Nanaimo’s breweries are as much a part of its cultural landscape as its scenic oceanfront and looming Mt Benson are to its geographical one. These breweries serve as social hubs and emblems of local pride. In Nanaimo, the brewery scene is tightly knit with the city’s lifestyle, where residents often visit a brewery after outdoor activities like hiking the nearby trails, especially during the sunnier months. During the cooler, rainier days, locals find comfort in the variety of brews these establishments offer, particularly favoring the richer ales and stouts. The breweries in Nanaimo, each with its unique character, range from rural farm-based establishments in rural settings to urban taprooms in the heart of the city.
This guide to Nanaimo’s breweries is organized to take you through the city from closest to downtown Nanaimo to furthest away, showcasing the unique character of each brewery. This list is not a ranking but a journey through Nanaimo’s vibrant beer scene. If you know of a brewery that deserves a mention, feel free to reach out and let me know.
For more information about Nanaimo’s breweries and their offerings, you can visit their respective websites or check out local guides like the BC Ale Trail.
White Sails Brewing
White Sails Brewing, established in 2015 in downtown Nanaimo, is an award-winning brewery known for its modern and traditional craft beers. The taproom is the largest of any of Nanaimo’s breweries, and with its high ceilings and fireplace, is ideal for large groups or individuals. White Sails Brewing sits on a site steeped in Nanaimo’s brewing history, originally the location of the Newcastle Hotel, which had ties to the early Nanaimo brewing scene. The brewery’s name, White Sails, pays homage to Nanaimo’s heritage and environment, symbolized by the white sails that dot the nearby harbour only a few blocks away. Award-winning favourites here include the Bastion Blonde Ale, Snake Island Cascadian Dark Ale, and Mount Benson IPA.
Wolf Brewing Co.
Wolf Brewing Company, opened in 2010, is known for its unique blend of traditional European brewing style and West Coast creativity. Brewmaster Kev Ward got his start in Liverpool, so beers on tap naturally lean European, offering a pleasant break from the IPAs and sours that dominate much of the beer scene. The brewery offers a welcoming atmosphere in its cozy lounge, “The Wolf Den.” Here, customers can enjoy a variety of beers either inside or on the patio, complemented by a selection of simple but tasty food including pizza, nachos, and pretzels.
Longwood Brewery
Nanaimo’s Longwood Brewery is well-known for its commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. The brewery uses barley and hops primarily from Vancouver Island and other parts of British Columbia, emphasizing the importance of local ingredients in their beer making. This approach has led Longwood to be recognized as a standout in “100-mile brewing” in BC, as noted by The Tyee Magazine in 2020.
The brewery features six core beers, including a raspberry ale and a stout, along with a sour series, a barrel series, and rotating seasonal brews. Their products reflect a variety of styles and tastes, catering to a wide range of beer enthusiasts. Longwood Brewery is also known for its seasonal picnic patio, a space that welcomes families and pets and allows guests to bring their own snacks, as there is no onsite kitchen.
Additionally, Longwood operates a brewpub which serves their beers alongside fresh, locally sourced, West Coast-inspired dishes. The brewpub provides a family-friendly environment with a cozy rock fireplace and an outdoor patio, offering a comprehensive experience that combines craft beer with quality cuisine.
Longwood Brewery
Longwood Brewpub
Rusted Rake Brewing
Rusted Rake Brewing, opened in 2022, is a family-run brewery located in Nanoose Bay, near Nanaimo. Though not technically a Nanaimo Brewery, it’s close enough to be worth the short drive. This farm-based brewery offers a unique experience with a range of beers crafted by experienced UK-trained brewer Dave Woodward. Their lineup includes distinctive brews like mexican lager, belgian witbier, and a spruce tip IPA
The brewpub serves diverse menu items, from burgers to falafels, emphasizing fresh, local ingredients. Set in a rural, scenic location, Rusted Rake provides a tranquil setting for enjoying meals and drinks. The venue is family and dog-friendly, adding to its appeal as a community gathering spot.
