Nestled on the eastern coast of Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. As a travel blogger, I recently had the pleasure of spending a week in this charming city and was blown away by its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the bustling harbourfront to the tranquil parks and beaches, Nanaimo has something for everyone. In this comprehensive guide, I will take you on a journey through the best tourist places in Nanaimo, British Columbia, and provide you with all the information you need to plan your perfect trip.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a foodie, or a history buff, Nanaimo has it all. With its convenient location and various transportation options, getting to Nanaimo is a breeze. In this guide, I will also provide you with tips for planning your trip and recommend the best accommodations based on your budget and preferences.
So, get ready to explore Nanaimo’s top tourist attractions, indulge in its local cuisine, and shop till you drop. And if you’re feeling adventurous, I’ll even take you on a few day trips to nearby destinations. So, sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the best tourist places in Nanaimo, British Columbia.
Getting to Nanaimo
As a travel blogger, I know that getting to your destination is one of the most important parts of planning a trip. Luckily, Nanaimo is easily accessible by a variety of transportation options.
If you’re coming from Vancouver, the most popular way to get to Nanaimo is by taking a ferry from Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen. BC Ferries offers multiple sailings per day, and the trip takes about 1.5-2 hours depending on which ferry you take. I recommend booking your ferry in advance, especially during peak travel season.
If you’re flying into Nanaimo, the Nanaimo Airport (YCD) offers daily flights from Vancouver, Calgary, and Edmonton. You can also fly into Victoria International Airport (YYJ) and take a shuttle or rental car to Nanaimo, which is about a 1.5-hour drive away.
Finally, if you’re driving to Nanaimo, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive from Victoria or a 2.5-hour drive from Vancouver. Keep in mind that during peak travel season, traffic can be heavy on the highways leading to Nanaimo.
No matter how you choose to get to Nanaimo, I recommend planning your trip in advance to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Accommodations
As a travel blogger, I have had the opportunity to stay in a variety of accommodations in Nanaimo. From budget-friendly options to luxurious resorts, there is something for everyone in this city.
Hotels: If you’re looking for a comfortable and convenient stay, there are several hotels in Nanaimo that offer great amenities and services. The Coast Bastion Hotel is a popular choice, located in the heart of downtown with stunning views of the harbour. The Best Western Dorchester Hotel is another great option, offering a central location and comfortable rooms.
Vacation Rentals: For those who prefer a more homey feel, vacation rentals are a great option. Airbnb has a variety of options in Nanaimo, from cozy apartments to spacious houses. I stayed in a beautiful waterfront cottage during my trip, which was the perfect retreat after a day of exploring.
Camping: If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, camping is a great way to experience Nanaimo’s natural beauty. There are several campgrounds in the area, including Living Forest Oceanside Campground and RV Park and Brannen Lake RV Park and Campsite.
No matter what your budget or preferences are, there is an accommodation option for you in Nanaimo. Make sure to book in advance, especially during peak travel season.
Top Tourist Attractions
As a travel blogger who has just returned from a week-long trip to Nanaimo, I can confidently say that this city has a lot to offer for tourists. From its beautiful harbourfront to its rich history, there is something for everyone in Nanaimo. Here are some of the top tourist attractions that you should not miss:
1. Nanaimo Harbourfront: The harbourfront is the heart of Nanaimo and a great place to start your exploration of the city. You can take a stroll along the waterfront walkway, watch the boats come and go, and enjoy the views of the ocean and the mountains. There are also plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops in the area.
2. Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park: This park is located just a short ferry ride from Nanaimo Harbour and is a great place to spend a day. You can hike the trails, swim in the ocean, and have a picnic on the beach. There are also camping facilities if you want to stay overnight.
3. Nanaimo Museum: If you want to learn more about the history of Nanaimo, the Nanaimo Museum is a must-visit. The museum has exhibits on the city’s coal mining past, its First Nations heritage, and its role in World War
There is also a gift shop where you can buy souvenirs.
4. Bastion: The Bastion is a historic wooden fort that was built in 1853 to protect Nanaimo from potential attacks. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to take photos. You can also watch the cannon firing ceremony that takes place every day at noon during the summer months.
5. Nanaimo Bar Trail: If you have a sweet tooth, you will love the Nanaimo Bar Trail. This self-guided tour takes you to various cafes and bakeries in the city where you can try different versions of the famous Nanaimo bar, a chocolate and custard dessert that originated in Nanaimo.
6. Other notable attractions: Other attractions that are worth checking out in Nanaimo include the Nanaimo Art Gallery, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, and the Nanaimo North Town Centre, which is a shopping mall with a movie theatre and a bowling alley.
Overall, Nanaimo is a great destination for tourists who want to experience the beauty and history of Vancouver Island. With its stunning harbourfront, its natural parks, and its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in this charming city.
Nanaimo, British Columbia is a hidden gem that offers a wide range of tourist attractions and activities. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in this charming city. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or simply relaxing on the beach, Nanaimo has it all. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and welcoming atmosphere, it is no wonder that Nanaimo is quickly becoming one of Canada’s top tourist destinations.
To summarize, the main conclusions of this article are:
1. Nanaimo, British Columbia is a diverse and exciting tourist destination that offers something for everyone.
2. The city’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and friendly atmosphere make it a must-visit location for travelers.
3. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, or simply relaxing on the beach, Nanaimo has it all.
4. With its delicious cuisine and welcoming locals, Nanaimo is quickly becoming one of Canada’s top tourist destinations.