5 Sports That Make Summer in Nanaimo Even Better

July 1, 2026 Release

Summer in Nanaimo is just something special. Stunning ocean views, perfect temperatures, and the opportunity for outdoor adventures around every corner. Are you a local looking for a new hobby? Or maybe a visitor wanting to kick your trip up a notch, get ready because these five sports will take you Nanaimo summer to the next level. 

 1. Beach Volleyball 

Nothing says summer quite like beach volleyball. Nanaimo has no shortage of beaches ready to provide you with the perfect backdrop for your next friendly match…or your semi-finals competitive match. Bring your own net down to Blueback Beach, Maffeo Sutton Park, or take the ferry over to Saysutshun Island for a day trip! Don’t have your own net? No worries! Bowen Park features permanent sandy beach volleyball courts just BYOB (bring your own ball 😉). 

 2. Kayaking

With the Salish Sea right at our doorstep, kayaking is the obvious choice to experience Nanaimo’s natural beauty. Paddling along the coastline offers breathtaking views of islands, marine wildlife and. If you’re lucky (we think you will be) you might spot seals, sea lions, and even the occasional whale while on the water. 

We have tons of suggestions for places to kayak this summer, really you can’t go wrong with any beach! Top spots include; Pipers Lagoon, Neck Point Park, Saysutshun Island, Brechin Boat Ramp, & Westwood Lake. 

 3. Mountain Biking 

Nanaimo’s mountain biking scene is kind of a hidden gem. With trails ranging from beginner-friendly cruisers to adrenaline-filled downhill runs, there’s something for every skill level. Bring your own bike or choose to rent one from one of Nanaimo’s many bike shops!

Check out places like Westwood Lake, Mount Benson, and Doumont Trails for plenty of opportunities to get muddy, challenge yourself, and earn some pretty incredible views. Just remember to pack water, you’ll thank yourself halfway up the hill. 

And the best part? Many of these trails are only a short drive from town. It’s easy to squeeze in a ride before work, after work, or whenever the sunshine decides to show up.

 4. Golf 

Not every sport needs to leave you covered in sweat and sand. 

Nanaimo has enough golf courses to keep you entertained for days. From perfectly manicured greens to ocean views from every hole take a leisurely day in Nanaimo while still getting outside. Not feeling the golf course? Disc golf may be more your speed. Think regular golf, but instead of clubs and golf balls, you're throwing frisbees at metal baskets. Nanaimo has several great courses where you can challenge your friends, enjoy some fresh air, and maybe discover a hidden talent for launching discs through the trees. 

Check out Bowen Park disc golf course. No paddle? No problem! Head to the administrative building and borrow one for free. 

 5. Pickleball

If you've spent any time around Nanaimo parks lately, you've probably heard the unmistakable pop-pop-pop of a pickleball game in progress.

Part tennis, part badminton, and part ping pong, pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports around, and for good reason. Pickleball courts are all over Nanaimo, we recommend the Beban Park courts, be sure to get there early because they’re popular!  Just be warned: what starts as "one quick game" can easily turn into an entire afternoon on the court.

And yes, you'll probably end up buying your own paddle sooner than you think.

Get Out There!

One of the best things about summer in Nanaimo is that adventure is never far away. Whether you're diving for a volleyball, paddling along the shoreline, hitting the trails, or spending the afternoon on the golf course, there's no shortage of ways to enjoy the season.

So grab your friends, put on some sunscreen, and make the most of summer while it's here. The sunshine won't be here forever!