Kayaking Nanaimo: 6 Heavenly Spots for Kayakers

Located on Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is a vibrant coastal city steeped in history and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for kayaking enthusiasts. It started as a home to the Snunéymuxw people and grew thanks to its awesome harbor, which helped it become a hub for coal mining and forestry.

These days, it’s a killer place for kayaking Nanaimo trips! The calm waters are perfect for everyone, whether you’re a newbie or a pro, and you might see seals and otters while you’re on your kayak or stand up paddle board. You definitely don’t want to miss this place!

DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a kayak location, ensure that the location still allows for kayaking and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.

Best 6 Nanaimo Kayaking

If you’re ready to hit those waves, here’s the list of the top Nanaimo kayaking destinations!

1. Nanaimo River

Just a short drive from Nanaimo on the east coast of Vancouver Island, the Nanaimo River is a fun place for Nanaimo kayaking. The river has changing water levels and pretty views, with lots of outdoor fun surrounded by lush trees.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: A freshwater river with varying currents.
• Skill Levels: Good for all skill levels.
• Launch Points: End of Raines Road, Chase River Estuary Park (access can be tricky), Duke Point
• Amenities: Living Forest campground and nearby parks.
• Unique Features: Grassy islands, cool driftwood, easy access to hiking and camping adventures.

2. Newcastle Island

Historic Newcastle Island is a popular destination for small kayak Nanaimo excursions. It’s only a quick boat ride from downtown Nanaimo. With its gorgeous beaches and rich history, it’s the perfect escape from the city hustle.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: Ocean waters with varying conditions.
• Skill Levels: Good for all skill levels.
• Launch Points: Nanaimo Harbour Marina, Maffeo Sutton Park, Departure Bay Beach
• Amenities: Walking/ biking trails.
• Unique Features: Cool rock formations at the north end of the island and stunning ocean views.

3. Protection Island

Protection Island is just 1.15 km from downtown Nanaimo and is an awesome spot for a day of kayaking Nanaimo experiences. You get all the city vibes nearby but with a laid-back atmosphere.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: Fresh, calm seas with little wind and good visibility.
• Skill Levels: Ideal for all skill levels.
• Launch Points: Nanaimo Harbour Marina, Maffeo Sutton Park, Queen Elizabeth Promenade
• Amenities: Parks, trails, a small passenger ferry, and a multi-sports court.
• Unique features: Home to a variety of wildlife and Canada’s only floating restaurant— the Dinghy Dock Pub.

4. Pipers Lagoon & Neck Point

Pipers Lagoon and Neck Point are fantastic spots for a kayaking Nanaimo adventure, packed with trails, lookouts, and amazing ocean views. The lagoon is perfect for bird watching, beachcombing, and swimming in the summer—definitely a must-visit for outdoor fans.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: Shallow bay
• Skill Levels: Good for all skill levels.
• Launch Points: End of Lagoon Road (off Hammond Bay Rd), Neck Point Park
• Amenities: Fun trails, lookouts, and rocky spots to explore.
• Unique Features: A long coastline to extend your kayak fun to the Hudson Rocks and Five Finger Island to the east.

5. Long Lake

Long Lake Provincial Park, located in Alberta, Canada, is just a 1.5-hour drive from Edmonton along Highway 831. Nestled south of the village of Boyle and northeast of the hamlet of Newbrook in Thorhild County, this serene getaway feels worlds away from the bustle of city life. With its warm, clear waters, it’s a go-to for a kayak Nanaimo journey.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: Clear and pretty warm lake.
• Skill Levels: Good for everyone, whether you're a newbie or a pro.
• Launch Points: Right at the park.
• Amenities: Over 100 campsites and canoe, kayak, or paddle board rentals.
• Unique Features: The White Earth Trail for hiking

6. Hudson Rocks, Five Finger Island, and Snake Island

If you're up for a Nanaimo kayak adventure, check out the smaller islands near Nanaimo, like Five Finger Island and Snake Island. Five Finger Island is part of the Hudson Rocks, just 1.5 km off the coast. It’s a cool spot with rocky islets, stunning views, and tons of wildlife, including seals and birds.

Snake Island is a bit farther out at 6 km from downtown Nanaimo, featuring wild sandstone formations that look straight out of a sci-fi movie. Remember to avoid the meadows during warmer months since some birds nest there.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: Open waters of the Georgia Strait, usually calm near the islands.
• Skill Levels: Best for experienced kayakers.
• Launch Points: Nanaimo Harbour (downtown), Pipers Lagoon
• Amenities: Limited, mostly natural features.
• Unique Features: Hudson Rocks' ecological reserve, lots of birdlife, seals, and the strange landscapes of Snake Island.

Note: They are designated as an ecological reserve to protect a breeding population of pelagic cormorants. Access may be restricted to minimize disturbances to the birds.

Kayak Rentals in Nanaimo

When choosing kayak rentals Nanaimo area, you should consider the 3 options below.

• Take Off Adventure Rentals: For around $65 per day, this Nanaimo kayak rental business rents out single, double, and fishing kayaks. Online bookings are available, and kayak pickups are available after 10 a.m.
• Long Lake Adventure Company: Kayaks, paddle boards, and double kayaks for adults and children are available for rent at Long Lake Provincial Park for as little as $22 per hour.
• Westwood Lake Campground Resort: Rentable kayaks, paddle boards, canoes, and rowboats are available here for single or double use. Just be thirty minutes early.

Did you know? The iROCKER SUP Kayak Conversion Kit makes it simple to convert a paddle board into a kayak. Whenever you want to kayak in Nanaimo, this kit has you covered!

Fun Activities to Do When Kayaking Nanaimo

There are many enjoyable activities to partake in when kayaking in Nanaimo!

• Taste the delicious Nanaimo Bar Trail—a series of popular and playful culinary experiences in the city.

• Why not go to Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park? Savor gorgeous beaches, verdant woods, and picturesque bike or hiking routes.

• Swing for fresh local produce, cool artisanal crafts, and tasty treats at Nanaimo Farmers’ Market. It’s a lively spot and best of all, entry is free!

• Discover stunning Westwood Lake Park’s hiking paths that wind around Westwood Lake's natural beaches. Additionally, there is no fee to enter!

Source: Flickr

Don’t Miss Your Nanaimo Kayaking Experience With iROCKER

Whether you're relaxing at Newcastle Island, exploring the Hudson Rocks, or tasting the renowned Nanaimo Bars, Nanaimo offers a bunch of activities and fantastic kayaking places.

If you want to make your kayaking adventures even better, look no further than iROCKER’s inflatable paddle board and inflatable kayak collections—they're portable and storage-friendly. So grab your gear and get ready to enjoy kayaking Nanaimo.