Nanaimo, on the eastern side of Vancouver Island, has some 200 parks that range from waterfront beaches to lakes to forests and everything in between. Almost all have really excellent walking trails. Nanaimo has one of most beautiful harbours on the West Coast– the waterfront promenade is truly the jewel of the city. The historic Bastion, the last genuine Hudson’s Bay Company trading post in existence, is at one of the entraces to the promenade just above the Plaza.
Nanaimo Walking Path
In addition to hosting many events, races and festivals, the promenade has a great walking path along the waterfront.
The park entrance is literally right across the street from downtown Nanaimo and just a block from the Convention Centre. There is ample parking with additional parking available just down the street at the Port Theatre or Convention Centre.
Nanaimo Pioneer Plaza Shopping Arcade
Along the promenade there are several small cafés and shops offering gifts, ice cream, coffee and even English tea.
Nanaimo Fish and Chips
On a commercial fishing boat wharf, just below the promenade, is the best fish and chips shop in the Nanaimo area. You get to sit outside in the sun while enjoying homemade fish and chips right adjacent to the fishing boats that caught the fish in the first place.
Lighthouse Bistro Pub
Further down the promenade is the Lighthouse Bistro Pub which was originally a seaman’s beacon and float plane terminal. It was converted into a pub and restaurant. A great place for a romantic seafood dinner. Originally built as a float plane terminal and seamans beacon, we have converted this historic building into a beatuiful restaurant and pub.
Originally built as a float plane terminal and seamans beacon, we have converted this historic building into a beatuiful restaurant and pub.
Originally built as a float plane terminal and seamans beacon, we have converted this historic building into a beatuiful restaurant and pub.
Each time I have walked by, the outdoor seating area has been full, so the food must be good and the view of the wharf and fishing boats is wonderful.
The dock where the seaplane’s land and depart is right off the Lighthouse Bistro Pub.
There is float plane scheduled service from Nanaimo harbour to Vancouver.
Swy-a-Lana Lagoon
The Swy-a-Lana Lagoon with its excellent children’s playground is socated next to Maffeo Sutton Park. The man-made logoon features a pedestrian overpass. Jutting out from the walkway is a padestrian fishing pier. The other day when I was there, I watched a number of dragon boat races. The participants were all ages including seniors.
Further on down the promenade, after the play area and open space, is a continuation of the walkway which goes for quite a distance. I’ve never walked it but I think it ends at another wharf for recreational sailing and boating.
Come enjoy Nanaimo’s beautiful waterfront – you won’t be disappointed.
Accommodation Vancouver Island
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The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel Nanaimo
70 Church Street, Nanaimo, BC
Canada V9R 5H4
Toll Free: 1-(800)661-2449 Local : (250)754-6835
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The BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Nanaimo Hotel is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo over looking picturesque Nanaimo Harbour. Our charming heritage boutique-style hotel is decorated in a style that blends old world class with modern conveniences to make your stay at this Nanaimo hotel a comfortable and memorable one!
Offering spectacular views of Nanaimo, along with Nanaimo’s inner harbour, the BEST WESTERN PLUS, Dorchester Hotel features 70 well-appointed guestrooms. Our Nanaimo hotel also features a popular onsite restaurant: Deep Blue, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, complimentary overnight parking, and more!
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