Where to Stay in Nanaimo
As a tourist, downtown is the best place to stay, close to the Harbourfront. Downtown is close to everything from whale-watching boats and seaplane tours to the museums, restaurants, and shops.
If you want to take a ferry to Vancouver, it is recommended to find somewhere near the ferry terminal instead.
In case you are looking for luxury accommodation, try the Coast Bastion Hotel downtown and enjoy a fantastic view.
If you're on a budget, though, HI Nanaimo - Painted Turtle Guesthouse is right next to Coast Bastion Hotel at a more reasonable price. Here are some suggestions for staying in the city:
Hotels:
Coast Bastion Hotel, The Grand Hotel Nanaimo
Self-Catered Accommodation:
Buccaneer Inn, Nanaimo Gibralter Rock Ocean View Bed&Breakfast, Surf Lodge and Pub, Best Western Northgate Inn
Hostels:
Departure Bay Motel, Value Lodge Motel
Guesthouses:
Beachwalk Guesthouse, Nanaimo Ocean View Guesthouse