Best Western Dorchester Hotel, Nanaimo ➤ Reviews, Rooms & Prices 2025

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Key details

About the Hotel

70 Church Street, Nanaimo, Canada, V9R 5H4

Close to the harbour

Great

8.1

/10

3.7

Loved by guests

Harbour view
Spacious room
Helpful staff
Excellent restaurant

"Our room was clean, modern, spacious with a view of the harbour and room for the TWO suitcase stands provided."

Senioronthemove from Canada

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"Bar/pub menu had a number of interesting and a good amount of seafood."

Mc from United States

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"It's right on the waterfront and the promenade goes on and on so we got a very long and scenic walk in."

Senioronthemove from Canada

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Rooms & Suites

The Best Western Dorchester Hotel offers 71 rooms and suites. Room types include Standard City View Double with two double beds, Family Hotel Suite with two double beds and a sofa bed, and Standard City View Queen with a queen bed. Additional options are Standard City View King, Deluxe Jr. Suite with a queen bed, and Harbour View King. Standard Harbour View Double, Standard Harbour View Double Queen with two queen beds, Premium View Suite with a queen bed and sofa bed, and Executive Suite with a king bed and sofa bed are also available. Each room includes a flat-screen TV with cable, free Wi-Fi, a Keurig K Cup coffee maker, and a refrigerator. Free local calls under 30 minutes are provided. Rooms offer a work desk, air conditioning, and ironing facilities. Pet-friendly rooms are available on the first floor.

Dining Options

The Best Western Dorchester Hotel offers two onsite restaurants, Top Notch Burgers and The View Oceanside Grill. Top Notch Burgers is open daily and offers burgers with sides and dips, salads, and breakfast dishes. Gluten-free options are available. The View Oceanside Grill features seafood dishes, including Prosciutto-Wrapped Lingcod and Seared Halibut Risotto, and offers weekend brunch, desserts, and cocktails.

Leisure and Entertainment

The hotel has a fitness center with weights, cardio machines, and a flat-screen TV. Guests can rent bicycles. The hotel features a rooftop patio. Nearby attractions include Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park and Old City Quarter. The hotel is a short drive from the best bungee spot in central Vancouver Island. Regular ferry service is available to mainland destinations.

Location and Transportation

Located in downtown Nanaimo, the Best Western Dorchester Hotel is across the street from the Seaplane Terminal. It is within a 5-minute drive of Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Nanaimo Regional General Hospital. The hotel is close to the Nanaimo Art Gallery, Piper Park, and Harbour Air Seaplanes. The Bastion is 0.3 km away. Nanaimo Airport Terminal is 14.4 km away.

Services and Amenities

The hotel provides complimentary Wi-Fi, parking, and guest laundry machines. A business center and 24-hour front desk are available. The hotel has facilities for meetings, including a conference center and meeting rooms, with a total space of 5000 square feet. Special corporate rates are offered. The hotel offers complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Additional amenities include a hair salon and onsite shopping. Safes and desks are available in rooms.

“I think this hotel stands out for its harbour views and a surprisingly high level of service. Its location is a real advantage, providing easy access to downtown Nanaimo and the seaplane terminal, with on-site dining adding convenience. For travellers seeking a blend of comfort and local charm, it presents a compelling option.”

James DavidEditor-in-Chief at Tohotel

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Highlights from guests

Guest ParkingHassle-Free Parking

The ample parking made our trip easy. We parked right at the front, which was very convenient with our luggage.

Mike J. from Canada

Review on

DiningTasty Mornings

Breakfast was a real treat! The muffins were fresh and delicious, a great way to kick-start the day.

Lara S. from Australia

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Room FeaturesCozy Comfort

Our room had a great view, a mini fridge for snacks, and comfy beds. We had everything we needed!

David Lee from United States

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BedroomPerfect Night's Sleep

The beds were super comfortable with cozy pillows! It was easy to relax and get a full night's rest.

Sarah M from United Kingdom

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Select your room type

The hotel offers a variety of rooms including double rooms, family rooms, and suites with breakfast, free cancelations, and special deals

Queen Room Non-Smoking

2 persons

165 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

King Room Harbour View

2 persons

220 sq. feet

1 King-size bed

Double Room Two Double Beds

2 persons

230 sq. feet

2 Double beds

Double Room Two Double Beds Harbour View

2 persons

230 sq. feet

2 Double beds

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Price and Room Availability Calendar

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Facilities

The hotel offers amenities for your comfortable stay and unforgettable experiences

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Free parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
VIP check-in/ -out
Express check-in/ -out
Pets allowed
Security
Luggage storage
Lift
Barber shop
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key card access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre
Canoeing
Cycling
Fishing

Guest Parking

Shared kitchen

Services

Pet amenities available
Room service
Housekeeping
Laundry
Grocery shopping service

Dining

Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Spa & Leisure

Sun terrace

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Terrace
Garden furniture
Tea and coffee facilities
Ironing facilities

Self-catering

Shared kitchen

Media

Direct dial telephone
AM/FM alarm clock

Dining Onsite

Top Notch Burgers offers an inviting dining experience with American and seafood favorites, all while boasting beautiful harbor views. This family-friendly venue combines modern aesthetics with casual comfort, perfect for brunch gatherings and dinner delights.

Best Western Dorchester Hotel Nanaimo Restaurant photo

Top Notch Burgers

American, Seafood

Ambiance

Modern and family-friendly, featuring relaxing views of the harbor.

Key Offerings

Signature burgers, fresh seafood options, and a cozy cocktail hour make this spot ideal for casual family dining.

Reservation

Recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

Open daily for brunch and dinner, with varied hours throughout the week: 11 AM - 9 PM on Monday and Tuesday; 11 AM - 11 PM from Wednesday to Friday; Saturday brunch starts at 10 AM until 11 PM, and Sunday brunch from 10 AM to 9 PM.

Location

70 Church Street, Nanaimo, Canada, V9R 5H4

Map view

70 Church Street, Nanaimo, Canada, V9R 5H4

City landmarks

Park

Maffeo Sutton Park

1.6 mi

Landmark

Vancouver Island Conference Centre

1.5 mi

Park

Bowen Park

1.1 mi

Landmark

Newcastle Island Marine Provincial Park

1.6 mi

Landmark

Barsby Park

2900 ft

Landmark

Caledonia Park

3900 ft

Landmark

Gallows Point Light Park

4600 ft

Island

Newcastle Island

1.6 mi

Island

Protection Island

1.1 mi

Landmark

Dog Off Leash Area

1.2 mi

Landmark

Buttertubs Marsh

1.6 mi

Park

Colliery Dam Park

1.7 mi

Landmark

Harewood Centennial Park

1.4 mi

Museum

Museum of Natural History

1.6 mi

Landmark

Beaufort Park

1.7 mi

Park

Petroglyph Provincial Park

2.0 mi

Park

Beach Estates Park

2.1 mi

Beach

Kanaka Bay

1.9 mi

Nearby

Museum

Nanaimo Museum

1100 ft

Front Street

Harbourfront Walkway

1200 ft

Gallery

Nanaimo Art Gallery

400 ft

98 Front Street

The Bastion

300 ft

Museum

Vancouver Island Military Museum

900 ft

Swy-a-Lana Park

700 ft

Store

Artzi Stuff

100 ft

Casino

Casino Nanaimo

1500 ft

Nanaimo Harbour

900 ft

90 Front St Unit 1A

Harbour Air Seaplanes

300 ft

125 Front St

Piper Park

900 ft

445 Comox Rd

Comox Park Gyro 1

2000 ft

Restaurants

Waterfront Confections

600 ft

6-90 Front St

Javawocky Coffee House

1000 ft

90 Front St

Food Koma The Global Grill

500 ft

165B Commercial St

Red's Bakery

700 ft

101 Commercial St

Serious Coffee VICC

1000 ft

60 Commercial St #300

Wendy's

1700 ft

650 Terminal Avenue

Subway

1700 ft

650 Terminal Avenue Unit 113

Queens Pub

1600 ft

34 Victoria Cres

Tim Hortons

2300 ft

15 Wallace St

White Rabbit Coffee Co

2500 ft

321 Selby St

Explore Nanaimo

Nanaimo Museum

4 minutes' walk

Local history and culture showcased through engaging exhibits and artifacts, with free admission days available.

Harbourfront Walkway

5 minutes' walk

A scenic waterfront path perfect for walking or cycling, offering stunning views of the harbor and marina.

The Bastion

5 minutes' walk

An iconic historic fortification providing insight into Nanaimo's history, with stunning views from its lookout.

Nanaimo Art Gallery

5 minutes' walk

Showcases contemporary art from local artists and rotating exhibitions in a vibrant, inviting space.

Bowen Park

20 minutes' walk

Family-friendly park with walking trails, playgrounds, and beautiful gardens. Ideal for picnics or a leisurely stroll.

Protection Island Exploration

20 minutes' walk

Offering kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities, perfect for thrill-seekers looking to enjoy the waterfront.

Yoga by the Sea Classes

5 minutes' drive

Relaxing yoga sessions held outdoors with views of the ocean, ideal for guests seeking wellness and tranquility.

Food Koma The Global Grill

2 minutes' walk

Eclectic international dishes. Cozy atmosphere with fresh ingredients and a focus on flavor. Reservations recommended.

Javawocky Coffee House

4 minutes' walk

Quaint café famous for its artisan coffee and light bites. A must-visit for coffee enthusiasts and casual meet-ups.

Red's Bakery

3 minutes' walk

Charming bakery offering a range of pastries and baked goods. Perfect for breakfast with some delicious coffee.

Vancouver Island Conference Centre

6 minutes' drive

Hosts various events, including concerts and exhibitions, bringing vibrant artistry and culture to the community.

The Queen's

5 minutes' walk

A lively pub featuring live music, trivia nights, and a warm atmosphere. Great for an evening out with friends.

Nanaimo Frights

5 minutes' drive

Hosting family-friendly ghost tours and storytelling events, making it a perfect evening activity for all ages.

Getting around

City Centre

Nanaimo6 min · 1700 ft

Airports

Nanaimo, BC (ZNA)4 min · 1000 ft

Nanaimo Airport (YCD)22 min · 8.9 mi

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 16:00-23:59

Check-out

until 11 am

Guest Parking

Public parking is possible on site for free.

Internet

is available in for free.

Children & extra beds

There are no cots provided in a room.

Pets

Pets are allowed on request.

Year renovated:

2007

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

Former name

BEST WESTERN PLUS Dorchester Hotel

Questions of the users

About Best Western Dorchester Hotel

What size bed can I expect in the Queen room since it also mentions a large double?

22 November 2024

The Queen room features a Queen-sized bed as described. Additionally, one finds options for either a King bed or two Double beds in other room types.

Are the hotel rates typically higher during the winter months?

15 December 2024

Hotel rates fluctuate based on demand, similar to airline pricing. Increased demand during winter can lead to higher rates, with additional influence from the timing of your booking.

In a Premium Queen Suite - View, how can it accommodate four guests when it only has one Queen bed and a sofa bed?

10 January 2025

The Premium Queen Suite includes one Queen bed, which can sleep two individuals, and a queen-sized sofa bed capable of hosting an additional two guests.

Can you confirm the bed size in the King Room with Harbor View? Does it really have a King bed?

30 March 2025

The King Room with Harbor View features a King-sized bed, ensuring ample comfort and space.

Is a complimentary breakfast provided for guests?

20 April 2025

Complimentary breakfast isn't offered, but an onsite restaurant serves breakfast starting at 7:30 AM at reasonable prices.

Do all of the rooms include microwaves?

28 May 2025

Not every room comes equipped with a microwave, but there is a communal microwave available for guest use located near the laundry area.

Are the bedding materials hypoallergenic for allergic guests?

5 June 2025

All bedding, including pillows, duvets, and blankets, is down-free, making it suitable for guests with allergies.

Is there secure parking available at the hotel?

12 July 2025

The hotel has two monitored parking lots with security measures in place, including camera surveillance and security personnel during the evening hours.

Do rooms come with coffee makers and refrigerators included?

18 August 2025

Every room is equipped with both a coffee maker and a refrigerator for added convenience.

Are there designated areas for smoking within the hotel?

25 September 2025

All rooms are non-smoking; however, there is a designated smoking patio available on the third floor for guest use.

What are the policies regarding pet stays at the hotel?

2 November 2025

Cats and dogs are permitted in designated pet-friendly rooms, with an additional fee of $30 per night applicable for pets.