How to find the best hotel deal in Nanaimo
You've got your perfect flight locked in. Now let the same clever search engine find you incredible savings on Nanaimo hotels. These tips will get you well on your way to your next stay.
Plan ahead to save on your Nanaimo hotel. You'll also have a fuller lineup of stays and room types to choose from, especially during peak seasons.
However, you can still get lucky with last-minute deals. Although prices generally rise closer to your stay, some places cut rates a day or two before to fill vacant rooms, especially in low season.
Another travel tip for cheaper hotels? Flexibility. If your plans aren't set in stone, check rates across different dates to discover where the best value is.
Browse around for stays with free cancellation. Lock in a great offer today and easily cancel later if your itinerary changes.
Where to stay in Nanaimo
Central Nanaimo
To get the most out of central Nanaimo, you'll want to be near the attractions that brought you here in the first place. Here are a few standout hotels close to the highlights.
Buccaneer Inn sets you up in a prime spot. Around 2 kilometres away, this 3-star stay is one of the most popular hotels near Newcastle Island Park. It's a go-to choice for families in particular.
Browsing around for hotels near Jesse Island? Roughly 5 kilometres away, Coast Bastion Hotel keeps you close enough to come and go as you please. With a 3-star rating, this hotel in Nanaimo is especially appealing to business travellers.
Or experience the city at its best from one of the hotels near Nanaimo Museum. Harbour Light Motel is 0.80 kilometres or so from this leading sight. It has a 2-star rating.
When to go to Nanaimo
To be there at the height of peak season, book your hotel in Nanaimo for July. This is when the city's main events and top sights are in full swing, giving you plenty to see and do.
December is the quietest month to visit. Lock in a Nanaimo hotel then and you can look forward to a more relaxed experience.
The weather forecast can help shape your travel plans. August offers the warmest conditions, with maximum temperatures of 24ºC (75ºF).
Expect lows of -1ºC (30ºF) during December, the coolest time of year here.
To dodge grey skies, search for Nanaimo hotels during July. With an average of three days of rain, this is the driest month.
November brings the wettest conditions. You can expect around 14 days of rainfall.
Best hotels in Nanaimo
Best budget hotels
Make your travel money go further by choosing from at least ten budget Nanaimo hotels. Perfect for when you want to spend less on check-in and more on checking things out, these stays come with essentials like toiletries, fresh linens, and simple breakfasts.
Buccaneer Inn offers comfort without the big spend. Make use of Wi-Fi in designated areas, internet access and more at this 3-star option.
Best Western Northgate Inn delivers 3-star value. Conveniences including a fitness centre and parking are there to make your Nanaimo hotel stay smoother.
Another simple win for your budget is Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo. This 3-star stay features heating and a laundry.
Best hotels with a spa
Balance sightseeing with self-care. Choose one of the two or so Nanaimo hotels with a spa and schedule in time to truly relax. Saunas, plunge pools, and wellness services are the types of features they come with.
Need a break from the everyday? Make it happen at Travelodge by Wyndham Nanaimo. This 2-star accommodation option has room service and a spa.
Best hotels with a pool
A pool adds another element of fun to a trip. Book a resort and you'll likely find large outdoor setups and maybe even a lazy river. At city hotels, rooftop and indoor pools are more typical. Explore the range of pool hotels in Nanaimo and get set to jump right in.
Courtyard by Marriott Nanaimo offers an indoor swimming pool, a restaurant and a golf course. Take a dip or simply take it easy by the water at this Nanaimo hotel.
Days Inn by Wyndham Nanaimo also gives you every reason to pack your swimsuit and goggles. Go for this popular option and make the most of a children's pool, internet access and a golf course.
Best pet-friendly hotels
Taking a trip with your furry friend? Pet-friendly hotels often come with cosy pet beds, bowls, and outdoor areas to run around. Some take it a step further with things like toys and treats. With at least ten Nanaimo hotels that welcome pets, your best buddy can come along too.
At Coast Bastion Hotel, thoughtful pet perks are part of the package. A ticket office and internet access are other conveniences you'll find at this hotel in Nanaimo.
You can also relax with your four-legged friend at The Spot. It includes air conditioning, parking and more.
Bluebird Motel ranks right up there too. Its amenities include parking and room service.
Flying to Nanaimo
Nanaimo Airport (YCD)
Book a flight to Nanaimo and land at Nanaimo Airport (YCD), this city's main airport. It's about 14 kilometres from the centre.
Reaching the centre of Nanaimo takes roughly 35 minutes by public transport. When driving, it's about 20 minutes.
Also close to YCD, Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham Ladysmith Oyster Bay has become a go-to for visitors. This 2-star stay has a consistent 4-plus out of 5 overall rating based on traveller feedback.
