Nanaimo, a city located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches. With over 20 beaches to choose from, each offering something unique, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to visit. In this article, we will highlight some of the best beaches in Nanaimo, so you can plan your next beach getaway with ease.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax, a family-friendly beach with lots of activities, or a place to go for a swim, Nanaimo has it all. From the popular Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park to the hidden gem of Pipers Lagoon, we’ll take you through some of the most stunning beaches in the area. So pack your sunscreen, towel, and flip flops, and get ready to explore the best beaches in Nanaimo.
Top Beaches in Nanaimo
Nanaimo is a beautiful coastal city that offers some of the best beaches in the area. Whether you are looking for a sandy beach or a rugged coastline, Nanaimo has it all. Here are the top beaches you should visit in Nanaimo:
Pipers Lagoon Park
Located in the north end of Nanaimo, Pipers Lagoon Park is a must-visit destination for beach lovers. This park offers a beautiful sandy beach, a lagoon, and a rocky shoreline. You can enjoy swimming, windsurfing, and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the lagoon. The park also has picnic areas, washrooms, and a playground for kids.
Neck Point Park
If you are looking for a secluded beach, Neck Point Park is the perfect destination for you. This park offers a rocky shoreline, tide pools, and a beautiful view of the ocean. You can take a relaxing walk along the beach and explore the natural beauty of the area. The park also has picnic areas, washrooms, and hiking trails.
Departure Bay Beach
Departure Bay Beach is one of the best beaches in Nanaimo for swimming. The tides are warm and shallow in the summer, making it a great location for families with kids. You can also launch kayaks and explore the neighboring islands. The beach has picnic sites, washrooms, and many places to exercise. Alternatively, you can just spread your beach mat, lay on the grass, and take in the view.
Nanaimo has many other beautiful beaches that are worth visiting. However, these three beaches are some of the best and offer a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Family-Friendly Features
Nanaimo has several beaches that are perfect for families with children. Here are some of the family-friendly features you can expect to find at these beaches.
Playground Facilities
Many of the beaches in Nanaimo have playground facilities that are perfect for children. For example, Neck Point Park has a playground that includes swings, slides, and climbing structures. The playground is located near the beach, so you can keep an eye on your children while they play. Similarly, Piper’s Lagoon Park has a playground that is suitable for children of all ages. The playground is located near the picnic area, so you can enjoy a meal while your children play.
Picnic Areas
If you’re planning to spend the day at the beach, you’ll need a place to eat. Fortunately, many of the beaches in Nanaimo have picnic areas that are perfect for families. For example, Departure Bay Beach has a picnic area that includes tables and benches. The area is shaded by trees, so you can enjoy your meal without getting too much sun. Similarly, Westwood Lake Park has a picnic area that overlooks the lake. The area is surrounded by trees, so you can enjoy a meal in the shade.
Safety and Lifeguards
Safety is always a concern when you’re at the beach, especially if you have children. Fortunately, many of the beaches in Nanaimo have lifeguards on duty during the summer months. For example, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park has lifeguards on duty from mid-June to early September. The lifeguards patrol the beach and are trained to respond to emergencies. Similarly, Departure Bay Beach has a lifeguard on duty during the summer months. The lifeguard station is located near the beach, so you can get help quickly if you need it.
Overall, the beaches in Nanaimo are perfect for families with children. With playground facilities, picnic areas, and lifeguards on duty, you can enjoy a day at the beach without worrying about your children’s safety.
Beach Activities
Nanaimo’s beaches offer a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re looking to relax on the sand or get active in the water, there’s something for everyone.
Swimming and Sunbathing
If you’re looking to cool off on a hot day, Nanaimo’s beaches are the perfect place to take a dip. With calm waters and sandy shores, you can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply soak up the sun on the beach. Some of the best beaches for swimming and sunbathing include Rathtrevor Beach, Departure Bay, and Piper’s Lagoon.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
For those looking to explore the coastline, kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities in Nanaimo. You can rent equipment from local shops and paddle along the shoreline, taking in the stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands. Some of the best beaches for kayaking and paddleboarding include Westwood Lake Park, Neck Point, and Piper’s Lagoon.
Beachcombing and Hiking
If you’re looking for a more relaxed activity, beachcombing and hiking are great options. Nanaimo’s beaches are home to a variety of wildlife and marine life, making them the perfect place to explore. You can walk along the shoreline and collect shells, rocks, and other treasures, or hike along the trails that wind through the nearby forests. Some of the best beaches for beachcombing and hiking include Neck Point, Piper’s Lagoon, and Westwood Lake Park.
No matter what your interests are, Nanaimo’s beaches offer a range of activities for visitors to enjoy. So grab your sunscreen and head to the beach for a day of fun in the sun!
Practical Information
Parking and Accessibility
When visiting the beaches in Nanaimo, you will find that most of them have ample parking available, but it’s always a good idea to arrive early in the day to secure a spot. Some of the more popular beaches, such as Rathtrevor Beach, can fill up quickly during peak season. If you have mobility issues, you’ll be pleased to know that most of the beaches in Nanaimo are wheelchair accessible, and many have paved pathways leading to the water’s edge.
Restrooms and Concessions
When spending a day at the beach, it’s important to have access to restrooms and concessions. Most of the beaches in Nanaimo have public restrooms available, and some even have concession stands where you can purchase snacks, drinks, and ice cream. However, it’s always a good idea to bring your own food and drinks, as the options at the concession stands can be limited and pricey.
Best Times to Visit
The best time to visit the beaches in Nanaimo is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may want to visit during the shoulder seasons of May and September, when the weather is still pleasant but the beaches are less crowded. Keep in mind that the water temperature in Nanaimo can be chilly, even during the summer months, so be sure to bring a wetsuit if you plan on swimming or surfing.
