Plan Roberts Memorial Park south of Nanaimo with a 1 km forest trail, Stewart Channel picnic beach, sandstone ledges, sea lion viewing, salmon fishing, and pets.
Roberts Memorial Park is 15 kilometres south of Nanaimo on central Vancouver Island. From Highway 1, visitors take the Cedar Road exit, turn onto Yellowpoint Road, and follow signs to the park.
BC Parks describes a peaceful beach day-use area overlooking Stewart Channel.
Why Visit Roberts Memorial Park
This small South Island park is ideal for a quiet picnic, a short forest walk, and wildlife viewing from the rocky beach. An easy one-kilometre trail leads through mature second-growth Douglas fir to the beach picnic area.
The park’s sandstone ledges are a key feature. BC Parks says they are part of Vancouver Island’s geological heritage and represent ancient sea beds. In summer, Steller’s and California sea lions often haul out on the ledges, while great blue herons, bald eagles, and seabirds can also be seen. The park was donated by May Vaughan Roberts in memory of her husband and daughter.
Things To Do
Walk the one-kilometre forest trail, picnic above Stewart Channel, fish for salmon from the rocks with the proper licence and current regulations, watch sea lions and birds from the beach, cycle only on roadways, and keep pets leashed.
Planning Notes
Lock vehicles and remove valuables. Stay on designated trails to protect plants and soils. Pets are not allowed in beach areas or park buildings. E-bikes are not allowed on trails and are restricted to park roads and motorized-use areas. A shell midden on the beach marks First Nations harvesting of rich intertidal life, so leave cultural features undisturbed.