Things To Do
in Nanaimo
Nanaimo is a charming city located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its stunning waterfront views, outdoor recreational activities, and vibrant arts and culture scene. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Nanaimo Bastion and take a walk along the Harbourfront Walkway.
The city also offers a variety of dining options, local shops, and annual events for residents and tourists to enjoy.
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore coastal scenery and historical landmarks on this scenic island trail.
Enjoy the serene waters and forested surroundings while paddling around the lake.
Ride through a network of trails offering various difficulty levels and beautiful views of Nanaimo.
Hike to this picturesque waterfall, surrounded by lush foliage and impressive rock formations.
Discover tide pools, rock formations, and beautiful ocean views while strolling along the shoreline.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $75 - $150
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $40 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a relaxing walk along the waterfront at Swy-a-lana Lagoon. Enjoy the views and take in the fresh ocean air.
Visit the Nanaimo Museum to learn about the area's rich history. Explore fascinating exhibits that showcase local culture.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant and indulge in fresh seafood. Enjoy the sunset as you savor your meal.
Rent a kayak to explore the waters around Nanaimo. Paddle through picturesque islands while enjoying the morning sun.
Stop for lunch at a beachside café and enjoy local fare. Afterward, hike the scenic trails at Newcastle Island Provincial Park.
Return to downtown Nanaimo for a leisurely stroll along the Harbourfront Walkway. Grab ice cream and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and ocean views.
- Mild climate with relatively warm winters compared to other Canadian cities.
- Vibrant cultural scene with art galleries, theaters, and local festivals.
- Access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking.
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- Growing economy with opportunities in tourism, technology, and education.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other Canadian cities.
- Limited public transportation options, making a car necessary for many residents.
- Can experience heavy rainfall during the winter months.
- Job market can be competitive in certain sectors.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger urban centers.
- Isolated location may lead to higher travel costs for accessing mainland services.
Places to Visit in Nanaimo
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic island park with beautiful views of Nanaimo and the Harbour, great for photography and exploration.
Stunning coastal views, rugged cliffs, and picturesque landscapes make this a prime spot for photography and enjoying the scenery.
A picturesque park with ocean views, coastal trails, and rocky shorelines perfect for capturing beautiful images.
Food in Nanaimo
Nanaimo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential local sweet treat, the Nanaimo Bar consists of three layers: a crumbly, nutty base, a buttery custard middle, and a topping of rich chocolate. It's a must-try dessert in Nanaimo and can be found in many bakeries and cafes across the city.
Must-Try!
Given Nanaimo's coastal location, seafood chowder is a local favorite. Made with fresh seafood, potatoes, and a creamy broth, this hearty dish is readily available at various restaurants and waterfront eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of downtown, the Nanaimo Farmers Market offers a delightful array of locally produced goods, including artisanal cheeses, organic produce, and freshly baked goods. Visitors can also find a selection of food vendors offering delicious street food options.
A popular street food destination, the Friday Night Market features a diverse range of international cuisines, from gourmet hot dogs to authentic Thai dishes. Visitors can sample an assortment of street food while enjoying live music and a vibrant atmosphere.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nanaimo, it is important to show respect for the local First Nations culture, including being mindful of traditional territories and participating in cultural events with an open and respectful attitude.
Nanaimo residents place a strong emphasis on environmental conservation and sustainability. Visitors should be mindful of local conservation efforts and engage in eco-friendly behaviors.
Politeness and courtesy are valued in Nanaimo, and visitors are expected to be polite in their interactions with locals. Common courtesies such as saying please and thank you are appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Nanaimo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Nanaimo, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. The standard tipping rate is around 15-20% of the total bill.
Payment in Nanaimo is predominantly done using debit or credit cards, although cash is still widely accepted. Contactless payment methods are becoming more popular, and many businesses also accept mobile payment options such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nanaimo. Expect mild and pleasant weather with blooming flowers and budding trees.
Ideal for outdoor activities. Expect warm temperatures, festivals, and bustling waterfront.
Beautiful foliage and harvest festivals. Expect cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Possibility of mild winters. Expect holiday events and beautiful waterfront lights.
Nanaimo at Night
Hiking in Nanaimo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination offering panoramic views of Nanaimo and the surrounding areas, featuring several trails of varying difficulty levels.
This moderate hike leads to a serene lake where hikers can enjoy nature, swimming, and picnicking. The trail is well-marked and surrounded by beautiful forest.
A family-friendly park that features a scenic loop trail around the lake, perfect for walking, running, and hiking, with options to extend the hike into wooded areas.
Offering easy trails with stunning ocean views, this park features coastal scenery and is great for leisurely hikes that can be enjoyed by all ages.
A beautiful area for hiking along the river, with trails that offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and access to swimming holes during the summer months.
Aiports
How to reach Nanaimo by plane.
Located approximately 55 miles south of Nanaimo, YVR is the main airport serving Vancouver and the surrounding area, offering numerous domestic and international flights.
Located about 15 miles from Nanaimo on Vancouver Island, YYJ serves the capital of British Columbia and offers various domestic and international flights.
Situated around 70 miles southeast of Nanaimo, YXX serves the Fraser Valley and is a hub for low-cost airlines providing both domestic and some international routes.
Located approximately 115 miles south of Nanaimo, SEA is a major international airport serving the Seattle metropolitan area and offers extensive flight options.
Around 95 miles south of Nanaimo, BLI offers limited international flights and is a popular option for travelers heading to Washington state.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
This group consists mainly of individuals with ancestral roots in Europe, making up a significant portion of the population.
Indigenous communities, including First Nations, Métis, and Inuit, represent a vital and culturally rich demographic in Nanaimo.
This demographic includes individuals of East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian descent, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Nanaimo.
Individuals with Latin American heritage are part of the diverse population, adding to the cultural diversity of the city.
People of African descent contribute to the community through cultural events and social activities, enhancing diversity.
This group includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds not specifically categorized, reflecting the city's overall diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is one of the most popular sports in Nanaimo, with several local teams and leagues, including junior teams and recreational leagues.
Soccer enjoys a strong following in Nanaimo, with numerous youth leagues and adult amateur teams participating in various competitions.
Rugby has a dedicated community in Nanaimo, featuring men's and women's teams that compete regionally and nationally.
American football is played at various levels in Nanaimo, including high school and community leagues.
Lacrosse is a historic sport in Nanaimo, with strong participation at the youth and senior levels, showcasing the city's cultural heritage.
Baseball is popular in Nanaimo, with local leagues for youth as well as adult amateur teams that compete in the summer months.
Nanaimo is known for its mountain biking trails, attracting enthusiasts from all over for both recreational riding and competitive events.
Golf is well-loved in Nanaimo, with several golf courses offering beautiful landscapes and challenging play for enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanaimo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Nanaimo has numerous restaurants and cafes that offer vegetarian and vegan options, such as the vegetarian curry at Mon Petit Choux and the vegan Buddha bowl at Power House Living Foods Co.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free pizzas at Mambo Pizza or indulge in gluten-free baked goods at Marinos Cafe.