The ideal time to visit Nanaimo always depends on your preferred activities and the local weather. While some people prefer the good weather and don’t mind bigger crowds, others like to opt for quieter times to visit and avoid all the hustle and bustle.
Whether you’re someone who enjoys the bustling atmosphere of the city or someone who prefers to visit at a more relaxed pace, Nanaimo has something to offer for every type of traveller. Here are some ideas for activities that you can enjoy in Nanaimo in both high season and low season.
What to do during high season in Nanaimo
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, the high season offers sunny skies and pleasant temperatures. It’s the ideal time to explore the city’s iconic landmarks, participate in cultural festivals, or relax at a terrace café.
Thinking about trying some of the best delicacies of Nanaimo and immersing yourself in its gastronomy? The high season will provide you with a wider offer of restaurants, bistros, and food markets to immerse yourself in.
For the nature enthusiasts, the clear skies provide the perfect backdrop for exploring Nanaimo's natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in birdwatching, photography, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk surrounded by nature, the weather during these months will help to enhance your experience.
The top activities during the high season include:
- Exploring historic districts: wander through the city's oldest neighbourhoods and spend some time admiring its architecture. Take a stroll through the main historic areas and discover the fascinating stories behind some of the most iconic buildings in the city.
- Visiting outdoor markets: it’s well known that food is the best way to learn about a country’s culture. Give your taste buds an immersive journey and sample some of the local delicacies. And don’t forget to pick up gourmet souvenirs at open-air and flea markets!
- Attending concerts and festivals: many cities have a wide offer of concerts and music festivals during the high season months. Before landing in Nanaimo, check out for any cultural events and live music happening across the city.
- Landscape photography: immortalise beautiful moments and lose yourself around the city streets with your camera. Capturing the stunning architecture, street art, and scenic views with either your phone or a digital camera can be one of the best ways of discovering the city.
- Cycling and hiking: Explore Nanaimo and the surrounding landscapes by bike or on foot. It’s always a good idea to get recommendations from the local tourism offices and the expert guides on the best routes to explore.
What to do during low season in Nanaimo
For those seeking peace, quiet, and budget-friendly options, the low season is perfect. Fewer tourists mean more authentic experiences, no long lines at attractions, and cheaper flights and accommodations. Local businesses often offer special discounts, making it easier to indulge in luxury experiences.
With fewer tourists around, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a more authentic experience and connect with the local culture on a deeper level. In addition to this, you’ll also find more flexibility when booking your accommodations, tours, and any other reservation. This season is also ideal for last-minute travellers, since they’ll be more likely to get their first choice when it comes to popular activities.
Here are some of the top activities to do during the low season:
- Immerse yourself in local traditions: although the bigger festivals usually take place during the high season, the low season usually features smaller and more community-driven events and celebrations with fewer crowds. You can join a cooking class or a guided tour for a more personal experience.
- Visit indoor attractions: museums, galleries, and historic buildings are ideal when the weather isn’t perfect. During the low season, it’s also quite common for these establishments to offer cheaper deals.
- Explore seasonal shopping: the low season is also perfect to discover indoor local markets, where you can shop for unique souvenirs, taste the local food, and experience the day-to-day life of Nanaimo.
- Participate in workshops: since the weather conditions might be adverse during the low season months, it’s a great time to sign up for workshops like pottery, photography, or local dance classes. The off-season provides more availability and smaller groups, which also means more hands-on learning.
- Visit botanical gardens or natural reserves: many local gardens have covered areas and greenhouses that are great for visiting when the weather does not allow for outdoor activities. They also offer a great escape from the urban hustle, and allow you to learn more about the local flora.