The Nanaimo Region sits on Vancouver Island's east coast between the Cowichan Valley, to the south, and Comox Vallay, to the north. Nanaimo is the largest city in the region and is surrounded by multiple beaches and coastal towns. It is one if the primary gateways to the island from the mainland, being a major port for BC Ferries.
The region is defined by its many bays, coves, and inlets along the coast. Islands off the coast are home to many First Nation sites. Further inland, the dense lush forest of Vancouver Island provide countless recreational opportunities.
Resting on the western shore of Cameron Lake, MacMillan Provincial Park protects the Cameron River delta and is home to the famous Cathedral Grove, a 157- hectare grove of old-growth Douglas Fir trees
A must-see roadside attraction, the Coombs Old Country Market is famous for... GOATS ON THE ROOF. Started in 1973 as a roadside fruit stand, the market has expanded over the years and has become a somewhat famous local attraction, featuring a mix of locally owned shops and eateries. The highlight though is the herd of goats that reside on the roof of the building.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park straddles the Little Qualicum River just west of Qualicum Beach, BC. Within the park the river cascades over a series of waterfalls as it flows though a narrow gorge toward the sea. The Park maintains a few trails which provide views of the gorge and the falls while wandering through stands of old-growth Douglas Fir.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park lies on the eastern edge of the town of Parksville. Its 1 1/4 mile long sandy beach is typical of the islands eastern coast. At low tide, the beach extends 3/4 miles (1 km) out into the Strait of Georgia. Inland, the park protects a stand of coastal firs.
Within the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, the Englishman River cascades over the Upper and Lower falls into a dark canyon beneath a canopy of Douglas Fir, Red Cedar, Maple, and Hemlock. The park features several short hiking trails that wind through the forest and provide excellent views of the river and the falls.
Both within the city of Nanaimo, Neck Point Park and Pipers Lagoon Park each feature numerous winding trails though coastal woodland and along the coast.
Neck Point Park is well known for its seaside cliffs and pebble beaches. Perched on a headland jutting out into the bay, this park is also a great place to spot Orcas, Sealions, and otters.
To the south, Pipers Lagoon Park rests on a narrow isthmus which extends out to another rocky headland. Many birds can be seen from the trails here, along with views of the mainland.