A Vancouver Island resort that only opened its doors last year is already turning heads on the global stage.
Naturally Pacific Resort in Campbell River has landed a spot on Travel + Leisure’s coveted “It List” of the 100 best new and renovated hotels in the world—and it’s one of just a handful that made the cut in the Affordable Luxury category.
The 2025 “It List” marks Travel + Leisure’s 20th annual roundup and includes six categories: Best City Hotels, Splurge-Worth Stays, U.S. Resorts, Affordable Luxury, International Flair, and On the Water.
The magazine sent 64 writers around the world to scope out properties in 44 different countries.
Naturally Pacific Resort ranked 12th in its category, and writer Carrie Honaker had nothing but praise. From the moment she walked in, she was greeted with stunning life-sized photos of Vancouver Island’s wild beauty—Myra Falls, Mount Washington, and grizzlies in the Bute Inlet all setting the tone.
“We’re incredibly proud to be named to the Travel + Leisure It List,” she said.
“This recognition reflects the heart and vision behind Naturally Pacific Resort — to create a place where elegance and nature live in harmony, and every guest feels the magic of the West Coast.”
That theme carries into the rooms with nature-inspired palettes, stone vanities, and textured walls in earthy hues.
What really made it stand out?
A 10,000-square-foot garden, an apiary, and orchard supplying ingredients to the resort’s restaurant. Plus, guests can choose to skip housekeeping in exchange for the resort purchasing a square metre of protected rainforest in their name through a partnership with Wilderness International.
Related: There’s a new nature-inspired resort and spa coming to Campbell River
Doubles at the resort start at $124, making it a rare blend of upscale and accessible.
Naturally Pacific officially opened in May 2024, offering an oceanside escape designed for both relaxation and adventure. Locally owned and operated, it features the Carve Kitchen & Meatery led by Executive Chef Ryan Watson, the Immersion Spa & Wellness centre, and an indoor pool framed by floor-to-ceiling windows.
Outside, guests can enjoy fire pits, a sunny pool deck, and hot tub—all nestled beside the Campbell River Golf Club’s rolling greens.
The interiors, designed in collaboration with CHIL Interior Design, reflect the surrounding natural elements—from forested trails to coastal shorelines. With 100 guest rooms and suites, each space offers a peaceful retreat, and the resort even welcomes pets with thoughtful touches like co-branded Yeti dog beds and dog washing stations.
Naturally Pacific’s Owner and Managing Director Amanda Mailman says the resort is a tribute to her family’s roots in Campbell River. “We are proud to share what we hope will become an iconic Vancouver Island destination resort with our community, and warmly welcome travellers from across the world to enjoy the natural beauty on our doorstep.”
From local honey in your cocktail to the comfort of knowing your stay supports rainforest conservation, it’s easy to see why this Island gem has caught the world’s attention.
