My middle-age friends who stayed in Vancouver and have been in Victoria many times were dumbfound when I told them that I have reserved 4 nights at the Ocean Island. They warned me against contagious diseases, drug addicts, criminal, burglars, man-eaters.... As a stuborn old man approaching his 50s, and stayed in too many 5-star hotels before, I thanked them... more

Every hostel gets people who seem cool at first but end up being bad news, but the staff at ye old ocean island hostel will send them on their way before it turns into a scene. They also know who to turn away even when they have space, which I respect. They put their guests first. more

So here's my Victoria experience: I stayed at the hostelling international for the first night, and it was cheap, but it was also me in a room with about fifty other people. So I left and got into a 6-person dorm at Ocean Island, and it was definitely worth the trouble of switching places. Everything is just nicer! more

I had read mixed reviews about this hostel before I went but decided to take the risk and stay there and Im glad I did. Do not be put off by reviews saying you get free internet access for writing a good review about the hostel. This was not my experience. There is a computer with free access for people... more

I'm just gonna say one thing: the bathrooms are great. Some of the baths need refinishing, but they're clean and just being able to grab a shower or even a bath and just chill out, without being in the same room as three other dudes doing their thing, that was mint. more

My girlfriend and I often have to settle for dorm rooms when we're travelling, but we rented a little room in the back of the building, with a great view of the rooftops and the sunset each night. And they have an open mic on wednesdays in the bar, so I got to jam with some other travellers and some... more

I was supposed to stay in victoria for 2 to 3 days, but I ended up sticking around longer 'cause it ended up cheaper than I expected. Ocean Island saves you money! I saved some cash by doing laundry for them. I even ran into a mate from scotland in the bar and we made friends with some of the... more

Returned from Victoia, B.C. last week. What a great experience to have. Wonderful staff & helpful, friendly people. That is something you can't say about where we live. Loved the art work on the walls, maybe you can incorporate some art work onto the cupboards in the rooms or even the kitchen. This was our first experience staying in a... more

Within seconds of stepping foot through the door, I was at ease with this unique hostel environment. The atmosphere was relaxed, the staff were awesome and the music was something else! If you are looking for affordable comfort then this is definitely the place to go, and hey, they even sell beer! more