A Weekend in Nanaimo
A few days away can be just the ticket for escaping the day-to-day grind and connecting with what matters most. Discover Nanaimo, where relaxation meets adventure and memories last a lifetime.
Day One: Connect with Culture
MORNING
Start the day with a morning hike on a forested trail to Ammonite Falls. This cascading waterfall is a favourite for nature enthusiasts and photography buffs. Next, head to Piccadilly Bistro and enjoy lunch while taking in views of Westwood Lake before starting the next part of your day.
AFTERNOON
After your hike, it's time to try out cold-water snorkelling, and there are three fantastic diving outfits to choose from: Sundown Diving, Sink or Swim Scuba, and Nanaimo Dive Outfitters. Slip into a wetsuit, booties, gloves and mask, and check out the brightly coloured starfish and anemones!
If you're travelling with kids, WildPlay might be more your speed. Zipline over the Nanaimo River Canyon or harness up for the treetop adventure course's tightropes, cargo nets and rope swings. There is even a Kid's Course designed for younger ones!
EVENING
Wrap up an action-packed weekend in Nanaimo with a flight of local craft beer samples at White Sails Brewing, a popular stop on the BC Ale Trail. End the night by treating yourself to exquisitely plated seafood at The View Oceanside Grill downtown.
Day Two: Get Outside
MORNING
Stretch your legs while walking along the wharf docks and waterfront walkway while watching seaplanes landing and local fishing boats departing against a stunning Coast Mountain Range backdrop. If shopping is more your speed, walk past the last remaining Hudson’s Bay outpost, the historic Bastion and over to the boutiques on Commercial Street. Spend the rest of your morning at the Nanaimo Museum, where you can walk through a replica coal mine or see daily life in a traditional Snuneymuxw First Nation longhouse.
AFTERNOON
Fuel up with lunch from Gabriel's Cafe, a local farm-to-fork favourite conveniently across the street from the museum. Spend the rest of the day enjoying an easy coastal and forest loop trail at Neck Point Park. Keep an eye out for sea lions offshore and bald eagles roosting in trees along the shore.
EVENING
If you're up for live music, walk to The Queen's nightclub for dancing or enjoy the laid-back hipster vibe at The Vault Cafe. You'll find plenty of options for accommodations that suit your every need.
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