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Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)

Property class: 1.5

Photo gallery for Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)

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

Reviews

7.8 out of 10
Good

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Business services
  • Bar
  • Laundry room
  • Kitchen
The current price is AU$147
includes taxes & fees
3 Oct - 4 Oct

Explore the area

View 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 Single Bunk Beds

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 Single Bunk Beds

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

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 Single Bunk Bed

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 Single Bed

About the area

Nanaimo

At Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) you'll be within steps of Bastion and Nanaimo Museum. Highlights at this hostel include free self-parking and a bar/lounge. .Enjoy access to ecotours and bike hire. Other amenities include free Wi-Fi in public areas, coffee/tea in a common area and laundry facilities. .Sights within a short walk of this Downtown Nanaimo hostel include Old City Quarter and Vancouver Island University is within 30 minutes.
View more Hostels in NanaimoOpens in a new window

What's nearby

  • Bastion - 2 min walk - 0.2 km
  • Nanaimo Museum - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Casino Nanaimo - 4 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Old City Quarter - 5 min walk - 0.4 km
  • Vancouver Island University - 8 min drive - 2.7 km

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)

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) offers its guests a library, tour/ticket assistance, and coffee/tea in common area. Public spaces have free WiFi. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) also features concierge services and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas at this Nanaimo hostel.

  • 24 guestrooms or units
  • Coffee in lobby
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Concierge
  • Library
  • Smoking in designated areas
  • Bar or lounge
  • 1 conference room
Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) offers 24 accommodations with complimentary bottles of water and rice cookers. Beds feature premium bedding. Full-sized fridge/freezers and microwaves are provided.

Rooms have detached private bathrooms. Bathrooms include a shower. Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access. Housekeeping is provided on request.

Similar properties

A hotel reception area with a glass door entrance, a clock, and a sign indicating the business hours.
Harbour Light Motel
Nanaimo
  • Parking included
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Business services
4.1 out of 5, Very good, 1,007 reviews
The price is AU$162
includes taxes & fees
7 Oct - 8 Oct
Harbour Light Motel

Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transport

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited on-site self parking

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
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Paper towels
  • Rice cooker
  • Shared kitchen access
  • 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

  • No pets allowed

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Up to 2 children 10 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are available for CAD 10.0 per stay.
  • Cots (infant beds) are not available.

Payment types

  • Mastercard
  • Visa

Important information

Optional extras

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

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

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

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-authorise 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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guest room reservation. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard and cash. This property reserves the right to pre-authorise 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.
    For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit and window guards in all accommodation. Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions.

We should mention

  • Up to 2 children aged 10 years old and younger stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Registered guests are the only ones allowed to be in guestrooms.

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

What is the cancellation policy at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

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

As of 2 Oct 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) on 3 Oct 2026 start from AU$147, 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.

Is parking available at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

Yep, Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) has a free self car park.

Are there any beaches close to Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

The closest beach to Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) is Departure Bay Beach (5 km).

What makes Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) a romantic place to stay?

A lounge bar, plus premium bedding in the guestrooms, help set the scene for a romantic weekend at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel).

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

No, Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Are pets allowed at Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel)?

No, pets are not allowed.

Painted Turtle Guesthouse (Hostel) Reviews

Reviews

7.8

Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 115 out of 297 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 97 out of 297 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 42 out of 297 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 11 out of 297 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 32 out of 297 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

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

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

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

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

8/10 Good

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

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

8/10 Good

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

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

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

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service

I would stay again

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

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

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

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

10/10 Excellent

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

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Super friendly and great central location. There was always a washroom available.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024