Begin your winter getaway with a stay at a cozy cabin tucked away in the forest. Bundle up under a fleece blanket in front of a crackling fire and spend a relaxing night indoors. In the morning, if you’re ready to leave your cabin, explore these top activities.

Experience Christmas Magic

During the holiday season Milner Gardens and Woodland put together breathtaking displays for the Milner Christmas Magic event. From December 2-4, 9-11, and 16-21 visitors are invited to stroll through the gardens and admire colourful illuminations.

Catch a Show by the Echo Players

Grab your ticket, sit back, and enjoy the impressive plays put on by the Echo Players at the Village Theatre. On select dates from December 8-27 the Echo Players will put on a production of A Visit from St. Nicholas or The Night Before Christmas. Then, from January 19 to January 22, head to the Vancouver Island Juried One-Act Play Festival for imaginative one-act plays performed by talented, local artists.

Shop for Gifts

Find unique and handmade gifts at the many local boutiques and craft fairs this holiday season. From November 25-27 visitors can support local makers at the Qualicum Beach WinterFest Craft Fair. Enjoy late night shopping and impressive store displays during the Moonlight Madness event in Qualicum Beach.

Glide Across the Ice

Tie on your skates for the Winter Wonderland event at Oceanside Place Arena from December 13 - December 27. There will be special lighting and decor to mimic skating on an outdoor pond at night. Those who don’t skate are invited to view the lights from the deck.

Make the Plunge

Are you brave enough to plunge into the frigid winter waters? If so, jump start your new year with a freezing swim at the annual Polar Bear Splash.

Spot a Sea Lion

While exploring Parksville Qualicum Beach keep an eye out for sea lions. California Sea Lions and Steller Sea Lions migrate to Vancouver Island during the winter to feed on late salmon and herring runs. Be sure to observe the sea lions from a safe distance so as to not disturb them.

Take a Hike

Bundle up and head outdoors for remarkable views of nature. Many popular trails are open all season long and during the colder months hikers can enjoy some solitude on the trails. Meander along the paths at Little Mountain and Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park for unforgettable views of nature.

Follow the trails at Cathedral Grove to view trees as old as 800 years old and see a Douglas Fir 9-meters in circumference. As you follow the trails at Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest keep an eye out for Barred Owls, Great-Horned Owls, and other unique fauna that call this forest home.

Explore Local History

Spend the day learning about local history and culture at Qualicum Beach Museum (open Tuesday & Thursday afternoons, October to May). The museum features incredible exhibits about the Qualicum First Nations history, social and natural history, and a variety of travelling exhibits that change throughout the year.

Enjoy Holiday Dining Specials

Local businesses offer holiday specials, deals, and vacation packages throughout the holiday season.

Tigh-Na-Mara offers guests special holiday menus including a Christmas brunch, three course Christmas dinner, breakfast on December 26 and a New Year's Eve four course dinner. And don't miss the chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast and support children in need at the 14th Annual Toy Drive Breakfast (Nov. 14-25, Nov. 30).

Throughout winter the Beach Club offers dining in cozy domes on the beach so guests can savor a delicious meal with incredible views while being protected from the elements.