About Nanaimo

Nanaimo is known as the ‘harbour city’ and boasts a real working port and a quaint, walkabout downtown that is inviting to locals and travelers year-round. Bruce & Angie, hosts of the Painted Turtle Guesthouse, have traveled to many towns in Europe, Canada, and Australia but fell in love with Nanaimo after visiting downtown for only two hours…and decided to make it their home. We invite you to visit our magnificent, oceanfront location and see what other travelers are talking about!

The history of Nanaimo has unfolded in a way that demonstrates the coming together of various cultures in a way that perhaps nowhere else in the world can. The Harbour City was first settled by people over 5000 years ago, and over time many cultures have come to call Nanaimo home for many different reasons. With the incredible variety of influences contributing to the art, music, and atmosphere that make up Nanaimo, it’s no wonder that the city was named Cultural Capital of Canada in 2008.

“I came for 1 day and stayed for 10 - Nanaimo has exceeded my expectations! And, thanks for a great place to stay and your great hospitality. I would stay in Nanaimo just for the opportunity of staying here.” Nathan Slawinski - Australia

Nanaimo is a stunning community centrally located on Vancouver Island. See for yourself why Conde Naste has rated Vancouver Island the top island in the Americas for the past 9 years!