Nanaimo Holidays

Things to do in and around Nanaimo

Shopping

Nanaimo offers a delightful shopping experience with various options. The Woodgrove Shopping Centre features a mix of entertainment and family-friendly shops right in the heart of the city. If you’re up for a drive, the Antiques Post Office Mall and Duncan Farmers Market provide unique finds and local charm.

Recreation

Explore Pipers Lagoon Park for tranquil walks amidst stunning coastal views, perfect for relaxation. At Fairwinds Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes. For family fun, the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre offers a range of swimming activities, ensuring a lively and refreshing experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at WildPlay Nanaimo, located 11.3km from the city, where adrenaline meets stunning natural surroundings. For a unique adventure, the zipline ropes course at WildPlay Element Parks, also 11.3km away, offers exhilarating outdoor fun. Don’t miss Dakota Ridge, a ski field 41.8km away, perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.

Nightlife

Nanaimo's nightlife is vibrant, with Sunset Lanes offering bowling fun just 30.6km away. For a lively atmosphere, check out local pubs and bars where you can enjoy craft beers and live music to make your evening unforgettable.

Find the best attractions in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, a fantastic destination for outdoor and family holidays, offers a variety of attractions such as urban parks, serene lakes, and beautiful beaches. Explore the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, visit the nearby Nanaimo Museum and Art Gallery, or enjoy the scenic Nanaimo River. Whether you're seeking a city experience or natural beauty, Nanaimo has something for every traveller looking to create lasting memories.

• Nanaimo Museum: Discover the rich history of Nanaimo at this engaging museum. With exhibits showcasing Indigenous culture, local heritage, and the city's evolution, it's a fascinating place to learn about the region's past in a vibrant setting.
• Departure Bay Beach: Enjoy the sun and sand at Departure Bay Beach, where you can relax, swim, or enjoy beach sports. The picturesque views of the surrounding mountains and the gentle sound of waves create a perfect seaside retreat.
• Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park: Experience adventure in this stunning national park, accessible by ferry. With scenic trails, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking coastal views, it's an ideal spot for hiking, picnicking, and exploring the outdoors.

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	Average	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	Moderately High	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 to Nanaimo during the low season (December to February) for more affordable options.
• 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.