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Why Tigh-Na-Mara Is the Ultimate Year-Round Retreat in Parksville Qualicum Beach

Tucked between towering Douglas firs, cedars, arbutus trees, and the tranquil Strait of Georgia, Tigh-Na-Mara offers more than just a place to stay — it’s a place to connect.

Whether you’re soaking in the serenity of the Grotto Spa, exploring sandy beaches with family, or gathering your team for a refreshing retreat, this Parksville resort welcomes guests to slow down and savour the rhythms of each year. From grounding winter escapes to carefree summer days, here’s why Tigh-Na-Mara remains a favourite retreat on Vancouver Island, season after season.

Spring: Fresh Air & Family Time

As nature begins to bloom and migratory birds return to the coast, spring provides the perfect time to connect with the outdoors. Tigh-Na-Mara’s woodland setting invites guests to explore nearby walking trails, breathe in the cedar-scented breeze, and comb the wide beaches just steps from their door.

Travelling with kids or multigenerational groups? Spring is ideal for peaceful family escapes before the busy summer season begins. The resort’s rooms and refreshed cottages, with updated decks and outdoor spaces, offer plenty of room for quiet mornings and relaxed evenings together.

Log Cabin at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa and Resort

After soaking up the fresh air, dine at Cedar’s Restaurant & Lounge, where the seasonal menu highlights Vancouver Island produce and flavours. Enjoy a sunlit patio lunch or gather indoors for a cozy evening meal highlighting local hospitality.

Summer: Sandcastles & Shared Memories

When low tides stretch the beaches for miles, Parksville becomes a playground for all ages, and Tigh-Na-Mara places families at the heart of the experience.

Whether it’s digging for clams, building sandcastles, or watching the sunset from your deck, summer stays are about soaking in every moment. Paddle boards and mountain bikes are available to guests who want to explore the shoreline or nearby trails, while the adjacent sports court, playground, and BBQ area create a central hub for family fun. It’s the perfect spot for kids to play, parents to relax, and everyone to enjoy a little friendly competition — from basketball and tennis to volleyball.

The resort's dog-friendly accommodations ensure no family member is left behind, and the Grotto Spa serves as a peaceful retreat for adults seeking a moment of calm.

Families love the easy rhythm of summer days here with nature walks in the morning, beach time in the afternoon, and s’mores around the fire at night. It's a tradition for many, and a new discovery for those visiting for the first time.

Fall: Calm, Connection & Corporate Retreats

As the leaves begin to turn, the pace of life softens, making fall one of the best times to experience the quieter side of this Vancouver Island resort.

Tigh-Na-Mara shines in the shoulder season, offering space for both focused work and meaningful connection. The Conference Centre features over 10,000 sq. ft. of flexible, naturally lit meeting space ideal for team retreats, strategic planning, and wellness-focused gatherings. With customizable setups, multiple breakout rooms, and the ability to accommodate both intimate groups and larger teams, it’s a space designed to adapt to your needs.

Sustainability is woven into every aspect of the experience — from thoughtful resort operations to culinary offerings that highlight the flavours of Vancouver Island. Seasonal menus showcase locally sourced ingredients, offering guests an authentic taste of the region. After a productive day, teams can come together over a memorable meal at Cedars or relax and recharge at the award-winning Grotto Spa. Just a short trip from city centres, Tigh-Na-Mara feels a world away, where you can plan, connect, and unwind all in one unforgettable setting.

Winter: Spa Serenity & West Coast Warmth

When the air is crisp and the tides are high, there’s something deeply soothing about retreating to the seaside. At Tigh-Na-Mara, winter is a season of rest, reflection, and restoration.

The award-winning Grotto Spa invites guests on a two-hour, self-paced wellness journey designed to soothe the body and mind. The experience begins with the mineral pool, crafted to emulate a natural stone grotto, followed by an invigorating cool splash waterfall, soothing cedar barrel saunas, and outdoor showers surrounded by evergreens. Guests can unwind fireside at the garden patio, soak in the large Whirlpool, and enjoy refreshments in the Relaxation Lounge. This is self-care that unfolds slowly, designed to be savoured. For a memorable finish, indulge in robe-and-slippers dining at Treetop Tapas & Grill, where you’ll enjoy a curated selection of chef-prepared bites, all delivered course by course in a serene spa setting.

Planning a mid-winter conference or strategic retreat to lay the groundwork for a new year? Tigh-Na-Mara offers a peaceful setting for focused gatherings, where fresh ocean air and quiet spaces help inspire big ideas.

Whether visiting for business or beach days, Tigh-Na-Mara invites you to stay rooted in nature and present in the moment with a welcoming mix of rustic charm, natural beauty, and thoughtful amenities. View current offerings and reserve your stay at the ultimate Vancouver Island retreat.

Have a few questions before booking? Here are answers to some of the most common inquiries from guests.

  • What does Tigh-Na-Mara mean? Tigh-Na-Mara means “House By The Sea,” in Gaelic.
  • When’s the best time to visit Vancouver Island? Tigh-Na-Mara is open year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm. Spring and fall are especially peaceful and picturesque times to visit. With mild summers and refreshingly cool winters, Vancouver Island is an ideal destination in every season.
  • Is Tigh-Na-Mara dog-friendly? Yes, select accommodations welcome dogs.
  • How long can guests stay in the mineral pool at Grotto Spa? Your two-hour experience is a self-paced wellness journey. To maximize health benefits, enjoy 15-minute intervals in the Mineral Pool, balanced with a cool shower, time in the Cedar Barrel Sauna, and a dip in the whirlpool. Staying in the pool for 45 minutes or less helps your body relax and recharge.
  • What time is check-in? Check-in begins at 5 PM, with check-out at 11 AM.
  • Does Tigh-Na-Mara have a gym? Yes, open from 7 AM to 11 PM, the Pool House & Fitness Centre is complimentary for Resort guests and offers an indoor swimming pool.
  • How many people can Tigh-Na-Mara’s Conference Centre accommodate? The resort features 11 conference rooms, accommodating up to 250 guests in one meeting space, plus breakout rooms.

*This blog is sponsored by Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort and Conference Centre

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Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre

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Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre

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