Welcome to the stunning landscapes and vibrant communities of Parksville and its surrounding towns. Over the next two days, immerse yourself in a plethora of outdoor adventures, from exploring ancient forests and hidden caves to savouring the delights of local markets and charming seaside towns.
For the ultimate experience, we recommend staying at the Beach Club Resort, where luxury meets oceanfront charm. Nestled along the shores of Parksville Beach, this resort offers unparalleled comfort and convenience, with spacious accommodations, oceanfront views, and easy access to all of the attractions mentioned below.
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Parksville Outdoor Adventure Itinerary Overview
Day 1 invites you to embrace the coastal beauty of Parksville and the quirky town of Coombs. Feel the soft sand between your toes at two local beaches, where expansive shorelines and dramatic tides beckon beachcombers and nature lovers alike. Then, wander through lush trails, where cascading waterfalls set the stage for a tranquil escape. The afternoon is all about strolling through an eclectic market, where the whimsy of goats on the roof creates an unforgettable ambiance. End your first day on a memorable sunset whale-watching tour.
Day 2 promises a journey into the heart of Vancouver Island's natural wonders. Begin your day at a much-loved provincial park, where rushing waterfalls and verdant forests provide the perfect backdrop. From there, delve into the enchanting depths of an ancient forest, where towering old-growth trees whisper tales of centuries past. Have lunch and stroll through a seaside town full of charming shops and restaurants. End the afternoon with a descent into the underground world, where guided cave tours reveal a mesmerizing world of stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient geological formations.
Join us as we embark on a journey of exploration, inspiration, and connection with the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveller, this itinerary promises unforgettable experiences and cherished memories.
Parksville and its surrounding towns offer a treasure trove of outdoor adventures. Here's a thrilling two-day itinerary that will immerse you in the area's natural beauty and outdoor activities.
2-Day Parksville Outdoor Adventure Itinerary
Google Map
Use this handy map to help you navigate throughout your 2-day journey.
Video: Parksville Itinerary (Day 1)
Day 1: Parksville and Coombs
Morning
Start your day right with a great cup of coffee and a pastry from Brazen Poppy Bakery Cafe. They also offer heartier menu items if you need something more. Another great choice and a local fave is Serious Coffee.
Activity 1: Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
After breakfast, head to Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, just a few minutes drive from downtown Parksville. This expansive sandy beach is famous for its low tide, which reveals kilometres of sandy shoreline, perfect for beachcombing, sandcastle building, and picnicking. Walk the seaside trail for beautiful ocean views.
Activity 2: Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
Next, drive to Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. Take a short hike to view the stunning waterfalls and immerse yourself in the beauty of the lush forest surroundings. Then, relax at one of the park's picnic areas and enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Optional Activity: North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre
If time allows (and you aren't hungry yet), I highly recommend making an hour pit stop at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. (You will drive right by it on your way to the next destination). Here, you will view large raptors along with other local wildlife.
Afternoon
Enjoy lunch in Coombs (see below for more details)
Activity 3: Coombs Country Market
From your waterfall exploration, head to Coombs Country Market for a leisurely stroll through its eclectic mix of artisan shops, gourmet food vendors, and local produce stands. Don't forget to say hello to the famous goats on the roof and indulge in some delicious treats from the bakery. Whether you want Mexican, Italian or a quick burger, you have a variety of options in Coombs for lunch.
Activity 4: Parksville Community Park
Wrap up your afternoon on another amazing beach at Parksville Community Park. Walk the boardwalk from one end of the park to the other and take in the beautiful views. For those of you who book an oceanfront room at the Beach Club Resort, this is the same stretch of beach you view from your room!
Dinner:
Finish your day with a delicious dinner at one of Parksville's waterfront restaurants, such as the Beach Club Resort Restaurant or Bayside Restaurant & Lounge. Indulge in fresh seafood or locally sourced cuisine while enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean.
Optional Evening Experience: Sunset Whalewatching Tour
End your first day with a memorable sunset whale-watching tour. This excursion starts at 5:00 pm at the French Creek Marina and finishes approximately 4 hours later. It's your opportunity to get out on the water and experience a magnificent sunset and chances to encounter Orcas, Humpback Whales, Pacific White Sided Dolphins, Sea Lions, Harbour Seals and Bald Eagles. Please note that this tour only runs from mid-June to mid-September.
Day 2: Qualicum Beach
Waterfalls, Ancient Forests, Caves and a Quaint Seaside Town
Morning
Day 2 is full of adventure, so start your day with a hearty breakfast. I recommend Cafe 356 at the French Creek Marina (1025 Lee Road). It opens at 7:00 a.m.
Activity 1: Hiking at Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park
Drive to Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park, a short distance from Parksville. Lace up your hiking boots and explore the park's network of trails, which lead through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and over picturesque bridges. The main attraction is the stunning waterfall, which is especially breathtaking after a rainy day.
Activity 2: Cathedral Grove
From Little Qualicum Falls, take the short drive to Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park. Walk among towering old-growth trees, some over 800 years old, and soak in the serene atmosphere of this ancient forest. Take your time to explore the well-maintained trails and marvel at the majestic trees.
Afternoon
Activity 3: Explore Qualicum Beach
Spend the afternoon exploring the charming town of Qualicum Beach. Stroll along the quaint streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don't miss the opportunity to visit The Old School House Arts Centre to admire local artwork and crafts.
There are plenty of great lunch locations in Qualicum Beach. My top recommendations are either Q Burger for award-winning burgers or Fern and Cedar for local craft beer and delicious food offerings (try the baked sweet potato!).
Activity 4: Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park
From Qualicum, drive to Horne Lake Caves for your 4:00 pm caving adventure. Join a guided cave tour to explore the fascinating subterranean world of caves, caverns, and crystal formations. It's a thrilling experience that will leave you in awe of nature's wonders.
Evening
Dinner:
After your exhilarating caving experience, head to the ocean in Qualicum Beach for waterfront dining. A few great choices are Shady Rest (for the amazing views), Shore Restaurant (only open until 7:00 pm Wednesday to Sunday) or Qualicum Beach Cafe (for a more elevated dining experience).
Activity 5: Beach Walk
After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the beach in front of your chosen waterfront restaurant. Qualicum beaches are perfect for a tranquil walk, sunset viewing and beachcombing.
Parksville Outdoor Adventure Itinerary Conclusion
This 2-day itinerary will take you on a memorable outdoor adventure, exploring the natural wonders and charming towns of Parksville, Coombs and Qualicum Beach.
With its breathtaking scenery and endless opportunities for exploration, Parksville and its surrounding towns offer a truly unforgettable outdoor adventure. From the shores of Rathtrevor Beach to the ancient Cathedral Grove, every moment is an opportunity to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to embark on a journey like no other. Whether you're seeking thrills in hidden caves or tranquillity amidst towering trees, there's something for everyone to discover in this outdoor paradise. Join us as we unlock the secrets of Vancouver Island and make memories that will last a lifetime. Your adventure awaits!
Book Your Stay at the Beach Club Resort and Save
The Beach Club is a 5-star resort with guest rooms and suites featuring private balconies and indulgent soaking tubs. It offers top-tier amenities, including an indoor pool, hot tub, gym, and spa, ensuring a perfect balance of relaxation and luxury during your stay. Make sure to splurge and book an oceanfront room.
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