10 Amazing Swim Spots to Cool Off This Summer in Parksville Qualicum Beach

Here are some of our favourite spots to cool off from the summer sun:

Top Bridge Park

Top Bridge Regional Park in the Englishman River Regional Park is a local favourite swimming hole. Drift away in its natural lazy river, jump off ‘the nose’, and play or lay on its beaches.

Rathtrevor Beach

Swim in bathtub-warm waters after the tide comes in over sun-baked sand.⁠ Lined with towering Douglas Fir trees, Rathtrevor Beach is the ultimate place for nature lovers and birders. Plus, it’s connected to local trail systems, and a campground if you wish to extend your stay.

Cameron Lake

Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and sandy shores of Cameron Lake. This beach is not frequently monitored, so use caution when swimming here.

Parksville Community Beach

With its calm oceanfront, this beach is a popular destination for families. And when low tide hits, there’s plenty more space to explore. Kids will love hunting for seashells during low tide and exploring the beachfront playground and water park.

Spider Lake

A big, sandy beach area near the parking lot is a central spot to hang out, swim or paddle. Best of all, Spider Lake is off-limits to all motorized boats. That means the peace is only likely to be broken by the sound of happy laughter and the cheers of anglers catching small-mouth bass that frequent these waters.

Outdoor Pool at Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort

If you’re staying at Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort you can enjoy their beautiful outdoor pool (open May-October) and hot tub which is open all year round.

Brickyard Community Park

Brickyard Community Park is located on Amberwood Lane, with easy access to the water. This rocky beach is less suited to sunbathers but perfect for swimming. If you’d rather stay dry, take a seat on the benches and soak in the incredible ocean views.

Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach is family-friendly, with wide expanses of white sand during low tide and a paved, shady promenade to enjoy when the tide comes in. The calm, warm waters make it the perfect place to take your little ones for a dip.

Horne Lake

Grab your floaties or SUP boards to enjoy this serene spot. Tip: Next to Big Qualicum River, there is a day-use area that is shallow and perfect for wading or swimming.

Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara

If it’s a cooler day and you want to treat yourself, book a spa package at the Grotto Spa and Treetop Tapas at Tigh-Na-Mara to warm up and relax. The pool is infused with natural minerals and trace elements that help to detoxify the body. This has been voted the #1 best spa in Canada year after year.