Nanaimo tours

Things to do in Nanaimo

Experience Nanaimo, the pulsating core of Vancouver Island, where the energy rivals the ocean waves beyond its shores. This city offers a curious mix of untouched natural surroundings and a lively urban scene. Imagine walking along the Harbourfront Walkway, a gentle sea breeze teasing through your hair, as stories of maritime explorers and indigenous culture slowly unfold. With the insight of a local guide, dive into Nanaimo tours that gradually reveal the true essence of this coastal locale: from personal tours in the bustling city centre to leisurely walks through verdant gardens and forests. Your guide will uncover the city's true nature, where tucked-away cafes offer the renowned Nanaimo bar and local craftsmen create unique pieces not chronicled in typical travel guides. Be it a culinary tour sampling island-sourced flavours or a seamless journey to iconic sites, Nanaimo’s allure is best appreciated through the perspective of a resident. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Nanaimo. Explore Nanaimo your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Nanaimo tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Nanaimo for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Walk coastal trails at Neck Point and Piper’s Lagoon to watch harbour seals, sea lions in season, and tide pools alive with sea stars. Or ride the small ferry to Saysutshun/Newcastle Island for forest paths, beaches, and a shoreline picnic with views of Departure Bay. BirdWatching tours: Meet at Buttertubs Marsh at sunrise for marsh wrens, herons, and winter ducks, then scan the Nanaimo River estuary for eagles and hawks. In summer, check the harbour nesting boxes for purple martins and watch loons and grebes off Neck Point during migration. Some areas are walkable, but sites are spread out and public transit is limited; you can book chauffeured tours or tours with private transportation, or ask your local guide to arrange easy pick-ups between parks and viewpoints. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Nanaimo inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Consider taking a private walking tour to uncover Nanaimo's charm and explore some popular neighborhoods along the way with your local guide. There really is no better way to get to know a place than with someone who calls it home. - Old City Quarter: Discover boutiques and artisan shops in historic buildings, perfect for families who enjoy a leisurely stroll. It's a spot where multi-generational groups can find something for everyone, from cozy cafes to unique local art. - Downtown Nanaimo: Dive into vibrant culture with waterfront views. Ideal for cultural tourists, this area offers art galleries, live music, and lively eateries, making it a hub for meaningful connections. - Departure Bay: A picturesque neighborhood where you can walk along sandy beaches. Great for families who want to relax by the ocean and enjoy picnics, this area is perfect for unwinding and taking in natural beauty. - Newcastle Island: Just a short ferry ride from downtown, this island offers hiking trails and picnic spots. It’s a great escape for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a serene retreat. Day trip ideas from Nanaimo From Nanaimo you can reach beaches, rainforests, islands, and small towns without a long drive, so day trips stay flexible. Build your day trips as tours that match your style, from easy trails to farm stops to coastal viewpoints. Cathedral Grove and Qualicum Beach: Walk among giant Douglas firs in MacMillan Provincial Park on flat paths, then continue to wide sandy shorelines near Parksville or Qualicum. Nature lovers get towering trees and filtered forest light, families get easy beach time, and photographers get both in a single outing. Cowichan Valley: Follow quiet backroads to vineyards, cideries, and farm stands, with breaks at viewpoints over the lake and the Kinsol Trestle. Food and drink fans can plan tastings, while walkers and cyclists enjoy gentle trails and riverside sections. Small towns like Duncan add totem totems and murals for quick cultural stops. Chemainus and Ladysmith: Explore a compact mural circuit, dockside views, and a main street lined with cafés and local shops. Art lovers can focus on the outdoor gallery feel in Chemainus, while history fans find simple museum stops and restored buildings. The two towns pair well for a laid-back day with short drives and harbour sunsets. Gabriola Island: A short ferry brings you to sandstone galleries carved by waves, shore hikes, and quiet artist studios. Hikers can choose coastal loops with tidepools, while culture seekers browse local crafts and roadside stands. Keep an eye on ferry timings so the day stays smooth and unhurried. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Nanaimo most travellers miss.