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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
Family Kitchenette, 2 Queen bedrooms suite | Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes
Front of property
King Studio Suite | Living area | 50-inch Smart TV with cable channels, TV
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, Old City Quarter
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Nanaimo Regional General Hospital
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (YCD)
    ‪16 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for 2 Queen Room

2 Queen Room | Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

2 Queen Room

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

View all photos for King Studio Suite

Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

King Studio Suite

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

View all photos for Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette

Studio Suite, 1 King Bed, Kitchenette | Premium bedding, desk, laptop workspace, blackout drapes

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.
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What's nearby

  • Departure Bay Ferry Terminal - 18 min walk - 1.0 mile
  • Old City Quarter - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Bastion - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Nanaimo Regional General Hospital - 3 min drive - 1.2 miles
  • Nanaimo Museum - 3 min drive - 1.6 miles

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (YCD) - 16 min drive

Restaurants

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

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Reception
Departure Bay Motel
  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
7.8 out of 10, Good, 516 reviews
Departure Bay Motel

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
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

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.

How much does it cost to stay at The Spot?

As of Dec 13, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Spot on Dec 23, 2025 start from $66.49, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

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 Bastion within a short drive.

Will I be able to park 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, there isn't a spa tub at this motel.

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, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 that I can book at The Spot?

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

Reviews

The Spot Reviews

8.4

Very Good

9.0/10

Cleanliness

8.8/10

Staff & service

8.0/10

Amenities

8.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 345 out of 681 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 192 out of 681 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 79 out of 681 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 29 out of 681 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 36 out of 681 reviews

Reviews

8/10 Good

Allison

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Amenities
I loved the back femced area for my dog. The shower was excellent. What i found less enchanting was the loud air conditioner and traffic noise. Also loved the great communication. I would stay there again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Gerold

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Staff & service, amenities
The check in was remote and we never saw a person working there except the housekeepers. Property has code locks and you need to enter two different codes to get into the units, plus another code to get to the ice machine which wasn’t working. People were really struggling to get in, and lots of beeping sounds when people are coming and going. It’s a cinder block building and rooms were fairly small. Overall condition of property seems to be deteriorating, including a major tripping hazard on stairway. Property inside is fairly clean but it’s on a very busy and loud road. The price was reasonable but given other issues we wouldn’t stay here again.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Sharon

Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was as described. It was very clean.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Jillian

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

4/10 Poor

Chencheng

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The upstairs unit was kept making the noise till midnight and when I contacted the customer service , they told me to knock on their door myself… unbelievable!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Willem

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Amenities
Very convenient due to online book in and check out and electronic locks. Waited 2 days for wifi access. Air conditioner noisy. No provision to unpack suitcases for staying longer than 2 nights
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

kelly

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was perfect for ourvovernight stay. Communication was wuick if anything was needed. Clean and easy check in check out
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Sean

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
We would rate the bed and shower very highly. We had to contact the hotel for the WiFi info as it was incorrect in the manual; however, they were very quick to reply. The grounds left much to be desired. The patio glass was dirty, and the outside area unkempt and not as other guests had commented. Overall a good experience, but not great.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

darshan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
room was clean and many shops nearby.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

8/10 Good

Cheryl Orban

Traveled with family
Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Updated rooms, easy access. But limited parking.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Lisa

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We really enjoyed our stay at the Spot. The check in, entry instructions and check out were perfect. The room was really nice and clean. The location was perfect for catching an early Ferry. I will stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

6/10 Okay

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Staff & service
Key pad had no numbers. Could not find the Yale lock or white button mentioned in the check in instructions
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Eva

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Well maintained property. Noisy area along busy road. Very small and tight parking, no sufficient space for a large truck which should be communicated in properly descriptions.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dave

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

8/10 Good

Dave

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Convenient hotel
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Sandra

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Loved the 2 bedrooms.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Brittney

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Blaise

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Lesley

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great difficulty with door access code - directions were incomplete
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

Randall

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mardell

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Clean room albeit a bit small. Self check in may not be for everyone. Good for one night
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelly

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

wayne

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice little place. Worth the stay
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Edgar

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

franny

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025