Nanaimo, a city located on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, arts and culture, and complex history.
Surrounded by stunning landscapes, including forests, mountains, and beaches, Nanaimo is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
In this guide, I recommend the best places to stay in Nanaimo, BC in various neighbourhoods across the city.
Food and drink are also a highlight of Nanaimo, with the city being famous for its namesake dessert, the Nanaimo bar, and a thriving craft brewery scene.
Nanaimo’s arts and culture scene see regular performances and exhibitions at the Port Theatre and other venues.
Additionally, the city plays host to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Nanaimo Marine Festival, the Nanaimo International Jazz Festival, and the Bathtub Race.
Nanaimo is a vibrant and exciting place to visit with a rich First Nations history and thriving arts and culture scene.
Places to Stay in Nanaimo BC
Some of the best areas to stay in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada, include:
- Old City Quarter: This historic area is located in the heart of downtown Nanaimo and offers a mix of Victorian-era architecture, shopping, and dining options.
- Departure Bay: This residential area is located near the ferry terminal and offers stunning views of the bay and easy access to the beach.
- Protection Island: This small island is located just a short ferry ride from Nanaimo and offers a peaceful and serene setting, but there are no hotels in this area.
- Cedar: This small town is located just south of Nanaimo and offers a more rural setting with easy access to outdoor activities and parks.
I recommend staying in the Old City Quarter as it offers easy access to the city’s historic charm and is in the heart of the downtown area.
You’ll be able to walk to some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Nanaimo Museum, the Port Theatre, and the Farmers Market.
In addition, there is a variety of accommodation options available, from bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels.
Top Pick
Courtyard by Marriott NanaimoAddress: 100 Gordon Street, Nanaimo, Canada
As someone looking for a comfortable and convenient place to stay in Nanaimo, the Courtyard by Marriott is a great choice. This newly opened hotel is located near the Nanaimo Museum and offers a range of amenities to make your stay enjoyable and relaxing. In your spacious room, you’ll find a sitting area and a tea and coffee maker; throughout the hotel, you’ll have access to a gym, indoor pool, and hot tub.
Features:
- New, comfortable rooms with large beds and tea and coffee facilities.
- City views from most rooms.
- Modern gym for a quick workout.
- Many restaurants are within walking distance.
- Ideal central downtown location near the waterfront and Old City Quarter.
Sustainability:
- Energy-efficient LED lighting.
- Food waste is minimised.
- The hotel avoids single-use plastic.
- EV charging station.
Pros: A prime location with top-notch amenities and spacious rooms, makes it an ideal combination of comfort and convenience.
Cons: As a newly opened hotel, there could be some minor issues with service or amenities that are still being fine-tuned.
Check AvailabilityLocation of Courtyard by Marriott
While I believe this is the best place to stay in Nanaimo, I understand that everyone has different preferences.
If you’re seeking something different, I’ve included a few other options below that offer unique features, different amenities, or are located in a different area.
Next Best
Gorgeous 4-Bedroom House
Address: 522 Vancouver Avenue, Nanaimo, BC
If you’re searching for a holiday home in Nanaimo that combines comfort, style, and a fantastic location, look no further than this gorgeous 4-bedroom house.
Located near the Nanaimo Bastion, you’ll have easy access to the best of what the city has to offer.
Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a cosy living area, and beautiful bedrooms with stylish decor.
One of the highlights of this house is the stunning garden, which provides the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.
Eco-Friendly Hotel
As someone who cares about the environment and reducing your impact on the planet, you may prefer staying at an eco-friendly or sustainable hotel.
By staying in such a hotel, you can ensure that your accommodation is aligned with your values and that you are supporting a business that is taking steps to minimize its impact on the environment.
Campbell Cottage
Address: 555 Campbell Street, Nanaimo, Vancouver Island
Campbell Cottage is an excellent choice if you’re looking for an eco-friendly and sustainable accommodation option in the heart of Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter.
This B&B is committed to minimizing single-use plastic and reducing food waste. Energy conservation measures are in place, and the food provided is mostly organic and locally sourced.
Plus, you’ll have walking access to some of the city’s best restaurants. The rooms are known to be immaculate and the breakfast exceptional as it includes fresh eggs from the resident chickens.
As someone who loves exploring new destinations and discovering hidden gems, you will find my guide to the best places to visit in BC to be an invaluable resource for your next trip.
As someone who is planning a trip to Nanaimo, British Columbia, you will find the Nanaimo Tourism website to be an extremely helpful resource for all your travel needs.
The website provides a wealth of information about the city, including top attractions, events, and activities, as well as practical information about transportation, accommodations, and dining options.
Whether you’re looking for ideas for things to do, need help with trip planning, or want to learn more about Nanaimo, the Nanaimo Tourism website is an excellent starting point.
Responsible Travel Tips
If you’re interested in traveling more responsibly in Nanaimo, British Columbia, there are a number of things you can do to minimize your impact on the environment and support the local community. Here are some ideas:
- Minimize food waste: When eating out in Nanaimo, try to order only what you can eat, and take any leftovers home with you.
- Support sustainable diets: Consider eating at restaurants that support sustainable and environmentally responsible practices, and limit your meat and dairy consumption.
- Use sustainable transport: Instead of driving, consider using public transportation or walking and biking in Nanaimo. The city has a well-developed network of bike paths and walking trails, making it easy to get around without a car.
- Avoid flying: If possible, avoid flying to Nanaimo and instead choose to travel by train, bus, or car. This will reduce your carbon footprint and support sustainable transportation options.
- Use renewable energy: Look for hotels and accommodation options in Nanaimo that use renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, and that have energy-efficient appliances and lighting. Options are limited in Nanaimo right now.
- Support the local community: Whenever possible, try to support local businesses in Nanaimo. This includes eating at local restaurants, shopping at local markets and stores, and choosing local tours and activities. By supporting the local community, you are helping preserve the city’s unique cultural and economic fabric.
If you have questions or want to leave a hotel review, please do so in the comments.
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. This post contains affiliate links to hotels in Nanaimo, BC. This means I get a small commission from any bookings at no extra cost to you.
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