Neck Point Park is a 36 acre waterfront park in Nanaimo with rugged rock cliffs, pebble bay beaches, and winding trails through Garry oak groves. It is one of the best coastal walks in the city, combining easy trails with big ocean views toward the Salish Sea and the coastal mountains.
The park feels wild but is very accessible. A 2.9 to 3-kilometre loop connects three main beaches, rocky headlands, and shaded forest sections, with plenty of benches and viewpoints along the way. On a typical visit, you might spot seals or otters, watch eagles ride the wind, and walk out toward the Neck Point rock formation at lower tides.
Neck Point is popular with walkers, families, photographers, and scuba divers who use the park as a shore entry to explore the underwater walls and reefs just offshore. Whether you come for a short stroll, a picnic at Finn Beach, or a sunset at Sunset Beach, it is an easy add to any Nanaimo itinerary and pairs well with nearby spots like Pipers Lagoon Park and Saysutshun (Newcastle Island).
What to expect at Neck Point Park
- Best for: Easy coastal walking, ocean viewpoints, family outings, photography, wildlife watching, and shore diving.
- Time needed: Plan for about one to two hours to walk the 2.9 to 3-kilometre loop, stop at the beaches, and enjoy a few viewpoints.
- Trail and terrain: Mostly easy gravel and dirt paths with a few short hills, stairs, and rocky sections. The main loop suits most visitors, with some viewpoints on uneven ground.
- Beaches and viewpoints: Three main pebble beaches, including Finn Beach and Sunset Beach, plus several lookouts over Shack Island, the Winchelsea Islands, and the coastal mountains.
- Nature and wildlife: Regular sightings of seals, sea lions in season, otters, bald eagles, herons, and other shorebirds. During herring season the shoreline can be covered in roe.
- Facilities: Free day-use park with washrooms near the main parking lot, outdoor showers, picnic tables, benches, and interpretive signs. There are no food services, so bring water and snacks.
- Parking and access: Free parking in the main lot off Morningside Drive, with clear signage to trails, beaches, and viewpoints. A second gated lot provides closer access for divers with approved access.
- Dogs and rules: Dogs are allowed on leash. This is a sensitive shoreline and wildlife area, so keep dogs close, follow posted signs, and pack out all waste.
- Seasonal notes: Open year round with gates typically open from 6 am. Evenings are popular for sunsets, and winter storms can bring dramatic waves and wind along the exposed sections of the trail.
Receive adventures in your mailbox every Thursday.
Find out more • Unsubscribe anytime.
Neck Point Park is renowned for its stunning landscapes, which include rocky shorelines and lush greenery. Whether you’re into longer walks, wildlife watching, or simply enjoying the outdoors, Neck Point Park has something for everyone.
In this post, we’ll uncover what makes Neck Point Park a must-visit spot. From its picturesque trails to its rich historical background, get ready to explore the diverse facets of this Nanaimo park.
The Neck Point Park Loop: A Scenic 2.9 km Trip
The Neck Point Park Loop is a 2.9 km trail that offers an easy, enjoyable route for visitors of all ages and abilities. Starting at the main parking lot, the loop guides you through some of the park’s most picturesque beaches, viewpoints, and coastal forest.
Finn Beach is one of the first highlights along the loop. With calm waters and plenty of space to spread out, it’s a popular summer swimming spot. Picnic tables and benches overlook the shoreline, and the beach also features a wheelchair-access mobi mat in warmer months, making it easier for visitors of all abilities to enjoy the pebble beach.
Continuing along the trail, you’ll reach the Neck Point Boathouse and Seawall, a favourite vantage point for watching seals, birds, and passing boats. From here, look across the bay toward Shack Island, where a handful of historic 1930s-era fishing cabins remain. On a clear day, this spot offers sweeping views across the Salish Sea toward the coastal mountains.
Further along the loop, you’ll pass driftwood-covered beaches before climbing a short set of stairs to Neck Point, the rocky outcrop that becomes an island at high tide. At low tide, you can walk across the pebble tombolo and explore the rugged shoreline.
As you continue through the trees and along dirt pathways, you’ll arrive at Sunset Beach, one of the best spots in the park to end the day. The driftwood-strewn pebble beach and west-facing views make it an ideal place to unwind and watch the sky shift colours.
Complete the loop by walking through the Garry oak groves. This shaded section of trail is quiet and surrounded by mature oaks, offering a peaceful change of scenery from the open coastline. The path is wide, flat, and well maintained, making it an easy and enjoyable walk back toward the parking lot.
The Neck Point Park loop is one of the best ways to experience the park’s mix of forest, beaches, and ocean viewpoints. Whether you’re out for a quick morning walk, exploring the coves at low tide, or settling in for a sunset, the loop delivers a memorable visit with minimal effort.
Accessibility
A good portion of Neck Point Park is accessible, with several wide, level pathways that work well for wheelchairs and strollers. The main routes near the parking lot and Finn Beach are generally smooth and easy to navigate, and a mobility mat is installed at Finn Beach during the warmer months to help visitors reach the shoreline.
Some areas of the park do include uneven ground, stairs, and rocky viewpoints, so not every section will be suitable for all mobility levels. Once you arrive, clear signage directs you toward the beaches, trails, accessible routes, and lookouts so you can choose the best options for your visit.
Amenities at Neck Point Park
Neck Point Park is well-equipped to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone. While immersed in nature, you’ll also have access to several amenities that enhance the park experience.
Picnic Areas and Tables: Scattered throughout the park are several picnic areas with tables. These spots offer picturesque views and are perfect for a family picnic or a restful break during your exploration. The picnic areas are strategically located to provide both sun and shade, catering to different preferences.
Public Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained public restrooms are available near the main entrance and parking area. These facilities are a convenient stop before or after exploring the trails and beaches.
Informational Signage: Throughout Neck Point Park, you’ll find informative signs that offer insights into the local flora, fauna, and historical points of interest. These signs enrich your visit by providing context to the natural and cultural significance of the area.
Neck Point Park Dive Site
Neck Point Park isn’t just a haven for land-based adventures; it’s also a gateway to an underwater world of wonder. Known for its clear waters and diverse marine life, the area around Neck Point is available for scuba divers of all skill levels.
A Diver’s Paradise: The waters around Neck Point Park offer an exceptional scuba diving experience. Divers can explore a variety of underwater landscapes. The shallow rocky terrain and clear water provide an ideal spot for both novice and experienced divers.
Dive Sites and Accessibility: A couple of designated dive sites around Neck Point Park offer a unique underwater adventure. The sites are easily accessible from the shore. A second parking lot closer to the dive sites is available with a key. For more information, visit Vancouver Island Dive Sites.
The History and Lore of Neck Point Park
In its earliest days, the Snuneymuxw fished and collected food resources in the area, which was abundant in salmon, lingcod, and rockfish.
During 1930’s, the area started to see families build cabins along the three beaches.
In 1993 there were plans for development for the property, including a 450-unit residential development that the council had given preliminary support for. Residents mobilized to create the Neck Point Park Society and eventually persuaded city and provincial authorities to buy and preserve the area and in 1996 the park was established and 14.5 hectares were set aside to protect sensitive habitats local history and to offer waterfront recreation.
In 2009, the park further expanded with the purchase of another 1.25 hectares. The area of the boathouse and seawall once had a house looking over the bay and has now been removed. The cement structure found out on the point was used to store boats and watercraft accessories for recreational use by the private owners of the land.
The concrete seawall was a large waterfront patio. In 2009, the City of Nanaimo purchased the property to add to the existing Neck Point Park. Now, the boat house is being used to store equipment for park events, and the seawall is used for many weddings, events & park enjoyment.
Getting to Neck Point Park
Whether you’re a local or a visitor to Nanaimo, reaching Neck Point Park is straightforward and part of the adventure. Here’s how you can find your way to this scenic destination:
By Car: If you’re driving, Neck Point Park is easily accessible from the Island Highway. Take the exit onto Hammond Bay Road and follow the signs to the park. The drive is well-signed, making it easy to navigate. Google Map Directions
Public Transportation: For those who prefer public transport, Nanaimo’s bus system offers a convenient way to reach the park. Bus Routes 20 and 30 regularly run to and from the city center. BC Transit
Biking or Walking: If you’re staying nearby, consider a bike ride or a walk to the park. The area around Neck Point Park is bike-friendly, and walking can be a delightful way to take in the local scenery and prepare for the nature immersion at the park.
Your Next Adventure Awaits at Neck Point Park
As our exploration of Neck Point Park comes to an end, it’s clear that this park is more than just a spot on the map; it’s a journey through diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant wildlife. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, adventure, or a connection with nature, Neck Point Park in Nanaimo offers an experience that resonates deeply with all who visit.
From the easy-going trails of the Neck Point Park Loop to the captivating vistas at Sunset Beach, every corner of the park promises a new discovery.
And let’s not forget the myriad of photo opportunities that await at every turn, capturing the essence of Vancouver Island’s natural beauty.
So, pack your essentials, bring your sense of wonder, and set off for an unforgettable day at Neck Point Park. Remember, every visit contributes to your own story – one that we hope you’ll share with us and others.
Share Your Neck Point Park Experience
As you plan your visit to Neck Point Park or reminisce about your past adventures there, we’d love to hear from you. Share your stories, photos, and tips with us and the community of nature lovers. Whether it’s a breathtaking sunrise photo, an encounter with local wildlife, or a family picnic by the beach, your experiences enrich the tapestry of stories that make Neck Point Park so special.
Connect with Us: Tag us in your Instagram posts, or leave a comment on our Facebook Page. Use the hashtag #vancouverislandbucketlist to join the conversation and see what others are sharing.
Plan Your Next Visit: Inspired to explore more? Check out our Vancouver Island Adventure Map. Neck Point Park is just the beginning of your adventure in this beautiful region.
Activities & Tours | Hotels | Trip Planning | Things to do
Your experiences, stories, and photos are what make exploring Neck Point Park and places like it so rewarding. We can’t wait to see the park through your eyes!
Find out more • Unsubscribe anytime.
