What to do in Nanaimo

Activities, attractions and tours

A marina with various boats docked, a large industrial building, and mountains in the background.
A wooden bridge over a flowing river surrounded by dense greenery.
A marina with various boats docked, including sailboats and motorboats, under a clear blue sky.
A waterfall cascading over a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery.
A large sand sculpture of a muscular figure with a beard, surrounded by smaller sand structures.

Things to do

Our open boats comfortably seat 12 passengers and have a washroom onboard!

Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour

฿5,902
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Whale Watching Nanaimo Open Boat Tour
Our new semi-covered vessel has warm seating indoors and a viewing platform at the stern.

Nanaimo Whale Watching in a Semi-Covered Boat

฿5,902
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Nanaimo Whale Watching in a Semi-Covered Boat
Nanaimo Private Whale Watching

Nanaimo Private Whale Watching

฿56,660
per traveller
Nanaimo Private Whale Watching
Tofino to Nanaimo: Private car transfer

Tofino to Nanaimo: Private car transfer

฿14,755
per traveller
Tofino to Nanaimo: Private car transfer
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What to do in Nanaimo

Stay near popular Nanaimo attractions

A calm body of water with a small boat and a large ship in the distance, under a cloudy sky.

Departure Bay Beach

8.6/10 (329 reviews)
This expansive sandy beach offers stunning bay views and the unique spectacle of arriving ferries. Explore tidal pools at low tide or enjoy a leisurely swim in the sheltered waters during summer months.
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Where to stay in Nanaimo

Find the best Nanaimo areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Nanaimo
Learn more about Nanaimo
A marina with boats at sunset, mountains in the background, and a forested shoreline.

Downtown Nanaimo

If you're spending some time in Downtown Nanaimo, Bastion and Nanaimo Museum are top sights worth seeing.

A marina with various boats, including sailboats and yachts, docked along the waterfront.

Central Nanaimo

If you're spending some time in Central Nanaimo, Maffeo Sutton Park and Stones Marina are top sights worth seeing.

A calm lake with a dock, surrounded by dense forest and mountains in the background.

Departure Bay

If you're spending some time in Departure Bay, Departure Bay Beach and Departure Bay Ferry Terminal are top sights worth seeing.

Stephenson Point

While Stephenson Point may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Departure Bay Beach and Departure Bay Ferry Terminal.

Frequently asked questions

Is Nanaimo worth visiting?
One of the most popular things to do in Nanaimo is visit Departure Bay Beach. Check this major sight off your itinerary, then discover more of this area's nature and festivals.
How do I spend a day in Nanaimo?
Departure Bay Beach and Nanaimo Museum are two great places to kick-start your getaway adventures. Be sure to check out the dining and retail options in Nanaimo while you're in town too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Nanaimo?
Departure Bay Beach is one of the top tourist attractions in Nanaimo and should be high on every must-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Nanaimo?
Three days will give you time to check out some popular city sights, such as Departure Bay Beach, Nanaimo Museum and Old City Quarter. The average stay in Nanaimo is two days. If you have the urge to extend your break, Parksville isn't far away.
Is Nanaimo a walkable city?
If exploring on foot sounds like your style of holiday, Nanaimo is an ideal place to visit. Find top attractions, such as Departure Bay Beach, a walkable distance from downtown. You can also go for a stroll around Departure Bay, a vibrant neighbourhood located about 5 kilometres from the city centre.
What are some activities to do in Nanaimo with kids?
Whether you're travelling with tiny adventurers or thrill-loving teens, a fun-filled itinerary makes all the difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Nanaimo with kids.

What to do in Nanaimo for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there are loads of things to do in Nanaimo for adults including Old City Quarter.
Are there free things to do in Nanaimo?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Nanaimo is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other hotspots you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Departure Bay Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an entrance fee.