Just 20 minutes south of Nanaimo sits the picturesque town of Ladysmith, on the 49th Parallel, where you can take part in a variety of outdoor pursuits or simply relax at a café or restaurant on the harbour, or browse local shops and art galleries. One of the oldest settlements on Vancouver Island, today the attractive little town still has an Edwardian feel.
See heritage buildings
Take a leisurely stroll along First Avenue to see restored historic heritage buildings—voted best street in Canada in 2017 by the Canadian Institute of Planners.
Hike the Holland Creek Trail
Hike the Holland Creek Trail to Heart Lake and Stocking Lake.
Enjoy water activities
Picnic, swim, kayak, stand-up paddleboard or canoe at Transfer Beach Park, plus enjoy live music during the summer.
Take the ferry from Vancouver to visit Nanaimo—the second-largest city on Vancouver Island, with plenty of outdoor activities and adventures for everyone, situated along one of the most beautiful waterfronts in Canada.
The waterfront fishing village of Cowichan Bay sits at the head of a beautiful and natural harbour, which is the main focal point of the town, where shops, cafés, galleries and homes float on the water. Dine out on some of the best seafood in the area, relax in waterfront cafés, or take part in a variety of water activities.
Drive 30 minutes north from Nanaimo to visit Parksville, offering long sandy beaches, lots of water sports, and plenty of arts and crafts to suit all tastes. Known as Canada's Riviera, Parksville is the perfect destination for romantic getaways and family fun.
Malahat is a small community in the Cowichan Valley, surrounded by lush nature and stunning views of the Saanich Inlet. The Malahat mountain summit is considered one of the most sacred sites on southern Vancouver Island.
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