Community Spotlight Series: Qualicum Beach Inn

Just steps away from the beach, the Qualicum Beach Inn combines natural beauty and local charm and is run by a team who strives to make every guest's experience exceptional. We spoke to the Inn's General Manager, Irina Ciumac, about life in Parksville Qualicum Beach and some of her favourite local spots.

How would you describe the place you live to someone who is yet to visit?

"Qualicum Beach is a picturesque oceanside town next to the beautiful Strait of Georgia. A perfect blend of natural beauty and local charm, the town and surrounding area have something for everyone. You can explore the shops and restaurants in the heart of the city, catch a glimpse of seals and whales on your walk by the ocean, or enjoy the peace and serenity of nearby waterfalls tucked away amongst the old-growth trees."

What do you love about where you live?

"We love so much about Qualicum Beach, but if we had to narrow it down to our top 3, it would be: The small-town vibe where you get to know your local businesses and the people who run them. The accessibility of nature. We're close to the ocean, mountains, and forests. There's an endless amount of places to explore close by. Being located centrally to many other getaways. We're just off the highway on the way to Tofino, just north of Nanaimo and the ferry over to mainland BC, and there are several ferry terminals close to many of the Gulf Islands like Hornby, Denman, Lasqueti, and Gabriola."

What other businesses should people see during their visit?

"For breakfast and coffee: French Press, Courtyard Coffee, Baileys in the Village. For lunch or dinner: Qualicum Beach Café, Giovanni's, Bistro 694, The Shady Rest, Final Approach, Sapphire Room at the Crown Mansion, Qualicum Sushi, Sushi Hama. For a burger and a beer: Q-Burger, Fern + Cedar. For golf: Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf, Pheasant Glen Golf Course."

You have a free day in PQB. What do you do?

"Wake up, check out the local farmers market on Saturday, and grab a coffee from a local shop. Walk around the village and check out the boutique shops. Book a tee time at QB Memorial Golf course, relax on the vast beachfront, or check out Little Qualicum Falls or Milner Gardens. Finish the afternoon with a local QB beer at Fern + Cedar and relax with a sunset oceanfront dinner on the QB Café patio."