Located on Vancouver Island Nanaimo is a great place for paddlers to explore different bays, inlets, and the Pacific Ocean.
Located 100 kilometres north of BC’s capital city of Victoria, Nanaimo is a lively harbour community that boasts interesting culture, incredible coastal scenery, and innumerable paddling opportunities. It’s an easy and well-protected jaunt to the nearby Newcastle and Gabriola islands and there are miles of sandy beaches that are accessible along the coastline including Nanoose Bay and Qualicum Beach. Kayak fishing is also popular here because of the five species of salmon that can be caught as well as cod, halibut, and ocean perch. In short, Nanaimo offers so much more than the dessert bar named after it.
Explore more paddling opportunities in the area.
Meet the specialists Nanaimo
From guides and instructors to marina owners and sales reps, here are the people who will ensure you’re not sent up the creek without a, well, you know.
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Coastal Expression
If you’re looking for a canoe or kayak rental, lesson or guided tour Coastal Expression offers them all!
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Discovery Kayaking Ltd.
Embark on guided kayaking tours in Telegraph Cove, BC. Encounter orcas, explore Sophie Island, and create lifelong memories in the wild.
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Island Römer Adventures
Explore the ocean on a guided kayaking tour with Island Römer Adventures.
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Jeff’s Kayak and Bike Rentals
Rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards with Jeff’s Kayak and Bike Rentals.
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Page’s Resort and Marina
Secluded cottages, marina & island adventures await at Page’s Resort. Kayak, hike, relax – it’s your island time.
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Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC
Join the Sea Kayak Guides Alliance of BC for top-notch professional sea kayaking experiences. Certification, guides for hire, and industry news.
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The Search For BC’s Best Lake
Which body of water will win CBC’s Best Lake in BC Contest? We have some suggestions of what to vote for.
Ten of the Best Flat Water Paddle Trips in British Columbia
The Kicking Horse is only one of many whitewater experiences that make British Columbia one of the best rafting destinations in the world.
How to Start Kayak Fishing in BC
Here are 16 ways to slightly alter our paddling practices and improve our experiences at all of the wild places in BC.
