The Parksville Qualicum district of Central Vancouver Island includes these two towns, plus a number of unique rural areas clustered haphazardly under the distant shadow of Mount Arrowsmith. Coombs, famous for its Goats on the Roof, Errington, for its Englishman River Falls and the Hammerfest Bike Trail, and Nanoose Bay for the fact Elvis Costello and Diana Krall own a house there.
The entire area comprises a total population of around 20,000, with a two sheet arena and a state of the art swimming pool. Parksville is best known for its beach and annual Sand Castle Competition in the Community Park. Qualicum is renowned for its high senior population density (38% over 65) currently the highest in Canada. The letters to the editor section sees a lot of complaints that go along the lines, “I just moved here from Alberta 4 years ago and I’m shocked at how much has changed...”
The area is built on tourism and senior services and the climate is second only to Victoria in terms of annual sunshine and temperature. The area is rife with artists and artisans, but because there is no well-defined centralized artists community as you might get on a Gulf Island, this fact is often overlooked.
Some must-visit locations might be the Rod and Gun for their cover band nightlife, Paradise Bumper Boats, Sushi Ichi in Parksville. and Westhill Chinese Food on the highway heading west.. The SOS in Parksville is probably the best thrift store I’ve ever been in, and there are some fine local coffee shops including Serious Coffee, Cha Cha Java and even a Starbucks.
For natural beauty you can’t beat Top Bridge Regional Park, the Horne Lake Caves and Park, Englishman River Falls and the Qualicum Rver Falls. Rathtrevor Park is second to none for a beachfront walk or forest camping excursion. Some other local festivals include the Brant Wildlife Festival, a celebration of the migrating Brant Goose, Qualicum’s Fire and Ice Fest that features ice-carving and chili competitions, the Coombs Rodeo and more.
Parksville Qualicum
(Subscribe)
Links
http://www.paradisefunpark.net/
(1 vote)
Paradise Fun Park offers two world class miniature golf courses and a fully serviced Vancouver Island RV Parks, making it an ideal family vacation destination. Mini-golf, bumper boats, amusement centre, family fun, family vacation. Parksville RV Parks, Vancouver Island, BC
Read 1 Review
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.tigerlilyfarm.ca/
Tiger Lily farm features a family friendly Petting Farm and Trail Rides through majestic Vancouver Island Coastal forest. We cater special events such as birthday parties, weddings, and community fairs, offering pony rides, horse and buggy, petting zoo, and more.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.golfarrowsmith.com/
Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club, the only course right in Lighthouse Country, is an 18-hole, par-61 Executive golf course. Beautifully manicured with a grass driving range, a practice bunker, two practice greens, and a full-service clubhouse.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.milnergardens.org
Meet, mingle, and be inspired by local artists at work. Artists will be painting, sketching, carving, and photographing the beauty of this Artist’s Garden. Live music and Silent art auction. August 9th & 10th. Gardens open at 10:00 am with last admission at 4:30pm. Adults $11, students $6.50, children 12 and under accompanied by an adult, Milner Gardens members, and current VIU students with card enter free.
This years’ artists include:
1) Jacqueline Barley
2) Valerie Bronsard
3) Eunmi Conacher
4) Alan Cornall
5) Laurene Ebbet
6) Vivian Frow
7) Dan Gray
8) Elsie Griffiths
9) Randy Hall
10) Roy Hancliffe
11) Therese Johnston
12) Al Knutson
13) Jessey LaFontaine
14) Colin Mallard
15) Donna McDonnell
16) Lynn Orriss
17) David Rowe
18) Karin Schieber
19) Marlies Schottke
20) Els Schutte
21) Michael Schutte
22) Lesley Silverstone
23) Norman Silverstone
24) Greg Swainson
25) Elizabeth Symons
26) Elena Travanut
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.avoseatery.com/
Avo's is a new restaurant serving "Healthy, Fresh, Southwest" flavours of food and drink. Located beside Starbuck's, we have created a fun atmosphere and outdoor patio dining. Our name, short for Avocados's, just happens to be a common, nutritious ingredient in many dishes. Our goal is to provide fresh, flavourful food that satisfies your palate and nourishes your body. Kid's menu available. We welcome you to our new, licensed establishment.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://beachacresresort.com/
Beach Acres Resort's accommodations are situated on 23 acres of forested property bordered by Rathtrevor Beach's sandy seashore on BC's Vancouver Island. The mild climate and spectacular local beaches of the Parksville area have earned us the nickname of Canada’s Riviera
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.beachclubbc.com/
The Beach Club Resort hotel is located on the site of the historic Island Hall Resort and features the most luxurious hotel rooms in Parksville, on Vancouver Island’s east coast; offering every guest an unparalleled vacation experience. Rated 4 stars by Canadian Star Quality Accommodations, guest rooms offer private balconies, spectacular ocean and mountain views, thoughtful amenities, and feature beautifully appointed West Coast décor. The hotel’s amenities include: seaside pool and hot tub, fitness centre, Stonewater Spa, and Pacific Prime Steak & Chop Restaurant with its famous beachfront patio just off the Parksville Beach Boardwalk.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://bodyworksgym.ca/
At BodyWorks, we’re passionate about providing you with the most complete health and fitness experience possible, no matter what stage you are currently at.
We offer a variety of exercise options and membership plans in order to keep fitness both fun and affordable.
At BodyWorks, we offer a wide variety of services, including:
- Co-ed Fitness Facility
- Ladies Only Fitness Facility
- NEW! Over 40 free fitness classes
- Tanning Salon
- Sauna
- Fitness circuit
- Cardio machines
- Free Weights
- Low-resistance Circuit Equipment
- Personal Training
- Personal Nutritional Plans
- Open 7 days per week
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.eaglecrestgolfclub.ca
Eaglecrest Golf Club is located in the beautiful Oceanside area of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Established in 1971, Eaglecrest is one of the oldest clubs in the area. This 18 hole championship golf course offers lush fairways and towering evergreen trees.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.fairwinds.ca/
Visit Fairwinds Resort & full service Marina with our 18 hole golf course, private home development sites and affordable golfing and fishing vacation packages. Resort accommodation Vancouver Island - hotel, golf course, marina, bc fishing vacation
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.creekhouseresort.com
French Creek House Resort offers travelers oceanfront accommodations. Cottages are conveniently located on Hwy. 19A between Parksville, BC and Qualicum Vancouver Island, British Columbia Canada. Our self contained rental cabins are located approximately 2-20 min. from 6 local golf courses, 5 min. from local grocery and shopping
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.freshnfabulousflowers.com
At Fresh N Fabulous Flowers and Gifts, we've been providing top quality products and friendly, expert service since we opened in 2008 and quickly gained a loyal clientele earning a reputation for an outstanding style and excellent value. Place your next order with us today and find out why so many people are making us Qualicum Beach's favorite flower shop.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.giovannisqualicum.com
Fine Italian Cuisine in a Friendly and Informal Atmosphere
Giovanni's Ristorante is celebrating three years as part of Qualicum Beach's restaurant scene, as of July 2011. Having firmly established itself as a favorite among local clientèle and visitors alike, Giovanni's offers an exciting dining experience. Qualicum Beach is known for being a favourite Canadian retirement community and a great place to vacation, and has gained a reputation for 'closing down' early in the evening, lacking anywhere to enjoy a good meal past 8:00 pm. While there are many options in the area to grab a quick burger or a beef dip, complete with fries, if you are one of those people who have a more discerning palate and seek something more, you probably would have had to get the map out and fill up the gas tank to plan a night out. No longer!
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.grottospa.com/
The Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort is the #1 Spa in Western Canada, offering signature treatments and services. Featuring 18 treatment rooms, a nail room featuring European Pedicure Thrones and a full service hair salon. The three private day suites for two, feature hand-crafted copper soaker tubs and oversized treatments tables.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.hubcityrv.ca
Hub City RV is British Columbia’s Premier RV Dealer. We are located just south of Parksville and 20 minutes north of Nanaimo, on the New Island Highway in Nanoose Bay. We are Vancouver Islands Exclusive Dealer for Wildcat by Forest River and Puma by Palomino. See the all new Canyon Cat Travel Trailers! Come and see what these top brands have to offer in fifth wheels, travel trailers and park models.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.icyclebc.com/
Located in Parksville BC, Island Cycle is your Mid-Island source for Marin, Brodie, Louis Garneau, Marinoni, FreeAgent bikes. You will find an excellent selection of kids and family bikes, front and full suspension mountain bikes, dirt jump, BMX, and all the accessories to compliment you and your bicycle.
You get a full range of parts, friendly expert service and repairs for all makes & brands of bicycles.
Check out our trails page! You will find mountain bike trails and bike routes for BC for you to ride whether on Vancouver Island or elsewhere in BC.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://inntheestuary.com
InnThe Estuary B&B/Vacation Rental is located literally in Nanoose Estuary in a completely surrounded sensitive protected area and borders on 80 acres of Federal Wildlife Reserve. This sanctuary we live in provides awesome displays of many types of birds and other animals all year round.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://jimsgym.ca
Jim's Gym is a state-of-the-art co-ed health club and fitness facility located in Parksville, on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.
Our 10,000 square foot facility is fully equipped with new top of the line equipment including a large variety of cardio stations (including treadmills, upright, recumbent, and spin cycle bikes, elliptical trainers and rowing machines), weight apparatus, and free weights.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.ken-dor.ca/
Serving Parksville and surrounding area for over two decades. We are a retail garden centre with a farm where we grow our nursery stock. We also have a full serviced floral department. We can provide a wide range of plants for every need, whether it be for your residential and commercial projects—large or small.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.kriskringle.ca/
A one-of-a-kind juried art and crafts show nestled in beautiful Parksville, featuring over 120 Exhibitors showing this year that are talented, creative artists and craftspeople from all over BC at the most beautifully decorated Christmas show.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.leftys.tv/
Lefty's Fresh Food Restaurants celebrating 10 years of 'fresh', located in Qualicum Beach and Parksville, British Columbia, Canada. At Lefty's we take pride in two lasting philosophies: Fresh Food and Great People. We strive to make each visit something more than just a great meal. We call it the Leftcoast Experience.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.lifesthebeach.com/
Enjoy all the comforts of home in a short term vacation rental. Vacation rentals provide ideal family accommodations, with fully equipped kitchens, linens, laundry facilities and backyards for the kids to play in. Reserve your very own cottage near the sea. All you need to bring is your suitcase. When life is good, "Life's the Beach."
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.cheeseworks.ca/
(1 vote)
ARTISAN CHEESES HANDCRAFTED ON VANCOUVER ISLAND
Nestled In the cool moist climate of Vancouver Island under the towering Mt. Arrowsmith, Little Qualicum Cheeseworks, alongside MooBerry Winery on Morningstar Farm produces a selection of world-class cheeses to delight the senses.
Using only the highest quality milk from our own herd of Holstein, Ayrshire, Brown Swiss and Canadienne dairy cows, we have an artisan cheese to suit any occasion, meal or just a light, fresh snack.
So come visit us at the farm – take a look around, watch the CheeseMakers in action and learn a bit about how we make cheese. Sample the different varieties, tour the farm (self-guided, with our map), enjoy a stroll around the farm perimeter and/or stay for a picnic. And you just can’t leave without visiting all the animals - cows & calves (of course!), sheep, goats, pigs, horses, bunnies and 'Carl' the llama.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.mysticravenadventures.com/
Mystic Raven Adventures offers hiking and walking tours in lesser known areas of the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area. We aim to introduce people to the magnificent natural rainforest beauty of Vancouver Island in an ecologically responsible and unique manner.
Tours range from easy to medium hiking difficulty and are designed to foster a deeper understanding of what it means to live in, and spiritually utilize, the rainforest that is Vancouver Island. Our guide will not only lead you to some amazing natural scenery, but will tell you some interesting stories about what you are seeing as well!
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://niwra.org/
Nestled in the district of Errington on Vancouver Island, NIWRA is a park like setting with a peaceful rustic atmosphere. When visiting the centre you will be able to view eagles, several species of owls, falcons, hawks, ravens, and black bears.
During the summer months, live raptor presentations are available for you.
The centre is a world class wildlife rehabilitation facility specializing in raptors and black bear. Magnificant eagles can be viewed through one way glass in the largest flight cage if its kind in Canada.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://oceansideanimalhospital.ca/
Since 2002, the experienced and compassionate team at Oceanside Animal Hospital has been dedicated to the health and wellness of our patients. We provide personalized health care in a friendly, warm environment and strive to exceed our clients’ expectations by providing quality veterinary care to their furry (or feathered) family members.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.oceanside-dj.ca/
Fully insured & licensed professional mobile wedding DJ & MC. Dance & background music for weddings, parties, anniversaries, dinner dances, corporate events, fund raisers, or any other music event. Thousands of songs in all genres, through all periods, played on high quality, professional sound reproduction & mixing equipment.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.oceansidevillageresort.com/
Located on Vancouver Island's east coast, Parksville BC is a wonderful place to visit because there is really something to do for everyone. As the city is known for its temperate climate, wide spectacular beaches, exciting attractions and comfortable Parksville resorts. If you're ready to experience the beautiful life away from the hustle and bustle of the city - then a vacation in the Oceanside Village Parksville Resort is certainly for you.
The Oceanside Village Resort cottage accommodations are custom-designed to meet your needs, making sure that your stay is comfortable, convenient and memorable. This Parksville resort is ideally located just minutes away from downtown, allowing you easy access to miles of sandy beaches and other famous attractions that the city has to offer.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://orcarunning.ca
WHO ARE WE? ...
A diverse group of people who love to run and meet in the spirit of fun, good health and friendship.
Some of us are very slow, a few are very fast and most are somewhere in between - we cater to all.
Some of us race and many do not.
An officially sanctioned running club by the Vancouver Island Runners Association (VIRA).
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.pacific-shores.com/
Tucked away on the peaceful waters of spectacular Craig Bay near Parksville BC. This Parksville resort is ideally located for exploring 15 acres of incredible botanical gardens and magnificent woodland trails with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, mountains and forests. Leave everyday responsibilities behind and discover the serenity of island life at Pacific Shores. Resorts in Parksville are an ideal location to explore the best of Vancouver Island.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.paradiseseashellmotel.com/
The Paradise Sea Shell Motel / Hotel in Parksville, BC, is on Vancouver Island. A Parksville Motel with discount accommodation, it is an ideal pet-friendly resort for families to enjoy the beautiful beaches of Parksville Bay. One of the few Parksville Motels where Pets are welcome
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.parksvillebeachfest.ca/
(1 vote)
Parksville’s Beach Festival Society is actively planning our next annual World Class event -
Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition
You should also know that we are planning our event alongside other summer events planned for that period (Kite Festival & Oceanside Overdrive Car Show). And of course our popular Entertainment Stage will be another fabulous attraction Friday and Saturday evening plus Sunday afternoons.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.parksvilleuncorked.com
4 Days of Fine Food • Fabulous Wine • Great Company February 23th – 26th, 2012
Together in the common cause of fine wines, decadent edibles, and great company, Parksville's finest beach resorts are proud to sponsor the 4th annual Parksville Uncorked Wine & Food Festival.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://petalandkettle.com/
Parksville's Finest Florist and Specialty Tea Shop. Come inside for a cup of tea and meet our super-friendly team! Besides hand-chosen specialty teas (Long Island Strawberry!),
we have made a name for ourselves with our decidedly chic floral arrangements. To make your experience complete, we also
carry a vast array of gifts and accessories ranging from LOTTA JANSDOTTER stationery to BEEHIVE teapots.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.qbfamilyday.com/index.asp
Every year on the last Sunday in May the town comes together to celebrate our community. Since 1976, Family Day has been an annual event sponsored by the Town of Qualicum Beach, meant to bring the community together for a free festive day. Family Day festivities draw a crowd of over 3,000 plus smiling faces. Start the day off with the Shriner's pancake breakfast at 8:30 - 11:30a.m. The pancake breakfast is held at the Civic Centre in the parking area.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.qbseedysaturday.com/
Seed swap, seed vendors, plant vendors, Seedy Café, artisans, garden products, gardening books, speakers, Farmers' Market, ATM available on site, Free gardening advice from Master Gardeners, Shoots With Roots-Family program
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://spebbles.com/
When you are looking for a family vacation or a few lazy days away from it all, the Sand Pebbles Inn offers quality, comfort and unlimited fun.
The Sand Pebbles Inn is situated at the heart of a miles-long stretch of beach that many consider to be the finest on Vancouver Island.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.sandifordhomes.com/
As experts in both luxury and affordable real estate markets, Sandiford Homes provides effective Vancouver Island realty advice and representation to both buyers and sellers in the area. Find a nice vacation home, a new home for your family, or a new investment.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.shadyrest.ca/
The Shady Rest waterfront Qualicum restaurant, pub and liquor store on the ocean in Qualicum Beach, BC. Some of the finest dining and views in Oceanside on the west coast.5min north of Parksville, 30min north of Nanaimo
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.solar-hot-water.ca
Solaris is a BC manufacturer of renewable energy solar hot water heating packages for residential, commercial, and institutional buildings. Factory direct wholesale for installers, plumbers, bulk buys means BMW quality at Pontiac prices.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.surfside.bc.ca/
Spectacular oceanfront RV membership resort with clubhouse, pool and hot tub. Members enjoy the security and privacy of a gated community surrounded by natural beauty within walking distance to Parksville's commercial centre, restaurants as well as a wide variety of leisure activities.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.tigh-na-mara.com
Tigh-Na-Mara is an all season destination resort located in picturesque Parksville, British Columbia, Canada. Sheltered within a 22 acre forest of Cedar, Arbutus and Fir trees, Tigh-Na-Mara is truly an extension of nature
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://MarcLaCouvee.com
Born and raised on Vancouver Island, I have travelled its length and breadth. Let me show you why Conde Nast Traveller has ranked this island as one of the top ten in the world. If you are looking for that special piece of paradise, let me be you guide and real estate specialist. The opportunities are endless here.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
http://www.villageclothing.ca/
Village Clothing serves the adult Qualicum Beach community with clothes for a relaxed lifestyle.
It's a lifestyle that requires comfort, style, and an affordable price-tag. You can find all that at Village Clothing along with personalized attention including both mens and ladies fashions. That individual care goes a long way: it's the little things that set Village Clothing apart from the rest.
Review It
Rate It
Bookmark It
Up Your Media is Vancouver Island's mobile Apple computer specialist. Regularly scheduled service calls to the West Coast, Port Alberni, Duncan, Cumberland, Parksville Qualicum and Nanaimo. Macinstosh computer repairs, training, upgrades and support.