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Vanislander / Landmarks / Ports and Harbours / Nanaimo Harbour

Nanaimo Harbour on Vancouver Island

Welcome to Nanaimo Harbour, a vibrant waterfront gem in the heart of Nanaimo, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island’s east coast.Nanaimo Harbour, also called the "Harbour City," is a popular destination for tourists visiting Vancouver Island. It offers beautiful scenery, a fascinating history related to the sea, and a vibrant arts and culture scene, as well as access to beaches, tide pools, and coastal activities. Whether you’re strolling the scenic Harbourfront Walkway, savoring a Nanaimo Bar, or embarking on a boat tour to Saysutshun (Newcastle Island), this bustling port is your launchpad to unforgettable experiences.

Where is Nanaimo Harbour? Exact Location

Nanaimo Harbour is in the heart of downtown Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, specifically at Nanaimo, BC. It's on the east coast of Vancouver Island, along the Salish Sea. The harbour is also near the Boat Basin Marina, the historic Nanaimo Bastion, and the Harbourfront Walkway. From the harbour, you can see the Gulf Islands and Mount Benson. Its closeness to Vancouver Island beaches, tide pools on Saysutshun (Newcastle Island), and Piper's Lagoon makes it a key spot for tourists discovering the area's coastal beauty.

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Nanaimo Harbour Significance on Vancouver Island Tourism

Nanaimo Harbour stands out as a premier destination for tourists seeking a blend of urban excitement and coastal serenity. Known as the “Harbour City,” it offers a kaleidoscope of experiences: bungee jumping at WildPlay Element Parks, racing bathtubs during the iconic Bathtub Race, or vintage shopping in the heritage-lined Old City Quarter. Paddle the calm waters by kayak, hike scenic trails like Piper’s Lagoon, or savor Canada’s only floating pub, the Dinghy Dock Pub on Protection Island, accessible by a short ferry ride.
The harbour’s vibrant waterfront, with its bustling marinas, seafood eateries, and Nanaimo Bar Trail, paints a picture of a destination where adventure meets indulgence. Its proximity to Vancouver Island beaches, Saysutshun’s tide pools, and the Gulf Islands makes it a gateway to nature and culture, drawing families, thrill-seekers, and foodies alike to explore its many layers

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Nanaimo Harbour History

Nanaimo Harbour, nestled along Vancouver Island’s east coast, has been a vital hub for millennia. The Snuneymuxw First Nation, part of the Coast Salish peoples, thrived here long before European contact, using the harbour’s sheltered waters for fishing, hunting, and gathering, building longhouses from abundant local timber. In 1791, Spanish naval officer Juan Carrasco became the first European to explore the harbour, followed by British expeditions. In 1849, Snuneymuxw chief Coal Tyee revealed coal deposits to the Hudson’s Bay Company, leading to the 1853 construction of the Nanaimo Bastion, a fort to protect mining interests. Named “Colvile Town” in 1854, the settlement was renamed Nanaimo in 1860.
By the late 19th century, coal mining fueled growth, and the harbour became a key trade port. Today, managed by the Nanaimo Port Authority since 1998, it remains a cornerstone of Vancouver Island’s economy and tourism

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Vancouver Island Activities in Nanaimo Harbour

Camping in the Rathtrevor Beach Campground

Camping in the Rathtrevor Beach Campground

Vancouver Island is saturated with treasury campgrounds, of which one of the best is Rathtrevor Beach Campground. You are provided with different campsites and facilities there, and the beautiful beach is a fantastic place to forget all the bills and relax by the water. You would not be the same when you observe how differently the sun scatters its light on the majestic mountains around.

Yeo Islands Diving

Yeo Islands Diving

Spend the gladdest moments of your life in Yeo Islands while diving into the waters. Also, you will have the chance to enjoy watching artificial cliffs that have embellished the area's view. Besides, the excellent adventure o diving visitors can benefit from other outdoor excitements and watching various marine life.

Hiking on Cable Bay Nature Trail

Hiking on Cable Bay Nature Trail

Don't hike alone! It is an excellent hike for the whole family and pets. Cable Bay Nature Trail is scenic, easy, clean, and wide enough as a family trail. Not only your family but your pet can accompany you. Get the most out of incredible viewpoints. Hike through the forest near the coast and find a nice rock to take a break, grab a snack, and watch the marine wildlife.

Clark Rock Diving

Clark Rock Diving

Satisfy your curiosity about diving in Clark Rock waters. The reefs there are brighten by a beacon which has made the location favourable for diving. It is worth mentioning that Clark Rock is a fantastic place to take pictures for your journey's album. Also, you may have the chance to observe wildlife, whether in waters or on land.

Hiking on Westwood Lake Trail

Hiking on Westwood Lake Trail

Westwood Lake Trail is not super challenging, but it is a lovely well maintained and well-marked hiking trail around Westwood Lake with beautiful viewpoints and greenery. The forest and lake are full-on herons, eagles and deer with lots of opportunities to have a great time, so bringing your family with you is a decision you will not regret!

Gabriola Passage Diving

Gabriola Passage Diving

Hope to have a great adventure and do not fear new experiences. One of the best diving spots near Nanaimo downtown, accessible by both beach and ferries, offers a fantastic diving opportunity not to be forgotten easily. The mighty currents with great drifting experience increase the amazement of diving.

Dolphin Beach Diving

Dolphin Beach Diving

Nanaimo is saturated with diving zones, but to name a decent one, Dolphin Beach is a location that allows everyone to explore marine life and enjoy diving. Both armature and advanced divers can have the chance to dive in these waters along with a glorious environment enclosing the zone, which would fascinate your eyes.

The Jib Diving

The Jib Diving

If you happen to wander around Nanoose Bay, The Jib Diving site is one of the most attractive diving destinations in the region, with a clean environment and easy access. Moreover, except for the beautiful view of the site, you can enjoy watching a diversity of marine life.

Breakwater Island Diving

Breakwater Island Diving

Make immortal memories of diving in the Breakwater Island Diving zone. This famous diving location has a lot to offer. Whether on land or in water, a variety of creatures inhabit the area you cannot get enough and fantastic scenery which can multiply the amazement of your stay in this region.

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop

Hiking on Bowen Park Loop is a lovely urban walk along a river with stunningly beautiful nature that promotes a rich forest, a waterfall, and a scenic pond. This easy hiking trail is so well maintained with lots of facilities. Spend hours hiking on this loop as part of the Trans Canada Trail and have a memorable day in the park, great for different kinds of activities.

Getting to Nanaimo Harbour: Directions & Transportation


 Starting Point:(8 min, 3.8 km via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1) BC Ferries Departure Bay Terminal, 680 Trans-Canada Hwy, Nanaimo, BC V9S 2X9, Canada.
 Route: Head north-east towards Zorkin Rd (300 m). Continue onto Zorkin Rd (200 m). Use the left 2 lanes to turn left onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S (2.1 km). Use the left lane to turn left to stay on Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S (signs for Trans Canada Highway/Nanaimo City Centre/British Columbia 1 S/Victoria) (290 m). Turn left onto Comox Rd (270 m). Continue onto Front St (650 m). Turn left onto Promenade Dr (95 m).

Top things to do in Nanaimo Harbour

Stroll the Harbourfront Walkway

 The 4.5 km Harbourfront Walkway offers breathtaking views of the Salish Sea, weaving from the Port Theatre to the Nanaimo Yacht Club. Pass vibrant cafes, public art installations, and Swy-a-lana Lagoon Park, a tidal pool perfect for kids. It’s an ideal spot to soak in Vancouver Island’s coastal charm while spotting seals and seabirds.

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Visit the Historic Bastion

The Nanaimo Bastion, built in 1853 by the Hudson’s Bay Company, is an iconic white octagonal fort guarding the harbour. Open in summer, it features historical exhibits, cannon firings, and panoramic views. This National Historic Site is a must for history buffs exploring Nanaimo’s coal-mining past.

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Nanaimo harbour restaurants

Explore Local Dining & Shopping :Nanaimo Harbour buzzes with waterfront dining, from fresh seafood at restaurants like The Keg to craft brews at White Sails Brewing. Follow the Nanaimo Bar Trail to sample the city’s famous dessert at local bakeries. Boutiques along Commercial Street offer vintage finds and artisan goods, perfect for unique souvenirs.

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Catch a Boat to Newcastle Island (Saysutshun)

 A short passenger ferry from Maffeo Sutton Park whisks you to Saysutshun (Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park), a sacred Snuneymuxw site. Explore 22 km of trails, sandy beaches, and tide pools teeming with starfish and anemones. Camping and cultural tours offer deeper connections to this tranquil island.

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Scenic Seaplane Flights from Nanaimo Harbour

Harbour Air and Seair Seaplanes offer thrilling 20-minute flights from Nanaimo Harbour to Vancouver or scenic tours over the Gulf Islands. Soar above rugged coastlines and sparkling waters, spotting orcas and seals from the air—a bucket-list experience for Vancouver Island visitors.

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What you Can Expect to See Near Nanaimo Harbour

Nanaimo Harbour

Nanaimo Harbour

Nanaimo Harbour, a vibrant waterfront gem in the heart of Nanaimo, British Columbia, on Vancouver Island’s east coast. Known as the “Harbour City,” Nanaimo Harbour blends stunning natural beauty, rich maritime history, and a lively cultural scene, making it a must-visit for tourists exploring Vancouver Island beaches, tide pools, and coastal adventures. Whether you’re strolling the scenic Harbourfront Walkway, savoring a Nanaimo Bar, or embarking on a boat tour to Saysutshun (Newcastle Island), this bustling port is your launchpad to unforgettable experiences.

Wild play Element Parks

Wild play Element Parks

If you intend to spend a lovely weekend out of the crowded city and all of its pollutions, Wild-play Elements park is an excellent choice for you. This park is situated near the Nanaimo River and inside the green area of Vancouver Island forest. The park is a great spot for meetings, events and weddings. Wild-play Element Park has eye-catching scenery and wildlife that changes every season and makes a perfect view.

Parksville

Parksville

Parksville is known for its scenic, superb sandy beaches. This city is also famous for hiking trails, waterfalls, wildlife, parks, entertainment centres, and many fantastic restaurants and pubs. The city's most popular annual festival is Sandcastle Competition. Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, and Englishman River Falls Provincial Park are among the most visited places.

Nanaimo Lakes

Nanaimo Lakes

It takes a short drive to Nanaimo Lakes south of Nanaimo. The pristine nature gives you a chance to stay away from technology. It is tranquil and peaceful around the lakes with scenic spots in the forest, great for a long walk or camping. The warm lake water makes it a fantastic spot for swimming and kayaking. Mountain climbing, hiking, and fishing are other possibilities.

Colliery Dam Park

Colliery Dam Park

Colliery Dam Park with Chase River, huge trees, Granny Falls, and two small ponds is a tranquil and wooded park. The spectacular views with some nice bridges make the park a good choice for photographers. It is possible to walk your dog off-leash at the upper dam. You can go hiking, seasonal swimming, boating, and fishing for rainbow trout.

Maffeo Sutton Park

Maffeo Sutton Park

Maffeo Sutton Park is a waterfront park with a perfect view of Nanaimo Harbour. It is a family park mainly known for its nice walking trails, playground, and picnicking areas. Swy-A-Lana Lagoon Fishing Pier is a nice spot located southeast of the park for fishing and swimming. This scenic oceanside park's Lions Pavilion Stage hosts community and musical events.

Nanaimo River

Nanaimo River

The Nanaimo River, with warm water and deep pools, is an excellent choice for swimming. It has lagoons for a family picnic or day trail and a rocky beach for kids to play in, and for you to lay on some large rocks. From April to June, and in September or October, test your fishing skill in the river for cutthroat and rainbow trout. Have the pleasure of hiking in trails and take some pictures.

Beaufort Park

Beaufort Park

Beaufort Park is a year-round destination in Nanaimo. Each season's nature and wildlife diversity make eye-catching scenery for visitors, so take a camera with you. A multi-purpose court suitable for sports like basketball and pickleball, and a tennis court are available. There are also a community garden and a food forest, and a dog off-leash area.

Pipers Lagoon Park

Pipers Lagoon Park

Pipers Lagoon Park is a waterfront park with Shack Island, the ocean, and Neck Point Park views. Stay there for sunrise and sunset, and don't miss watching the scene. The park is home to bird species and other animals, making it a perfect destination for wildlife photographers. Hiking and jogging, beachcombing, flying a kite, and doing water sports are other options.

Bowen Park

Bowen Park

It seems that all you need is available at Bowen Park; a waterfall, duck pond, wilderness and picnic areas, and lots of facilities and sports fields. The Millstone River passes through the park, where can be considered as your hiking trail. The duck pond and a beautiful rhododendron grove with more than 350 species are amusing. Be there for some exercise or relaxation in the woods.

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay is known as a place to relax with its large pebble beach, somewhere between Nanaimo and Parksville. The scene is stunning, specifically in the evening when the sun meets the ocean. No matters how many times you visited the beach, it is always peaceful and attractive. Nanoose Bay is home to many sea animals, and the beach is perfect for digging up some clams.

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Chinese Memorial Gardens Park

Walking from the ferry terminal to downtown Nanaimo, you can find a beautiful small garden, Chinese Memorial Gardens Park. A small public park with full-grown shrubs and trees and gracious lawns performs as a relaxing spot. The painted, formed pagoda structure and carved stones decorated it. The scenery is eye-catching and is mainly used for the background of family portraits.

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park is a beachfront park with some lookout spots where land meets the ocean. It is a popular choice for photography, hiking, scuba diving, and historic and scenic features. Fishing, paddling, and swimming are other options you have to entertain yourself. This waterfront park has awesome sea life; also, you can see bunnies very commonly.

Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach

An excellent picnicking area and sunny weather attract many families in summer to relax on Qualicum Beach. This sandy beach is placed in an area with many facilities and attractions to enjoy your day. Let life lead you to the beach with the incredible landscape of Lasqueti Island Ecological Reserve hills, blue sky and the ocean. Choose kinds of water activities which you delight in doing.

Beach Estates Park

Beach Estates Park

If you plan to be away from urban life and spend hours in the woods watching wildlife and get relaxed, take a visit to Beach Estates Park, west of Departure Bay. With a beautiful designated hiking trail, Beach Estates Park is interesting for hikers and runners. The park's nature includes a lush forest with magnificent tall trees, a small river, a rocky beach, and Beach Estates Falls.

Best Time to Visit Nanaimo Harbour

Planning your hike on Vancouver Island's  requires careful consideration of seasonal conditions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Below is a detailed overview of the optimal times to visit, along with key factors to consider:

Month

Weather Conditions

Trail Accessibility

Considerations

May

Variable; cooler temperatures with increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for wet conditions.

June

Mild temperatures; moderate rainfall.

Trail open; most campsites operational.

Increasing number of hikers; moderate weather.

July

Warmer temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

August

Warm temperatures; drier conditions.

Trail open; all campsites operational.

Peak season; higher demand for permits.

September

Cooling temperatures; increased rainfall.

Trail open; some campsites may be closed.

Less crowded; prepare for variable weather.

Plan Your Visit to Nanaimo Port : Tips for Tourists

 Coastal weather shifts quickly; pack rain gear and sunscreen.

Events and Festivals at Nanaimo Harbour,Bc

Nanaimo Marine Festival and The Great International World Championship Bathtub Race

Since the year 1967, Nanaimo has hosted the Great International World Championship Bathtub Race and Nanaimo Marine Festival. one of The most unique festival in Nanaimo’s calendar featuring the 'Sailpast on Wheels' parade, free family entertainment, and the renowned bathtub race, where bathtubs surprisingly achieve high speeds.

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Nanaimo International Jazz Festival

The Nanaimo International Jazz Festival brings live jazz music to life on the city's waterfront, creating a lively community celebration.and culture.

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Nanaimo Blues Festival

four days and nights of family-friendly events and concerts celebrating top Blues artists from local, national, and international stages.

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Most frequent questions about Nanaimo Harbour on Vancouver Island

Nanaimo's excellent harbor has supported trading, servicing, and distribution industries. Fishing and lumber industries have also grown since
the 1950s.
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Arina akhoundi

2025 April 21

Festival & Events: Don't Miss Out!

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