About Nanaimo

(BritishColumbia.com) - Famous for its varied landscapes and more than two dozen parks, the city of Nanaimo boasts one of the prettiest waterfronts in Canada, conveniently located to serve as a home base for exploring Vancouver Island.

Nanaimo is the only all-purpose port city on Vancouver Island, with every facility required to serve both the commercial and recreational needs of business and tourism.

Once the location of five separate native villages, its name derives from a Coast Salish word, Sney-ny-mo, the "meeting place" - a perfect description of the rapidly-growing harbour community at the centre of Vancouver Island's highway and ferry system. A playground of land and sea activities, Nanaimo is a perfect place for a family vacation, a year-round golf getaway, or a romantic weekend. Learn more.

Popular Nanaimo Websites

City of Nanaimo - Residential, business and visitor information for the Nanaimo area.

Tourism Nanaimo - Picturesque city of Nanaimo, British Columbia. With breathtaking views, exciting attractions, and friendly people, Nanaimo is the premier gateway to Vancouver Island. Tourism Nanaimo is here to guide you to everything that this great city has to offer, from its oceanfront scenery and stunning mountain views, to the charming downtown area. Whether you're looking for local eateries, outdoor adventures, or a guide to the arts scene, you'll find extensive resources inside to make your trip planning easier. 

The Regional District of Nanaimo - Parks, recreation, city transit, resources, water, waste reduction, development, etc. for the Nanaimo region.

Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce - As the voice of business, the Greater Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce has been serving the needs of the business community in the Nanaimo area since 1889. We are a non-profit, non-government organization with over 850 members comprised of businesses, professionals and associations who have joined together for the purpose of promoting the civic, commercial and industrial interests of our community.

Nanaimo Old City Quarter - Nanaimo's Old City Quarter is part of the original economic core of the city. Buildings in the area date from the late 1800s to early 1900s.

Downtown Nanaimo - Amidst authentic heritage buildings lies a diverse mix of entertainment and cultural destinations.

Nanaimo Movies - Local guide for Nanaimo's movie theatre showtimes.

Transportation Links

AC Taxi  -  AC Taxi has been servicing Nanaimo & the surrounding areas for over 65 years. With their computerized dispatch system & 40 car fleet which includes 2 wheelchair accessible vans, AC Taxi ensures efficient on demand service for their customers.

HandyDart  -  HandyDART (Dial A Ride Transport) is a convenient form of door-to-door transportation for people with special needs. This service enables the elderly and persons with disabilities to have access to health care, employment, education, shopping and recreation.

Nanaimo Regional Transit Schedules  -  Plan your trip using the Regional Transit Rider’s Guide. It includes all route schedules, transit system maps and information on special services.

BC Ferries  -  British Columbia Ferry Services Inc., or BC Ferries, is known for safety, spectacular scenery and a proud maritime history. 

Harbour Air  -  At Harbour Air we take pride in providing a safe and professional flight experience. With over 25 years of service and more than 30 aircraft we have grown to be the largest all-seaplane airline in the world.

Nanaimo Airport  -  The Nanaimo Airport, located centrally on scenic Vancouver Island, is a thriving and modern air transportation gateway that offers an extensive range of amenities to the travelling public and the aviation industry.

West Coast Air  -  A locally owned and operated airline with more than 35 years of Twin Otter scheduled service experience

Seniors’ Clubs and Groups

Nanaimo Harbour City Seniors  -  Over l500 Harbour City Seniors enjoy a wide range of leisure programs and activities, bus trips, dances and special events.

Paradise Isle Seniors -  Seniors drop in centre. Various activities offered.