Question 1

What is the best area to stay in Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

The best area to stay in Nanaimo is the Downtown waterfront area, particularly around the Old City Quarter.

This area is the heart of Nanaimo, offering a blend of historic charm and modern conveniences. It's very walkable, with streets like Commercial Street and Fitzwilliam Street featuring unique boutiques, local eateries, and art galleries. The waterfront promenade provides lovely views of the harbour and Newcastle Island.

Couples will find the Downtown waterfront appealing for its romantic strolls along the harbour and access to fine dining. The proximity to the ferry terminal for Newcastle Island offers a pleasant day trip option, superb for a relaxing escape.

For those travelling with families, staying near the Downtown waterfront is also a good option.

Question 2

What are the best hotels in Nanaimo that travellers recommend?

Accepted Answer

Two of the best hotels in Nanaimo that receive consistently high recommendations from travellers are the Buccaneer Inn and the Coast Bastion Hotel.

The Buccaneer Inn, with an outstanding 9.2 rating, is praised by guests for its friendly and helpful staff, as well as its cozy and clean rooms with super comfy beds. Many rooms offer lovely sea views and feature fireplaces, premium bedding, and a kitchen, adding to the comfort of your stay. The location is considered great, and it is conveniently close to Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, Maffeo Sutton Park, and Beach Estates Park.

Another highly recommended option is the 3.5-star Coast Bastion Hotel, which has a 9.2 rating. This hotel is situated in an excellent location within a historical district, with many rooms offering ocean views and balconies or terraces. Guests frequently praise the comfortable and clean rooms and beds, as well as the friendly and helpful staff. The on-site restaurant also receives excellent reviews. It is very close to attractions such as the Vancouver Island Military Museum, Old City Quarter, and Maffeo Sutton Park.

Question 3

What are the best family hotels in Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

For families visiting Nanaimo, excellent hotel options include the Inn On Long Lake, Buccaneer Inn, and Quality Inn.

The Inn On Long Lake, with a 9.0 rating, is a great choice for families, offering amenities such as playpens and games for children. Guests consistently praise its comfortable and clean rooms, excellent and friendly staff, and the great location. The free breakfast and nice hot tub are also frequently mentioned highlights.

Another highly-rated family-friendly option is the Buccaneer Inn, boasting a 9.2 rating. This inn provides free rollaway extra beds, child-friendly window designs, and free cots, along with sofa beds and kitchens in some rooms. Many rooms also offer sea views. It is conveniently located near Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, Maffeo Sutton Park, and Beach Estates Park. Guests praise the friendly and helpful staff, cozy and clean rooms, and super comfortable beds.

The Quality Inn, with an 8.8 rating, is also well-suited for families, offering free cots and connecting rooms. It is situated close to several attractions, including the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, Old City Quarter, and Vancouver Island Military Museum. Reviewers often highlight the friendly and helpful staff, clean rooms, and secure parking.

Other great family hotels include the Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo and Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo.

The Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo, rated 8.0, provides connecting rooms and free cots, alongside complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Its location is convenient, and guests appreciate the comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

The Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo, also with an 8.0 rating, offers free cots, connecting rooms, and complimentary continental breakfast. It is well-located near Maffeo Sutton Park and the Old City Quarter, with guests frequently praising its comfortable and clean rooms and friendly staff.

Question 4

What hotels in Nanaimo offer free breakfast?

Accepted Answer

In Nanaimo, several highly-rated hotels offer free breakfast, including the Best Western Northgate Inn, Inn On Long Lake, Maple View Bed and Breakfast, Ramada by Wyndham Nanaimo, and Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo.

The Best Western Northgate Inn, with a superb 9.2 rating, provides a complimentary continental breakfast, along with free WiFi and free self-parking. Guests consistently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as the comfortable and clean rooms, making it a convenient choice.

Inn On Long Lake, rated 9.0, offers an excellent complimentary breakfast, with guests frequently highlighting its quality. This hotel is ideally situated just 0.5 km from Long Lake and boasts comfortable and clean rooms. The staff are often described as excellent and friendly, and there is a nice hot tub for relaxation.

The 3.5-star Maple View Bed and Breakfast, with an impressive 9.2 rating, includes a free full breakfast. This bed and breakfast is conveniently located near Lost Lake Trail and Lost Lake, both just 1.4 km away, and Departure Bay Beach at 2.0 km.

The Ramada by Wyndham Nanaimo, rated 8.2, provides a complimentary continental breakfast, along with free WiFi and free self-parking. Guests appreciate the spacious and clean rooms, the friendly and helpful staff, and its convenient location. It is 0.8 km from Maffeo Sutton Park and 1.3 km from the Old City Quarter.

Finally, the Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo, with an 8.0 rating, also offers a free continental breakfast. This hotel provides free WiFi and free self-parking, and guests often comment on the comfortable and clean rooms and the helpful staff. It is 1.5 km from Petroglyph Park and 1.9 km from Nanaimo Museum.

Question 5

What are the top pet-friendly hotels in Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

For top pet-friendly hotels in Nanaimo, consider the Inn On Long Lake, Best Western Dorchester Hotel, and The Spot.

The Inn On Long Lake, with a 9.0 rating, permits dogs and provides food and water bowls. Guests frequently mention the comfortable and clean rooms, as well as the excellent and friendly staff. Its location near Long Lake is lovely, and the free breakfast is often praised.

Another excellent choice is the 3-star Best Western Dorchester Hotel, rated 8.2. This hotel welcomes both dogs and cats, offering food and water bowls. It's in a great location, close to Maffeo Sutton Park and the Vancouver Island Military Museum. Guests appreciate the beautiful and clean rooms and the helpful staff.

The Spot, with an 8.4 rating, is also pet-friendly, welcoming both dogs and cats. It is praised for its new and clean rooms and the extremely helpful staff. Its convenient location puts it near Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park and Maffeo Sutton Park, and there are nearby opportunities for mountain biking, climbing, and skiing.

Question 6

What are the top boutique hotels in Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

For a top boutique hotel in Nanaimo, the 3-star Courtyard By Marriott Nanaimo is an excellent choice, boasting a superb 9.0 rating.

This hotel is highly regarded by guests for its friendly and amazing staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and excellent location. It features an indoor pool and a hot tub, great for relaxation. Guests will also appreciate the free WiFi and convenient nearby parking options. The hotel is also just 0.2 km from the Bastion, making it ideal for those wishing to explore local points of interest. See all boutique hotels in Nanaimo

Question 7

What are the best budget hotels in Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

For budget-friendly accommodation in Nanaimo, you have several excellent options, including the Best Western Northgate Inn, Inn On Long Lake, Ramada by Wyndham Nanaimo, Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo, and Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo.

The Best Western Northgate Inn, with an outstanding 9.2 rating, is highly praised for its friendly and helpful staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and convenient free breakfast. Free WiFi and self-parking are also included.

Another great choice is the Inn On Long Lake, rated 9.0. Guests consistently highlight the excellent and friendly staff, comfortable and clean rooms, and the excellent free breakfast. Its location is particularly lovely, being just 0.5 km from Long Lake.

The Ramada by Wyndham Nanaimo, rated 8.2, offers spacious and clean rooms, along with friendly and helpful staff. Guests appreciate the great breakfast and the amazing front desk service. It is conveniently located near Maffeo Sutton Park (0.8 km) and Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park (1.8 km). Free WiFi, continental breakfast, and self-parking are provided.

The Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo, with an 8.0 rating, is known for its comfortable and clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff, and a great location. Guests find the breakfast convenient and amazing, and the beds are described as comfortable and super comfortable. It's very close to Maffeo Sutton Park (0.4 km) and Bastion (0.9 km). Free WiFi, continental breakfast, and self-parking are available.

Finally, the Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo, rated 8.0, provides comfortable and clean rooms, friendly and helpful staff, and a convenient location. Guests enjoy the nice pool and great breakfast. It is close to Petroglyph Park (1.5 km) and the Nanaimo Museum (1.9 km). Free WiFi, continental breakfast, and self-parking are included. View all budget hotels in Nanaimo

Question 8

What are the most romantic hotels in Nanaimo for couples?

Accepted Answer

For a romantic getaway in Nanaimo, couples might consider the Coast Bastion Hotel, Buccaneer Inn, or Gibralter Rock Ocean View B&B.

The 3.5-star Coast Bastion Hotel, with a superb 9.2 rating, offers comfortable and clean rooms, with many providing delightful ocean views. Guests frequently praise the friendly and helpful staff, as well as its excellent location right within the historical district, adjacent to the Bastion.

Another lovely option is the Buccaneer Inn, also rated 9.2. This inn boasts cosy and clean rooms, some with charming sea views and kitchens, great for a private escape. It is conveniently located near natural attractions like Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park and Maffeo Sutton Park.

Finally, the Gibralter Rock Ocean View B&B, with an impressive 9.2 rating, provides stunning ocean views from its comfortable accommodations. It is situated close to several beautiful parks, including Wheatcroft Park and Pipers Lagoon Park, offering peaceful surroundings for couples.

Question 9

When is the best time to go to Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

The best time to visit Nanaimo is during the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is at its finest for outdoor activities.

During these months, you can expect warm, sunny days with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C. This period is ideal for exploring Nanaimo's natural beauty, whether it's hiking the numerous trails in places like Neck Point Park or enjoying the beaches at Departure Bay. The waters are also warmer, making it great for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

Couples looking for a relaxing holiday will appreciate the long daylight hours, which allow for extended evenings enjoying waterfront dining or exploring local wineries and craft breweries. The pleasant weather makes it easy to take a ferry trip to nearby Gabriola Island for a day of exploring its unique geological formations and artisan studios.

Families will find the summer particularly appealing due to the abundance of outdoor adventures. Children can enjoy building sandcastles at Parksville Beach, just a short drive north, or embarking on whale-watching tours from Nanaimo's harbour, increasing their chances of spotting marine wildlife.

Question 10

Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?

Accepted Answer

You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to ‘My Trips’ and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by ‘Fully refundable property’ for hotels in Nanaimo.

Question 11

How can I save on a hotel booking in Nanaimo with Expedia?

Accepted Answer

One Key™ – Expedia’s free travel rewards programme – gives you instant access to perks and Member Prices on Nanaimo hotels. Plus, you’ll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings.*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Question 12

How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Nanaimo?

Accepted Answer

Prices for hotels in Nanaimo often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$120 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by ‘Price: low to high’ for our cheapest rates.

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

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Our top choices for Nanaimo hotels

Coast Bastion Hotel

Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Oyster Bay

Courtyard By Marriott Nanaimo

Quality Inn

Ramada by Wyndham Nanaimo

Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo

Best Western Dorchester Hotel

The Grand Hotel Nanaimo

Inn On Long Lake

Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo

Qualicum Beach Inn

Hotel Feng, BW Signature Collection

Bayside Resort, an Ascend Collection Resort

THE Beach Club Resort

Coast Parksville Hotel

Casa Grande Inn

Best Western Northgate Inn

Buccaneer Inn

Harbour Light Motel

The Tide's Inn

Our guide on where to stay in Nanaimo

Departure Bay

Central Nanaimo

Downtown Nanaimo

Stephenson Point

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Departure Bay Beach

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