Dog-Friendly Nanaimo, BC: What To See & Do With A Dog

With over 8,000 licensed dogs living in Nanaimo, BC, it’s safe to say this oceanside city is geared towards pet parents and their furry family members. In this guide to pet-friendly Nanaimo, we’ll share the best dog-friendly parks, beaches, walking trails, and eateries, along with tips to make the most of your time here. Whether you’re a local pet parent, planning a visit, or looking at house sitting as a pet sitter in Nanaimo, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the city alongside its four-legged residents.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Nanaimo

Looking for places where both you and your pup can enjoy a great meal? Nanaimo is full of dog-friendly patios where pooch pals are welcomed with water bowls and plenty of attention. Here are some favorites to check out:

Carlos O'Bryan's Neighbourhood Pub

Heat lamps keep humans and their pups warm on the dog-friendly patio throughout the year, and fire tables and views of the marina make it even more inviting. Staff favorites from the menu include McCracken Rolls, Pachos (lattice fries served with Emerald Isle dip), and the Guinness beef burger.

Location: 1724 Stewart Ave, Nanaimo, BC V9S 4E6

Gabriel’s Cafe

Gabriel’s serves fresh, farm-to-fork meals made with ingredients from local farms. The all-day menu features rice bowls, handhelds, and salads, and a delicious selection of breakfast dishes is also served throughout the day. Vegan and gluten-free options make it a go-to spot for everyone.

Location: 39 Commercial St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5G3

Rusted Rake Brewing

This spacious, shaded patio is clearly designed with dogs in mind, with plenty of picnic tables and views overlooking the surrounding farmland. Come here for seared local Lingcod, the smoked brisket plate, or a cup of chowder, all served with a warm welcome.

Location: 3106 NW Bay Rd, Nanoose Bay, BC V9P 9E2

Wolf Brewing Company

Four-legged furries are showered with love on the patio of this friendly brewery, which has a long list of local craft beers plus nibbles like pizza, wings, and nachos.

Location: 940 Old Victoria Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6Z8

Off The Hook Surf Turf Smokery

This global-inspired, 100% gluten-free menu has everything from seafood to BBQ meats and burgers. The dog-friendly patio comes with water bowls for four-legged guests.

Location: 1588 Boundary Crescent, Nanaimo, BC V9S 5K8

Penny’s Palapa Restaurant

Dog-friendly tables line the wharf here, where you can enjoy Mexican fare like tortilla soup, halibut tacos, and enchiladas verde. Umbrellas keep it cool on the dog-friendly patio, and doggy water bowls are dotted throughout.

Location: 10 Wharf St, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2X3

Trollers Fish & Chips

Float in the middle of the marina while enjoying crispy fish & chips made with halibut, cod, or wild sockeye salmon. The dog-friendly patio is popular – keep an eye out for seals, otters, and even the occasional whale!

Location: 10 Wharf Street, FLOAT F, Nanaimo, BC V9R 2X3

Departure Bay Beach, Nanaimo

Dog-friendly beaches in Nanaimo

You’re never too far from the ocean in Nanaimo, which is all the more reason to head to the beach with your pooch. There may only be one official off-leash dog-friendly beach in the area, but there are a couple more spots where pups are welcome on-leash during the off-season.

Invermere Beach, Nanaimo

Depending on the tide, you might find a huge stretch of sand or none at all, so it’s worth checking before you go. Access is down a set of stairs, but it’s well worth it for a trip to Nanaimo’s only off-leash dog beach.

Location: 6420 Invermere Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1B9

Pipers Lagoon Park

A flat path snakes between the ocean and lagoon here, with rocky scrambles throughout. Trails are on‑leash only, and pups are allowed on the beach from October to the end of April.

Location: 3600 Place Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 0M8

Departure Bay Beach

Watch ferries glide in and out as you take Fido for an on-leash stroll along the shoreline during the off-season (October to the end of April).

Location: Departure Bay Beach, Nanaimo, BC

Colliery Dam Park, Nanaimo

Dog parks in Nanaimo

Pup parents in Nanaimo are spoilt for choice with no less than 12 designated off-leash dog parks, each stocked with dog poop bags and a trash bin.

Beban Park Off-Leash Dog Park

This centrally located park has two separate fenced-in areas filled with sand. The double-gated entrance keeps Fidos from escaping, and friendly locals are sure to take you and your pooch under their wing.

Location: Dorman Road, Nanaimo, BC V9S 3H6

Colliery Dam Park

Start with a stroll along the on-leash forested paths, then head to the off-leash area at the end of the upper dam trail. Here, pups can swim in the pond, explore under the trees, and make friends with the many doggy regulars.

Location: 703 Nanaimo Lakes Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9R 7E3

Westwood Lake Park

Keep your four-pawed pal on the leash as you follow the signs to the designated doggy area on the far side of the lake. It’s a great place to reconnect with nature, enjoy lakeside views, and let your pooch run free.

Location: 381 Westwood Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6S5

Beaufort Park

This little Nanaimo dog park is partially fenced, with water, poop bags, and some nice shady benches under the trees. Access is via Chelsea Road.

Location: 69 Lorne Pl, Nanaimo, BC V9S 3M7

May Richards Bennett Pioneer Park

This forested off-leash area is fully fenced, with plenty of space for pups of all shapes and sizes to get to know one another.

Location: 6700 Dover Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9V 1A6

Wardropper Park

Set in a quiet neighborhood, this well-kept park has a fully fenced off-leash area with grass and views of Departure Bay.

Location: 2957 Departure Bay Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 1G7

Diver Lake Park

This off-leash area isn’t fully fenced, so it’s best for pups with reliable recall. The big open space is perfect for a game of fetch.

Location: 2430 Black Franks Dr, Nanaimo, BC V9T 3K5

St. George Ravine Park

This small grassy area is a designated off-leash zone – but it’s not fenced in, making it best suited for well-trained pooches.

Location: 980 Terminal Ave N, Nanaimo, BC V9S 4K4

Gallows Point Light Park

This is the only off-leash area on Protection Island. It may be small, but there’s still space to explore with great views.

Location: 208 Colvilleton Trail, Nanaimo, BC V9R 6R1

Northfield Rotary Lookout Park

This fenced off-leash area isn’t worth making a special trip to, but it’s the perfect rest stop if you’re traveling along Parkway Highway.

Location: 2450 Northfield Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9S 0B2

Newcastle Island, Nanaimo

Dog-friendly walks in Nanaimo

From coastal strolls to forested trails, Nanaimo is full of scenic walks to enjoy with your pup. Some spots welcome off-leash adventures, while others are perfect for on-leash rambles. Here are some of the best:

Cable Bay Trail

This 4km trail has beautiful views on the way down to the ocean and a number of off-leash sections along the way. Keep your eyes peeled for sea lions basking on the rocks!

Location: 2705 Nicola Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9X 1N4

Maffeo Sutton Park

Take Fido for a stroll around Nanaimo’s signature park, which has on-leash pathways beside the ocean as well as some designated off-leash areas for furry friends to run free.

Location: 100 Comox Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3H7

Lost Lake Trail

This gentle, scenic loop circles Lost Lake for 1km. The gravel paths, boardwalks, and stairs are surrounded by mature forest, where fur babies are free to explore on leash.

Location: 4877 Lost Lake Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 5C6

Nanaimo River Regional Park

There are off-leash areas dotted throughout this 2km trail, which winds along the Nanaimo River. Expect lush forest, peaceful riverside scenery, and chances for your pup to splash in the water.

Location: 1955 Frey Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9X 1T2

Morrell Nature Sanctuary Office

This 278-acre forest has around 11 km of well-marked trails leading to a small lake and viewpoints. Dogs are welcome on leash, and you’ll find restrooms, picnic areas, and interpretive signage throughout.

Location: 787 Nanaimo Lakes Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9R 3C2

Neck Point Park

One of Nanaimo’s most scenic coastal walks, Neck Point has rugged bluffs, pebble beaches, and panoramic ocean views. Be sure to keep your four-pawed pal on the leash.

Location: 1055 Morningside Dr, Nanaimo, BC V9T 1N5

Saysutshun (Newcastle Island)

Just a short ferry ride from downtown, Newcastle Island is a great place for a dog-friendly outing. Explore the on-leash trails past beaches, forests, and historic sites, or get out on the water!

Location: 668 Centre Street, Nanaimo, BC V9R 4Z4

A dog explores the shoreline in Nanaimo, BC

Tips for pet parents in Nanaimo

Use the dog parks to socialize. Nanaimo has 12 off-leash dog parks, many with friendly groups of regulars.
Respect seasonal beach restrictions. From May 1 to October 1 inclusive, dogs aren’t allowed on the sandy sections of Departure Bay Beach or Pipers Lagoon. Take summer walks along the forested trails instead.
Plan ahead for time away. Whether you’re catching the ferry to Vancouver for the weekend or planning a longer trip, make sure your furry family members are taken care of at home. Finding a trusted in-home pet sitter means your furry friend can stay in the comfort of their own home while you’re gone, with all the same sights, smells, and snoozing spots they’re used to.

Pet sitters in Nanaimo

How it works

Tips for pet sitters in Nanaimo

Check the tide before heading to Invermere Beach. Nanaimo’s only off-leash dog beach changes dramatically with the tides, and you could find acres of sand to play on or no beach at all. Tide charts are your best friend before a visit!
Keep an eye out for wildlife. Seals, otters, sea lions, and even orcas can be spotted along the shoreline in Nanaimo. At places like Cable Bay Trail or Neck Point Park, keep furry friends leashed so they don’t disturb wildlife.
Explore Nanaimo as a house and pet sitter. Caring for pets in Nanaimo comes with a built-in adventure buddy! Explore dog-friendly parks, trails, and beaches, before heading to a pup-welcoming patio for the evening – it doesn’t get better than that!

House sitting in Nanaimo