5 Best Summer Activities in Nanaimo, BC

As Nanaimo's real estate market heats up, so does the city's summer activity calendar. Whether you're exploring the city as a newcomer or highlighting Nanaimo’s lifestyle to potential homebuyers, here are five diverse summer activities that showcase what makes this Vancouver Island gem so livable and vibrant.

1. 🥾 Hike to the Summit of Mount Benson

Adventure seekers and nature lovers can’t miss a hike up Mount Benson. Just a 15-minute drive from downtown, this moderately challenging trail rewards you with panoramic views of the Nanaimo Harbour, Gulf Islands, and Coastal Mountains. It's the perfect way to connect with nature and see the city from a whole new perspective.

2. 🎉 Enjoy the Thursday Night Market on Commercial Street

Every Thursday evening in the summer, downtown Nanaimo comes alive with the Commercial Street Night Market. With food trucks, artisan vendors, live music, and street performers, it's the city's most vibrant weekly event. Locals and visitors alike gather to soak in the festive atmosphere — a fantastic way to experience the community spirit that defines Nanaimo.

3. 🌳 Picnic or Play at Bowen Park

For a laid-back summer afternoon, Bowen Park is a local favorite. With its shaded trails, duck pond, outdoor pool, and 18-hole disc golf course, the park offers something for everyone. Bring a picnic or join a community event — it’s a fantastic spot for both families and solo explorers.

4. 🚴‍♀️ Bike the E&N Trail or Parkway Trail

For cyclists and runners, the E&N Trail and Parkway Trail provide scenic, safe routes to explore Nanaimo on two wheels. Winding through forests, neighborhoods, and urban areas, these trails are perfect for a weekend ride or daily exercise. The routes also offer glimpses into the neighborhoods that make Nanaimo so desirable to live in.

5. 🛶 Paddle to Newcastle Island (Saysutshun)

Still one of the best water-based adventures — but with a cultural twist — renting a kayak and paddling to Saysutshun is a unique summer experience. Once there, explore walking trails, learn about Snuneymuxw First Nation history, and maybe even camp overnight. It’s outdoor recreation with cultural depth.
At the heart of all that Nanaimo offers — from its coastal beauty to its vibrant community events — is a lifestyle that many dream of. I'm not just a Realtor; I'm a long-time local who genuinely cares about the people and places that make Nanaimo special.Whether you're buying your first home, upgrading to fit your family, or selling to start a new chapter, I bring more than market knowledge — I brings trust, transparency, and a personal connection. My relationships in the community run deep, and I approach every client with the same level of care and dedication I would give my own family.I understands that real estate isn’t just about properties — it’s about people, life transitions, and finding the right fit. Let me guide you with confidence, compassion, and a commitment to helping you feel at home, every step of the way.