Hotels in Nanaimo

Nanaimo: Where Blossoms Meet the Pacific in Nature's Embrace

Discover Nanaimo, British Columbia—a charming coastal gem that blends natural beauty with vibrant city life. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront in downtown, where stunning views of the harbor meet a bustling promenade filled with shops and eateries. Explore the Nanaimo Museum to uncover local history, or relax in lush parks adorned with colorful flowers. Perfectly situated for island-hopping adventures, Nanaimo offers easy access to surrounding landscapes, making it an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking romance, culture, or simply a breath of fresh sea air, Nanaimo invites you to experience its unique charm. For great hotel rates in Nanaimo, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels in Nanaimo

Nanaimo offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets, from cozy inns and friendly bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels with great amenities. Many options are well-reviewed for their hospitality and location, making it easy to find a welcoming place to stay during your visit. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Nanaimo:

1. Coast Bastion HotelOpens in a new window: This 3.5-star hotel offers a stunning backdrop for leisure travelers seeking comfort and beautiful views. With high-quality amenities including multiple meeting rooms, a business center, and conference spaces, it ensures a smooth stay. The property stands out for its pristine and comfortable accommodations, featuring tasteful design and modern finishings. Guests appreciate the inviting atmosphere and exceptional service, creating a memorable experience.
2. Maple View Bed and BreakfastOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star Bed and Breakfast features cozy accommodations perfect for leisure travelers who value a personalized experience. Guests can indulge in a delightful complimentary full breakfast and enjoy relaxing moments at the on-site bar and lounge. The hotel’s proximity to regional parks and whale watching opportunities adds to its appeal, offering a unique blend of comfort and adventure, making it a favorite among those looking for a distinctive getaway.
3. The Grand Hotel NanaimoOpens in a new window: A welcoming 3.0-star hotel tailored for business travelers, this property provides a comfortable environment with essential amenities. The hotel features an accessible business center and meeting rooms designed to facilitate productive stays. Guests consistently highlight the cleanliness and efficient service, ensuring a hassle-free experience. The spacious accommodations include kitchenettes, allowing for convenience and flexibility, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and comfortable place to stay while traveling for work.

Top locations to stay in Nanaimo

When visiting Nanaimo, British Columbia, consider staying in Stephenson Point, Yellow Point, or Departure Bay. Stephenson Point offers serene waterfront views, while Yellow Point features charming local attractions and markets. Departure Bay is vibrant, with easy access to museums, beaches, and nightlife. For first-time visitors, Departure Bay is best suited due to its central location and diverse amenities.

1. Departure BayOpens in a new window: Staying in Departure Bay offers easy access to stunning beaches and scenic views. It's a great spot for those who enjoy outdoor activities, with must-see places like Departure Bay Beach and the Nanaimo Museum nearby. You'll also find cultural attractions like the Bastion, where you can dive into the area's history. This location is perfect for visitors looking to blend relaxation with a bit of exploration, as you can easily stroll along the waterfront or hop on a ferry to nearby islands.
2. Yellow PointOpens in a new window: If you're seeking a more tranquil experience, Yellow Point is the ideal getaway. This area boasts beautiful natural scenery and is home to attractions like the nearby WildPlay Nanaimo, perfect for a day of fun and adventure. You can also explore local markets, such as the Duncan Farmers Market and Salt Spring Saturday Market, for unique finds and local flavors. Yellow Point offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to Nanaimo's vibrant cultural scene.
3. Stephenson PointOpens in a new window: Stephenson Point is a lovely, quieter area, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. While it may not have as many attractions as the other areas, its proximity to natural beauty and local parks makes it a charming place to unwind. Explore nearby shopping options or enjoy a leisurely walk by the water, soaking in the serene surroundings. It's a great choice if you want a more laid-back atmosphere while still being close to Nanaimo's attractions.

Things to do in Nanaimo

Nanaimo beckons travelers with its stunning blend of coastal beauty and lush landscapes. Explore sandy beaches, hike through verdant forests, and stroll along scenic waterfronts. With opportunities for boating, sea diving, and hiking, this vibrant harbor city offers a refreshing escape into nature’s embrace.

• Departure Bay BeachOpens in a new window – Spend a sunny afternoon at Departure Bay Beach, where you can bask in the beauty of the surrounding islands, colorful flowers, and the shimmering sea. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shore or set up a cozy picnic while enjoying the stunning views of the waterfront.
• Nanaimo MuseumOpens in a new window – Dive into the rich history of Nanaimo at the Nanaimo Museum. Here, you can explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the area’s heritage, including artifacts from the First Nations and displays on the city’s mining past. It’s a great spot to learn about the local stories that shaped this vibrant community.
• Long LakeOpens in a new window – Head over to Long Lake for a day of relaxation and outdoor fun. This picturesque lake invites you to enjoy activities like swimming, kayaking, or simply lounging by the water's edge. The surrounding scenery, filled with lush greenery and blooming flowers, makes it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle.
• Protection IslandOpens in a new window – Take a short ferry ride to Protection Island, where you can explore its charming trails and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. This idyllic island is dotted with beautiful flowers and offers stunning vistas of the surrounding waters. It’s an excellent spot for a peaceful day of exploration.
• Newcastle Island Marine Provincial ParkOpens in a new window – Venture to Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park, a nature lover's paradise. Here, you can hike scenic trails, discover unique ecosystems, and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby islands. With its rich flora and fauna, this park is an outdoor enthusiast's dream.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Nanaimo

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Nanaimo is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those looking to explore the city's rich history and beautiful cultural landmarks, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This timeframe allows visitors to appreciate stunning locations such as the nearby islands, vibrant flower gardens, and scenic coastal views, all of which offer great value for money. With hotel rates possibly dropping during these months, it's a perfect opportunity to experience Nanaimo without straining your wallet.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To uncover last-minute deals for accommodations in Nanaimo, begin by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may discover discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications for flash sales and exclusive promotions. The Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available through the app allows you to compare room rates and amenities, helping you identify the best hotel deal. This way, if prices drop or new rooms become available, you'll be notified promptly for your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on various factors, including the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Nanaimo. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized touch and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher end, we’ll recommend more affordable dates that could help you get a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city center usually tend to cost more, but with Nanaimo's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that’s still well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there is often excellent value for your money. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Join One Key™: Become a One Key MemberOpens in a new window for free and book your next stay in Nanaimo. Save on over 100,000 hotels worldwide with exclusive member prices. As a member, you can quickly progress through the tiers and enjoy perks, like free room upgrades when available and food and beverage discounts at select VIP Access properties.

Best time to go to Nanaimo

Nanaimo experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 37.2°F (2.9°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 64.8°F (18.2°C). November tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Nanaimo are July to September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. In contrast, January, February, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light to moderate rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.