Family Activities in Parksville Qualicum Beach

Discover fun things to do with kids for your next family outing.

Whether you are planning a family vacation or hosting friends and relatives from out of town, our region makes it easy to bring multiple generations together with outdoor adventures, hands-on attractions, and relaxed places to gather.

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks
@milansmama__

1. Tee Off at Mini-Golf Fun Zones

Add some playful competition to your itinerary with a round of mini golf that will keep everyone smiling. Sink some puts at Paradise Mini Golf and Fun Park featuring two world-class mini-golf courses complete with a mini lighthouse, pirate ship and Victorian mansion. Riptide Lagoon Adventure Golf will whisk you away to another land filled with mini mountains, rapids and a research station.

Paradise Fun Park
@Frank._ca

2. Spend the Day at Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville is one of the province's most popular family destinations and is home to many resorts along Resort Drive. Wander through the forest on the oceanfront trail, enjoy a picnic, and play under the shade of the towering trees. At low tide, the ocean recedes almost a kilometer back from the shoreline, making it the perfect place to search for anemone, crabs, starfish, and other sea life that remain in the tide pools.

@sarahkirstien_images

3. Play at Parksville Community Beach

Keep the whole family entertained at Parksville Community Beach, where accessible play spaces make it easy for everyone to join in. Kids can climb and explore the playground, teens gravitate toward the skate park, and adults can relax nearby before regrouping for sandcastle building, tide pooling, swimming, or exploring events like the Parksville Beach Festival.

@tovogueorbust

4. Visit Coombs

Spend a few hours exploring Coombs, a lively stop packed with quirky sights and fun activities. Visit the Old Country Market to spot the famous goats grazing on the roof, then wander through the market’s mix of treats, souvenirs, and local goods. Stop by Butterfly World Coombs to get up close to colourful butterflies as they flutter freely among tropical plants in this immersive insectarium (open seasonally from spring through early fall).

@the_othermattjohnson

5. Explore Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

Experience farm life at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks through a self-guided visit that moves at your own pace. Kids enjoy meeting all of the different animals and climbing on old farm equipment, while the dairy barn, Mooseum, and shop add layers of learning, history, and local flavour to the stop. Be sure to stock up on fresh milk and cheese before heading out!

littlequalicumcheeseworks

6. Choose Adventure at Horne Lake Caves

Add a sense of wonder to your visit with a guided experience at Horne Lake Caves. Families can select tours designed for different ages and comfort levels, from gentle above ground activities and cave walks for younger explorers to more challenging adventures for older kids and teens.

@hornelakecaves

7. Hike the Falls at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

Enjoy a short, rewarding hike that suits a wide range of abilities at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. The well-maintained trail crosses two scenic bridges and brings you close to cascading waterfalls. There are plenty of places to explore and visitors of all ages will love spotting salmon spawning in the fall or cooling off with a refreshing swim during the summer.

Camielle Magarro

8. Wander Through Milner Gardens & Woodlands

Spend a peaceful afternoon strolling the trails and garden paths at Milner Gardens & Woodlands. Discovery Backpacks (included with admission) add hands-on learning for younger visitors, while seasonal blooms, tea time at the Camellia Tea Room, and annual events give returning relatives something new to enjoy each visit.

The Milner House

9. Take a Scenic Detour to Nanoose Bay

Head south to Nanoose Bay to explore sandstone beaches and coastal scenery. Families can spend the day getting out on the water, watching for wildlife, or heading out on scenic hikes that deliver sweeping ocean views and plenty of space to explore at their own pace.

10. Browse Shops & Markets

Shop local boutiques, galleries, farmers' markets, and seasonal markets, like the Summer by the Sea Street Market, that encourage browsing without rushing. These stops give everyone a chance to explore personal interests while providing the flexibility to easily change plans or return to your hotel if little ones need a break.

@qbfarmersmarket

11. Gather for a Meal

Close out the day by gathering around the table at a restaurant that suits your family's preferences. Find a restaurant with an incredible view, cozy atmosphere, ingredients sourced from local farms, and kid-friendly menus that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters.