Nanaimo Hotels

Top reasons to visit Nanaimo

• Outdoor Adventures: Nanaimo is perfect for nature lovers, offering hiking, boating, and stunning beaches for unforgettable experiences.
• Cultural Attractions: Explore local history at the Nanaimo Museum, art at the Nanaimo Art Gallery, and visit the iconic Nanaimo Bastion.
• Vibrant Downtown: Experience the lively atmosphere with shops, restaurants, and beautiful ocean views in the heart of the city.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy recreational areas and events like the Nanaimo Whiskey Festival, catering to all ages.
• Cozy Accommodations: Choose from a range of hotels and charming B&Bs, ensuring a comfortable stay for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Nanaimo

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Nanaimo, British Columbia, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you're seeking a cosy bed and breakfast or a modern hotel, Nanaimo offers pet-friendly and family-oriented choices that cater to your adventurous spirit. Explore our selection of hotels in downtown Nanaimo and beyond, ensuring a memorable stay in this charming coastal city.

• Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo: A budget-friendly option, Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo boasts a commendable guest rating of 8.0 out of 10. This hotel caters to diverse travellers seeking adventure, family-friendly experiences, or business travel. Located in Nanaimo, it offers a variety of adventure sports and recreational activities both onsite and nearby, including kayaking, hiking, and sailing. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, such as a first aid kit and complimentary cribs. The welcoming atmosphere and convenient location make it a solid choice for those looking to explore the great outdoors.
• Quality Inn: The Quality Inn presents a budget-friendly lodging experience with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel is situated in Nanaimo and is well-suited for families and business travellers alike. The property features essential amenities for children, including free cribs and a reservation-required crib service. With its comfortable accommodations and convenient access to local attractions, Quality Inn strikes a balance between practicality and comfort, ensuring a pleasant stay for families and business visitors.
• The Spot: Rated at 8.4 out of 10, The Spot offers budget-friendly motel accommodations in Nanaimo, ideal for those seeking adventure and winter sports. Situated conveniently for skiing enthusiasts, the property provides access to ski shuttles and lifts within a short distance. Guests can indulge in various adventure sports, including rock climbing and snow tubing, making it a top pick for thrill-seekers. The Spot’s focus on outdoor activities, combined with its welcoming vibe, creates a unique experience for adventurous travellers.

Where to stay in and around Nanaimo

Nanaimo, a charming city on Vancouver Island, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and stunning ocean views. Visitors can explore the vibrant downtown, with its inviting atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Nearby regions provide opportunities for relaxing excursions, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both excitement and tranquillity. Experience the unique vibe of Nanaimo, where nature and community come together for an unforgettable holiday.

• Lantzville: Nestled a mere 12.9km from Nanaimo, Lantzville is a charming coastal city that offers a serene escape with its stunning outdoor scenery. Visitors flock to this peaceful enclave for its beautiful beaches and lush natural parks. The peak tourist season runs from March to April and July, making it an ideal time to enjoy activities such as hiking, spa treatments, and leisurely strolls along the waterfront. The local attractions include breathtaking beaches, a national state park, and tranquil lakes, all contributing to Lantzville's appeal as a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
• Gabriola Island: Located 11.3km from Nanaimo, Gabriola Island is a picturesque destination known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. This island paradise sees a rise in visitors from June to August, who come to experience its scenic beauty and thrilling activities. Gabriola offers a variety of recreational options, including hiking, kayaking, and exploring ski fields in winter. The island boasts beautiful beaches, serene lakes, and a national state park, making it a haven for those seeking both relaxation and adventure in nature's embrace.
• Departure Bay: Situated in close proximity to Nanaimo, Departure Bay is a vibrant neighbourhood that perfectly encapsulates the essence of coastal living. With a moderate influx of tourists peaking from July to September, it offers a family-friendly atmosphere enriched with outdoor experiences. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities, shopping at local centres, and relaxing on the beach. Key landmarks include a bustling marina and access to national parks, ensuring that Departure Bay is a delightful spot for families and explorers alike.

Things to do near Nanaimo

Shopping

Nanaimo offers a charming shopping experience, with local boutiques and artisan shops lining the waterfront. For larger selections, head to Woodgrove Centre, a shopping mall about 16.1km away, or explore the Nanaimo Farmers' Market for unique local products and crafts.

Recreation

Haven Wellness offers a tranquil setting with a range of holistic treatments, yoga classes, and mindfulness workshops. For outdoor rejuvenation, explore Newcastle Island, where scenic trails, peaceful beaches, and the soothing sounds of nature invite relaxation and reflection amidst stunning landscapes.

Adventure

WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo offers a thrilling zipline and ropes course experience, situated 11.3km from the city. Embrace the outdoor vibes as you navigate treetop challenges and soar through the air, surrounded by stunning natural scenery that enhances your adventure.

Nightlife

Nanaimo's nightlife features a vibrant mix of pubs and live music venues. The Nanaimo Bar is popular for its casual atmosphere and local brews, while the Port Theatre hosts various performances. For a lively dance scene, check out The Queen's, where DJs spin tunes to keep the energy high.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nanaimo

Nanaimo offers numerous ways to save on your holiday. Enjoy free attractions like Vancouver Island University, Departure Bay Beach, and Long Lake. For transport, consider using buses or bicycles to minimise costs. Travelling during the off-peak months of December to February can lead to lower accommodation rates, particularly on Tuesdays, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to compare hotel prices, filter for eco-friendly options, and explore package deals that bundle flights and activities for further savings. Always look for additional discounts and affordable rates to enhance your experience without breaking the bank.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Nanaimo are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Nanaimo is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Nanaimo is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can organise your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
• Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel stay in Nanaimo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Nanaimo

Nanaimo is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families, boasting a variety of attractions such as urban parks, lakes, and scenic beaches. Visitors can explore the Nanaimo Museum, Nanaimo Art Gallery, and the iconic Nanaimo Bastion, all within close proximity to the vibrant harbour. Whether seeking adventure or cultural experiences, Nanaimo offers a delightful blend of activities for every traveller.

• Departure Bay Beach: Experience the relaxing beach vibes at Departure Bay Beach, located conveniently within Nanaimo. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the stunning coastal views as ferries glide by. The beach is an excellent spot for a leisurely stroll along the shore.
• Long Lake: Long Lake offers a picturesque setting where you can enjoy outdoor activities. The scenic views surrounding the lake create a romantic atmosphere, perfect for picnics or kayaking. Revel in the natural beauty and serene environment that enhances your connection with nature.
• Bastion: Step back in time at the Bastion, a historic site that showcases Nanaimo's rich cultural heritage. Built in 1853, this wooden fort provides insight into the area's colonial past and is an intriguing stop for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Nanaimo

The best time to visit Nanaimo is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	64.4°F (18.0°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
December	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Nanaimo

Flying into Nanaimo, British Columbia, can be done via several major airports. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is situated 54.7km away, with nearby hotels like the 5-star Wedgewood Hotel & Spa and the 4.5-star Sutton Place Hotel Vancouver, both offering shuttle services. Victoria International Airport (YYJ), located 69.2km from Nanaimo, has options such as the 3-star Belle Maison Auprès De La Mer and Swartz Bay Farm, both providing airport access. Abbotsford International Airport (YXX) is 114.3km away, with hotels like the Sandman Hotel & Suites and Clarion Hotel, which also offer transportation services. Each airport provides convenient access to Nanaimo for a delightful visit.