Maffeo Sutton Park — Attraction in Nanaimo

Easy Access, Family Friendly, Popular with Locals and Tourists. Handicapped accessible parking, large level sidewalks, handicapped accessible Public Restroom. Great for picnics, playtime, walks and relaxing. Benches and tables are available throughout the park. No BBQ facilities. Located in downtown Nanaimo, accessible by car, foot and bus. The Seawall Walkway that begins at the Nanaimo Harbour, wraps around the Seaside of Maffeo Sutton Park and continues to the North, heading toward the Nanaimo Yacht Club. (Parallel to Stewart Street). Beautiful views of Newcastle Island and Park, ferries to the park are seasonal and can be accessed from the dock at Maffeo Sutton. Protection Island can also be seen from Maffeo Sutton.( Year-round ferry service to Protection Island is available from the Nanaimo Harbour) Maffeo Sutton features a Bandstand, fenced Children's Playground, a separate protected Sand Beach for Children and Families (Swy-A-Lana Lagoon and Fishing Pier) access to a Pier for fishing and crabbing and has designated Food Truck area. This Beautiful seaside location hosts many Community Activities, from Free Live Music during the summer months, Silly Boat Races, Free Movie nights (bring your blanket and popcorn!) Fireworks Displays, Arts and Crafts Festivals, Dance and Tai Chi exhibits and many other activities year-round. Check the Nanaimo Website for the calendar of events. Handicapped Parking is available, limited car lot, but more pay parking is available at the Howard Johnson Inn, (located on the other side of the Comox Road Bridge,) it can be conveniently accessed by the Seawall Walkway, which connects to the parking lot and allows you to walk underneath the bridge. (No worries about crossing the busy roads) The local City Bus has a Bus Stop near the entrance to the park. I recommend this location...

My partner and I read great reviews of this spot and it looked and felt lovely during the day. We paid for an overnight park and found a lovely park in the afternoon and it all looked and felt beautiful. At about 8:30 at night we went to walk to Tim Hortons just up the road from here and once we returned to our car, we noticed a group of men smoking bongs directly behind our van then we went to use the toilet block that is located in the park and we noticed groups of people everywhere then the women’s toilet was hot from a lady who was clearly drugged up standing at the heater to keep warm for the night. All her belongings were hung up everywhere in the bathroom and when I went to wash my hands only one basin was available due to all her belongings scattered everywhere and she had a box of needles sitting right alongside the basin I was using. Once we returned to our van we noticed a lot of cars pulling up then shortly after they would leave. We also had one car pull up just in front of us and a group sat in the car while a man got out with a drink and was strangely walking around near by. After this we had done some research online about the area and realised homeless rates and drug use is a huge issue and that the park where we were is one of the popular hang out spots for the local homeless and drug users. There was also multiple reviews of needles being found throughout the park. A shame that the night time is a completely different feel and place to what it is at day as during the day, it is a lovely place to stop by for a walk. We have always relied on reviews of places we go to but we have now learnt to be more aware of reviews and to look more into the area before. Sorry to disappoint you all on...

Maffeo Sutton Park in Nanaimo is place that captures the essence of this charming coastal city on Vancouver Island. This picturesque park is a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and historical significance.

First and foremost, the park's stunning waterfront location along the Nanaimo Harbour sets the stage for a relaxing and enjoyable visit. The panoramic views of the ocean, marina, and distant mountains create a tranquil atmosphere that is perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature.

One of the main attractions of Maffeo Sutton Park is its vibrant community atmosphere. The park is a hub of activity, with locals and visitors flocking to its shores to enjoy picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor events. Families can be seen playing in the playground, while fitness enthusiasts take advantage of the walking and biking trails that wind through the park.

Moreover, Maffeo Sutton Park holds a special place in Nanaimo's history. Named after two prominent local figures, Maffeo Sutton, a pioneer businessman, and Frank J. Ney, a former mayor, the park has deep roots in the city's heritage. It has been a gathering place for generations of Nanaimo residents, serving as a focal point for community celebrations, festivals, and cultural events.

In conclusion, Maffeo Sutton Park is a true treasure that encapsulates the essence of Nanaimo. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat in nature, a fun day out with family and friends, or a glimpse into the city's past, this park offers something for everyone. I highly recommend a visit to Maffeo Sutton Park to experience the beauty, history, and charm that make Nanaimo such a...