Passing through Nanaimo Harbour Water Airport? A layover in Nanaimo is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 30 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave ZNA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Canada. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Nanaimo takes about 30 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| local transport | ~30 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~50 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the local transport is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Nanaimo, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage Options
Dedicated luggage storage at ZNA may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Nanaimo’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
What to See and Do in Nanaimo
For a layover visit to Nanaimo, we’d suggest Newcastle Island Provincial Park and Nanaimo Museum. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. You can see the highlights in about an hour without rushing.
If you’d rather stay inside ZNA — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Nanaimo Harbourfront Walkway
- Port Place Shopping Centre
Best Bites Near ZNA
- In the city: The Nest Bistro and Minnoz Restaurant at Coast Bastion Hotel are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Nanaimo.
- At the airport: Nanaimo Bar Cafe and Penny’s Palapa will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Resting at the Airport
Long overnight layover? Your options at ZNA include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Canada also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at ZNA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Nanaimo or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Nanaimo count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave ZNA. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.