Dog-friendly Nanaimo, BC: What to see & do with a dog

With over 8,000 licensed dogs calling Nanaimo home, this vibrant oceanside city is a true haven for pet parents and their four-legged companions. Whether you’re a local exploring new trails, planning a visit with your pup, or considering house sitting through FurPetVo, you’ll find plenty of welcoming spaces—from scenic shorelines to cozy patios and well-maintained off-leash parks.

A woman and her dog relaxing on a sunny, dog-friendly restaurant patio with views of the marina

Dog-friendly restaurants in Nanaimo

Nanaimo’s culinary scene embraces dogs wholeheartedly—many eateries offer shaded, dog-friendly patios complete with fresh water bowls, friendly staff, and even pup-approved treats. Here are some top spots:

  • Carlos O'Bryan's Neighbourhood Pub
    Warm heat lamps and fire tables make this marina-adjacent patio comfortable year-round. Try the McCracken Rolls, Pachos (lattice fries with Emerald Isle dip), or the Guinness beef burger.
  • Gabriel’s Cafe
    Serving farm-to-fork meals all day, Gabriel’s offers rice bowls, handhelds, salads, and hearty breakfast options. Vegan and gluten-free dishes ensure everyone—including sensitive pups’ humans—leaves satisfied.
  • Rusted Rake Brewing
    Located in Nanoose Bay just outside Nanaimo, this spacious, shaded patio overlooks farmland. Enjoy seared local lingcod, smoked brisket, or a rich chowder—all served with genuine warmth.
  • Wolf Brewing Company
    This friendly brewery welcomes dogs on its patio with open arms—and an extensive list of local craft beers. Pair them with pizza, wings, or nachos while your pup enjoys the lively atmosphere.
  • Off The Hook Surf Turf Smokery
    100% gluten-free and globally inspired, the menu features seafood, BBQ meats, and creative burgers. Water bowls are thoughtfully placed for canine guests.
  • Penny’s Palapa Restaurant
    Perched right on the wharf, this spot serves authentic Mexican fare like tortilla soup, halibut tacos, and enchiladas verde. Umbrellas provide shade, and doggy water bowls dot the patio.
  • Trollers Fish & Chips
    Float in the middle of the marina while enjoying crispy fish & chips made with halibut, cod, or wild sockeye salmon. Keep an eye out for seals, otters—and maybe even whales—as your pup enjoys the waterfront breeze.

Dog-friendly beaches in Nanaimo

Nanaimo’s coastal charm means you’re never far from salt air and sandy shores. While only one beach allows off-leash play year-round, several others welcome leashed dogs during the off-season (October through April):

  • Invermere Beach
    Nanaimo’s only official off-leash dog beach. Tides dramatically affect the available sand—check conditions before heading out. Access is via a set of stairs, but the reward is worth the descent.
  • Pipers Lagoon Park
    A flat, scenic path winds between ocean and lagoon, with rocky areas perfect for curious pups. Dogs must remain leashed on trails, but are welcome on the beach October–April.
  • Departure Bay Beach
    Enjoy stunning ferry views and gentle shoreline strolls with your leashed dog during the off-season. It’s a peaceful spot for quiet reflection—and happy tail wags.
Aerial view of Departure Bay Beach with calm water, rocky shoreline, and people walking dogs along the coast

Dog parks in Nanaimo

Nanaimo boasts 12 designated off-leash dog parks—each equipped with poop bags, trash bins, and thoughtful design to keep both dogs and owners comfortable.

  • Beban Park Off-Leash Dog Park
    Centrally located with two separate sandy, fenced areas and a double-gated entrance to prevent escapes. A welcoming hub for locals and visitors alike.
  • Colliery Dam Park
    Start with an on-leash forest walk, then head to the off-leash pond area at the end of the upper dam trail. Pups love swimming, exploring under towering trees, and meeting regular canine friends.
  • Westwood Lake Park
    Follow signs to the designated dog area on the far side of the lake. Leash up for the walk there, then let your dog run freely amid lakeside serenity.
  • Beaufort Park
    A smaller, partially fenced park offering water, poop bags, and shady benches beneath mature trees. Accessible via Chelsea Road.
  • May Richards Bennett Pioneer Park
    A fully fenced, forested off-leash zone with ample space for dogs of all sizes to roam, sniff, and socialize.
  • Wardropper Park
    Set in a quiet residential neighborhood, this well-kept park features a fully fenced off-leash area with grassy space and lovely views of Departure Bay.
  • Diver Lake Park
    An open, unfenced off-leash area ideal for dogs with strong recall. Perfect for energetic games of fetch across wide-open fields.
  • St. George Ravine Park
    A small, grassy, designated off-leash zone nestled in a natural ravine setting—ideal for relaxed play and short, low-key adventures.

Whether you're discovering Nanaimo for the first time or returning with your loyal companion, the city’s thoughtful blend of nature, community, and pet-friendly infrastructure makes every outing feel like a shared celebration. For more tips on traveling with pets—or finding trusted house sitting opportunities—visit furpetvo.com.