Find hotels in Nanaimo from CA $149

Top reasons to visit Nanaimo

• Stunning Beaches: Nanaimo boasts beautiful beaches perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities, offering picturesque coastal views.
• Outdoor Adventures: The city is surrounded by scenic parks and islands, ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring nature.
• Vibrant Downtown: Experience charming shops and restaurants in the lively downtown area, perfect for shopping and dining.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Nanaimo offers a variety of attractions suitable for families, ensuring fun for all ages.
• Diverse Accommodation: A wide range of hotels and lodgings cater to every budget, providing a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels in Nanaimo

Discover the charm of Nanaimo with a diverse selection of hotels that cater to every budget and preference, ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 stars. Whether you're seeking a cozy motel or a full-service hotel, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your stay. Enjoy pet-friendly options and facilities designed for business and adventure travellers alike. Experience the best of Nanaimo with a memorable lodging choice that suits your needs.

• Coast Bastion Hotel: Nestled in the heart of Nanaimo, the Coast Bastion Hotel is a 3.5-star eco-certified property that caters to environmentally-conscious travellers. With a distinctive theme that seamlessly blends business and eco-friendly accommodations, it features a variety of amenities tailored for corporate guests, including multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre. Pet lovers will appreciate the pet-friendly policy, allowing pets with certain restrictions. Enjoy stunning harbour views and a welcoming atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for both business and leisure stays.
• Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo: Perfect for families and pet owners, Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo offers a comfortable and affordable stay in a family-friendly environment. This hotel provides essential amenities for business travellers, such as a meeting room and conference space, while also catering to children with complimentary cribs. Its pet policy allows dogs with certain restrictions, ensuring that your furry friends can accompany you on your journey. The inviting atmosphere and convenient location make it a popular choice for those looking to explore Nanaimo with their loved ones.
• Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo: Emphasizing adventure and family fun, Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo is the ideal destination for those eager to explore the great outdoors. This property features a range of adventure sports activities nearby, including kayaking, hiking, and snorkeling, perfect for the adventurous spirit. Business travellers will find essential amenities, while families can enjoy kid-friendly services like free cribs and first aid kits. With its friendly atmosphere and focus on adventure, this hotel ensures an exciting and memorable stay.

Where to stay in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, a vibrant city on Vancouver Island, offers a perfect blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Explore the lively downtown filled with charming shops and restaurants, or venture to North Nanaimo for stunning coastal views. Just minutes from the city centre, you'll find beautiful beaches and scenic parks, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. With its friendly atmosphere and rich history, Nanaimo is sure to create unforgettable memories for every traveller.

• Departure Bay: Nestled in the picturesque city of Nanaimo, Departure Bay is a vibrant neighbourhood that offers a perfect blend of outdoor activities and family fun. Known for its beautiful marina and sandy beach, it's an ideal spot for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying water sports. The area also features a shopping mall and an entertainment arena, making it a convenient destination for visitors. With a seasonal peak from July to September, travelers can immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, while winter months provide a quieter retreat to enjoy the serene surroundings.
• Stephenson Point: A charming neighbourhood in Nanaimo, Stephenson Point is celebrated for its stunning coastal views and engaging outdoor experiences. This area is particularly popular among business travelers and beach enthusiasts, with easy access to shopping centres and an aquatic centre. The nearby marina and event conference venues make it a versatile location for various activities. Like its neighbours, Stephenson Point sees a surge of visitors in the summer months, offering an inviting atmosphere for those looking to relax by the ocean or partake in recreational activities.
• Newcastle Island: Just a short ferry ride from Nanaimo, Newcastle Island is a natural gem that offers breathtaking scenery and adventure. This idyllic island is home to stunning hiking trails, pristine beaches, and lush forests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a day of exploration. Visitors can enjoy educational experiences in the island’s national park, which showcases the area's rich history and diverse ecosystems. With its peak tourist season during the warmer months, Newcastle Island provides a refreshing escape from city life, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Things to do in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, British Columbia, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, offering stunning beaches and recreational areas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including sightseeing opportunities, exploring shopping malls, and engaging in educational experiences. Whether you’re looking to relax by the waterfront or immerse yourself in local culture, Nanaimo has something for everyone to enjoy.

Shopping

In Nanaimo, you can explore Woodgrove Shopping Centre for a variety of shops and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, Wilde and Sparrow is 27.4km away, offering unique gifts, while the Salt Spring Saturday Market, located 48.3km away, features local artisans and fresh produce.

Recreation

The Nanaimo Aquatic Centre offers a family-friendly atmosphere with various pools and wellness activities, perfect for relaxation and fun. Pipers Lagoon Park provides serene walking trails and breathtaking views, ideal for unwinding. Brechin Lanes invites you to enjoy recreational bowling in a laid-back environment, enhancing your wellness experience.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of bungee jumping at WildPlay Nanaimo, located 11.3km from the city, where adrenaline meets adventure. For a unique outdoor challenge, try the zipline ropes course at WildPlay Element Parks, also 11.3km away. In winter, enjoy skiing at Dakota Ridge, 41.8km from Nanaimo.

Nightlife

Nanaimo's nightlife offers a delightful mix of experiences. Enjoy a captivating performance at the Ladysmith Little Theatre, just 19.3km away, or have some fun at Sunset Lanes, 30.6km from the city. For a lively evening, head to Chances Casino, located 46.7km away, for gaming and entertainment.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Nanaimo

To save money on your trip to Nanaimo, visit during the off-peak season from December to February when accommodation prices are lower. Utilize public transport options like buses or bicycles for cost-effective travel. Take advantage of free attractions such as Vancouver Island University and Long Lake. Book your stay on a Tuesday for the best rates and consider using Expedia to compare prices, find cheap hotels, and bundle flights with activities for added savings. Always look for refundable options to give yourself flexibility.

• 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: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Nanaimo with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, British Columbia, is a fantastic destination for outdoor and family vacations, offering a mix of urban parks, scenic islands, and modern educational institutions. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions that cater to those seeking outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, and vibrant city experiences. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach or immerse yourself in local culture, Nanaimo promises a memorable getaway for everyone.

• Vancouver Island University: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this modern university, nestled in the heart of Nanaimo. Stroll through its picturesque campus, where city vibes meet academic excellence, offering a unique blend of culture and community.
• Long Lake: Enjoy a romantic getaway at Long Lake, known for its stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Relax on the sandy beach, take a leisurely swim, or explore the surrounding trails, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts.
• Nanaimo Museum: Dive into the rich history and culture of Nanaimo at the Nanaimo Museum. Discover engaging exhibits that showcase local heritage, art, and indigenous stories, providing a captivating insight into the area's past.

Best time to go to Nanaimo

The best time to visit Nanaimo can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Nanaimo falls in August, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Nanaimo falls in December, 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 (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	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

Travelling to Nanaimo, British Columbia, can be done via three major airports. Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is approximately 56.3km away, with nearby hotel options like the 5-star Versante Hotel, 3.2km from the airport, and the Fairmont Pacific Rim, 11.3km away. Victoria International Airport (YYJ) is about 69.2km from Nanaimo, with accommodations including the 4.5-star Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa, 8.0km from the airport. Lastly, Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is just 12.9km from the city, with the 3.5-star Coast Bastion Hotel conveniently located at the same distance. Each hotel offers various transportation services for easy access to their respective airports.