Check out our recommendations for a great experience here in Nanaimo. From family-friendly adventures to wine and craft beverage tours, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t forget to visit the downtown core, with quaint shops, heritage buildings, the historic Old City Quarter and the Diana Krall Plaza! For more information on Nanaimo tourist attractions, head to
Nanaimo Bar Trail: If you have yet to try a Nanaimo Bar, you simply must follow your taste buds on this self-guided adventure through the streets to find some delicious takes on the traditional sweet treat at local coffee houses and cafés.
Snorkel with Harbour Seals: Vancouver Island is rated as one the best cold-water destinations in the world, and a
hot spot for dive enthusiasts. Take the plunge (in a wet or dry suit) and catch playful Harbour Seal pups in action with one of several
local dive companies.
Take a Catamaran Cruise: Don’t want to get wet? Enjoy Nanaimo’s natural beauty and amazing sea life on a relaxing Catamaran, or shake it up and head out onto the open water on a hovercraft!
Craft Beverages and Culinary Tour: Unleash the culinary magic of this region with a four-hour
Taste of Nanaimo tour by Vancouver Island Expeditions. Sip and nibble favourites from some of the area’s best family-owned vineyards, breweries, distillers and local food producers located throughout the city.
Witness the Historic Cannon Firing: Go back in time at the Nanaimo Museum and the Bastion’s daily cannon firing located beside the Bastion on the Pioneer Waterfront Plaza. The cannon fires everyday at noon sharp from mid-May to Labour Day in early September.
Island Hop: Newcastle Island,
Protection Island and
Gabriola Island are all just a quick ferry ride away from Nanaimo, with ferry terminals located within easy walking distance from the Best Western Dorchester Hotel.
Artisan Trail: Find a one-of-a-kind creation and meet some great artisans on the
Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Trail loop. Take your car and visit local farms, fields and artisans plying their craft in the Nanaimo area.
Go Catch a Fish: Snag the catch of the day and have some fun with local fishing guides
Invictus Charters, a Coast Guard-approved, Transport Canada-certified member of the West Coast Fishing Association.
Paddle Up: Book a tour or rent a canoe/kayak/paddle board for an exhilarating self-guided experience on the big blue ocean. Ask us about local rental shops and tour companies to try out.
Nanaimo’s Natural Wonders: Get outside and enjoy what Mother Nature created; Check out the tidal lagoon at Pipers Park, Ammonite Falls, sandstone rock formations at Malaspina Galleries, the Abyss Fault Line, and more for some of the best Nanaimo sightseeing.