Tourism Nanaimo

  • Home
  • Tourism Nanaimo

Tourism Nanaimo Welcome to Tourism Nanaimo's official page - your gateway to Nanaimo. Discover urban art, cultural depth, and natural escapes.

Here, you'll find an independent, creative community, surrounded by the raw beauty of nature. The city of Nanaimo is a classic West Coast community, offering natural beauty at every turn, and vast recreation potential. Nanaimo has one of the longest shorelines in Canada, and a forested mountain backdrop just outside downtown. Here, you can go from the wilderness to the city centre in just a few mi

nutes, and spend more time in the places you want to be. Tourism Nanaimo, through communication, leadership and enterprise, delivers visitor services and industry development opportunities. We provide economic benefits for our members, city and region by attracting visitors and ensuring that their time here surpasses expectations. Please visit our stakeholder facing channels for industry news: on Twitter, and Tourism Nanaimo on LinkedIn.

The BC Ale Trail Tasting Passport is back in Nanaimo! 🍻⁠⁠Get ready to sip, stamp and win as you explore the NEW Central ...
10/02/2025

The BC Ale Trail Tasting Passport is back in Nanaimo! 🍻⁠

Get ready to sip, stamp and win as you explore the NEW Central Island Ale Trail! From February 1 to March 9, visit participating breweries, cideries, and taprooms, collect stamps and enter to win one of four GRAND PRIZES.⁠

Here are the deets:⁠
🍻 Grab a Tasting Passport at any participating location or go digital with the BC Ale Trail app!⁠
🍻 Make a purchase! Pints, flights, merch, food and non-alcoholic options all count!⁠
🍻 Collect unique stamps from 6 locations!⁠
🍻 Submit your passport for a chance to win!⁠

Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado or just here for the good vibes, this is your chance to support local and sip your way through some of Nanaimo’s best spots.⁠

Who's in? Tag your tasting crew below! 🍺⬇️⁠

Learn more about the BC Ale Trail here: https://bcaletrail.ca/centralislandpassport/

08/02/2025

Need some inspo for a chill day in Nanaimo? We’ve got you!

Start your morning with a perfectly brewed latte at Drip Coffee, where locally roasted beans and fresh pastries set the tone for the day. Grab a snack, sip slow and ease into your adventure. ✨

Next stop? Neck Point Park, one of Nanaimo’s most breathtaking coastal spots. Stroll the trails, soak up the ocean views, and keep an eye out for sea lions, eagles and maybe even an orca! 🦭🐋

Need a reset? Find a driftwood seat, breathe in that fresh sea air, and just be. The perfect mix of caffeine and coastline. 💙

Who’s in for this kind of day? Tag your adventure buddy below! 👇

📹: crockerstar on Instagram

The countdown is on! ⏳ Only 10 days left to experience the magic of Luminous Paths!Still need a place to stay? The Best ...
07/02/2025

The countdown is on! ⏳ Only 10 days left to experience the magic of Luminous Paths!

Still need a place to stay? The Best Western Dorchester is offering 25% off your stay plus a 15% off dining treat at Embers Wine & Charcuterie Cellar. 🍽️✨ Just visiting for the day? Hullo Ferries has you covered with 10% off sailings (use code: LUMINOUS10). ⛴️

Don’t miss your chance to see Nanaimo glow! 🌌✨ Plan your visit now before the lights fade, click the link below to learn more. 👇

📍 https://tourismnanaimo.com/blog/luminous-paths-discover-nanaimos-150-year-legacy-and-beyond/

05/02/2025

Ever visited this hidden gem in central Nanaimo? 👀

Welcome to Long Lake, where peaceful lakeside vibes meet endless outdoor fun! Whether you're paddle boarding at sunrise, casting a line, or just unwinding with a book by the shore, this spot is all about R&R. 🌊✨

Want to wake up right on the water? The Inn on Long Lake offers cozy lakeside stays with stunning views and direct lake access making it the perfect place to sip your morning coffee while watching the mist rise. ☕🌅

Been to Long Lake? Tell us your favourite way to enjoy it in the comments! 👇💙

📹: royallepagenanaimo on Facebook

Hit pause. Press reset. Your coastal escape to Nanaimo is calling. 🌊✨Winter and early spring? Totally underrated. No cro...
03/02/2025

Hit pause. Press reset. Your coastal escape to Nanaimo is calling. 🌊✨

Winter and early spring? Totally underrated. No crowds, just cozy vibes and that signature West Coast mild climate—perfect for a laid-back getaway with your partner, besties, or gal gang. 💙

Imagine this: waterfront strolls straight out of a romance movie, incredible local eats, and just enough adventure to keep things exciting. Sounds like your kind of weekend? We thought so. 😉

We’ve mapped out the ultimate 2-day itinerary for max relaxation, good food, and unforgettable moments. Ready to make it happen? Click below to start planning! 👇

📍https://tourismnanaimo.com/itinerary/the-ultimate-couples-coastal-retreat-in-nanaimo/

✨ Missed the opening night of Luminous Paths? No worries, there’s still plenty of time to experience the magic! ✨Running...
27/01/2025

✨ Missed the opening night of Luminous Paths? No worries, there’s still plenty of time to experience the magic! ✨

Running until February 17, this winter art festival transforms Maffeo Sutton Park with seven incredible, interactive installations designed by five talented local artists. 🌟

🚨 Out-of-town visitors, we’ve got some sweet deals for you!
🛏️🥂 Stay at the Best Western Dorchester and enjoy 25% off your stay PLUS a 15% off coupon for Embers Wine and Charcuterie Cellar!
⛴️ Traveling from Vancouver? Use code LUMINOUS10 to save 10% on your Hullo Ferries sailing!

Don't miss your chance to soak in the glow of Nanaimo’s creativity. Learn more: https://tourismnanaimo.com/blog/luminous-paths-discover-nanaimos-150-year-legacy-and-beyond/

Dreaming of the perfect day trip? Gabriola Island has you covered! 🌊🚴‍♂️🌲🚢 Hop on a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from dow...
23/01/2025

Dreaming of the perfect day trip? Gabriola Island has you covered! 🌊🚴‍♂️🌲

🚢 Hop on a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo and arrive on Gabriola Island—so close, yet it feels like you’ve travelled to a tranquil paradise.

☕ Start your morning at Mad Rona's Coffee Bar with a hearty breakfast and your favourite brew. Once fueled, hit the trails at 707 Park, where you can bike through 286 hectares of lush forest (fun fact: it’s the second-largest park in the Regional District of Nanaimo!).

🎨 After the ride, soak in the island’s creative vibes by exploring Gabriola’s art galleries and studios. Then, grab a delicious bite at Surf Lodge and Pub before capping off the day with an unforgettable sunset at Gabriola Sands Provincial Park.

Ready to escape the ordinary? Gabriola is just a ferry ride away! 🚢✨

✨ Tonight’s the night, Nanaimo! ✨⁠⁠Luminous Paths kicks off at Maffeo Sutton Park tonight, January 22, from 5 PM - 9 PM,...
22/01/2025

✨ Tonight’s the night, Nanaimo! ✨⁠

Luminous Paths kicks off at Maffeo Sutton Park tonight, January 22, from 5 PM - 9 PM, and it’s the event you won’t want to miss. We’re talking:⁠

🎶 Live performances that’ll have you dancing in the moonlight⁠
🍴 Food trucks serving up drool-worthy eats⁠
🎉 Fun-filled kids’ activities and interactive booths⁠
🛍️ City of Nanaimo 150 merch and goodies galore⁠

It’s all happening under a glowing canopy of light, so grab your crew and come join the magic!⁠

Can’t make it tonight? No worries, Luminous Paths runs until February 17th, so there’s plenty of time to soak it all in. Learn more about the event details here: https://tourismnanaimo.com/blog/luminous-paths-discover-nanaimos-150-year-legacy-and-beyond/

Ready to dig into Nanaimo’s delicious dining scene? 🍴✨Dine About Mid-Island is serving up the ultimate culinary celebrat...
15/01/2025

Ready to dig into Nanaimo’s delicious dining scene? 🍴✨

Dine About Mid-Island is serving up the ultimate culinary celebration! This multi-week foodie fest is your chance to feast on everything from gourmet dishes at top restaurants to cozy bites at local cafés, paired with craft drinks that’ll have your taste buds dancing. 🥂🎉

The best part? It’s more than just a tasty adventure, you’re also supporting local businesses, boosting community vibes, and helping the regional economy thrive. That’s what we call a win-win-win! 🙌

Mark your calendars for January 23 to February 9, grab your dining buddies, and get ready to savour the flavours that make the mid-Island unforgettable. Bon appétit, friends! 😋🍽️

Learn more and plan your culinary tour here: https://www.dineabout.ca/

Feeling those winter blues? Nanaimo’s got just the thing to brighten your mood! 🌟⁠⁠Luminous Paths is lighting up Maffeo ...
14/01/2025

Feeling those winter blues? Nanaimo’s got just the thing to brighten your mood! 🌟⁠

Luminous Paths is lighting up Maffeo Sutton Park from January 22–February 17 with stunning illuminated art installations. Explore glowing pathways, creative light displays, and moments of wonder that celebrate art, community, and connection. ✨⁠

And guess what! The Best Western Dorchester has you covered with an exclusive 25% off your stay and 15% off dining at Embers, Nanaimo’s cozy wine and charcuterie cellar. Whether you’re toasting to Nanaimo’s 150th or soaking in the glow of the festival, this deal will keep your sparkle shining bright. ✨⁠

Don’t miss the epic opening event on January 22 (5–9 PM) or the grand finale on February 17 (4–8 PM). Bundle up, grab a glass, and let the celebrations begin! 📅⁠

For all the event details and exclusive offers, visit: https://tourismnanaimo.com/blog/luminous-paths-discover-nanaimos-150-year-legacy-and-beyond/

This event is funded (in part) by the Government of Canada, through the Canadian Heritage Building Communities through Arts and Heritage grant.⁠

Thank you in addition to the Government of Canada, City of Nanaimo, the Port of Nanaimo and HMCS Nanaimo.

13/01/2025

A sunny winter day in Nanaimo? Yes, please! 🙌☀️

There’s nothing like soaking up the sunshine while enjoying the crisp winter air. Whether it’s a stroll along the waterfront, a cozy café stop, or taking in the beautiful views, Nanaimo has all the winter vibes with none of the chill. Come for the sunshine, stay for the good times! ✨

📹: brucewayne_1982 on Instagram

10/01/2025

Who’s ready to make a splash? 🌊🐠⁠

Nanaimo isn’t just a seaside gem, it’s a diver’s dream! With vibrant marine life, dramatic reef walls, and historic shipwrecks, the underwater scenery is as jaw-dropping as it gets. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your fins in for the first time, there’s something for every explorer. 😍

Not sure where to start? Local dive pros like Dive Nanaimo, Sink or Swim Scuba Inc., and Sundown Diving have got you covered with guided tours, rentals, and the best insider tips to make your adventure unforgettable. 🤿✨

Ready to dive into the magic below? 🌊

📹: divenanaimo⁠ on Instagram

Ever seen this iconic statue? 🤔⁠Meet Frank James Ney (1918–1992)—Nanaimo’s legendary mayor and resident pirate enthusias...
10/01/2025

Ever seen this iconic statue? 🤔⁠

Meet Frank James Ney (1918–1992)—Nanaimo’s legendary mayor and resident pirate enthusiast. 🏴‍☠️ Serving as mayor for a total of 21 years, Ney wasn’t just a leader; he was a character. Known for rocking a pirate costume at civic events, he brought his larger-than-life personality to every corner of the city. ⛵⁠

Oh, and that famous Great International World Championship Bathtub Race? Yup, he kickstarted it in 1967! Ney proudly dubbed Nanaimo “the jewel of the west, the sun porch of Canada, and the bathtub capital of the world,” using his style to help put our city on the map. 🛁✨⁠

Next time you're in Nanaimo, swing by his statue and give it a wave! 🤩

07/01/2025

One thing about Nanaimo? The sunsets never miss. 😍 These dreamy skies by the ocean? Absolute perfection. Some views just hit differently every time! ⁠🌅✨

📹: kaylapoch⁠ on Instagram

Have you explored Victoria Crescent yet? 🤔✨This little corner of Nanaimo is packed with charm, creativity, and a whole l...
04/01/2025

Have you explored Victoria Crescent yet? 🤔✨

This little corner of Nanaimo is packed with charm, creativity, and a whole lot of local flair! From its historic architecture to eclectic shops and skilled artisans, every step feels like uncovering a hidden gem. 💎

Whether you’re into handmade jewelry, vintage finds, unique prints, or even skateboards and records, there’s something for everyone on this vibrant street. 🎨🛹🎶

Add Victoria Crescent to your Nanaimo must-see list—you won’t regret it! 🤩

📸: michaellevyfineart on Instagram

02/01/2025

Rainy days got you down? 🌧️ Shake things up with a 150ft freefall swing over the breathtaking Nanaimo River Canyon! 🤯 Soar through the air at up to 140km/hr and trade those blues for a serious adrenaline rush. 🌲✨

Are you brave enough to take the leap? 🫣🔥

📹: wildplaynanaimo⁠ on Instagram

Happy New Year's Eve! 🎉⁠⁠What a year it’s been for Nanaimo! From our fresh new look with the rebrand to some incredible ...
31/12/2024

Happy New Year's Eve! 🎉⁠

What a year it’s been for Nanaimo! From our fresh new look with the rebrand to some incredible events, welcoming visitors from near and far, and so much more, it’s been nothing short of amazing. One thing’s for sure, we’re beyond excited for another year filled with adventure and discovery!⁠ 🤩⁠
⁠⁠
Let us know your favourite memory of 2024 in Nanaimo down below! 👇

Address

101 Gordon Street

V9R5J8

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Tourism Nanaimo posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Tourism Nanaimo:

Videos

Shortcuts

  • Address
  • Alerts
  • Contact The Business
  • Videos
  • Claim ownership or report listing
  • Want your business to be the top-listed Travel Agency?

Share

Visit Nanaimo, BC

The city of Nanaimo is a classic West Coast community, offering natural beauty at every turn, and vast recreation potential. Nanaimo has one of the longest shorelines in Canada, and a forested mountain backdrop just outside downtown. Here, you can go from the wilderness to the city centre in just a few minutes, and spend more time in the places you want to be.

Nanaimo, BC is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, 113 km north of Victoria, and 55 km across the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver. The city projects out into the strait like a headland, affording waterfront on three sides and spectacular ocean views at every turn. The local landscape is defined by Mount Benson, which rises 1,006 metres (3,300 feet) just west of Nanaimo, and the Nanaimo River estuary, the largest estuary on Vancouver Island, which flows into Nanaimo Harbour at the south end of the city.

Nanaimo is the place to find natural wonders, festivals, culinary joys, and so much more. Discover your Nanaimo 360 by browsing things to do, places to stay, and how to get here. For trip planning tips, itineraries, blog posts, and more visit https://TourismNanaimo.com.