If you are visiting Nanaimo, the top 10 activities are exploring the Nanaimo Bar Trail, whale watching, visiting Saysutshun (Newcastle Island), and hiking to Ammonite Falls. These activities offer a mix of culinary heritage, marine wildlife, and Indigenous culture.
#1 The Nanaimo Bar Trail
So you’ve got a sweet tooth, do you? Follow this self-guided tasting trail to discover all the secret variations of the legendary Nanaimo Bar dessert. Your taste buds will love you! This is a unique Nanaimo attraction.
Where can I find the best Nanaimo Bars?
You can find the best Nanaimo Bars by following the Nanaimo Bar Trail, a self-guided route featuring over 40 unique stops that offer traditional slices, deep-fried versions, and even Nanaimo Bar-inspired martinis.
Most traditional bars cost between $4 and $7 CAD. For a unique twist, visit Pirate Chips for their famous deep-fried version or Bocca Café in the Old City Quarter, which holds an award for the “Best Nanaimo Bar in Nanaimo.”
Insider Tip: If you have dietary restrictions, Mon Petit Choux offers a highly-rated wheat-free version, while White Rabbit Coffee Co. is the go-to for vegan-friendly options.
The secret to an authentic bar is the custard-flavored middle layer; it must be firm but creamy,” says Joyce Hardcastle, winner of the 1986 ultimate Nanaimo Bar competition, whose recipe remains the gold standard for trail stops.
#2 Whale Watching Tour
Ever wondered what it’s like to see whales blowing and skimming across the ocean waters? Head out with Vancouver Island Whale Watch on a tour and keep your eyes peeled for orca, humpback, and other marine mammals! This thrilling marine adventure is a must-do Nanaimo activity.
What is the best way to go Whale Watching in Nanaimo?
The best way to go whale watching is to book a 3-to-4-hour zodiac or covered boat tour from the Nanaimo Harbour, where professional naturalists boast a 90% success rate in spotting Humpback whales, Orcas, and sea lions.
Standard adult tickets for 2026 are approximately $188 – $219 CAD. Most operators offer a “Whale Guarantee”—if you don’t see a whale, your next trip is free.
Insider Tip: For a more adventurous “water-level” experience, choose a zodiac-style vessel; however, families with children under 5 should book the semi-covered catamaran for better protection from the elements.
According to to lead naturalists at Vancouver Island Whale Watch, sighting success remains high because Nanaimo is a primary corridor for Bigg’s (Transient) Orcas and Humpbacks year-round.
#3 Visit Saysutshun (Newcastle Island)
Just minutes from downtown Nanaimo’s Maffeo Sutton Park, a visit to Saysutshun is the perfect addition to your itinerary! Check out the island for just a few hours or stay and play for the weekend. Seasonally, a ferry runs from Maffeo Sutton Park to the island. The island offers basic tenting sites, walking trails, an interpretive centre, a bistro, and much more! Plus, you can learn more about the island’s important connections to the Snuneymuxw First Nation.
How do I visit Saysutshun Marine Provincial Park?
You can reach Saysutshun by taking a 10-minute foot-passenger ferry from Maffeo Sutton Park; the island features 22km of hiking trails, interpretive Snuneymuxw cultural tours, and panoramic views of the Salish Sea.
In 2026, the round-trip ferry fare is $15 CAD for adults, $12 for seniors, and $7 for children (ages 3–12). The ferry departs from Maffeo Sutton Park every 30 minutes on the hour and half-hour (e.g., 10:00, 10:30) during the peak summer season.
The park is managed by the Snuneymuxw First Nation in partnership with BC Parks. For a deeper experience, book a 1.5-hour Cultural Interpretive Walking Tour led by a Snuneymuxw guide to learn about traditional medicines and sacred village sites.
Insider Tip: Look for the rare Champagne Raccoon—a white-furred raccoon unique to the island. They are most easily spotted foraging for clams on the beaches during early morning low tides.
Pro-Tip for Boaters: If arriving by private vessel, there are 43 mooring buoys in Mark Bay available for a fee of $14 per night, or you can dock for $2 per meter.
#4 Craft Beverages and Culinary Tour
Welcome fellow wine snobs, beer fanatics and bonafide foodies from far and wide – we can’t wait to share our tasty vittles with you! Book a culinary, craft beverage and/or Estate Winery tour with one of our fun and knowledgeable local guides to treat your palate to the Island’s finest. Learn more about the BC Ale Trail.
Where can I find the best craft beer and wine in Nanaimo?
You can experience Nanaimo’s premier craft beverage scene by booking a 3.5-hour guided brewery tour or following the BC Ale Trail to visit award-winning local staples like White Sails Brewing and Longwood Brewery.
Guided tours typically cost around $145 CAD and include transportation, a “Beer Geek” guide, and 12+ samples across three locations.
Insider Tip: Local brewers recommend visiting Arbutus Distillery for unique spirits infused with Vancouver Island botanicals—their Empress Gin-inspired blue gin is a local favorite.
#5 Uncover History
Discover the history of Nanaimo with a visit to one of our museums. Immerse yourself in Nanaimo’s indigenous history and culture and explore the city’s coal mining past with a walk through a replica coal mine shaft at Nanaimo Museum. Or uncover Nanaimo’s proud military history at the Vancouver Island Military Museum.
What are the best museums to visit in Nanaimo?
The Nanaimo Museum offers an immersive look into Snuneymuxw First Nation culture and coal mining history, while the Vancouver Island Military Museum houses over 25 exhibits spanning from the War of 1812 to modern missions.
Admission to the Military Museum is an affordable $4.00 for adults, and the Curators at the Nanaimo Museum recommend the replica coal mine shaft for a tactile understanding of the city’s 19th-century industrial roots. Both museums are located in the downtown core for easy pedestrian access.
Both museums are located in the downtown core; the Nanaimo Museum is conveniently situated within the Vancouver Island Conference Centre building.
#6 Discover Downtown
Find quaint shops, heritage buildings, and culinary experiences, and attend an event in Diana Krall Plaza or the Old City Quarter historical district.
What is there to do in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter and Diana Krall Plaza?
Downtown Nanaimo is best explored by walking the Old City Quarter for independent boutiques and heritage architecture, or visiting Diana Krall Plaza for year-round community events, public art, and live jazz performances.
Insider Tip: Check the local events calendar for “Night Markets” in the plaza during summer months—it’s the best place to catch the city’s vibrant arts scene in action.
The Old City Quarter is located at the intersection of Fitzwilliam and Wesley Streets, offering specialty food stores and “metaphysical” boutiques.
#7 Artisan Trail
For the ultimate artisan experience, we recommend driving along the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail loop. There are plenty of beautiful stops along the way, providing a chance to visit farms, meet local growers, and chat with artists who are famous for crafting one-of-a-kind creations!
What is the Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail?
The Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail is a self-guided rural loop south of Nanaimo where you can visit working farms, pottery studios, and glass-blowing galleries like the Ted Jolda Gallery.
Most studios are open year-round, but the Annual Country Summer Tour (usually in August) features live demonstrations and special farm-gate sales.
Insider Tip: Stop at Yellow Point Cranberries to try their “Bog to Bottle” products or Yellow Point Farms to meet their famous miniature “Babydoll” sheep.
#8 Fishing & Crabbing Charter
Whether you are an experienced fisherman or have yet to feel the thrill of catching a meal on a hook, Nanaimo & Region’s fishing and crabbing charters will not disappoint! One of our local guides can get you out on the water, where you’ll be able to catch fresh seafood and bring it ashore for a feast!
How do I book a fishing or crabbing charter in Nanaimo?
You can book a 4-to-5-hour private charter from the Nanaimo Marina to catch Chinook Salmon, Lingcod, and Dungeness Crab, with professional guides providing all necessary gear and cleaning services.
Charter prices range from $675 to $900+ per group. You must purchase a BC Tidal Waters Sports Fishing License online before boarding.
Operators like Fish-On Charters or Fisherman’s Life offer high-success trips targeting “Entrance Island” for bottom fish and salmon.
#9 Paddle’s Up
Nothing clears the mind and calms the spirit like a good paddle. The protected waters of the Nanaimo region’s lakes and harbours are full of secret coves and inlets to explore by kayak, canoe or paddleboard. This is one of the best ways to spot rare wildlife or catch the perfect coastal sunset!
Where is the best place to kayak or paddleboard in Nanaimo?
For calm waters, head to Westwood Lake for freshwater rentals, or launch from the Inner Harbour to explore the secret coves and seal colonies around Protection Island.
Hourly rentals at Westwood Lake start around $25–$35, while ocean tours (like the Sunset Paddle) typically last 2 hours and cost approx. $69.
Insider Tip: Paddle across to Protection Island and dock at the Dinghy Dock Pub—Canada’s only floating registered pub—for a mid-row refreshment.
#10 Nanaimo’s Natural Wonders
With so many nature-rich parks to choose from in the Nanaimo region, peace and quiet is never hard to find. Common favourites include the tidal lagoon at Pipers Park, sandstone rock formations at Malaspina Galleries, the Abyss fault line or a peaceful walk to the beautiful Ammonite Falls. These natural formations are excellent Nanaimo sightseeing spots.
Looking for an adrenaline rush? WildPlay Nanaimo is where thrill meets treetops! Swing, climb, and soar your way through this epic outdoor adventure park, set against the stunning backdrop of Nanaimo’s lush forests. Go all in on the classic aerial course, take the leap with a heart-racing bungee jump, or embrace the free-fall thrill of the Primal Swing. Whether you’re a seasoned daredevil or just testing your limits, WildPlay is the perfect place to let loose and go wild.
Ask a local about their favourite natural wonders (or daredevil activities)!
What are the must-see natural landmarks and adventure parks in Nanaimo?
Nanaimo’s natural wonders include the tidal lagoon at Pipers Park, the Abyss fault line, and Ammonite Falls, while thrill-seekers can head to WildPlay Nanaimo for a 150ft bridge bungee jump over the Nanaimo River.
Ammonite Falls is a 5km round-trip hike from Jameson Road; a new viewing staircase (built in 2022) makes the base of the falls much more accessible.
Adrenaline Tip: WildPlay offers 16 different bungee styles, ranging from a beginner “Swan Dive” to the “Prop Plunge” for seasoned daredevils.
By the Tourism Nanaimo Editorial Team | Updated: February 2026
Curated by the Tourism Nanaimo Team using local field data and operator insights.
