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Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite

Lakefront apartment with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite

Interior detail
Big Chair Photo Op!!!!!!
Miscellaneous
Beach
Property grounds

Reviews

10 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 455.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Dryer
  • Washer
  • Fireplace
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

View map
Nanaimo, BC
  • Place, Vancouver Island University
    ‪14 min drive‬
  • Place, Duke Point Ferry Terminal
    ‪16 min drive‬
  • Place, Departure Bay Ferry Terminal
    ‪20 min drive‬
  • Airport, Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome)
    ‪15 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 4)

Bedroom 1

1 Queen Bed

Living Room 1

1 Double Sofa Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom 1

Towels provided · Toilet · Shower only · Hair dryer

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Garden

About this property

Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite

We are located minutes away from both Nanaimo and Ladysmith in the Nanaimo River area, and minutes away from great biking and hiking trails. This suite has a private entrance, private outdoor area and access to a private lake shared only by 5 other homes on the lake.

Our one-bedroom lower guest suite has high ceilings, and plenty of windows for a gorgeous lake view. Take a park like walk through the backyard past a waterfall and pond to the sand beach where a dock is ready for you hang in the sun watching the dragon flies flitter about, take the pedal boat out, paddle board around the lake or cool off with a refreshing swim. We have life jackets available for use.

Should the weather not be compatible with a swim, the canoe is available for an afternoon cruise, the decks are a great place to spread out your yoga mats, and the dock is a great place to sit and read a book. Should you choose, the wood fire pit will be available to you along with pokers for a wiener or marshmallow roast. ( baring any fire ban in the area) There are plenty of nature walks around the area and great spots to take photographs or do some sketching or painting.

The suite has a fully equipped kitchen with dishwasher , microwave, refrigerator and stove. All amenities are stocked so you need not worry about a bottle opener or wine glasses or even serving bowls if you want to snuggle in front of the TV and have popcorn. The bathroom has a walk-in shower with massaging jets, a hand held wand and a rain shower head. We have hotel style fluffy towels, toiletries, and a hair dryer for your use. The living space has a fireplace, convertible couch to chaise lounge for relaxing and enjoying the view or watching some TV. There is a desk area with USB ports for times when a laptop is needed. Board games, cards and a crib board are available in the suite for your use.

The bedroom is set up with hypoallergenic pillows and a Canadian down duvet with smooth cotton high thread count sheets. Side tables have lamps with USB ports for charging your cell phones and there are extra pillows and blankets in the closet if you need them. The suite does sleep 4 however it is designed for two adults and two children as the couch is a small pull out and not a full bed. ( See Photos)

We do allow small dogs but please inquiry prior to booking as some rules do apply.


When you arrive, you will find some sparkling water and a basket with treats as a token of our appreciation for booking your stay with us. We look forward to having you visit our Dragon fly retreat and property.

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Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Pet-friendly
Free WiFi
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 3:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
No children under 12 alone at lake/watercraft
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

Pets allowed: dogs less than 9 kg per pet (limit one pet total)
Inquire prior to booking. No unattended pets.
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Smoking

Smoking allowed: in designated areas
Please use a safe butt container.

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
Pets can not be left unattended for long periods of time. One vehicle per visit, limited parking spaces available.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
Property Registration Number H976778449

About the area

Arrowsmith-Benson

Located in Arrowsmith-Benson, this apartment is on the waterfront. Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and Duke Point Ferry Terminal are worth checking out if an activity is on the agenda. Nanaimo Aquatic Centre and Brechin Lanes are also worth visiting. Make sure you get close to the area's animals with activities such as game walks and birdwatching.
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Map
Nanaimo, BC

What's nearby

  • Vancouver Island University - 14 min drive - 14.6 km
  • Old City Quarter - 15 min drive - 12.9 km
  • Duke Point Ferry Terminal - 16 min drive - 17.9 km
  • Nanaimo Regional General Hospital - 17 min drive - 19.1 km
  • Departure Bay Ferry Terminal - 20 min drive - 16.4 km

Getting around

  • Nanaimo, BC (YCD) - 12 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Sip Pub - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬11 min drive
  • ‪coco cafe - ‬17 min drive
  • ‪Tim Hortons - ‬16 min drive
  • ‪7-Eleven - ‬15 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite pet-friendly?

Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 1 total) with a maximum weight of up to 9 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.

What time is check-in at Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is Dragon Fly retreat lakeside suite located?

Situated on the waterfront, this apartment building is within 9 miles (15 km) of WildPlay Element Parks Nanaimo, Departure Bay Ferry Terminal and WildPlay Nanaimo. Casino Nanaimo and Nanaimo Museum are also within 9 miles (15 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 66 out of 67 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 1 out of 67 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 67 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 67 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

9.6/10

Amenities

10/10

Property conditions & facilities

10/10

Eco-friendliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Angela C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Our family had a wonderful stay at Dragon Fly retreat. The place was clean, the area was beautiful and Jodi and Randy were excellent hosts! It was also very nice to have a place that would welcome our puppy to be with us. Would definitely stay again!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Get away

Just what we needed a lovely place to relax!
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rüdiger T.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A hideaway in the hills above Nanaimo...

A very well-kept gem that invites you to rest and relax, while also being a great destination for trips in the surrounding area. Many small details in the garden and by the lake have been lovingly arranged, so there is always something new to discover. A very attentive hostess had provided a welcome basket with treats, as well as thoughtfully stocking the refrigerator with water. She was very attentive and made us feel very welcome. This marked the beginning of an all-around successful stay at the Dragonfly Resort, which we thoroughly enjoyed. We highly recommend this accommodation!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Felipe C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing place

We loved the place. Excellent for a getaway. The property is cozy, clean, and organized and has everything you need. The lake right behind the house is terrific. Jodi is thoughtful and kind. We will be staying again soon.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tammy N., Chilliwack BC ,Canada

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Anniversary trip

We very much enjoyed our stay at the Dragon Fly Retreat The grounds are absolutely beautiful and very private The suite was beautiful and our view from our deck overlooking the lake and yard was stunning.. So quiet and peaceful and a perfect place to spend our 10th wedding anniversary..
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Doug L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Dragonfly Retreat

This is a fantastic property to stay at and it is wonderfully quiet and secluded from everyday life. I can not think of a better property we could have picked and Jan and Randy the hosts were wonderful to deal with. We will definately be back in the future to get some rest and relaxation.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2024

10/10 Excellent

Michele N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

You can never go wrong here!

We always enjoy staying here. Very peaceful and relaxing. We had a small hiccup unlocking the door but Jodi got up to help us even though we arrived at 3 am! Much appreciated after a long flight delay. Everything we needed and more was available. We will be back. :-)
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveller

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Host were so kind and accommodating. The unit was exactly as described and shown in pictures. This was located a few short miles out of town and in a very quiet picturesque setting. There was not a thing we did not like.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Michele N., Calgary

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Just what a summer vacation should be!

Everything we needed for a great summer getaway was here at Dragon Fly retreat. Indoors, there was a comfortable bed, great kitchen with all we needed, and a spacious bathroom. Outdoors, there were multiple places to relax and a fabulous dock with SUPs, a canoe, peddle boats and floaties. Amazing! We were sorry to leave but have good memories to keep us smiling. Jodi and Randy were were excellent hosts.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Rhonda K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Little Slice of Heaven

As I was going to write the review for our stay, I read Mark’s earlier review and it appears he captured every detail of this gem!! We had a fabulous and relaxing week long stay. Having full use of the entire backyard space down to the lake was a very unexpected surprise! The lake was warm and the water was clean. The hosts were very welcoming and friendly and the house and yard were spotless. Kids have already asked me to rebook again for next year! Thanks so much for sharing your little slice of heaven with us!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Mark N., Gibsons

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spectacular lakefront accommodation!

This property is a truly amazing find. Bright , modern and clean , with all the comforts of home and lake views from every window. This hidden gem is minutes from Nanaimo yet secluded. Multiple outdoor spaces to relax in the shade or sun including your own private covered lake view deck area with BBQ and propane fireplace and sunny dock with gazebo for the shade lovers. Water toys available for use were peddle boat , stand up paddle boards, canoe , life jackets and other floating toys. We stayed for a week and because its a private lake with a handful of homes , we essentially had the entire lake to ourselves in mid July. The owners were outstanding in attention to detail and making sure our vacation was perfect. It’s no wonder all reviews for this VRBO are 5-star!
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Han N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Excellent Retreat!

We had the most excellent stay at Jodi and Randy's place! Our kids absolutely LOVED spending time out on the dock looking for frogs and fishes. There are many activities that the owners allow guests to use - canoe, paddle boat, life jackets, etc. We absolutely love that it was a private lake so we have plenty of privacy! The guestsuite is sparking clean. All the cooking amenities were available for a nice bbq grill in the patio. Towels and toiletries were available and very clean. We felt like we were staying at a resort! Randy greeted us when we arrived and Jodi was our main contact. They were very prompt to all our inquiries and super friendly! They definitely treat you like family! Overall, this was our favorite place at Vancouver Island. It's close enough to the ferries and within driving distance to stores. I would highly recommend Jodi and Randy's place for those looking for a private resort style lodging. Thanks Jodi and Randy for an amazing stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

j d.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Dragon Fly retreat is a beautiful place on a small, quiet, non motorized lake; perfect to relax and unwind. The hosts thought of everything, beach towels, paddle boards, and ample cooking equipment. We really enjoyed our stay and spent most of our time lounging on the deck chairs on the dock. Life is good!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Rowan V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
What a lovely, quiet place to rest and relax!
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jodi M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property, so peaceful. We had a relaxing stay. We had the lake all to ourselves along with the Bobs (the three beavers) and otters. Jodi and Randy were super accommodating. My 9 year old loved hunting for frogs.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Richard G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
This was our second time staying here and it was another amazing week’s stay. We enjoyed the lake for swimming, paddle boarding, and relaxing on the dock. Owners very friendly and helpful. Close car drive to Ocean and hiking. Suite very clean and well stocked kitchen. Has its own deck over looking the lake. Great place for morning coffee. Thanks for another great stay.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ken F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
A Place of Peace. We hope to go back!Our family had an amazing time at the Dragon Fly Retreat. It was the perfect place for our family to relax, swim, and head out for day trips around the island. Working with Jodi was easy. We totally recommend this place.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sara H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Highly recommend.

This was a lovely and spectacular place for us. Quiet, clean, beautiful setting. Jodi and Randy were welcoming, friendly, and so very helpful. Loved the lake and especially the nesting Pied-Billed Grebes. Would love to return if we find ourselves in the area again.
Stayed 4 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

john K.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Best ever

Stayed 7 nites, everything first class , great view and private property grounds , everything that you would want is supplied, Faye John and Molly
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peggy

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
This property is absolutely gorgeous. And the property owners are super nice and easy to talk to. We loved looking out over the lake. There are all kinds of things to do at the lake and the hosts even provide fun water crafts and chairs. Wouldn't hesitate to stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

John V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Very peaceful getaway haven - in a beautiful setting

Very comfortable and high quality suite - and the setting and grounds are very hard to beat
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cindy P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Staying here was a treat

If you love peace, tranquility, and privacy, look no further. The grounds and lake are stunningly beautiful, even in the fall. Suite is tastefully furnished, well-equipped, and with many thoughtful extras you don't typically find in a vacation rental. Jodi and Randy are exceptionally wonderful hosts who go out of their way to make sure guests have a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Stayed 16 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Jamie D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay

Great spot for a family getaway. Jodi and her partner were easy to communicate with and very helpful.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Naomi M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Ode to an oasis!

This perfect Oasis by a small private spring fed lake was heaven. We had such a wonderful relaxing time. The place was modern and clean. We ate our meals outside on the deck overlooking the beautiful grounds and lake. Jodi and Randy are lovely hosts and they have thought of everything to make your stay stress free. You can hang out at their private dock and swim, float and paddle around on a board, or canoe. If you are looking to de-stress or just to get away I would highly recommend a stay at the aptly named Dragonfly resort.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Tamara F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Peaceful

Super quiet, peaceful and relaxing just what we needed.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

About the host

Hosted by Jodi Mahoney

Host profile image

What makes this property unique

Dock and shaded gazebo are strictly for guest use so you do not need to share with hosts. There is a small sandy area that is great for small children to play. We do supply some water toys and floaties for children as well as life jackets in 3 sizes.
There are 5 different areas at or near the lake to sit and relax so you can move in or out of the sun at your discretion.

Languages:

English

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