Gateway to internationally acclaimed Vancouver Island, Nanaimo is the Harbour City and features a fabulous ocean-side location, boutique shops, restaurants & galleries.  Nanaimo is the perfect basecamp for multi-day trips or getaways to Vancouver Island. 

While visiting Nanaimo you will meet some witty 'Islander' locals, breath the freshest air in Canada and be on one of the prettiest, most accessible coastlines in the country.  You can experience 'the best of what Canada has to offer' all in a day's drive from Vancouver.  From fun activities on the water, Old Growth forests, alpine & coastal hikes & vistas, marine wildlife, Island-grown farming & culinary experiences.  And, we're on Island time so enjoy the ride getting here, then relax and take-in our casual, small-town character.

HI-Nanaimo, Painted Turtle Guesthouse is located 1 block from the waterfront downtown Nanaimo. Our 1875 heritage building has freshly renovated rooms, FREE internet, FREE linen and towels, modern self-catering kitchen, dining areas, lounge with fireplace and foozball table, coin operated laundry, and on-site pub.  Queen bed Rooms for singles/couples, Family/Group rooms that sleep up to 4 people, and dorm beds are available.