Just touched down at Nanaimo Airport? Rolling off the Duke Point ferry? Cruising up from the South Island for a weekend escape? Or maybe you’re a local who’s ready to wander somewhere new without going far?
Wherever you’re coming from, South Nanaimo is ready to welcome you with wide-open trails, coastal views, and a food scene that absolutely overdelivers.
This corner of Nanaimo is where forest meets shoreline, where iconic hikes sit minutes from legendary eateries, and where every turn feels like an invitation to explore something a little different. Think waterfront bites, hidden-gem cafés, old-growth adventures, vibrant local culture, and enough outdoor fun to fill your camera roll twice over.
To make things easy, we’ve put together a two-day itinerary that gives you a head start on the very best of South Nanaimo, from morning coffee runs to sunset lookouts.
Day 1
Morning
Welcome to Nanaimo! Whether you’ve just stepped off the ferry, hopped off a flight, or pulled the car into park, your adventure starts now. Take a breath of that coastal air; you’ve landed somewhere special.
First stop: Cedar. And trust us, you’ll want to kick off your morning at Coco Café. This isn’t just a place to refuel, it’s a place with heart. A true community hub, Coco Café serves up some of the region’s most delicious comfort food, baked goods, and coffee, all while creating meaningful employment and training opportunities for people with developmental disabilities. Every bite supports local impact, every sip is part of something bigger, and every visit leaves you feeling a little more connected to the community.
Fuel up, settle in, and get ready. The rest of your Nanaimo adventure is just getting started.
Afternoon
Fueled up and feeling good? Perfect. It’s time for your next adventure. Pack up the car or grab a cab, Uber, or bus, and make your way to one of South Nanaimo’s favourite coastal trails, Jack Point & Biggs Park.
If you’re craving an oceanside wander, head to Jack Point & Biggs Park. This shoreline trail sits right beside the Duke Point Ferry Terminal and offers a peaceful walk with big views toward Nanaimo’s waterfront. Time your visit with the tides and you might spot the sandstone galleries, incredible, naturally carved formations that look like something out of an art exhibit. It’s one of those places where you can’t help but slow down and just take it all in.
Looking for something a little more thrill inducing? Haslam Suspension Bridge, a short but memorable walk, takes you 48 metres high above a rushing creek. It’s an easy adventure with just enough excitement to keep things interesting.
And if you’re up for something a bit different, the Abyss is worth the wander. After a steady walk, you’ll arrive at a long, narrow crack in the stone, a striking fissure that drops straight into the darkness below. Standing beside it feels a little surreal, especially when you realize it’s a natural fracture shaped by the movement of the earth itself. No fancy gear or expert hiking skills required, just sturdy shoes and a healthy sense of curiosity.
Whichever trail you choose, you’re officially in adventure mode… and you’re just getting started.
Evening
After a full day of soaking up coastal views, wandering forest trails, and letting nature do its thing, it’s time to settle into something warm, cozy, and delicious, followed by a little evening entertainment.
In the heart of Cedar, Mahle House is your go-to for a memorable dinner. A local favourite since 1983, this charming heritage home–turned–restaurant serves up West Coast cuisine that’s modern, intentional, and deeply rooted in local flavours. We’re talking thoughtfully sourced ingredients, beautifully crafted dishes, and a dining experience that feels both elevated and comfortably welcoming. It’s the perfect way to unwind after a day outdoors.
Once you’re happily full, keep the night going with a show in downtown Nanaimo. Just a short drive away, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene with performances happening year-round. Catch live music, theatre, comedy, or community productions at venues like The Port Theatre, TheatreOne, or Nanaimo Theatre Group. Whether you’re in the mood for big-stage energy or intimate local storytelling, Nanaimo’s stages shine bright.
Now get some rest. You’ve got another big day ahead. And trust us, it’s a good one.
Day 2
Morning
Another magical day in Nanaimo awaits! Let’s dive in.
Start your morning at Calico Cat Tea House, where cozy vibes and comfort food reign supreme. We’re talking steamy teas, classic English treats, and hearty breakfast plates that make you wonder why you don’t eat like this every day. And if you’re in full slow-morning mode? Go ahead and level up to afternoon tea. Tiny sandwiches, fancy china, big main-character energy.
Once you’re fueled and ready, it’s time to explore the heart of Nanaimo’s creative community. Make your way to Ay Lelum, a multi-generational Coast Salish design house on Snuneymuxw First Nation. Here, the artists create stunning wearable art garments that honour Traditional Coast Salish stories, teachings, and design. Their work embraces diversity, celebrates culture, and invites people from all walks of life to respectfully experience and enjoy Coast Salish art. Every piece carries meaning, history, and a deep connection to this land and its people. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking authentic local artistry.
Your day is just getting started, and the inspiration is already flowing.
Afternoon
After a chill morning, it’s time to crank things up a notch. Next stop: WildPlay Nanaimo. Where your heart rate goes up and your “I could never” turns into “okay fine, that was actually awesome.”
Picture this: ziplines slicing through towering evergreens, freefalls that make you briefly reconsider your life choices (in a fun way), and giant swings that turn even the bravest into delighted scream-laughers. Welcome to Nanaimo’s forest playground.
Step into the trees and let the energy take over. The river rushes below, someone is mid-squeal on the bungy, and you’re gearing up for an afternoon of zigzagging through aerial courses, flying over the canopy, or, if you’re feeling bold, taking on the iconic bungy jump. And if the weather decides to deliver a little West Coast drizzle? Even better. Rain is basically Nanaimo’s special effects department; it just makes the whole place moodier and more magical.
Whether you pop in for a couple of hours or let the whole afternoon slip away, WildPlay has a way of keeping you laughing, screaming, and grinning like you just discovered your new favourite hobby.
OR
If high-adrenaline isn’t your vibe today, no problem. Let’s switch gears and take things down a notch. Head back into Nanaimo and wander through Petroglyph Provincial Park.
This small but mighty park is home to one of the highest concentrations of prehistoric rock carvings on the Island, offering a rare glimpse into a world more than 1,000 years old. A quick stroll from the parking area brings you to an interpretive walkway, where story panels help you understand the history, meaning, and cultural significance of the carvings. The figures, from mystical, wolf-like beings to fish, humans, and symbolic shapes, were created for many reasons: marking territory, honouring stories, and commemorating important moments in a time before written language.
Continue a little farther and you’ll reach the sandstone gallery overlooking Nanaimo Harbour. It’s quiet, powerful, and a chance to slow down and appreciate the deep cultural roots of this region.
A low-impact afternoon that still delivers big on meaning? That’s a win.
Evening
After a day packed with exploring, it’s time to wind down the Nanaimo way: with good food, cozy vibes, and a pint (or two). Head back to Cedar and slide into a seat at the iconic Crow & Gate Pub for a proper traditional English dinner.
Opened in 1972, Crow & Gate has been winning hearts (and appetites) ever since. Tudor charm, glowing fireplaces, and those dreamy English gardens? Yeah… it’s a whole vibe.
Picture this: shepherd’s pie you’ll think about later, pints poured just right, and an atmosphere so inviting you’ll wonder if you accidentally stepped into a fairytale.
A quintessential Nanaimo night out. Cozy, delicious, and a little bit cheeky.
Two days. Countless views. Zero regrets. From forest trails and cultural moments to cozy meals and adrenaline-fuelled fun, South Nanaimo delivers big experiences without trying too hard. Whether you’re heading home or already plotting your return, one thing’s for sure, this won’t be your last Nanaimo adventure.
