<aside> ⚠️

The information here is an AI summary of the advice people in our Discord have shared. Their experiences may not always reflect the accurate process. None of this should be considered financial, immigration, or real estate advice.

</aside>

Is there parking in Nanaimo?

Nanaimo is not a big city and parking is generally not a problem. You can park on residential streets or at mall parking lots without issue.

🅿️ A parking map for the downtown area is available at parking.nanaimoinfusion.ca

What are my options for getting around once I'm in Nanaimo?

• Walking: Downtown Nanaimo is compact and very walkable. The waterfront walk is a flat, paved path that runs from the Gabriola Island ferry south to Newcastle Marina — about 30 minutes end to end.
• Car share: Evo Return and Modo car share services are a great fit if you want to go beyond downtown. Both require you to return the vehicle to the place you found it in Nanaimo.
• Ride share and taxis: Nanaimo has U-Ride (a local, Canadian ride-share service), and traditional taxis with apps.
• **BC Transit:** Buses cover most of Nanaimo, though the system is described as "functional but not robust." Payment is via the Umo app, a prepaid transit pass card, or cash. No credit cards accepted directly. All buses are ramp equipped and have 2 spaces for wheelchairs or strollers.
• Rental car: Recommended if you want to explore beyond downtown, especially for more than a day of use. Locals strongly advise booking in advance. If you're flying into Vancouver, it is significantly cheaper to rent on the island than to bring a car over on the ferry (which adds about $100 each way).
• E-bikes: E-bikes are popular and legal on Vancouver Island. EVO bike and scooter rentals are available throughout Nanaimo (download the app to search for the closest parking station).