Fodor's Expert Review Ocean Island Backpackers Inn
791 Pandora Ave., Victoria, British Columbia, V8W 1N9, Canada
The backpacker grapevine is full of praise for this fun and friendly Downtown hostel. Perpetually busy and impeccably managed by a thought-of-everything owner, the historic warren of a building houses 60 private rooms (three of which have private baths) and several four- to six-bed dorms. The building has a secured entry, bike and bag storage, a shared kitchen, and, best of all, an evening snack-and-beer lounge hopping with planned events. Staff organize group day trips and offer heaps of travel information. You can even borrow a guitar for open-mike night. Ask for a room away from the café if you want an early night. Seniors and families mix well with the clean-cut young crowd, but ask, too, about the Ocean Island Suites ($), self-contained accommodations with kitchens in nearby James Bay. This hostel is for international travelers only, so locals can't get in on this deal-of-a-place.
PROS
- loads of services, including free Wi-Fi
- a great place to meet other travelers
- budget-friendly meals at the on-site café
CONS
- mostly shared bathrooms
- private rooms are tiny
- the few parking spaces go quickly
QUICK FACTS
HOTEL INFO
Phones:
888-888–4180 | 250-385–1789
Website: www.oceanisland.com
HOTEL DETAILS
60 rooms
Rate Includes: No Meals
Rate Includes: No Meals