Things to Do with Visiting Family & Friends

We asked locals what they like to show their friends and family when they come to visit Parksville Qualicum Beach and we were blown away by all their answers! Here are some of the ideas you shared with us.

1. Waterfalls, Beaches & Coombs Old Country Market

"Always Englishman River Falls or Little Qualicum Falls, Coombs Market, Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest, Rathtrevor Beach and trails." - Rhoda

Jacalyn Beales

Englishman River Falls is a 13 km drive from Parksville, and has an easy trail system that leads to two waterfalls and a swimming hole. About 25 minutes further along highway 4, Little Qualicum Falls has 6 km of trails including a loop trail to the upper and lower falls.

To explore an old-growth forest close to town, visit the Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest, where you'll follow mulch trails through 50 acres towering trees.

Rathtrevor Beach is a popular spot for families, with easy hiking trails, swimming, tidepooling at low tide, and plenty of room to enjoy the beach.

Round out the day at Coombs Old Country Market, known for the goats that graze on the roof (May-October) and local vendors.

2. Cameron Lake, Cathedral Grove & the Parksville Boardwalk

"Coombs Market/Goats on the Roof, Lake Cameron and Cathedral Grove, Little Mountain, Parksville Boardwalk." - Laura

@the_othermattjohnson

Just a 15 minute drive from downtown Qualicum Beach, Cameron Lake is a freshwater lake with a day-use area for swimming, fishing, windsurfing, and picnics. Right next to the lake is Cathedral Grove (MacMillan Provincial Park), home to some of Vancouver Island's oldest Douglas fir trees, with relatively flat and wide trails through the grove.

Take a short hike to the top of Little Mountain Lookout for panoramic views of forest and mountains. For something flatter and closer to town, the boardwalk at Parksville Beach is a paved, accessible waterfront path, great for a sunset stroll after dinner.

3. Qualicum Beach Farmers Market & Local Restaurants

"Our beautiful beaches and local parks. We always take our guests to the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market because they get to shop from local Vancouver Island makers, bakers, and growers. We like to pick up items and have a picnic at the beach. For food and beverages we have several favourites which include Flyte Cafe, Rusted Rake Brewing, Realm Food Co, Nanoose Bay Cafe, Wild Culture Bakery, and Q Burger. We are fortunate to live here!" - Launie

@qbfarmersmarket

The Qualicum Beach Farmers Market runs year-round and features Vancouver Island growers, bakers, and makers making it a great stop for picking up produce and other picnic supplies before heading to the beach.

For meals and drinks, check out this mix of cafes, breweries, and casual eateries recommended by locals: Flyte Cafe, Rusted Rake Brewing, Realm Food Co, Nanoose Bay Cafe, Wild Culture Bakery, and Q Burger.

Still hungry? Find more restaurants in our guide to 55 of the best restaurants in PQB.

4. Local Art & Culture

"The local artists such as Tweet Houses by Naomi!" - Suzanne

Vancouver Island artists often draw inspiration from the landscapes and wildlife around them including Tweet Houses by Naomi, a local artisan selling charming keepsakes and hand painted birdhouses at markets.

There are many galleries and studios showcasing local artists in Parksville Qualicum Beach including The Old School House Arts Centre, McMillan Arts Centre, Pentlatch Gallery, and the Salish Sea Market.

5. Second-Hand Finds & Vintage Items

"Love the SOS. Such a great thrift store, and does phenomenal charity work." - Beverly

SOS Thrift Shop is one of the largest thrift stores on Vancouver Island, with roughly 18,000 sq. ft. of secondhand clothing, vintage pieces, and household goods. Proceeds support local charitable work, which is part of why it's a repeat favourite for locals and visitors alike.

Spend a day shopping for vintage items and one-of-a-kind finds by visiting all of our thrift stores and consignment shops.

6. Parksville Community Park & Milner Gardens & Woodland

"Have lived here in Parksville for the last 32 years, and in Nanoose Bay before that for 17. Favourite places are Rathtrevor Beach, Lion's Adventure Playground in the Community Park and our beautiful new outdoor theater! And outside the city, always enjoy Goats on the Roof at Coombs Market, Englishman River Falls and Milner Gardens & Woodland! Love where I live!" - Tina

@attfieldabode

Parksville Community Park is home to Lion's Adventure Playground, a large play space designed for all ages and abilities. Also located at the park is the Parksville Outdoor Theatre, which hosts community performances throughout summer, including during Beachfest.

Milner Gardens and Woodland is a 70-acre seaside garden, with trails that wind through the gardens. The garden is known for its Greig Rhododendron Species Garden, featuring more than 500 varieties of rhododendrons, afternoon tea at the Camellia Tea Room, and seasonal events.

7. Beachcomber Regional Park & Moorecroft Regional Park

"Beachcomber Regional Park, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park and Moorecroft Regional Park." - Trish

Rathtrevor Beach.

Image: @juliiathompson

In Nanoose Bay, Beachcomber Regional Park and Moorecroft Regional Park each have rocky shorelines and wooded trails good for photos and quieter beach access. While at Beachcomber Regional Park, walk to Cottam Point for a chance to see sea lions.

8. North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

"We love Milner Gardens & Woodland and North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. Both are great places to visit!" - Jo-Anne

Image: North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. @Jordan Dyck

The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre rescues and rehabilitates injured and orphaned wildlife and is open for visitors to see animals during their recovery.

Did you know Parksville Qualicum Beach is home to several educational, animal attractions? During their visit, consider showing guests Little Qualicum Cheeseworks, a working dairy farm, or bring them to see butterflies at Butterfly World Coombs.

9. Englishman River Estuary & Top Bridge

"We have only lived in Parksville for a year but have found so many places to explore. Rathtrevor Beach, The Community Park, Englishman River, Little Qualicum Falls, Top Bridge, Englishman River Estuary, Heritage Woods, Little Mountain and many more!" - Wanda

There are so many parks to discover in Parksville Qualicum Beach with hiking trails ranging from flat, family-friendly walks to longer routes with river and mountain views.

Top Bridge Regional Park has a suspension bridge crossing over the Englishman River and the trail connects Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park to the Englishman River Regional Park.

The Englishman River Estuary offers flat, easy walking trails through tidal marshland and is a popular spot for birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migration.