Painted Turtle Guesthouse

Welcome to the Painted Turtle Guesthouse, winner of the most outstanding hostel of the year award across Canada!

If you are looking for fresh, fun, and affordable accommodation in Nanaimo, you have definitely stumbled across the ideal place to sleep, socialize and see the sights! Our funky guesthouse is a warm blend of hostel, guesthouse, and boutique hotel.....you will have to see it to believe it!

Opened in 2004, the Painted Turtle Guesthouse is a fully renovated and refurbished 1913 heritage building. Located in the heart of the waterfront/ arts district in downtown Nanaimo, it sits amongst trendy cafes & restaurants, pubs & clubs, art galleries, bakeries, street performers and local points of interest.


The Painted Turtle Guesthouse has been thoughtfully designed with the active traveller in mind, plus we have thrown in a few special features: 2 FREE internet terminals (plus FREE wireless), FREE luggage storage and a living area that has a fully equipped kitchen and dining facilities, a cozy fireplace and lounge,free games, and incredibly clean, centralized private washrooms.

Come check it out for yourself. We have dorm rooms, private rooms, and family rooms, that are great for backpackers, groups and families. Our family friendly atmosphere, home away from home feel, and extremely helpful and knowledgeable staff, is perfect for every kind of traveller.

Are you a student, new to town or here on business? Please ask us about our special long term stay packages. Our prices just can't be beat!

Hostelling International members receive a $4 discount per night! Show your card upon check-in, or purchase a membership at reception.

Click the link to Specials above to view our weekly rate offer!

Reservations are guaranteed with a VISA or Mastercard only.

We look forward to meeting you and making your stay in Nanaimo memorable!

Directions

It's quick and affordable to get to Nanaimo and the Painted Turtle Guesthouse. We may be located on the largest island on the west coast of Canada - in the Pacific Ocean until you reach Japan - but we could not be easier to get to... Whether you are coming by water, land or air, expect the journey here to be an incredible part of your trip.

By sea - BC Ferries will bring you into a port that is only minutes from the Painted Turtle.

By air, get a window seat and enjoy the spectacular scenery enroute from Vancouver, Victoria, Calgary or Seattle to the regional airport in Nanaimo. The other way to fly is by seaplane which drops you off right at our front door step.

By Island driving, Nanaimo is centrally located on the Island and is easily accessible by the TransCanada and major Highways from the north, south and eastern destinations.

By bus, hop on Greyhound Canada’s Island partner (Grayline) or the Tofino Bus. The Tofino Bus links the three Hostel International properties in Tofino, Nanaimo and Victoria.

There is a local bus stop directly in front of the Painted Turtle. Jump on a local bus, it will take you anywhere....go explore!

Facilities

Internet Access, Linen Included, Bar, Towels, Luggage Storage, Guest Kitchen, Telephone/Fax Facilities, Travel Desk/Travel Info, Common Room, Bike Parking, WiFi in lobby, WiFi in room