you’d like more tips or personalized recommendations!