Things to do in Nanaimo

Activities, attractions and tours

Port Alberni showing a marina
Port Alberni showing a marina
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park featuring a bridge and a river or creek
Nanaimo which includes a bay or harbour
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park which includes a cascade
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What to do in Nanaimo

Popular places to visit

Horseshoe Bay, British Columbia, Canada -- April 11, 2021: BC Ferries vessel departing from Horseshoe Bay Terminal on its way to Vancouver Island.

Departure Bay Ferry Terminal

4.5/5(6 reviews)

Explore the waterfront in Nanaimo with a trip to Departure Bay Ferry Terminal. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Departure Bay Ferry Terminal
Stairwell to upper promenade deck aboard the BC Ferries MV Coastal Renaissance as it prepares to depart from Tswassen Terminal en route to Swartz Bay, Sydney, British Columbia, Canada.

Duke Point Ferry Terminal

5/5(1 review)

Explore the waterfront in Nanaimo with a trip to Duke Point Ferry Terminal. While you're in the area, stroll along the lakeside.

Duke Point Ferry Terminal
sunrise near Departure Bay at nanaimo, vancouver island, british colombia, canada

Departure Bay Beach

Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Departure Bay Beach during your travels in Nanaimo?

Departure Bay Beach
Coloful victorian style streets of the old town of Victoria, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Old City Quarter

Learn about the local history of Nanaimo with a stop at Old City Quarter. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Old City Quarter
Wood dock on the long lake, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Bc Canada

Long Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Long Lake during your travels in Nanaimo. While you're in the area, stroll along the seaside.

Long Lake
Snake shower at Pipers Lagoon in Nanaimo.

Pipers Lagoon Park

After visiting Pipers Lagoon Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Nanaimo. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Pipers Lagoon Park
This small park has a variety of shoreline and different forested types of areas. Great for a stroll. Also known as one of the best places to scuba dive in North America.

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park is just one of the places to see in Nanaimo, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Neck Point Park
A beautiful view towards the Nanaimo Harbour from Newcastle Island. Newcastle Island Park is a great place to hike, camp, explore, beachcomb, and kayak. #LoveMyTown

Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park during your travels in Nanaimo. While you're in the area, stroll along the waterfront.

Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

If Nanaimo Regional General Hospital is what brings you to town, hopefully you'll have a chance to explore more of Nanaimo.

Nanaimo Regional General Hospital

Areas of Nanaimo

Sea to Sky

Departure Bay

If you're spending some time in Departure Bay, Departure Bay Beach and Departure Bay Ferry Terminal are top sights worth seeing.

Departure Bay
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Stephenson Point

While Stephenson Point may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Departure Bay Beach and Departure Bay Ferry Terminal.

Stephenson Point
Gabriola Island

Gabriola Island

Frequently asked questions

Is Nanaimo worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Nanaimo is visit Departure Bay Beach. Check this major sight off your itinerary, then discover more of this area's nature and festivals.
How do I spend a day in Nanaimo?
Departure Bay Beach and Nanaimo Museum are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Nanaimo while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Nanaimo?
Departure Bay Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Nanaimo and should be high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Nanaimo?
Three days will give you time to check out some popular city sights, such as Departure Bay Beach, Nanaimo Museum and Old City Quarter. The average stay in Nanaimo is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Parksville isn't far away.
Is Nanaimo a walkable city?
If exploring on foot sounds like your style of holiday, Nanaimo is an ideal place to visit. Find top attractions, such as Departure Bay Beach, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Departure Bay, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 5 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Nanaimo with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Nanaimo with kids.

What to do in Nanaimo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there are loads of things to do in Nanaimo for adults including Old City Quarter.
Are there free things to do in Nanaimo?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Nanaimo is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Departure Bay Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.

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