Getting Here
Newcastle Island is located in Nanaimo Harbour, just minutes away from downtown Nanaimo. The island is accessible by Nanaimo Harbour Ferry, leaving from Maffeo Sutton Park, near downtown Nanaimo.
⁃ Click here for a Map of Nanaimo.
⁃ Click here for Ferry times and Info.
⁃ Click here for a Map of Newcastle Island.
* Dogs are permitted on the ferry, free of charge *
* Park is an on-leash area *
Things to Do
Click here for Campground & Moorage Info.
The Island offers a multitude of activities for you and your family, as well as a 1930's era pavilion with historic displays, and a Concession & Camp Store.
Concession & Camp Store
The Concession and Camp Store offers food, drinks, ice cream, souveniers and art and is open from mid-May to early September yearly. Open 9:30am-5pm Mon-Thurs, and 9:30am-7pm Fri-Sun. Pay with cash, debit or credit.
Exploring
Beaches swept by the tides. Forest touched only by nature. Rocks that silently witness the cycles of land and sea. Newcastle Island is a place of natural discovery.
Kayaking / Canoeing
Discover and explore natural inlets on the shores of Newcastle Island from the comfort of a kayak. Kayak and bike rentals from Alberni Outpost are now available on the island.
Dancing
The dance hall of the Pavilion is one of the few places left in Western Canada with a sprung dance floor. Combined with the open-air shutters that let the cool South Westerly's blow across the dance floor, dancing on Newcastle Island is an experience every dancer should enjoy. Click here to find info on upcoming Newcastle Island Dances.
Sailing
A stone's throw from Nanaimo, and from Protection and Gabriola Islands, Newcastle's waters invite sailors to sail the great Pacific.
Swimming
While delighting in the natural glory of Newcastle Island, take a refreshing dip in the ocean. The whole Newcastle experience includes swimming its waters.
Biking
If you seek a more active experience of Newcastle, bicycling is always an adventure. Newcastle features many trails. Some are relaxed. Others more challenging. All offer thrills.
Camping
After exploring all day, camp under the stars in one of the 18 individual campsites or 5 group campsites. Nature provides the quiet and the stars. Showers and water available.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp on Newcastle Island if I am a minor?
You are welcome to camp on Newcastle Island at any age! However, we require one adult (older than 19 years old) per campsite with any minors.
Can I rent the Pavilion on Newcastle Island for special events?
The historic Pavilion can be rented by groups, for weddings, anniversaries and other special days by calling the Park Manager as soon as you know the dates you would like it. This venue fills up quickly in the summer so call early. (click here for rental information)
Are there any vehicles on Newcastle Island? Can I bring my car over?
There are no public vehicles on Newcastle Island. However, there is a small four-wheel drive vehicle used by the Park Manager for large maintenance tasks, emergencies and other things that may require the size and speed of a motorized vehicle. Sorry, but you can't bring your car (and you probably don't want to because the cost to get it over would be about $300!).
Is there a cost to visit the island for the day, or to tie my boat to the dock for a couple of hours?
There is no cost for day visits to the island. If you are tying up to the dock for a few hours of exploration, there is no charge. However, moorage fees apply after 6 pm.
What is the longest time I can camp and/or moor on Newcastle Island?
The maximum length of stay is 14 days per calendar year.
Can I use my credit card to pay for camping or moorage charges?
Between May 1 and Sept 7, payment can be processed by debit or credit between 10am and 5pm at our Pavilion Concession and Camp Store. All other times, only cash is accepted.