Want to know the best Nanaimo Photography Spots?


Let me guess...you know you want to book a Vancouver Island Photoshoot, but you are wondering where the best locations are to capture those classic west coast views! As a Nanaimo based photographer, I have a list of tried and true favourite Nanaimo photoshoot locations that will get you out in nature enjoying our west coast views.

Neck Point Park, Nanaimo


This is a Nanaimo classic! Neck Point Park is located off of Hammond Bay Rd. in Central Nanaimo. The park encompasses 4 different beach areas connected by 2.9km of trail that hugs the coastline and eventually weaves through the forest.

Highlights of the park include:

  • Wooden stairs and lookout platforms at classic viewpoints
  • Rocky headlands jutting out into the sea perfect for climbing
  • A combination of coastal and forest views
  • 4 different beach backgrounds for variety in your photo gallery
  • Beaches are accessible no matter the tide level
  • The park is big enough that even if it is crowded, we can find a quiet corner for pictures
  • On a clear day, the Northshore mountains are visible across the Strait giving a beautiful background for photos
  • Sunset beach is perfect for golden hour and sunset photos
Neck Point Park, Nanaimo Family Photoshoot
Neck Point Park, Nanaimo Family Photoshoot
Neck Point Park, Nanaimo Couples Photoshoot

Pipers Lagoon, Nanaimo


Pipers Lagoon is also located off of Hammond Bay Rd. in Central Nanaimo. The park is named after the unique and beautiful lagoon that backs the wide sweeping crescent beach. The lagoon fills at high tide and dries at low tide and is a fantastic place for bird watching! Beyond the beach is a round, steep bluff of land covered with Arbutus tree groves, Garry Oaks and of course Cedar and Douglas Fir trees. The steep rocky cliffs of the bluff fall down to the crashing sea below. Access to the trail on this portion of the park is over a rocky headland. Climbing is required.

Highlights of the park include:

  • Views of Shack Island just off shore with classic bright Fisherman's cabins
  • Views of the Northshore mountains across the Strait
  • Unique rocky cliffs for windswept-hair kind of views
  • Cozy and secluded beaches small enough for intimate photos
  • Accessible crescent beach near the parking lot for those with mobility concerns

Things to Consider:

  • Access to the bluffs requires climbing over a rocky headland. I would not recommend this climb for anyone with balance issues or mobility concerns
  • The bluff has very steep cliffs not suitable for young toddlers to explore unattended. A very close eye on little ones would be required!
Pipers Lagoon Park, Nanaimo Family Photoshoot
Pipers Lagoon Park, Nanaimo Family Photoshoot
Pipers Lagoon Park, Nanaimo Family Photoshoot

Linley Valley, Nanaimo


Linley Valley is a massive park in the middle of Nanaimo that is a hidden gem and, in my opinion, highly underrated. One could easily get lost on the many trails that crisscross the wilderness park. This is the kind of park where you can completely forget that you are in the middle of a city!

Highlights of the park include:

  • A variety of landscapes from forested trails to valleys, fields and rocky knolls
  • Cottle Lake with its charming wooden boardwalk
  • Endless hidden rocky moss covered knolls to hide away in for intimate pictures with your loved one
  • Views of Departure Bay and downtown Nanaimo (if you know where to go!)

Things to Consider:

  • Access to the best of the park requires hiking in along an uneven trail with some inclines. Come prepared for a bit of a walk.
Linley Valley, Nanaimo Family Photoshoot
Linley Valley, Nanaimo Couples Photoshoot
Linley Valley, Nanaimo Couples Photoshoot

Moorecroft Regional Park, Nanoose


Tucked away along the western coast of Nanoose, is Moorecroft Regional Park. Moorecroft is the site of an old youth camp with one old wooden barn still standing along the sheltered cove. There are two points, Vesper Point and Cook's Point, that make a great spot for scenic pictures during your photoshoot.

Highlights of the park include:

  • A driftwood lined beach with multiple drifwood "forts" that are fun for kids to explore
  • A calm emerald green cove that feels more like a lagoon when it fills at high tide
  • Rocky points along the cove with ocean views
  • The small Gerald, Amelia and Douglas Islands just off shore add to the view of the North shore mountains across the Strait
  • There are 2 km of forested trail within the park to give variety to your photos
Moorecroft Regional Park, Vancouver Island Family Photoshoot
Moorecroft Regional Park, Vancouver Island Family Photoshoot
Moorecroft Regional Park, Vancouver Island Family Photoshoot

Little Mountain, Parksville


Little Mountain is just that…a little mountain! With interesting rock cliff lookouts that give panoramic views of the surrounding valley and mountains, it's a showstopper! 

Highlights of this location:

  • Beautiful mountain views from cliff lookouts
  • Easy access from the parking lot with minimal walking required
  • Excellent for golden hour and sunset sessions

Things the consider: 

  • The parking lot has limited space and is tight to navigate for larger vehicles. 
  • The steep drop offs at the cliff edge are not suitable for young children unless very closely monitored.
Little Mountain, Vancouver Island Couples Photoshoot
Little Mountain, Vancouver Island Couples Photoshoot
Little Mountain, Vancouver Island Couples Photoshoot

Choosing Your Vancouver Island Photographer


No matter what Nanaimo photoshoot location you choose, you will be out in nature creating memories together amidst these gorgeous Vancouver Island landscapes! Let me capture your adventures and memories while visiting Vancouver Island. My process is simple, straight-forward, and all about authenticity — ensuring you actually get to experience your memories as they happen, rather than stressing about the finer details. I've got the perfect spot just for you!


Happy Adventuring,

Gina