Resorts Near Nanaimo: Where to Stay for a Mid Island Getaway
Searching for resorts near Nanaimo usually means you want two things: an easy drive from the ferry or airport, and a place that actually feels like a getaway once you arrive. The good news is that mid-Vancouver Island gives you a lot of options - from harbour-side stays close to the city, to beachy resort towns that feel a world away.Below is a simple guide to help you choose the right area (and the right type of resort) based on what you want your trip to feel like.
How far is “near Nanaimo”?
If you want the most flexibility for day trips, Parksville is one of the easiest “resort towns” to reach. The drive from Nanaimo to Parksville is typically around 30 to 40 minutes depending on traffic and your start point. That’s close enough to feel effortless - but far enough to actually switch into vacation mode.
What to look for when booking a resort near Nanaimo
Before you book, decide what matters most for your stay:- Beach access vs. forest privacy: Do you want to walk straight onto sand, or would you rather be tucked into trees?
- Full kitchen vs. hotel-style room: If you like slow mornings and easy meals, vacation-rental-style units are a game changer.
- On-site amenities: Pool, hot tub, sauna, tennis, playground - helpful if you want the trip to feel “easy” without overplanning.
- Space to spread out: Couples might not care, but families and friend groups usually do.
- Pet-friendly options: If you’re bringing your dog, confirm policies early (pet-friendly units can be limited).
Best areas to consider for resorts near Nanaimo
Nanaimo
Best for: quick overnight stays, ferry convenience, urban amenities.If you want to be close to restaurants, the waterfront, and shopping, staying in Nanaimo keeps things simple. It’s also a good base if your trip is more “explore all day, sleep at night.”
Lantzville
Best for: quieter vibes, still close to Nanaimo.Lantzville sits just north of Nanaimo and is great if you want a calmer setting without adding much drive time.
Parksville
Best for: classic beach vacation energy.Parksville is known for its wide sandy beaches and laid-back pace. If your ideal day includes beach walks, family-friendly activities, and an easy home base for exploring mid-island, it’s a top pick.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park is especially popular because the shoreline stretches far at low tide and is great for long walks.
Qualicum Beach
Best for: a quieter version of Parksville.Qualicum Beach has a more small-town feel. It’s a great option if you want a slower pace and a little more calm, while still being close to everything.
Ladysmith
Best for: a charming stop between Nanaimo and the Cowichan Valley.Ladysmith is south of Nanaimo and can be a nice pick if you want a smaller community feel, plus easy access to both Nanaimo and destinations farther south.
Gabriola Island
Best for: unplugging.If you want a true reset, Gabriola is close to Nanaimo by ferry and has a peaceful, artsy vibe. It’s less about “resort amenities” and more about slowing down.
A resort option near Nanaimo: Beach Acres Resort in Parksville
What the stay feels like
Beach Acres is designed for trips that feel relaxed and easy - the kind where you can make breakfast in your own kitchen, head out for a beach walk, and come back to your own space without having to plan every minute.
Accommodations
Units include 1, 2, and 3-bedroom options with:- Fully equipped kitchens
- Wood or gas fireplaces
- Pull-out sleeper sofas
- Private patios
- Complimentary Wi-Fi and free parking
Amenities and on-site extras
Guests have access to:- Indoor heated swimming pool
- Hot tub and sauna
- Tennis courts
- Volleyball court, horseshoes, playground
- Bike and SUP rentals
- There’s also an independently run English-style pub on the property: the Black Goose Inn.
Sample itineraries
2-night couples getaway
- Day 1: arrive, beach walk, dinner out (or a cozy night in)
- Day 2: slow morning, explore mid-island, hot tub and fireplace evening
- Day 3: coffee, one last beach walk, head home
3-night family trip
- Arrival day: settle in, beach time, pool dip
- Day 2: relaxed resort day with pool + playground + beach breaks
- Day 3: bigger day trip, then a calm evening back in
- Departure morning: easy breakfast + one last walk
Seasonal trip planning near Nanaimo
One of the best parts about choosing a resort near Nanaimo is that you can make the trip fit the season. Here are a few easy ways to plan your stay in Parksville, plus ideas for what to do once you arrive.Winter
And if a winter weekend isn’t complete without good food, Restaurants in Parksville: Winter Dining is a great add-on for dinner plans.
Spring
Spring is a sweet spot for fresh air, lighter crowds, and nature-focused days. If you love wildlife and relaxed exploring, Discover Vancouver Island Birds in Parksville, BC is a fun seasonal read (and an easy way to plan a low-key day outdoors).
Summer
Summer is prime time for beach days and classic Parksville energy. If you’re coming for the sand and sunshine, start with Parksville Beach & Community Park. Visiting mid-summer? The main event is Beachfest. Here’s the full breakdown in Your Guide to Parksville Beach Festival, plus a deeper dive into the sand sculpting in Parksville Sand Castle Sculpture Competition.
Travelling with kids? Keep Top 10 Things To Do In Parksville with Kids bookmarked for easy, family-friendly ideas.
Fall
If you want a simple, crowd-pleasing stop on a fall trip, Discover Coombs Market on Your Parksville Trip is an easy one to work into the itinerary.
Rainy day backup plan
Because Vancouver Island weather can do its thing, it helps to have a plan that still feels like vacation. If the forecast turns, use Rainy Day Activities in Parksville, BC for indoor-friendly ideas that don’t require a big drive.
First timer tips for booking resorts near Nanaimo
If you’re planning a mid-island trip for the first time, these small tips can make the whole stay feel smoother (and help you avoid the most common “wish we’d known” moments).
1) Book around what you want to do most.
2) Prioritize the features you’ll actually use.
3) If travelling with kids, plan for downtime.
It sounds obvious, but it’s the difference between a trip that feels restful and one that feels like logistics. A good rhythm is one simple outing, then a slower day with beach and pool time. Leaving gaps in the plan is what keeps everyone happy.
4) Don’t assume every unit type is always available.
If you’re hoping for something specific (pet-friendly, a certain view category, ground-floor access), check early. Many resorts have limited inventory for certain unit styles, and those tend to book first.
5) Shoulder season can be the best time to go.
If you have flexibility, consider spring or fall. It’s often quieter, easier to get the accommodation type you want, and you can still do the same mid-island experiences - just with fewer crowds and a slower pace.
6) Pack for comfort, not just the forecast.
Even when the daytime weather looks perfect, evenings near the water can cool down quickly. Bring layers and something cozy for after the beach, plus an easy pair of shoes for quick walks and exploring.
FAQ: Resorts near Nanaimo
Is Parksville close enough to Nanaimo for a quick weekend?
Yes - it’s an easy drive, which is why Parksville is a popular “feels-like-a-vacation” option for people who want to stay near Nanaimo.What’s better: a hotel room or a vacation-rental-style resort?
If you want more space, a kitchen, and a slower rhythm (especially for families or longer stays), a resort with cottage or townhouse-style units usually feels more comfortable.
Are there pet-friendly resort options near Nanaimo?
Some resorts offer select pet-friendly units, but availability can be limited, so it’s worth checking early. Beach Acres Resort offers pet friendly stays too, making it a great option if you’re travelling with a dog.
