This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Port Alberni.
Port Alberni is the halfway town between Tofino and Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. You will find it nestled along the river and in among the mountains of the area. Because of the stunning natural features surrounding Port Alberni, there is an abundance of outdoor activities in which you can partake here, including ATV tours, kayaking, charter tours, and hiking in and around the stunning Stamp River Provincial Parks and Mount Arrowsmith. They do have some museums and historical sites in the downtown center and surroundings that you can go and visit too such as the railway museum, MacLeans Mill, petroglyphs from the natives, and the maritime museum.
The only way to get to Port Alberni if you don't have a car is on the Tofino Bus lines (you can find their schedule online). Buses go twice daily and travel from Victoria up through Nanaimo through Port Alberni to Tofino. Hostels in Port Alberni are scattered in location, with some right downtown and some further out. If you are traveling by bus it is recommended that you investigate how you will get from the bus station to your Port Alberni hostel before booking. In the summer months, it is also recommended that you book your accommodation in Port Alberni in advance, as the high season sees a large influx of tourists all over Vancouver Island and accommodation at times can be scarce.
Your hostel staff should be able to point you in the direction of any amenities that you might need during your stay here that are close by to your hostel but you will find banks, supermarkets, pharmacies, and all other major supplies that you might need during your stay here in Port Alberni.
Written by local enthusiast for Port Alberni hostels
Globetrotter