Welcome to our hostel
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there are restrictions on services we offer
Welcome to the Painted Turtle Guesthouse!
If you are looking for clean, affordable, and social accommodation in Nanaimo, look no further!
Our homey and relaxed hostel offers the ideal place to sleep, socialise and see the sights! Our funky place is a warm blend of hostel and guesthouse.
Opened in 2004, the Painted Turtle Guesthouse is a fully renovated 1913 heritage building. Located steps away from the 2011 Nation wide vote of "Greatest Street in Canada". The local cafes, restaurants, pubs, clubs, street art, farmers markets, street performers and colourful buildings of the Old City Quarter create the charm of downtown. Plus the seawall is only a block and a half away, providing a great place to go for a stroll, and enjoy the views of the harbour, including the glorious mountains across the Salish Sea. The waterfront area also has a swimming lagoon, crabbing opportunities, local artisans, delicious ice cream, and access to Newcastle island for camping & day trails!
Besides the parts of Nanaimo to explore, our Central Island location makes us a great home-base for day trips!
We are within day-trip distance to: Port Renfrew, Victoria, Parksville, Denman Island, Courtenay/Comox, Mount Washington Ski Hill/Strathcona Provincial Park, and countless countless day hikes!!
Our guesthouse provides you with a comfortable room with towels and linens included, a well equipped self catering kitchen and eating area, free coffee & tea, (plus free pancakes on Sundays), a cozy living area with a book exchange and board games. We also offer FREE luggage storage, laundry facilities, office services, travel kiosk and discounts to local businesses!
We have dorm beds (female, male & co-ed), private rooms, and family rooms - perfect for backpackers and groups. We have many bathrooms, which are single use and private! Our family friendly, home-away-from- home ambience, makes us perfect for every kind of traveller.
Reservations guaranteed with a VISA or Mastercard only.
We look forward to being apart of your Vancouver Island adventure!