Activities & Attractions in Parksville & Qualicum Beach
The Parksville and Qualicum Beach area are perhaps best known for their beaches, but adventure abounds both on land and at sea. Plus, the Oceanside region features a myriad of attractions that will appeal to the entire family.
Experience the magic of unspoiled natural beauty perched on the edge of an oceanside bluff overlooking the Strait of Georgia. Milner Gardens & Woodland offers visitors a beautiful old growth forest walk, plus a delightfully wild artist’s garden highlighted by a collection of Rhododendrons.
Not far from Milner Gardens and also in Qualicum Beach, Heritage Forest is a 50 acre refuge which contains remnant pockets of 400 year-old Douglas Fir trees. There are walking trails through this park which was purchased by the town's people for future generations to enjoy.
For rentals of kayaks and stand up paddleboards, be sure to visit Outsider Adventures in Qualicum Beach. Check out their store for fun and unusual brands, practical, stylish gear for travel and outdoor adventures. They also offer guided hikes
Speaking of critters, nestled in the district of Errington, North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre provides visitors a park-like, peaceful setting to view eagles, several species of owls, falcons, hawks, ravens and black bears.
Not far from Errington and you're at the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. This features a spectucular canyon between two beautiful waterfalls cascading along he descending waterbed. There are a number of walking trails.
In nearby Coombs, Orchid Gardens Butterfly World offers visitors the chance to explore their indoor gardens of butterflies, tropical birds and exotic orchids. They also feature a big bug jungle and turtle pond.
A few miles further along Highway 4 brings you to MacMillan Provincial Park, where you will find one of the most accessible stands of giant Douglas Fir trees in British Columbia. Some of these trees are 800 years old and there are walking trails to enjoy this park.
The spectacular setting of Paradise Fun Park, which overlooks beautiful Parksville Bay on the old Island Highway, is worth the visit alone. This is a fun-filled place featuring two world-famous, 18-hole mini-golf courses, bumper boats, an amusement centre and Italian café.
Riptide Lagoon Adventure Park, located beside Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville, offers two challenging and exciting 18-hole mini-golf courses in a fantastic fantasy village featuring tugboats, monster fish, caves and lagoons. Also check out the new laser tag bumper cars!
In Qualicum Beach, the Riverside Resort features a giant waterslide and a nature mini golf course the entire family would enjoy.
