The Spot

2.0 star property
Motel with free parking, near Departure Bay Ferry Terminal

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for The Spot

King Studio Suite | Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Front of property
Family Kitchenette, 2 Queen bedrooms suite | Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
50-inch Smart TV with cable channels, TV
King Studio Suite | Living area | 50-inch Smart TV with cable channels, TV

Reviews

8.4 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi

Explore the area

View in a map
950 Terminal Avenue N, Nanaimo, BC, V9S 4K4
  • Place, Departure Bay Ferry Terminal
    ‪18 min walk‬
  • Place, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Duke Point Ferry Terminal
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (YCD)
    ‪19 min drive‬

Room options

2 Queen Room

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(35 reviews)
  • 210 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

King Studio Suite

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(39 reviews)
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 213 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Nanaimo

The Spot is located within a mile (2 km) of Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Maffeo Sutton Park. This 10-room motel has in-room conveniences like refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers.

What's nearby

  • Departure Bay Ferry Terminal - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Old City Quarter - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Nanaimo Regional General Hospital - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Vancouver Island University - 4 min drive - 1.9 miles
  • Duke Point Ferry Terminal - 20 min drive - 12.6 miles

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (YCD) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Drip Coffee | Social - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪Off The Hook - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬20 min walk
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬2 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬6 min walk

About this property

The Spot

Motel with free parking, near Departure Bay Ferry Terminal
At The Spot, guests have access to free WiFi in public areas, express check-in, and express check-out. If you drive, take advantage of free parking. Multilingual staff is on hand to answer questions. Additional amenities include a picnic area and a garden.
50-inch Smart TVs come with cable channels, and guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Beds sport premium bedding and bathrooms offer rainfall showers, hair dryers, and free toiletries. Other amenities include refrigerators, microwaves, and coffee makers.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking available

Things to do

  • Bicycle tours

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave
  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Virtual front desk

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Hand-held showerhead
  • Handrails in stairways
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
  • Wheelchair-accessible parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
  • Wheelchair-accessible registration desk

More

  • 2 floors
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Renovated entire property - April 2022

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Free toiletries
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Rainfall showerhead
  • Shampoo
  • Shower
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 50-inch smart TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Microwave
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • Laptop workspace
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11 AM
Contactless check-out available
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours will receive an email within 24 hours before arrival with check-in instructions and an access code; access will be through a private entrance
Prior to arrival, you must complete online registration via a secure link
You will be asked to provide the property with a copy of your government-issued photo ID after booking
A virtual front desk provides assistance to guests

Access methods

Access code, private entrance

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for CAD 20 per pet, per night
  • Dogs and cats only
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet fee: CAD 20 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation
This property accepts credit cards; cash is not accepted
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM—-midnight
  • Check-out: 11 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Checking in and out are easy with express services. Driving? This property offers free parking.
Property Registration Number 5032890

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards. Cash is not accepted. 
  • The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, and a first aid kit.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No rollaway or extra beds are available.

Property is also known as

Colonial Motel Nanaimo
Colonial Nanaimo
The Spot Motel
Colonial Motel
The Spot Nanaimo
The Spot Motel Nanaimo

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at The Spot?

The Spot provides free cancellation on select room rates. To learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

What can I see within easy reach of The Spot?

This motel is located in Nanaimo, a short 20-minute walk from Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and also 18 minutes on foot from Maffeo Sutton Park. You'll also find Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park and Beach Estates Park within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The Spot?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the motel. Accessible parking is also available for guests.

Does The Spot have a casino on the premises?

No, The Spot doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at The Spot?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

Is The Spot a good place to stay for couples?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this motel include premium bedding, a rainfall showerhead, and a smart TV.

Are there hot tubs at The Spot?

No, this motel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does The Spot have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, The Spot doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will The Spot allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, cats and dogs are welcome at The Spot for a fee of CAD 20 per pet, per night.

Are there connecting rooms at The Spot?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this motel.

How close is the airport from The Spot?

The closest major airport to The Spot is Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome), which is 1.3 mi away (3 minutes by car). Another top airport is Nanaimo, BC (YCD), which is located 10 mi away (16-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at The Spot?

Yes, some guestrooms at The Spot offer a patio and may feature garden views.

The Spot Reviews

Reviews

8.4

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 333 out of 656 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 185 out of 656 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 76 out of 656 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 29 out of 656 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 33 out of 656 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Dave

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Anqi

There is no staff
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Roderick

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Very small, quiet, clean hotel. Was 30+ degrees outside. A/C worked well.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kristy

Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great set up right where I needed to be, nice room, excellent sleep. Checking in online was smooth. I'll remember this spot for next time for sure.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adriana

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

2/10 Terrible

Nichole

Traveled with family
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Worst hotel experience ever!!! From the beginning to the end it was an awful night. Here's a list of things that are awful about this place: 1. The shower did not work 2. WIFI user name and password were wrong in the book 3. No ice for the ice bucket 4. Outside door lock did not work until many tries, got locked out 5. Only 1 plug in in the entire room 6. There were bugs in the shower 7. Floors were unsafe, they were raised up, we tripped 8. Air conditioner did not work well 9. No lounge chairs only uncomfortable stools 10. No front desk attendant That's the gods honest truth about this place. There was 1 guy that was cleaning the rooms, he was very friendly. That's the only good thing I can say about this hotel. Do not waste your money here!!!
The ripped up floor.
The ripped up floor.
The wrong user name and password.
No comfortable seating only uncomfortable stools.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Lisa

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The stay was good. I would NOT recommend staying on the bottom floor due to excessive noise from people on top floor. Hear so much noise that I did not get a good rest. Some of laminate flooring near tv was coming up so please wear shoes! Very nice and clean facility. Close to ferry and lots of shops.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Daniel

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Was nice enough. Beds were a bit hard. The latch on our bathroom door was broken and the beeping from the electronic locks on the main door and room doors was loud. AC is a bit small or perhaps the filter was clogged. It didn’t cool the room very well. The room was clean though, tv was nice, bedding was clean,
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

DARLENE

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Very quaint and cute place. Just the parking lot was not user friendly to get in and out of with a truck. Otherwise great stay!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Inga

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
very nice and clean, room was updated, modern, comfy and quiet, it was amazing
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Erin

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
I love this idea of the
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Nguyen, Ho Chi Minh

Good place!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

allan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew, Nanaimo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good spot
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Geraldine

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Really good stay

Good space, cool ac, excellent shower, comfy bed , quiet room
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Parth

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Diane

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Loved our stay

Quaint and comfortable but a little on the small side. I’m not sure I liked the online check-in but it went smoothly and we were able to access our room. The bed was very comfortable, the room was very clean and the price was right. That’s what’s most important. I would definitely recommend The Spot if you’re looking for a place to stay in Nanaimo. I would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Priscila

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Thanks I think we didn’t use at the end
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

LK

Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
The host was very responsive and helpful. It was difficult to get into the property as the keypad was not working. The rooms were small and stuffy and the wifi password in the welcome book was incorrect. The neighborhood was not safe at all with homeless and drug users everywhere
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Billy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good follow up on check in and check out. Clean room and central location.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

6/10 Okay

Terrence

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

ron

Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew, Nanaimo

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Chelsea

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
We stayed one night at The Spot. The parking lot is quite tight and limited, it is also on a busy road, so it can be tricky to get in and out of. We were sent check-in information ahead of time which would allow us to access the hallway door, then access our room door. We did need to contact management twice regarding access - once because the door to the hallway was ajar and not locked when we arrived, then later we realized the access code we were given was incorrect. Additionally, door access to the hallway was damaged in a way that made it minimally secure even when the lock was engaged - we felt a little unsafe as a result. The rooms themselves are decorated in a kind of art deco-ikea kind of way - they're cute enough. The AC was already running when we showed up, which was a nice surprise. The sheets were very clean, beds were made up nicely. Bedside table needed a good clean, the white pull down blinds were heavily stained. The bathroom had a rolling barn door with a damaged latch, so the door always stayed open a couple inches - essentially no privacy to use the toilet or shower from anybody you're staying with. The shower had a really nice rainfall showerhead with a handheld nozzle - great pressure. The heated lit mirror in the bathroom was a nice addition. Bathroom, towels were clean - wallpaper heavily peeling off the walls were a detractant. Mixed feelings about this stay - very easy to access downtown and north Nanaimo.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Luis

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness
Clean rooms and comfy beds
Stayed 1 night in May 2025