Nanaimo Holidays

Things to do in and around Nanaimo

Nanaimo is perfect for outdoor and family holidays, offering a variety of activities such as exploring educational and recreational areas, shopping at the local mall, and embarking on a tour of Nanaimo Harbour. Adventurous visitors can also enjoy outdoor pursuits at WildPlay Adventure Parks and discover nearby attractions that enhance their experience in this beautiful coastal city.

Shopping

Nanaimo offers a delightful shopping experience at Woodgrove Shopping Centre, where you’ll find entertainment, family-friendly vibes, and a variety of shops. If you're up for a drive, visit Hansel and Gretel's Candy Company and Pier 17 Market, both of which offer unique gifts and local specialties 20 and 33.8km away, respectively.

Recreation

The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre offers family-friendly aquatic activities, perfect for relaxation and fun. Pipers Lagoon Park invites you to unwind amidst nature, while Brechin Lanes provides a unique recreational experience that promotes wellness through bowling and social engagement.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at WildPlay Nanaimo, located 11.3km from the city. For an exhilarating zipline adventure, head to WildPlay Element Parks, also 11.3km away. If skiing is your passion, Dakota Ridge offers fantastic slopes, situated 41.8km from Nanaimo.

Nightlife

Nanaimo's nightlife offers a vibrant blend of activities. Visit Sunset Lanes for a fun evening of bowling and entertainment, located 30.6km from the city centre. Alternatively, explore local pubs and bars showcasing craft beers and live music to enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Find the best attractions in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, British Columbia, offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and urban experiences, making it an ideal destination for a vacation. Visitors can explore local highlights such as the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, the historic Nanaimo Bastion, and the nearby lakes and parks. With a focus on leisure and adventure, Nanaimo caters to all types of travellers seeking relaxation and exploration in a beautiful coastal setting.

• Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park: Experience the stunning natural beauty of Newcastle Island, featuring lush forests, scenic trails, and breathtaking ocean views. Ideal for hiking, cycling, and picnicking, this park offers a serene escape from urban life, with a chance to spot local wildlife.
• Vancouver Island University: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, known for its impressive architecture and lively campus. Enjoy the cultural events and art exhibitions, or simply relax in the beautiful grounds while soaking in the city vibes.
• Departure Bay Beach: Relax on the soft sands of Departure Bay Beach, where you can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and picnicking. With stunning views of the harbour and nearby mountains, it's a perfect spot to unwind and take in the beach vibes.

Best time to go to Nanaimo

The best time to visit Nanaimo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Nanaimo falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Nanaimo falls in December, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
July	64.4°F (18.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

Tips to save on your trip to Nanaimo

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Nanaimo.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.