One of Canada's largest hostels looks like a Victorian hospital but has a scenic near-the-beach location. Basic rooms make this the least palatial Vancouver HI hostel, but it has a large kitchen, bike rentals and a popular licenced cafe. Dorms are also larger here. Book ahead for the popular budget-hotel-style private rooms (with shared and private bathroom options).
For many, this hostel delivers more of a vacation than its downtown siblings due to its retreat-like beach proximity. Take bus 4 west along 4th Ave and disembark at the intersection with NW Marine Dr. The hostel is a short stroll downhill from there. It's also a 10-minute bus hop to the University of BC if you want to avail yourself of the museums and restaurants there – or just pretend you're still a student.