Shop local and support Nanaimo’s independent businesses, artisans, makers and creators this holiday season. Nanaimo has a plethora of gift stores and experiences that will make finding something for everyone on your list a breeze. This gift guide will help you find that unique piece of Nanaimo to share with your loved ones, no matter whether they live next door or on the other side of Canada.  Don’t live in Nanaimo? No problem, most stores are happy to accommodate shipping even if they don’t have an online store. While we can’t cover every store or artisan in our guide, it is a great star ..read more

Sip and savour your way around Nanaimo and you might be surprised by the culinary options on offer in a city of this size. You’ll find quirky delights and sophisticated indulgences. These unique locations are a fun place to start. Seafood at The View Oceanside Grill At this restaurant in downtown’s Best Western Dorchester Hotel, every seafood dish is artfully plated and infused with interesting flavour combinations. Try the sesame-crusted tuna seared medium-rare with a miso drizzle. It’s served with a tataki Brussels sprout and kale slaw on coconut rice. Persian lunch at Bees Knees Cafe Run by ..read more

9 Amazing Animal Encounters You Could Have in the Harbour City There’s nothing like seeing your first whale or bald eagle in the wild and there is a good chance of doing just that in Nanaimo. We are lucky to have some amazing species that call the air and water around Nanaimo home, allowing locals and visitors alike to experience some amazing animal encounters. Here are some of Nanaimo’s favourite species and where you’ll have the best chance of spotting them in their natural habitat. Remember the best way to respect these animals is to observe from a distance. 1. Orcas & humpback whales T ..read more

If these city walls and streets could talk, they would tell of the Indigenous villages 3,000 years ago, busy shipyards and a herring saltery. They would recall the discovery of coal and how it forever changed the city, bringing migrant workers from afar. Evidence of Nanaimo’s history can be found throughout the city. These 6 great spots offer the chance to see and feel the past: 1. Saysutshun/Newcastle Island From the harbour, kayak or ferry to this island and traditional Indigenous territory to see Snuneymuxw First Nation village sites, sandstone quarries, herring salteries and coal mine site ..read more

Whether Nanaimo is your go-to for Vancouver Island adventures or you’re stopping en-route to another destination, you’ll find plenty of lodging options in beautiful locations to suit your needs. You could choose to settle in with a well-appointed suite at a high-rise hotel overlooking the sailboats in Nanaimo Harbour, or stay within walking distance of malls and restaurants in the north end. No matter what inspires your visit – family fun, a romantic escape, a meeting, outdoor adventure, a girlfriend getaway, sports tournament or some other reason – you’re sure to find a hotel or motel that su ..read more

Local Craft Beverages to Taste or Take Home Here beneath the protection of Mt. Benson, locally grown grapes, hops and botanicals thrive. Brewers, winemakers and distillers have taken advantage of our city’s natural abundance to create delicious and award-winning beverages. Each stop on this craft beverage trail offers a unique experience you don’t want to miss. Longwood Brewpub A Nanaimo legend, this brewpub is a local go-to for craft beer, pub fare and entrees. Order a pint of the signature Berried Alive raspberry ale and take in views of Mt. Benson from the restaurant patio (family-friendly ..read more

From the sparkling ocean to the majestic mountain and everything in between – there’s lots to explore in Nanaimo. If you’ve got a few hours to kill in the Harbour City there are plenty of adventures to be had. Whether you are interested in an on-the-water activity, learning about the history of the city or shopping for locally-crafted products check out these best ways to spend a day in Nanaimo – there are enough ideas to last a while! 1. Take a whale-watching tour Hop on an open-air Zodiac inflatable or covered boat charter to see humpbacks and orcas offshore from Nanaimo. Seals, sea lions an ..read more

Grab Some Delicious Eats While Out and About Whether you’re looking for a warming treat on a cold, gray day, or seeking refreshment in the height of summer, you can get your fix at one of many delicious food trucks that operate year-round across the city. Treat yourself to a surprising variety of mouth-watering indulgences: mini donuts, fresh cotton candy, tacos, donairs, Asian fusion and more. Tacomania The authentic Mexican tacos with slow-cooked meat are the “Tacomania” crowd favourite, but there are GF, vegetarian and vegan options too. Try the jackfruit carnita (pork) taco braised in a ho ..read more

Nanaimo’s stunning coastline, river canyon, and forested mountain offer countless opportunities for epic outdoor adventures. Visit Nanaimo and get ready for more jaw-dropping, heart-pulsing moments than you ever imagined. Go whale watching Wonder what it’s like to see whales in the wild? It’s absolutely magical. From Nanaimo, head out with Vancouver Island Whale Watch in an open-air Zodiac inflatable or a covered boat from April through early October to see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters and more. Hit the beach Nanaimo’s long oceanfront makes this an ideal place for swimming and snorkeling ..read more

From Accessible Strolls to Mountain Trails Whether you want to get out and enjoy a sunny summer’s day, or are equally happy braving a walk in our wetter weather, Nanaimo has an abundance of beautiful hiking trails to suit all abilities. These notable hiking trails, all within about a 15-minute drive of downtown, take you through lush forests to incredible views that will leave you breathless. Prettiest Waterfall – Ammonite Falls Trail This remote forested trail of 4.5km ends with Nanaimo’s longest waterfall, Ammonite Falls. Recent upgrades to the trail, including a wooden viewing platform and ..read more