Nanaimo holiday rentals

Why visit Nanaimo

• Coastal charm: Nanaimo enchants with its scenic harbour and waterfront parks, offering refreshing ocean views and a vibrant urban atmosphere.
• Heritage exploration: Discover historical sites in the old city and bastion, immersing yourself in Nanaimo’s rich cultural legacy.
• Family-friendly adventures: Enjoy urban parks, lakes, and beaches, perfect for a delightful day out with loved ones.
• Rich cultural experiences: Visit local museums and aquatic centres for an engaging insight into the city’s history and lifestyle.
• Diverse accommodation: Choose from cosy cottages to modern condos, catering to every traveller’s needs.

Popular types of accommodation in Nanaimo

Nanaimo, British Columbia, is a vibrant city brimming with attractions and experiences. From stunning waterfront parks to the iconic Harbourfront Walkway, there's much to explore. For your stay, consider diverse holiday rentals including private homes, cosy cottages, and modern condos. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat or a base for adventure, Nanaimo's accommodation options cater to all travellers, ensuring a memorable getaway in this picturesque coastal city.

• Private Holiday Homes: The top choice for visitors seeking a home-like experience, offering privacy and comfort for families or groups.
• Condos: A popular option for those desiring modern amenities and often a splendid view, ideal for couples or small families.
• Cottages: Charming retreats perfect for a cosy getaway, surrounded by nature and often featuring rustic charm.
• Apartments: Convenient and stylish, these are great for solo travellers or couples wanting easy access to local attractions.
• Cabins: A delightful choice for nature lovers, providing a rustic atmosphere and proximity to outdoor adventures.**

Top attractions in Nanaimo

Nanaimo offers a blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly experiences. Visitors can enjoy urban parks, lakes and beaches, as well as exploring historical sites like the old city and bastion. The local aquatic centre and museum provide enriching experiences, while panoramic ocean views offer a refreshing escape. Nanaimo is an ideal destination for those seeking a vibrant city experience combined with nature and heritage.

• Departure Bay Beach: Enjoy the beach vibes and gentle coastal charm of Nanaimo’s shoreline, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a reflective moment by the sea.
• Protection Island: Experience outdoor excitement on this local island, where beach and nature merge for a relaxed day of exploration.
• Long Lake: Discover the scenic beauty and romantic ambience of this lakeside retreat, offering a mix of beach and outdoor landscapes within Nanaimo.

Things to do recommended for couples

Nanaimo offers delightful experiences for couples. Enjoy a romantic stroll along the Harbourfront Walkway, then savour a candlelit dinner at a waterfront restaurant. For a touch of adventure, take a scenic ferry ride to nearby islands, perfect for exploring together and creating lasting memories.

Things to do recommended for families

Families will delight in exploring the Nanaimo Harbour, where the kids can enjoy the nearby waterfront parks and playgrounds. Take a ferry ride to Newcastle Island for a picnic and hike, or visit the fascinating Nanaimo Museum for interactive exhibits that engage young minds.

Things to do recommended for groups

Groups visiting Nanaimo can experience the thrill of WildPlay Element Parks, a zipline and ropes course situated 11km away, perfect for adventure and outdoor enthusiasts.

What do I need to keep in mind when booking a vacation in Nanaimo

Whether you're travelling in a group, as a family, with your pets, or seeking extended stays, remember to apply the appropriate filters. Here are some Stayz booking tips for you.

• Traveling to Nanaimo with a group: Consider the number of bedrooms required, as well as facilities like a fully equipped kitchen or an outdoor area for group get-togethers. Luckily, you can refine your search for all these features, and many others, on Stayz.
• Traveling to Nanaimo with young kids: Traveling with young children can present challenges. It’s important to prioritise their comfort and safety, as well as ensuring access to age-appropriate amenities like a private swimming pool. It’s also wise to consider the closeness of family-friendly attractions.
• Taking your pets with you to Nanaimo: For many, a family holiday is not complete without the presence of their four-legged companion. If this resonates with you, explore Stayz properties that welcome pets. Most pet-friendly accommodations offer feeding bowls and beds, ensuring that everyone feels completely at home.
• Planning for a long term stay visiting Nanaimo: If you’re in search of holiday rentals offering discounts for stays of a month or longer, you’ve come to the right spot. By using the appropriate filters, you can effortlessly locate and save on monthly rentals. Don’t forget to consider adding amenities such as a parking space, a well-equipped kitchen, or a private pool to your search criteria.

Where to stay in and around Nanaimo

Nanaimo offers a delightful blend of urban charm and coastal allure. Wander along the waterfront in downtown Nanaimo, where a scenic harbour and vibrant streets create a family-friendly atmosphere. This convenient downtown location is perfect for exploring local attractions, enjoying relaxing beach excursions, and immersing yourself in the rich culture and natural beauty of this coastal gem.

• Gabriola Island: Gabriola Island is a charming city naturally graced by its insular setting, approximately 11km from Nanaimo. Its geographical allure offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and scenic vistas, making it a haven for travellers seeking both adventure and tranquillity. Enjoy recreational areas and ski fields, while the nearby beach, lake, and national state park provide a varied palette of attractions. Whether you are exploring rugged coastlines or relaxing amidst nature, Gabriola Island promises an enriching travel experience.
• Departure Bay: Situated within the Nanaimo area, Departure Bay is a neighbourhood that epitomises family-friendly outdoor enjoyment. Its proximity to urban conveniences is balanced by natural attractions such as a marina, beach, and national state park. Visitors can partake in leisurely strolls along the beach, explore local recreational areas, or enjoy a spot of shopping at the local mall centre. Departure Bay offers a delightful blend of seaside charm and vibrant community life.
• Newcastle Island: Newcastle Island, naturally an island near Nanaimo, offers a romantic retreat surrounded by stunning scenery. The island’s outdoor and scenic appeal is complemented by opportunities for educational outings. Here, travellers can enjoy leisurely walks along the water, taking in the views of the lake, harbour, and water features. Newcastle Island is an inviting destination for those seeking a mix of romance and nature’s splendour.

Best time to go to Nanaimo

If you're planning a trip to Nanaimo, it's a good idea to check both the weather and property rates. The warmest month is August. Peak season runs from July to September, while off-peak times, like November to January tend to have fewer bookings and better deals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.3°F (3.5°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
February	37.9°F (3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	41.2°F (5.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
May	53.6°F (12.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
July	64.4°F (18.0°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
August	64.8°F (18.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Slightly High
September	58.5°F (14.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Moderately High	Average
October	50.2°F (10.1°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Slightly Low
December	37.2°F (2.9°C)	Moderate Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Moderately Low	Average

Booking with Stayz is a breeze

If you're keen to save on your upcoming journey, consider keeping your travel dates flexible as prices can vary. Additionally, booking an extended stay may offer significant savings. To discover the perfect Stayz property that suits your budget, simply use our filters to sort by price, location, and type of holiday rental.

Stayz Trips: Planning as easy as it gets

Stayz's cutting-edge Trip Board offers you a dedicated space to craft new journeys, pick up where you paused, or review and organise your itineraries. Properties you have previously saved or booked are now neatly categorised under Potential, Upcoming, or Current Trips. To access your Trip Boards, please visit: https://www.stayz.com.au/trips

**Based on Vrbo properties bookings.

The information above was last updated: 8 July, 2026