by Turo
posted on May 2, 2025
Nanaimo is a city built for exploring. From forested lookouts to sheltered coves, it’s the kind of place where you can fill a day with adventure and discovery without rushing through it.
Whether you’re here for a short visit or driving the full island loop, this beautiful city makes a great jumping-off point for whatever comes next. Here are the top five things to do in Nanaimo!
In this guide, we’ll be covering:
- Hike to the top of Mount Benson
- Explore the tide pools at Neck Point Park
- Grab a bite on the harbourfront walkway
- Take a ferry to Newcastle Island
- The caves at Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park
- What to do in Nanaimo: FAQs
- Hit the road and see the top attractions in Nanaimo
What to do in Nanaimo: must-see attractions and activities
Looking for ideas on what to do in Nanaimo? These five stops show off the city’s wild edges, scenic views, and laid-back charm – all easy to reach with the right set of wheels.
Hike to the top of Mount Benson
Mount Benson is one of Nanaimo’s most rewarding hikes. The trail climbs through thick forests and opens up to panoramic views across the city, Gulf Islands, and even the mainland on a clear day.
Why it’s great
This is the spot to see just how much gorgeous landscape surrounds Nanaimo. It’s peaceful, scenic, and never too crowded. Even locals come back again and again for the view.
Practical tips
The trailhead is unmarked, and signage is limited, so download a map before you go. Start early to beat the heat and avoid hiking in wet conditions – the trail can get slick.
How to get there
Mount Benson is a 20-minute scenic drive from downtown via Jingle Pot Road. An SUV rental from brands like Toyota or Ford will give you the space and grip you’ll want to fit your gear and handle gravel roads. Flying in directly? Book a Nanaimo airport car rental with Turo and hit the trails right away!
Explore the tide pools at Neck Point Park
Neck Point Park is a local favourite for good reason. The rocky shoreline, driftwood-strewn beaches, and hidden coves make it feel like a landscape lost to time. At low tide, you can walk the shoreline and spot crabs, starfish, and other marine life tucked into tide pools.
Why it’s great
It’s peaceful, easy to access, and packed with quiet spots to explore. There are benches along the trails and views across to the mainland, and it’s the perfect place to catch a sunset.
Practical tips
Check the tide charts before you go – low tide is best for checking out the pools. The trails are mostly flat and well-marked, but the beach can be slippery, so bring shoes with good grip.
How to get there
Neck Point Park is a 15-minute drive north of downtown Nanaimo. With limited parking at the trailhead, a compact car rental is a wise choice. Sporty models from Nissan or Chevrolet are easy to maneuver and perfect for short coastal drives with quick stops.
Grab a bite on the harbourfront walkway
Downtown Nanaimo’s harbourfront walkway is one of the liveliest spots in the city. The paved path stretches along the waterfront, passing shops, galleries, marinas, and a lineup of casual restaurants and food stands – take a break, grab a bite, and watch seaplanes come and go across the bay!
Why it’s great
The energy here is relaxed but always moving. You can walk the full loop, stop for fish and chips or try a famous Nanaimo bar and enjoy views of the harbour from just about any bench. It’s a perfect midday stop.
Practical tips
Most restaurants are open year-round, but patios are busiest in summer. It’s a good idea to visit between lunch and dinner rush if you want a quieter experience.
How to get there
The harbourfront is right in the heart of the city. Make your Nanaimo rental car a Mercedes-Benz or BMW for a comfortable and stylish cruise downtown. Take your pick of luxury cars, classic cars, or convertibles on Turo for a refined ride that makes every stop feel a little more special.
Take a ferry to Newcastle Island
Just off the coast of Vancouver Island, Newcastle Island is a short ferry ride but feels worlds away. This protected marine park has forest trails, quiet beaches, and historic sites tied to Indigenous, mining, and shipbuilding history.
Why it’s great
The island is car-free and easy to explore on foot. You can circle the shoreline in a few hours, stop for a swim, or set up a beach picnic with views back toward the city.
Practical tips
The ferry runs seasonally from Maffeo Sutton Park, and you can buy tickets right at the dock. Bring snacks, water, and walking shoes – there are no stores or vehicles on the island.
How to get there
The ferry terminal is right downtown, where you’ll find paid parking nearby and electric vehicle charging stations close by. Choose a Tesla as your rental car in Nanaimo for a sustainable ride.
The caves at Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park
Head inland to Horne Lake Caves for something completely different. This provincial park is home to a network of limestone caves you can explore on guided or self-led tours.
Why it’s great
It’s not every day you get to go caving! The park has a variety of experiences, from easy interpretive walks to full-on spelunking with headlamps and helmets. It’s fun, educational, and surprisingly accessible.
Practical tips
Tours can fill up in summer, so book in advance. Dress for damp, enclosed spaces – layers and non-slip footwear are a must. The caves stay cool year-round, even when it’s hot outside.
How to get there
Horne Lake Caves is about an hour northwest of Nanaimo, with gravel roads leading into the park. Rent a Chrysler minivan or an SUV from Jeep or Subaru for all the space the family needs and the confidence to take on whatever the road has in store. For added grip, explore all-wheel drive vehicles for uneven roads.
What to do in Nanaimo: FAQ
Where is Nanaimo?
Nanaimo is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, along the Strait of Georgia. It’s about 110 km (68 miles) north of Victoria and roughly a two-hour ferry ride from Vancouver, depending on your route.
The city is served by Nanaimo Airport and two ferry terminals connecting to the mainland. If you’re flying in directly or driving up from Victoria International Airport, an airport car rental from Turo gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, with delivery options available right to your terminal.
What is Nanaimo, BC, known for?
Nanaimo is best known for its waterfront location, outdoor recreation, and famous dessert – the delicious Nanaimo bar. The city also offers access to island parks, beaches, and ferries that connect to even more coastal attractions.
How do you spend a day in Nanaimo?
Start your day with a harbourfront walk and coffee by the marina. Catch the ferry to Newcastle Island for a few easy hours of hiking or lounging, then head back for a late lunch downtown. If you’ve got time to spare, make the short drive to Neck Point for sunset on the rocks!
What’s the best time to visit Nanaimo?
Late spring through early fall offers warm days, clear skies, and full access to ferry routes and outdoor parks. July and August are busiest, while you’ll find quieter trails and fewer crowds in September, but the weather’s great for hiking or beach hopping.
What kind of car is best for a road trip to Nanaimo?
For exploring downtown and local parks, a compact or EV is perfect. Heading to trailheads or inland caves? Go with an SUV or all-wheel drive vehicle for comfort and confidence on mixed terrain. Bringing the whole crew? Turo’s minivans make road trips around British Columbia comfortable for everyone.
Hit the road and see the top attractions in Nanaimo
From mountain hikes to rocky beaches, Nanaimo makes it easy to build a trip that’s your own. With the right car, you can get to every trailhead, ferry dock, and food stop on your list without rushing or missing what makes the island special.
Turo puts you in the driver’s seat with Nanaimo car rentals that match your trip, your style, and your schedule. However you want to travel, you’ll find a vehicle that’s the perfect fit!
Feeling inspired? Pitch a Trip and let Turo sponsor your vehicle rental to turn this adventure into a reality! Whether you’re a storyteller, photographer, or just love to travel, this could be your chance to share your experience with the world.
