Accommodations in the Nanaimo Region ranges from world-class resorts that have it all, to wilderness campgrounds away from it all, and everything in between. For those seeking a romantic hideaway, there are seaside bed and breakfasts with personalised service and guest interaction is a key feature as well as authentic home cooked breakfast served with a smile. The heart of Nanaimo is built along the waterfront boosting its many marinas, ocean front nautical appeal complimented by the heavy artistic influences like the Port Theatre, Nanaimo`s District Museum, Art Gallery and the Bastion-North America`s last remaining fort of its kind. It is said Nanaimo has the largest percentage of shopping stores per capita on Vancouver Island.

The many malls including the islands largest mall and the unique shopping boutiques conjure up a variety of shopping experiences. The vast artistic environment make the days full of exploration and filled with new experiences. The marine setting, the harbours and the locals give Nanaimo a welcomed unique feel and experience. Every year Nanaimo hosts the `World Famous Bathtub Races` during the summer. Come and enjoy the beauty in Nanaimo and the outlying scenic areas with drives like Cedar Road, Departure Bay Road, Hammond Bay Road and Jingle Pot Road. The word `Nanaimo` is derived from the Coast Salish word `Sney-Ny-Mous` meaning `meeting place`. Mining brought white settlers to this area more than 150 years ago, when the Hudson`s Bay Company established a trading post and fort.

Nanaimo is a great destination for conventions and business meetings, sporting events and activities, year-round golf getaways, romantic weekends, and a wide range of exhilarating adventures. Famous for its varied landscapes and more than two dozen parks, the city boasts one of the most beautiful waterfronts in Canada. For at least 2,000 years, people have been drawn to the area that is now known as Nanaimo. Surrounded by mountains and lakes, with a protected harbour second to none make getaways for leisure, conventions, seminars, corporate travel, and tours that much more enjoyable.