Paddle Board Nanaimo: 5 Fun Spots to Check Out
Photo from Flickr
The Harbour City Nanaimo, on the east coast of Vancouver Island, promotes various paddle board Nanaimo opportunities that will leave you in awe.
Beauty, history, and the lively waterfront setting— the city itself offers plenty for an incredible day out on the water, whether on serene lakes or the busy waterfront.
DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a paddle location, ensure that the location still allows for paddle boarding and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.
Introducing Nanaimo
Ranging from eastern Vancouver Island in the Salish Sea area up to the northern part of the Gulf Islands, the warm climate and water make Nanaimo fantastic for a paddle board trip. With the deep harbor, flat land, and convenient location, the area has become an excellent marine and industrial center.
Photo from Flickr
According to the rich regional history, the indigenous Coast Salish Snunéymuxw tribe thrived off the plentiful food and shelter in the bays and estuaries. Building upon this legacy, Nanaimo has flourished into a vibrant and beautiful coastal city that welcomes visitors by land and water.
The city’s prime position and a strong sense of community have grown it into a warm and inviting travel destination.
Best 5 Paddle Boarding Spots in Nanaimo
Nanaimo on Vancouver Island's east coast is a terrific destination for those who prefer the great outdoors and paddle board activities. These 5 spots in Nanaimo are the greatest for paddlers of all skill levels.
1. Nanaimo River
The Nanaimo River is a beautifully lush and forested place. With a mix of calm areas and challenging rapids, this scenic river is a total match for a paddle board Nanaimo itinerary.
Photo from Wikimedia Commons
- Water and winds: Mostly calm water with some eddies and rapids in certain spots
- Skill levels: Suitable for novice to expert paddlers
- Launch sites: Multiple accesses to reach the river
- Amenities: Nearby hiking trails and picnic areas
- Unique features: Popular with fishing, kayaking, and hiking along the river banks, apart from paddle boarding.
2. Westwood Lake Park
On the slopes of Mount Benson, Westwood Lake, is an artificial lake that provides a calm and steady space for a family excursion because of the quiet, pleasant waters and the surrounding paths.
Photo from Flickr
- Water and winds: Calm and warm waters with light winds
- Skill levels: Ideal for paddling beginners
- Launch sites: Two designated locations, from the boat ramp at the park entrance or the lake’s south side
- Amenities: Nearby hiking trails and a park where you can walk the dog
- Unique features: Various water recreation for locals and visitors
Charlaine Boat Ramp
Nanaimo Harbour's Charlaine Boat Ramp, with its rocky shores and plenty of driftwood, provides paddlers with a strenuous paddle board Nanaimo experience.
Photo from Freepik
- Water and winds: Rough waves due to exposure to the ocean and wind
- Skill levels: Best for intermediate to proficient paddlers
- Launch sites: Public boat launch facility on the Nanaimo waterfront
- Amenities: Pipers Lagoon Park— a nearby park with beautiful cliffs and pathways.
- Unique features: Easy access to the water linking to the harbor and the Strait of Georgia.
Departure Bay Beach
Paddle boarding is safe and peaceful at Departure Bay Beach—a natural wind barrier in an urban area. The designated swimming area and the nearby boardwalk provide a unique backdrop for your stand up paddle board Nanaimo plan.
- Water and winds: Quiet and safe waters
- Skill levels: Ideal for both beginning to intermediate levels
- Launch sites: Conveniently located along the shore
- Amenities: Boardwalk, surrounding dining venues and stores
- Unique features: Favorable for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing
Long Lake
Central Nanaimo's Long Lake is an artificial lake with a variety of water sports. This stunning and demanding location is an excellent place to have your paddle board Nanaimo experience.
Photo from Wikipedia Commons
- Water and winds: Calm seas with boat and jet ski wake possibility
- Skill levels: Appropriate for any level of expertise
- Launch sites: Easily accessible from the shore
- Amenities: Local canoe and kayak club, docks, and a designated bathing area
- Unique features: Tranquil freshwater inside the city boundaries
Nanaimo Paddle Board Rental Spots
In the Nanaimo region, Nanaimo paddle board rentals focus on offering services for paddling activities with a variety of options.
- Take Off Adventure Rentals: This Nanaimo-based company rents out SUPs for an hour or the whole day. The hourly rate for a single board is $30.
- Long Lake Adventure Company: Based out of Halifax, this business offers paddle board rentals Nanaimo area. The rental rate is $25 an hour, going up as high as $80 for a full day.
- Westwood Lake Campground Resort: Located on Westwood Lake west of Nanaimo, this camping resort rents out SUPs by the hour or the day. The rental here includes life jackets and paddles.
Extra Activities to Do in Nanaimo
Apart from stand up paddle board activities within the lively city of Nanaimo, there shall also be other favored sports.
- Go Kayaking: Get into a kayak and paddle to discover Nanaimo’s bays and coves—the city’s most picturesque areas.
- Nanaimo Bar Trail: Engage in this self-guided culinary tour to enjoy the best-known item of the region: the Nanaimo Bars.
- Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park: Discover the natural splendor by ferry. Here you may explore its stunning hiking paths and pristine environment.
- Nanaimo Farmers’ Market: Fresh locally grown fruits and baked goods, along with artisan crafts, await visitors every Saturday at the market. Sample a variety of local fruits and baked products as well as handmade items every Saturday.
- Picnic at Neck Point Park: While having a picnic, walking, and jogging in the park, you’ll see spectacular views of the coastline, ocean, and vegetation.
Having Fun in The Harbour City with iROCKER!
Inflatable floating islands and docks from iROCKER will make your paddle board Nanaimo adventures even more enjoyable. Exceptional convenience and flexibility are what you can find in iROCKER's inflatable paddle board and floating islands since they are lightweight, strong, and simple to install.
With these multipurpose accessories, you can transform any body of water into your very own private haven, perfect for entertaining, mingling with friends, or just soaking in the wonderful views of the waterfront.
Visit iROCKER for the perfect accessories to make your paddling adventures more memorable.
