See all properties

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)

Property class: 1.5

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)

A couple standing by a marina with boats and docks in the background.
A modern kitchen with white cabinetry, a central island, and a dining area with a wooden table and chairs.
A building with a sign reading "Painted Turtle Guesthouse."
A neatly made bed with pillows, a bedside lamp, a small plant, and a window with curtains.
A marina with multiple boats docked, a ferry with a waiting room sign, and a cityscape in the background.

Reviews

7.8 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Business services
  • Bar
  • Laundry
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View in a map
121 Bastion St, Nanaimo, BC, V9R 3A2
  • Place, Bastion
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Nanaimo Museum
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Old City Quarter
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome)
    ‪3 min walk‬

Room options

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Men only, Shared Bath

A single bed with a wooden frame, white bedding, and a plain wall.

Shared Dormitory, Men only, Shared Bath

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(5 reviews)
  • Partial sea view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Shared Dormitory, Women only, Shared Bath

A single bed with a wooden frame, white bedding, and a plain wall.

Shared Dormitory, Women only, Shared Bath

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(3 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 1
  • 2 Twin Bunk Beds
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Classic Room, 1 Queen Bed, Shared Bath, Shared Living Space

A neatly made bed with white linens and pillows, a rolled towel on the bed, a nightstand with a lamp and a tissue box, and a framed picture on the wall.

Classic Room, 1 Queen Bed, Shared Bath, Shared Living Space

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(8 reviews)
  • Partial ocean view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Family Room, Shared Bath, Shared Living Space

A hotel room with a single bed, a nightstand with a lamp, a dresser with a mirror, and a door with a coat rack.

Family Room, Shared Bath, Shared Living Space

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bunk Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Family Room, Shared Bath, Shared Living Space

A neatly made bed with pillows, a bedside lamp, a small plant, and a window with curtains.

Family Room, Shared Bath, Shared Living Space

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • City view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Twin Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Nanaimo

Located in Downtown Nanaimo, Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) is next to popular attractions like Bastion and Nanaimo Museum. This hostel has 24 rooms and welcomes guests with conveniences like a bar/lounge, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.
View more Hostels in NanaimoOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Bastion - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Nanaimo Museum - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Casino Nanaimo - 4 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Old City Quarter - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Vancouver Island University - 8 min drive - 1.7 miles

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome) - 1 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Starbucks - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Noodlebox - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Old City Station Pub - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Red’s Bakery - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪The Vault - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)

Guests of Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, coffee in a common area, and a meeting room. If you plan to drive, free parking is available. Front-desk staff can assist with luggage storage and tours/tickets. Additional amenities include a library and laundry facilities.
Guests can stay connected with free WiFi. Beds sport premium bedding. 8 bathrooms, refrigerators, and microwaves are also standard. Private bathrooms are not ensuite; housekeeping is available on request.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Front of property
Harbour Light Motel
Nanaimo
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Business services
8.2 out of 10, Very Good, 1,002 reviews
$69 nightly
The price is $80
Sep 8 - Sep 9
Total with taxes and fees
Harbour Light Motel

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • Coffee and tea in common areas

Things to do

  • Bicycle rentals
  • Ecotours
  • Library

Family friendly

  • In-room full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • In-room microwave
  • Laundry facilities

Conveniences

  • Laundry facilities
  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Luggage storage

Guest services

  • Concierge services
  • Housekeeping (on request)
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Business services

  • Meeting room

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Front entrance ramp
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance

More

  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • 8 detached private bathrooms
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Food and drink

  • Blender
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Free bottled water
  • Freezer
  • Full-sized refrigerator/freezer
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Rice cooker
  • Shared kitchen access
  • Stovetop
  • Toaster

More

  • Heating (climate-controlled)

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 4:00 PM; Check-in end time: 8:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Late check-in subject to availability
Late check-in fee for check-in between midnight and 2:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
If you are planning to arrive after 8:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
The credit card used to book the reservation must be presented by the cardholder at check-in along with matching photo identification, and other arrangements must be coordinated with the property prior to arrival
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours)

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 2 kids 10 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for CAD 10.0 per stay

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Late check-in fee for check-in between midnight and 2:00 AM
  • Rollaway bed fee: CAD 10.0 per stay

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 and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Cashless transactions are available
Only bookings from non-local guests are accepted; guests whose residence is within 16 mi (25 km) of the property will not be allowed to check in
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards
  • Check-in: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

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.
  • 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 and cash.
  • 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.
  • Only bookings from non-local guests are accepted. Guests whose residence is within 16 mi (25 km) of the property will not be allowed to check in.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.
  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Painted Turtle Guesthouse Hostel Nanaimo
Painted Turtle Guesthouse Hostel
Painted Turtle Guesthouse Nanaimo
Painted Turtle Guesthouse
Painted Turtle Guesthouse
Painted Turtle Hostel Nanaimo
Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) Nanaimo

Frequently asked questions

Are free cancellation options available at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) provides free cancellation on select room rates. If you'd like to learn more, look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

As of Sep 3, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) on Oct 3, 2026 start from $91, including 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 is there to do close to Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

This hostel is situated in Downtown Nanaimo, just steps from Bastion and Nanaimo Museum, and within a short walk of Casino Nanaimo. You'll also find Old City Quarter and Maffeo Sutton Park less than a mile away.

Is parking available on site at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the hostel.

Does Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) have a casino on the premises?

No, Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hostel.

Is Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) good for couples?

Couples staying at this hostel will appreciate amenities like premium bedding as well as a bar/lounge and concierge services.

Are there hot tubs at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hostel.

Does Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) have a restaurant that serves breakfast?

No, Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel).

Are there connecting rooms at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

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

How far is the airport from Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

The closest major airport to Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) is Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome), which is within a mile. Another top airport is Nanaimo, BC (YCD), which is located 8.9 mi away (13-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

No, there aren't any rooms with balconies at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel).

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) Reviews

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 113 out of 293 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 97 out of 293 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 40 out of 293 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 11 out of 293 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 32 out of 293 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

7.4/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Marilyne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The hostel is very cute and clean, with colorful paintings and murals, and the staff very helpful and friendly. Strongly recommend!
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Tara

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was a really cute place. Everything was so clean, the kitchen was a great space.
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Amir

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This is not the hostel you’re dreading to book for economic reasons. It was such a pleasant stay, the amenities are ample, the gentleman downstairs is super helpful and kind. I would absolutely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Geunwoo

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Amazing for stay in Nanaimo
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Jerome Almir

Liked: Staff & service
Great location. Value for your money. John the owner is a great guy. Accomodating and friendly
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Awesome customer service - went far above and beyond to make sure I got checked in, even at 1:30AM (they normally close standard check-in at 8PM).
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Saied

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very good location reasonable pricing clean
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Beat

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I was surprised to find such clean, ideally located hostel in downtown Nanaimo. John was amazing. He accompanied my request and went beyond with friendliness and professional handling the situation. A really gem in town. Thank you.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Maximillian

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Erik

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very nice, respectful and clean.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Mary

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
John the steward of the place was great. He's helpful and helped us check in no problem.
Stayed 2 nights in Jan 2026
Verified review

8/10 Good

Brody

Liked: Cleanliness
Great location
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2023
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Shop

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Sorry can't remember name but host was very friendly and helpful. Great place to stay.
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

Beth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I had a great check in experience and enjoyed the kitchen/lounge space - thanks
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Ludovica

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly reception, rooms and bathrooms are basic but clean.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2023
Verified review

8/10 Good

Vincent

Liked: Staff & service

I would stay again

Not a bad hostel.
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Hyunjeong

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
quiet and clean place
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

James

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The property location is central to most activity points and easy to commute
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Elysia

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Second night stay the receptionist was great
Stayed 1 night in Feb 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Nanoha

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

10/10 Excellent

Ryan

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Convenient, cosy place
Stayed 1 night in Dec 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

David

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean, quiet, convenient and well priced
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2022
Verified review

8/10 Good

Wendy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Feels like home away from home. Nice hostel.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2022
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Steven

Liked: Staff & service, room comfort

My week sketching in Nanaimo.

If you’re open to bare-bones, inexpensive, quirkiness, remember this is a hostel (though I rented a private room. Very accommodating, all requests fulfilled. Friendly staff.
Stayed 5 nights in Oct 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Margareta

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Comfortable bed and cosy warm bedding. Older but very clean facility. Well equipped communal kitchen with pleasant dining room.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025