Scramble Down to Nanaimo's Hidden Cove

Firstly, use google maps to take you to Stephenson Rd in Nanaimo. About a mile down, the road forks, follow the left road (It says no exit, but the road just ends at a property so you will need to turn around to get back out). Continue down the road another half mile or so and you will see a small sign that says viewpoint on your right (the road ends not too long after the sign so if you miss it and turn around you will see it along with a little path). There is room to park just up the road from the viewpoint sign. The viewpoint isn't very far down the path so it makes for a quick stop to take pictures, but if you can make your way down the steep incline to the sea there is more to behold. 

The path down to the cove isn't very well tracked out, and you will mostly have to use common sense and scope the best way down. Also I recommend wearing hiking boots, long pants, and even gloves, as it is very much a  STEEP scramble to get down to the ocean (Even worse on wet days). Once down there take a right and follow the shoreline around the corner a short distance, there you will find a nice secluded cove perfect for pictures, picnics, or just chilling and watching the ferries come in and out. If your lucky you may spot some killer whales or seals swimming by. 

The spot boasts great views of snake island and is a really serene location to take in the waves.

Alternatively you may be able to get around the corner by parking where there was the fork in the road and taking the stairs down to the ocean and from there walking along the shoreline around the corner of the bay. I have not tested this so I can't recommend it, but the tide would have to be out for you to walk around the shelf.

There are many places in Nanaimo to sit by the ocean and watch the waves roll in, but not many have made me feel truly secluded as this one has. Sometimes the extra little bit of adventure is worth it.