Protected waters, island-hopping routes, and jaw-dropping coastal views, the Nanaimo region was practically made for paddlers. Whether you’re gliding past sandstone cliffs on a mellow day trip or loading up for a multi-day island adventure, this corner of the Salish Sea offers endless ways to explore by kayak or paddleboard. But before you dip your paddle, take a moment to learn how to travel thoughtfully. From respecting First Nations territories to keeping wildlife wild and campsites clean, this guide from BC Marine Trails has everything you need to make your paddling trip safe, sustainable, and unforgettable — for all the right reasons.

Respect First Nations Guidelines

The lands and waters around Nanaimo are the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territories of the Snuneymuxw, Snaw-naw-as, and Stz’uminus First Nations. These Coast Salish Peoples have been stewards of this region since time immemorial, with rich cultures and histories deeply connected to the area. Their deep and ongoing relationship to these lands and waters is reflected in place names, oral histories, cultural teachings, and the continued stewardship that shapes and sustains the region today.

As you explore this beautiful region, we encourage you to embrace the Hul’q’umi’num’ principle of Snu’y’ulh, which embodies traditional teachings of respect and responsibility.

Golden Rule: Every shoreline has a story. As you explore the Nanaimo region, move with care and curiosity — respecting the cultural, spiritual, and ecological significance of these lands and waters. To learn more about which areas are appropriate to visit, and how to paddle respectfully through First Nations territories, please visit the BC Marine Trails map.

Human Waste Best Practices

When nature calls, use the facilities provided — every designated campsite in the immediate Nanaimo area is well equipped! From Saysutshun (Newcastle Island) to Gabriola, composting or pit toilets are available and designed to handle human waste safely. Coastal environments have thin soils and limited capacity for decomposition, so catholes do not work!  Leaving waste behind can contaminate water sources, impact wildlife, and affect other visitors’ experiences.

Remember, composting toilets are for human waste only. All other garbage — including wipes, sanitary products, diapers, and food scraps — must be packed out or disposed of in designated bins. Let’s work together to keep Nanaimo’s coastal campsites clean, respectful, and welcoming for everyone.

If venturing further to more remote sites, refer to the chart below!

Responsible Fires

Campfires are permitted in many areas when no fire ban is in effect, but they require care and intention. A poorly placed fire can damage fragile ecosystems and leave lasting scars on the landscape.

No fire is always the most responsible choice — cuddle up under the stars, or enjoy a game of cards by headlamp! If you choose to have a fire, build it below the high tide line using small pieces of driftwood. Keep it small, manageable, and always fully extinguish it before you leave, allowing the tide to remove any evidence you were there!

At established campgrounds, use the official fire rings provided. 

Keep Wildlife Wild

Nanaimo’s vibrant harbour and surrounding coastal waters are home to a variety of wildlife. From harbour seals sunning, to bald eagles flying overhead, and sea lions patrolling the shorelines, the area offers incredible opportunities to observe nature right from your kayak or paddleboard. If you’re lucky, you might even spot humpbacks or orcas passing through the Salish Sea!

As exciting as these encounters are, it’s important to remember that wildlife viewing comes with responsibility. Keep your distance, avoid feeding or approaching animals, and never linger near haul-outs, nesting areas, or rookeries. Disturbing wildlife can cause stress and disrupt natural behaviours — and in some cases, create unsafe situations for both people and animals.

Proper food storage at camp is always  important when camping. Use the food caches provided or keep food and scented items secured in your kayak or bear hang, well away from sleeping areas.

Grey Water Disposal

Coastal ecosystems are sensitive to pollution, and even small amounts of soap can harm marine life. 

Minimize your impact by avoiding soap when washing dishes — at a minimum, ensure soaps are biodegradable and camp friendly. Instead, use hot water and natural abrasives like sand or gravel. Dispose of grey water below the high tide line, where tidal action can help break it down and disperse it safely. 

Photo credit: BC Marine Trails

Leave The Coast Better

Our goal is for recreation to have a neutral — or even positive — impact on the coast. Stick to established trails and campsites to avoid trampling sensitive vegetation and causing erosion. Pack out everything, including food scraps, to leave each site as clean and magical as you found it — or better.

Whether it’s picking up a few pieces of marine debris, keeping your camp compact, or resisting the urge to create new trails, these simple choices help protect the coast. 

Let’s be real, it’s not hard to fall in love with this coast. But keeping it beautiful? That takes a bit of effort (and a lot of packing out what you packed in). Whether you’re navigating your way through sheltered coves or cracking open snacks at camp, your choices matter. Respect the Nations whose territories you’re travelling through, keep your fires tidy, and give wildlife the space they deserve. It’s not about perfection, it’s about paddling with purpose. So get out there, make some salty memories, and leave nothing behind but good vibes and a barely-there paddle wake.