1. DRIP — Your Morning (or Anytime) Ritual
Start your day at DRIP Coffee Social, where creative seasonal drinks set the tone for whatever your day has in store. From a velvety matcha to a crisp iced oat latte on a warm afternoon, every drink feels thoughtfully crafted — and consistently excellent.
The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance: welcoming baristas, good music, and a space that invites you to stay awhile. And if coffee isn’t calling your name? DRIP also offers wine, local beer, and rotating seasonal cocktails — making it just as ideal for an afternoon wind-down as it is for your morning pick-me-up.
With two convenient locations — one on Dufferin Crescent across from the hospital, and one in Departure Bay directly across from the beach — you can choose your vibe. The Departure Bay spot is particularly hard to beat in the summertime.
Bucket list challenge: Order something you wouldn’t normally choose. New favourite unlocked.
2. Piper’s Lagoon — A Pleasant Surprise
If there’s one place that captures the quiet, rugged charm of Nanaimo’s coastline, it’s Piper’s Lagoon. With its blend of sandy stretches, rocky shoreline, and all-round natural beauty, this park offers just the right amount of both adventure and relaxation. The water is also gentle enough for a refreshing swim, making it a favourite for locals who want an afternoon cool down from the summer heat.
It’s peaceful without feeling remote, scenic without trying too hard, and always a good idea — whether you’re there for a quick walk or an all-afternoon escape.
Bucket list challenge: Pack a picnic, claim a quiet cove, and commit to a long, lazy beach day.
3. Sweet Stops — Burnt Honey & Cold Front
An essential summer mission: track down the best local scoop.
Burnt Honey is known for their delicious in house made ice cream and macaroons. The vibe is welcoming and fun, perfect for a casual treat on a hot sunny day. Keep an eye out for their seasonal flavours!
Cold Front Gelato, tucked along the iconic Commercial Street, serves up vibrant, flavour-packed gelato that’s impossible to resist. With so many inventive options, you’ll want to try more than one. Bonus fun fact: Commercial Street made an appearance in The Last of Us Season 2 — so your gelato stop comes with a side of local pop culture trivia.
Bucket list challenge: Go to both places in one day — one for fun and flair and the other for a sweet treat to indulge while exploring the downtown Nanaimo shops and spotting film locations
4. Departure Bay — Classic Summer at the Shore
Departure Bay Beach is a timeless Nanaimo favourite — the kind of place that never loses its charm. The water stays inviting well into late summer, and the view? It’s worth the stop on its own.
It’s perfect for a full-day escape. Pack a towel, a book, and some snacks, or simply stroll along the shoreline and take it all in. Whether you’re with family, friends, a partner, or enjoying a solo day of reflection, there’s a rhythm here for everyone.
Bucket list challenge: Stick around for sunset! The setting sun makes these picturesque views even better (if that’s even possible).
5. Blueback Beach — A Hidden Coastal Gem
Tucked away in Nanaimo’s north end, Blueback Beach feels like a well-kept local secret — even if the word’s out. A wooded trail and 300 stairs lead you to a serene stretch of shoreline with sweeping views across the Salish Sea to the mainland mountains.
Quieter than the larger beaches, it’s perfect for a slow, unhurried afternoon. Driftwood logs double as sunbathing spots, the water is calm on gentle days, and beachcombing opportunities are plentiful! You’ll often spot locals reading, paddleboarding, or just soaking in the peaceful surroundings.
Late summer sunsets here are particularly magical!
Bucket list challenge: Visit during golden hour with just a towel and a good book, and let the calm of this hidden gem wash over you.
6. Nanaimo River — The Ultimate Summer Cool Down
When the heat peaks, there’s nothing quite like heading to the Nanaimo River. Cool, clear, and surrounded by serene views, it’s the perfect freshwater escape from the ocean breeze.
Locals love it for hidden swimming holes, gentle tubing stretches, and natural rock ledges perfect for sunbathing or cliff jumping. The water stays refreshingly cold throughout the long summer days.
Make sure to find a safe swimming hole with minimal currents and always check depths before cliff jumping. Water levels can be lower in the summer months. Check out the link here to find a safe spot to set up for the day.
Bucket list challenge: Bring a floatie, pack snacks in a cooler, and make an afternoon of it. Bonus points if you bring an inflatable paddle board to explore hidden areas
Make the Most of These Days
At the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with an island summer. But knowing the local spots — the beaches, the trails, the coffee shops, and sweet stops — turns a good summer into a truly unforgettable one. Explore, linger, and soak up every bit of Nanaimo’s charm while the season lasts.
Who knows, you may even find yourself wanting to stay a little longer!