Today I took my 2.5-year-old son Caspian to Blueback Beach Nanaimo. This outing was more about stretching our legs and getting exercise than a beach day, but it reminded me why this spot is such a hidden gem in the city.
The Walk to Blueback Beach
Accessing Blueback Beach Nanaimo means committing to the stairs. There are many of them—long wooden staircases that wind down through the rainforest. The walk down is easier, and along the way you can enjoy the beauty of the trees and even spot positive messages painted along the trail.
It may be a lot of stairs, but there are plenty of spots to stop and rest if you need a break. The climb back up is a workout, but it’s worth it for the views and the quiet atmosphere.
High Tide vs. Low Tide
Blueback Beach Nanaimo is known for being a beautiful sandy beach at low tide. Today, we visited at high tide, so much of the sandy stretch was underwater. Instead, we walked along the rocky shoreline. Even on a rainy, grey fall day, the ocean views and rugged coast made the trip worthwhile.
When the tide is out, this beach transforms into a sandy playground that’s perfect for families. It’s a great spot to bring kids to dig, explore, and enjoy the water. At high tide, the rocks give it a different, more rugged charm.
A Needed Break Outdoors
The weather in Nanaimo has been rainy and dark all week. Leaving the house around noon today, the streetlights were still on. After being stuck inside for days, we really needed the fresh air. The walk down the stairs, the climb back up, and the short time on the beach gave us exactly the break we were looking for.
Why Visit Blueback Beach Nanaimo
Blueback Beach Nanaimo offers a mix of forest trail, ocean views, and workout-worthy stairs. It’s quiet, scenic, and feels like a hidden spot tucked away from the city. Whether you visit at high tide for a rugged shoreline walk or at low tide for a sandy beach day, it’s always worth the effort. For families like ours, it’s a simple day trip that combines exercise, fresh air, and ocean beauty all in one.
