13 Best Nanaimo Beaches, Vancouver Island

Have you been wondering about the best Nanaimo beaches? I’ve got you covered!

Having lived in Nanaimo myself, I have explored the diverse range of beaches, each with its own unique charm. Nanaimo is a beautiful coastal city on Vancouver Island and it’s home to some of the most beautiful beaches in British Columbia.

With first-hand knowledge and a deep love for the area, I am here to guide you in discovering the hidden gems of Nanaimo’s shoreline. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful spot to relax or an adventurous beach to explore, Nanaimo has something for everyone.

Let’s dive into the world of Nanaimo’s beaches together!

1. Qualicum Beach

Famous for its gorgeous beach, lively community, and picturesque surroundings, this spot is just a 35-minute drive north of Nanaimo. The beach is an inviting stretch of sand ideal for leisurely walks, sandcastle building, picnics, and swims. The water here is usually calm and clear.

Qualicum Beach really comes alive in the summer with all sorts of farmers and artisan markets. You get to check out local produce, crafts, and some seriously tasty foods. Apart from taking a dip, it’s a hot spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.

And when you’re hungry, there’s everything from chill cafes and bakeries to upscale restaurants. Seafood? It’s a must-try, super fresh from the waters around.

Plus, finding a parking spot near the beach is a breeze.

2. Departure Bay Beach

Departure Bay Beach is smack in the middle of the city of Nanaimo and super easy to get to, whether you’re driving or taking the bus. There’s plenty of parking, and the local buses stop nearby.

The water’s usually pretty calm, so it’s a great spot for a swim in the summer. Plus, when the tide goes out, there’s a ton of beach to explore, with tide pools and loads of sand to wander around.

The beach has awesome views of Departure Bay and the surrounding mountains. It’s a cool spot to watch ferries come and go, thanks to the nearby BC Ferries terminal. You’ll find clean public facilities like washrooms, picnic spots, and a playground, making it super family-friendly and great for day trips.

There’s also a paved walkway along the beach, ideal for a casual stroll or jog while soaking up the sea breeze and scenic sights.

3. Pipers Lagoon Park

Piper’s Lagoon Park, nestled on a quaint peninsula just north of downtown Nanaimo, happens to be one of my favourite places to visit. Getting there is a breeze, whether you’re driving or opting for public transport.

This park is a hidden gem and I absolutely love visiting at sunset! You can walk out to the end of the peninsula for the best views of the water, nearby islands and mountains. If you want to do the full loop trail this takes about 25 minutes and is 1.8km long walk.

Some parts are a bit rocky so take care and make sure you bring some proper shoes with you.

Piper’s Lagoon Park is popular for bird watching, you might even see some eagles overhead if you’re lucky so keep an eye out! 

4. Neck Point Park

Neck Point Park, just west of Pipers Lagoon Park, is a rocky beach only a quick car ride away from downtown Nanaimo.

It’s got a handy parking lot right near the entrance, and you can even hop on public transport to get there, which is great for everyone, whether you’re local or just visiting. Plus, the water’s super clear, perfect for swimming and snorkelling when it’s warm out. It’s also a popular spot with scuba divers. 

The park is home to loads of wildlife like sea birds, eagles, and marine creatures. It’s a great place to spot sea lions and sometimes even orcas. Plus, picnic tables are scattered around for taking in the awesome views. Neck Point Park is another favourite spot of mine, I reckon it’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Nanaimo.

We came here numerous times while we were living in town, it was another amazing sunset spot and only a 5-minute drive from our apartment so we often popped down here after work. 

The park’s got a bunch of walking trails winding through forests and along the coast. You get awesome views of the Strait of Georgia and the mountains far off in the distance. There are a few spots along the trails that are just perfect for soaking in these views. These spots are great for snapping pics and spotting marine life.

5. Blueback Beach

Blueback Beach is Nanaimo’s hidden gem, offering a chill and secluded spot away from the city’s busier beaches. Tucked away in north Nanaimo, you can get there by following a short trail at the end of Blueback Road.

Just a heads up, there’s a bit of a trek down a somewhat steep path. Parking is a bit of a find-your-own-spot situation, with most people parking along the nearby residential streets. The water’s usually super clear and calm, providing the perfect place for a swim when the weather’s warm.

Nestled in a picturesque cove and surrounded by forests and rocks, this beach is perfect for anyone craving some peace and quiet. It’s got a bit of everything – sand, pebbles, and even rocky patches that pop up at low tide. So, whether you’re here to relax or explore, there’s something for everyone.

6. Jack Point and Biggs Park

Jack Point and Biggs Park in Nanaimo are awesome for their dramatic landscapes and scenic walking trails that lead to some pristine beaches. It’s an ideal place to soak in coastal views, check out cool geological features, and spot wildlife.

Super close to the Duke Point ferry terminal, they’re easy to get to from southern Nanaimo. There’s plenty of parking, and the trails are clearly marked and kept in great shape. Getting to the park is a breeze, with clear signs from the main roads.

One of the main attractions of Jack Point and Biggs Park are the stunning panoramic views of the Strait of Georgia, the Nanaimo River estuary, and distant mountains. It’s not uncommon to spot seals in the surrounding waters. 

The park has its perks in the cooler months, like fewer people and the dramatic beauty of stormy seas. But, honestly, spring and summer are the best times to go.

7. Newcastle Island

Newcastle Island is this cool provincial marine park just off Nanaimo’s coast. You can catch a quick ferry ride from downtown to get there, making it a hit for day trips and overnight adventures.

Ferries run more often in the summer, but there are still a few running in the off-season. And if you’re lucky enough to have your own boat, you can moor it around the island, easy peasy.

The island offers a mix of lush forest areas and sandy beaches, along with well-maintained camping sites, picnic areas, a visitor centre, and even a small cafe open during the summer months. The best time to visit Newcastle Island is during the summer when the weather is warm, and all facilities and services are fully operational.

The waters around Newcastle Island are perfect for kayaking. You can either bring your own kayak or rent one in Nanaimo to check out the coastline. Newcastle Island has some great beaches for swimming too, especially since the water gets pretty warm in the summer – as far as Canadian standards go anyway!

Even if you’re just planning a day trip, it’s a good idea to pack water, snacks, and the right clothes since the weather can switch up on you and there aren’t a ton of facilities, especially away from where you dock. Also, if you’re visiting in the off-season and thinking about hitting the cafe, you might want to check if it’s open before you go.

As a provincial marine park, visitors are encouraged to respect the natural environment, follow the leave-no-trace principles, and be mindful of wildlife.

8. Westwood Lake Park

Westwood Lake is super close to downtown Nanaimo, so you can get there easily by car, bike, or public transport. There’s plenty of parking right by the main entrance, near the Westwood Lake Tennis Club.

One of the best parts about Westwood Lake? The trail that goes all the way around it.

Westwood Lake has some cool swimming spots with a sandy beach that gets pretty popular in the summer. It’s known for its clean, fresh water. Unfortunately, we were here on a rainy day but even then it was beautiful so I can only imagine how nice it is when the suns out!

Plus, there are a bunch of picnic spots around the lake with tables and benches, great for family hangouts or just relaxing in nature.

9. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Located near Parksville on Vancouver Island, this park is famous for its gorgeous natural scenery. It’s a top spot for tourists and locals alike, boasting wide sandy beaches, coastal forests, and loads of outdoor activities like windsurfing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

The highlight? A 2 km long beach with fine sand and shallow waters that stretch out for almost a kilometre at low tide, uncovering huge tide pools and sand flats.

The warm shallow waters of the beach make it ideal for swimming. If you want to stay longer than just a day, Rathtrevor Beach offers a large campground with over 250 campsites, including both tent and RV spots, with modern facilities such as showers and flush toilets.

I highly recommend booking early during the peak summer season to avoid missing out!

10. Parksville Beach

Parksville Beach is a top-notch beach spot on Vancouver Island, famous for its wide sandy beaches. It’s a big deal in the town of Parksville and pulls in crowds from all around, especially when those popular summer events roll around.

The beach is also accessible on foot from most parts of the town, making it convenient for both residents and tourists staying nearby. 

The vast stretches of fine sand are especially noticeable at low tide when the beach extends out for hundreds of meters into the ocean. There are also numerous picnic tables and green spaces for spreading out and enjoying a day by the sea. 

There are several beach volleyball courts set up for public use, often bustling with activity during the warmer months. Parksville Beach is awesome for swimming and soaking up the sun, thanks to its shallow waters and gentle tides. The water gets nice and warm in the summer too.

Parksville Beach is well-known for its awesome Parksville Beach Festival and Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition, drawing in top-notch competitors and loads of visitors. In the summer, you’ll come across a bunch of food trucks parked by the beach, serving up everything from ice cream to full-on meals.

On sunny days and event days, the beach and parking spots get super crowded, so showing up early is a smart move to snag a good spot both for chilling on the beach and for parking.

11. Long Lake Beach 

Long Lake is a great spot, located in Loudon Park, home of the Nanaimo Canoe, Similar to Westwood Lake, it offers loads of activities and natural beauty. It’s just a quick drive from downtown Nanaimo, and it’s super easy to get to as well.

You’ll take the Island Highway (Highway 19), so it’s a breeze for car travellers with plenty of parking near the public beaches. Plus, if you’re not driving, public transport’s got you covered for easy access.

Long Lake is a pretty big freshwater lake that’s perfect for all sorts of water sports. Its clear, calm waters make it a great spot for swimmers and paddlers. It’s got a well-kept trail and boardwalk that wraps around part of the lake, offering up some pretty scenic views.

The park features a swimming area with a sandy beach that becomes a hot spot for locals to cool off on hot summer days. Long Lake is known for its great swimming conditions, the water slopes gently, making it a safe spot for swimmers who aren’t too confident.

Plus, there are a bunch of picnic tables and grassy spots perfect for chilling and enjoying a meal with a view of the lake.

Loudon Park can be the go-to spot for local events and hangouts, especially in the summer when everyone’s itching to be outside. It’s a great place if you’re looking for a mix of chill vibes and fun activities by a pretty lake.

Whether you’re up for a lazy walk, a dip in the lake, or a day of water activities, it’s a perfect little getaway right within the city limits of Nanaimo.

12. Nanoose Bay

Nanoose Bay is this peaceful and pretty spot on the east coast of Vancouver Island, tucked right between Nanaimo and Parksville. Just a quick 15-minute drive north from Nanaimo and you’re there. You can even get there by public transport, but having your own car lets you explore more freely.

The beach has gorgeous views over the Strait of Georgia, and you can see the Coastal Mountains off in the distance. Thanks to its spot in a pretty sheltered bay, the waters are usually pretty calm. Nanoose Bay is a hotspot for marine life and birds, making it an awesome spot for bird watchers and nature lovers.

The beach is perfect for anyone wanting to lay on the sand and soak up the natural beauty around them. It’s quieter than other busy touristy beaches, making it awesome for reading, catching some rays, or having a picnic lunch.

There are limited facilities at Nanoose Bay, so it’s a good idea to bring necessary supplies such as water, snacks, and sun protection.

13. Maffeo Sutton Park

Swy-a-Lana Lagoon in Maffeo Sutton Park is super handy, right near downtown Nanaimo. You can get there by foot, car, or public transport no sweat, and there’s plenty of parking, even for buses and RVs. It’s a fave spot for tourists kicking off their city exploration.

The grassy park has awesome views of the Nanaimo Harbour, Newcastle Island, and the Coast Mountains. Plus, the harbourfront walkway is the perfect spot to soak in these sights.

The park’s open green spaces and waterfront promenade are awesome for jogging, walking, and biking. Plus, the small beach area is perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding, with super easy access to the water.

Maffeo Sutton Park is just steps away from downtown Nanaimo, with loads of restaurants, cafes, and shops within easy reach. Plus, when there’s an event going on, you’ll find food trucks and vendors popping up in the park, offering a bunch of tasty dining choices.

FAQs about beaches in Nanaimo