Located on the eastern shores of Vancouver Island, Parksville is known for its stunning beachfront, lush provincial parks, and vibrant local culture! Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or an extended holiday, this hidden gem in British Columbia, Canada, is a beloved getaway for locals and visitors alike!
With its mild climate and endless outdoor activities, Parksville is a year-round destination offering everything from scenic hikes and ocean adventures to artisan markets and charming seaside retreats. If you’re looking for the perfect place to stay in the area, we have incredible beachfront vacation rentals that provide an ideal home base for exploring everything this beautiful region has to offer!
Before you pack your bags, check our essential travel tips on the top 10 things to do in Parksville and make the most of your visit!
Book a Parksville Vacation Rental Today!
Hiking & Biking in Parksville
With breathtaking coastal views, dense forests, and well-maintained trails, Parksville is a dream for outdoor adventures! Whether you’re looking for a leisurely nature walk or an exhilarating mountain biking adventure, you’ll find it here. Hiking enthusiasts can explore towering ancient trees, cascading waterfalls, and hidden wetlands, while mountain bikers can take on rugged terrain and scenic forest trails.
Best Hiking Trails in Parksville
Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail – Hike the historic Arrowsmith CPR Trail for an endless and inspiring view.
Englishman River Falls Provincial Park – Home to breathtaking waterfalls and lush forest scenery, Englishman River Falls is one of the most beautiful parks on Vancouver Island.
Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest – Walk through a stunning 50-acre forest filled with old-growth trees and vibrant wildlife.
Cathedral Grove, MacMillan Provincial Park – Experience some of the oldest and tallest trees in Canada in this iconic park.
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park – A gorgeous spot for camping and hiking, featuring cascading waterfalls in a mountainside forest setting.
Hamilton Marsh – The largest wetland between Nanaimo, Cumberland, and Port Alberni, perfect for bird watching and nature walks.
Big Qualicum River Regional Trail – Explore the Fisheries and Oceans Canada Big Qualicum Hatchery complex and enjoy peaceful riverside trails.
Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park – A must-visit for adventure seekers, offering guided tours of the Horne Lake Caves with fossils, crystal formations, and stunning underground landscapes.
Best Mountain Biking Trails in Parksville
HammerFest Trails – A mix of technical and flowy trails, offering something for all skill levels.
Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park – Well-maintained trails with challenging features and great forested scenery.
Dirt Farm Parksville – A fun, dedicated space for mountain bikers looking for jumps and technical terrain.
Little Qualicum Falls Area – Trails winding through forested areas with scenic waterfall views.
Englishman River Falls Area – A network of trails perfect for bikers looking for a mix of flow and technical sections.
Whale Watching in Parksville
Few experiences compare to the thrill of spotting whales in their natural habitat! The west coast is famous for its incredible marine wildlife, and Parksville offers some of the best opportunities to witness these majestic creatures. With stunning ocean views and access to the Salish Sea, visitors can embark on unforgettable whale watching tours to see orcas, humpback whales, and more.
Best Whale Watching Tours
Ocean EcoVentures Whale & Wildlife Adventures – Departing from French Creek Marina, this tour offers an up-close look at the marine wildlife of the region.
Haida Gold Ocean Adventures – Based in Nanoose Bay’s Schooner Cove Marina, this tour provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the waters around Parksville.
Campbell River Whale Watching Tours – A top choice for those looking to explore the rich marine life of Vancouver Island’s coast.
Explore the Arts and Culture in Parksville!
Parksville isn’t just about outdoor adventures—it’s also a vibrant cultural hub! From live music performances to fascinating showcases of local history, there’s something for everyone who loves arts and heritage. Explore unique galleries, historical landmarks, and community spaces that bring the town’s character to life.
Best Cultural Experiences in Parksville
McMillan Arts Centre (The MAC) – A hub for live music, art exhibitions, and community events, featuring folk nights and classical performances.
Parksville Museum – Step back in time and explore the history of Parksville through engaging exhibits and historic buildings.
Qualicum Beach Museum – Discover the fascinating history of Qualicum Beach, including a First Nations exhibit and rare historical artefacts.
Arrowsmith Potters Guild & Gallery – A unique gallery showcasing handcrafted pottery from talented local artists.
Monk Art Gallery & Studio – A must-visit in Downtown Parksville, featuring stunning artworks and a working artist’s studio.
The Old School House Arts Centre – A cultural gem offering art exhibits, music performances, and creative workshops.
French Creek – A bustling coastal community known for its fishing marina, waterfront dining, and easy access to marine activities. Visitors can explore the docks, enjoy fresh seafood, or set out on a chartered fishing adventure.
Coombs – A must-visit cultural stop just outside of Parksville, famous for its quirky shops, artisan markets, and the iconic Old Country Market with goats on the roof!
Kayaking
Parksville’s calm waters and stunning coastline make it a fantastic spot for kayaking. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced paddler, there are plenty of kayaking opportunities available in the Parksville area to help you explore the beautiful surroundings!
Best Kayaking Experiences
Take Off Adventure Rentals – Offers kayak rentals in Coombs and on the beach in Qualicum Beach during the summer months.
Adventuress Sea Kayaking – Located in Nanoose Bay and provides rentals, day trips, and multi-day tours, including a certified guide, detailed instruction, and all necessary gear.
Beach Days in Parksville
Nothing beats a beach day in Parksville! With soft sandy beaches, gentle tides, and breathtaking ocean views, these are the best beaches to enjoy year-round where you can unwind, explore tide pools, or soak up the sun!
Best Beaches in Parksville
Qualicum Beach – A picturesque stretch of coastline perfect for relaxing walks, picnics, and breathtaking sunsets.
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park – A must-visit beach with shallow, warm waters ideal for families.
Parksville Beach Boardwalk – A scenic waterfront walkway with stunning ocean views, perfect for a leisurely stroll!
Family Fun!
Parksville is a fantastic destination for families, offering plenty of activities that kids and adults will love! From outdoor adventures to classic family-friendly fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Best Family Activities in Parksville
North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre – Learn about local wildlife conservation efforts and see rescued animals up close.
Paradise Fun Park and Mini Golf – A fantastic family destination featuring go-karts, bumper boats, and a beautifully designed mini-golf course.
Parksville Community Park – A beautiful park with playgrounds, picnic areas, and stunning waterfront views.
Cameron Lake – A great place for swimming, kayaking, and enjoying a relaxing family day by the water.
Pop Culture Museum – A unique and entertaining museum showcasing memorabilia from film, music, and television.
Paradise Acres Ranch – Explore the scenic trails around Parksville on horseback, a great way to experience nature with the family.
Get a Taste of the Region
Food lovers will find plenty to indulge in around Parksville! From farm-fresh ingredients to craft breweries and beloved ice cream shops, there’s something for every palate. Whether you’re visiting the farmers’ markets or sipping on a cold pint of craft beer, Parksville is a fantastic place to experience the region’s delicious flavors.
Best Places to Eat & Drink in Parksville
Little Qualicum Cheeseworks at Morningstar Farm – A picturesque working farm where visitors can experience dairy production, cheese making, and meet the resident farm animals. Check out the other farms and farmers markets in the area where you can shop for fresh produce, baked goods, and local artisan products!
Mount Arrowsmith Brewing Company – A top choice for craft beer lovers, offering a variety of delicious, unique brews and incredible Southern style BBQ! Parksville and Qualicum Beach are known for their incredible craft breweries where you can enjoy a pint of locally brewed craft beer!
Ice Cream Shops – Treat yourself to a scoop (or two) at one of Parksville’s best ice cream shops!
Coffee Shops – Start your day with your favourite caffeinated drink and a fresh baked treat at one of the area’s cozy coffee shops
Restaurants – From casual eateries to fine dining, Parksville is home to a variety of fantastic restaurants!
Food Trucks – Looking for a casual way to fuel up for your adventures? Discover unique and delicious eats from local food trucks!
Hit the Links
Parksville and its surrounding areas are home to stunning golf courses perfect for a relaxing getaway or a competitive round with friends. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, these Oceanside courses offer spectacular scenery and challenging play.
Best Golf Courses in Parksville
Morningstar Golf Course – Designed by Les Furber, this course challenges players of all skill levels with lush fairways and strategically placed hazards.
Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club – Improve your game with an excellent practice facility featuring a driving range, putting green, and sand bunker.
Brigadoon Golf Course – A scenic 9-hole course featuring two par 4s and seven par 3s, set amidst stunning wildlife corridors.
Eaglecrest Golf Club – One of the area’s oldest courses, this 9-hole, par-36 layout is known for its challenging design and soaring eagles overhead.
Fairwinds Golf Club – A family-friendly course located near Fairwinds Marina, offering a waterfront golfing experience with nearby hiking and kayaking.
Pheasant Glen Golf Resort – Play amid breathtaking West Coast scenery, featuring grassy meadows, lush woodlands, and views of Mount Arrowsmith.
Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Club – Established in 1913, this historic 9-hole course offers incredible ocean views, a full-service restaurant, and practice facilities.
Take a Day Trip
Looking for an adventure beyond Parksville? These incredible day trips offer breathtaking scenery, charming towns, and plenty of things to do along the way.
Time: 6-hour round trip
Directions: A 3-hour drive west via Highway 4.
Stops Along the Way: Stop at Cathedral Grove to see ancient Douglas fir trees or grab lunch in Port Alberni.
Sights:Surf at Long Beach, explore Pacific Rim National Park, and stroll through Tofino’s charming town center.
Looking for the perfect way to relax and unwind during your stay? Parksville’s top spas offer a blissful escape where you can rejuvenate your body and mind. Whether you’re in need of a luxurious massage, a revitalizing facial, or a tranquil soak, these spas provide the ultimate retreat!
Best Spas in Parksville
Grotto Spa – One of Canada’s top-rated spas, at Tigh-Na-Mara offering the famous Mineral Pool, body treatments, and a dining experience at the Treetop Tapas & Grill.
Stonewater Spa & Salon – An intimate and welcoming spa located in the The Beach Club Resort is perfectly designed to melt away stress with relaxing treatments, beauty services, and personalized wellness care.
Nevaeh Day Spa – A boutique spa specializing in luxurious facials, nail treatments, and body care to leave you feeling radiant and refreshed!
Experience the Best Things to Do in Parksville!
Parksville truly has it all—stunning beaches, thrilling outdoor adventures, rich arts and culture, and plenty of ways to relax and unwind. Whether you’re exploring rugged hiking trails, spotting whales on the Salish Sea, indulging in local food and drinks, or spending the day at a world-class spa, Parksville is the perfect year-round getaway on Vancouver Island!
Ready to start planning your trip? Book your Parksville vacation rental today and experience everything this coastal gem has to offer!
Just north of Nanaimo, nestled on the east coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada is the charming resort town of Parksville! This west coast gem is known for stunning sandy beaches, year-round outdoor recreation, and a fantastic dining scene! Whether you’re visiting for a relaxing escape or an adventure-filled getaway, this charming town offers an incredible array of restaurants that celebrate locally sourced ingredients—from just-caught seafood to farm-fresh produce!
Staying at one of our stunning Parksville vacation rentals, is the best way to live like a local and be right near everything this incredible area has to offer! With golf courses, beaches, charming towns and incredible restaurants, whether you’re in the mood for casual pub fare, international flavors, or fine dining, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Let’s dive into the best restaurants in Parksville!
Highlights: Takeout available, fluffy crust, house-special pizzas, located on Island Highway
For a classic, no-fuss pizza experience, you’ll want to head to Poppa’s Pizzeria! Known for its Montreal-style pizza, their menu is big on flavor and filled with both classic pies and house specials piled with fresh ingredients. Whether you’re grabbing a slice on the go or ordering takeout for a cozy night in, this is a must-visit spot for pizza lovers!
Located within the Bayside Oceanfront Resort, Bayside Restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with breathtaking ocean views. The menu features a mix of fresh seafood, premium steaks, and farm-to-table dishes, making it an excellent choice for a romantic dinner or special occasion!
Highlights: Fresh oysters, seafood pasta, fish and chips, takeout available
If you’re looking for fresh, local seafood Aioli Seafood Restaurant should be at the top of your list! Enjoy West Coast seafood favorites like classic fish and chips, creamy seafood pasta, and fresh oysters in a relaxed setting near Parksville Beach.
For over 20 years, Lefty’s Fresh Food has been a go-to for delicious, locally inspired comfort food! Whether you’re craving a hearty brunch, fresh salads, or indulgent burgers, this casual spot offers good food with friendly service.
Highlights: Over-the-top burgers, loaded fries, casual vibes, pick-up available
If you’re craving big flavors and bold bites, Extreme Eatery is the place to go! Known for its huge, loaded burgers and indulgent fries, this eatery is a perfect place to go after a day of exploring Parksville’s outdoor attractions for a casual meal packed with flavor!
Housed in a historic 1920s home, Black Goose Inn delivers an authentic British pub experience. Whether you’re cozying up by the fireplace in winter or enjoying a pint on the garden patio in summer, you’ll find hearty, comforting dishes and a great atmosphere!
Highlights: Traditional dishes, generous portions, takeout options
Amrikko’s Indian Grill offers a variety of traditional Indian dishes like butter chicken, biryani, and a wide selection of vegetarian options! The restaurant is known for its flavorful cuisine and welcoming environment, making it a popular choice for both dine-in and takeout.
Ambiance: Elegant beachfront dining with stunning ocean views
Price: $$$
Cuisine: West Coast cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients
Highlights: Beachfront patio, prime rib, seafood dishes, heated dining domes in winter
Located within The Beach Club Resort, Pacific Prime Restaurant & Lounge boasts one of Parksville’s best beachfront patios! The menu features a range of options from casual nachos to fine dining selections like prime rib, all emphasizing fresh, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients. In winter, guests can enjoy a unique, romantic dining experience in heated domes on the patio.
Ambiance: Rustic yet contemporary setting within Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Local, regional, and international dishes with a contemporary twist
Highlights: Stone oven pizzas, seasonal menu, happy hour specials, half-price appetizers on select days
Cedars Restaurant & Lounge offers a diverse menu that showcases the freshness of the season with appetizers and entrées that embrace rustic dishes with a contemporary spin. Guests can enjoy stone oven pizzas and take advantage of happy hour specials, including half-price appetizers on select days.
Ambiance: Charming log cabin setting with a cozy and elegant atmosphere
Price: $$$
Cuisine: Fresh seafood and premium steaks with traditional European fare
Highlights: Prime rib, filet mignon, fresh seafood, extensive wine selection
Kalvas the Log House provides an authentic dining experience in a cozy log cabin setting. The menu features fresh seafood and premium meat dishes like prime rib, filet mignon, and lamb shanks all prepared with a focus on natural flavors and the finest ingredients.
Ambiance: Casual, health-focused eatery with a modern vibe
Price: $$
Cuisine: Organic, vegetarian, and vegan options with sustainable ingredients
Highlights: Grain bowls, ramen, salads, commitment to health and sustainability
Realm Food Co. is Parksville’s hub for sustainable eating, offering a menu filled with organic, vegetarian, and vegan options. You can find everything from smoothies, ramen, grain bowls, salads, and a kids menu–all created with a commitment to health and sustainability, making it a favorite among health-conscious diners.
Ambiance: Unique spa dining experience within the Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara
Price: $$$$
Cuisine: All-you-can-eat tapas with a focus on fresh, local ingredients
Highlights: Dip & Dine package, dining in spa robes, mineral pool access
Treetop Tapas & Grill offers a unique dining experience as part of the Grotto Spa’s Dip & Dine package. Guests can enjoy an all-you-can-eat tapas menu featuring fresh, local ingredients while dining in their spa robes, either before or after indulging in the mineral pools!
Ambiance: Cozy, west-coast themed tasting room with outdoor seating
Price: $$
Cuisine: Craft beer with an on-site kitchen offering Southern-style BBQ, sandwiches, and pizzas
Highlights: Award-winning craft beers, sunny picnic tables, shaded areas under a big tent, family-friendly environment
Mount Arrowsmith Brewing Company is a family-run collaboration of passionate beer enthusiasts dedicated to providing premium, locally handcrafted beer to the Parksville and Qualicum Beach communities. Their cozy, west-coast themed tasting room is the perfect place to enjoy a pint, sleeve, or tasting flight of fresh, local beer. Guests can also enjoy the Arrowsmith Smokehouse, Parksville’s only Southern-style BBQ restaurant, offering mouth-watering meats, sandwiches, pizzas, and more! The brewery features sunny picnic tables and shaded spots under a big tent, making it a welcoming spot for all ages!
Ready to Enjoy the Best Restaurants in Parksville?
From fresh seafood to farm-to-table eats, Parksville’s dining scene is as diverse as its landscapes! Visit for the beaches, breweries, and outdoor adventures and enjoy these restaurants that provide the perfect way to fuel your getaway!
Enjoy incredible brunch options, ice cream parlors, and appetizers at some of the best restaurants in Parksville! Take advantage of the happy hour specials at local hotspots or explore nearby breweries for an authentic Canadian dining experience.
Ready to book your trip? Stay in one of EMR Vacation Rentals’ stunning oceanfront properties and experience Parksville’s best restaurants just minutes from your door.
If you’re looking for a unique Canadian experience, you can’t go wrong with a holiday on Vancouver Island, British Columbia where you can find natural beauty, fascinating history and incredible towns like Parksville, BC. With EMR, you can experience this amazing resort community and stay oceanfront at the White Heron Oceanfront Estate or Columbia Beach House and explore the town Vancouver Islanders go to relax and unwind. Enjoy the year-round golfing, outdoor recreation, stunning sandy beaches and of course, incredible dining. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or elevated fast food, Parksville has it all and more. Plus, with such a wide variety of locally sourced ingredients from fresh veggies to right-off-the-boat seafood, good food is always right around the corner in Parksville!
120 Alberni Hwy, Parksville, BC V9P 2G4 | 250-248-9121
One of the best ways to treat yourself on holiday is to find some great pizza and at Poppa’s Pizzeria, that is exactly what you’ll find. Serving classic Montreal style pizza with classic pies and house specials loaded with fresh ingredients on a fluffy crust, you won’t want to miss ordering some takeout from Poppa’s!
541 E Island Hwy E, Parksville, BC V9P 1V2 | 250-954-2020
If you’re looking for some great sushi while you’re staying in Parksville, Sushi Ichi is the place to go! With classic sushi fare like nigiri, maki and teriyaki dishes, a casual dining room and speedy to-go orders, when it’s time to dig into some sushi, Ichi is the place to go!
180 Craig St #2, Parksville, BC V9P 2H3 | 250-586-1158
With a menu filled with local, sustainable and seasonal ingredients, when you’re looking for healthy, imaginative food, Realm is your go-to! With tons of bright, fresh meals to choose from as well as good-for-you sweets and yummy smoothies, you can enjoy delicious food, feel nourished and support local growers and producers all at the same time!
1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3 | 250-248-2333
For a comfortable, west coast dining experience, you’ll want to make a reservation at Cedars Restaurant & Lounge in the famous Tigh-Na-Mara Spa Resort. This rustic, log cabin restaurant is known for creating globally inspired, casual contemporary dishes that are sure to please!
897 Island Hwy W, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3 | 250-586-2121
If you’re looking for the best authentic, thin crust, Italian pizza on Vancouver Island, you’ve found it! In 2022, Salt was named best pizza on Vancouver Island and British Columbia and it’s no wonder! With in-house, dough and sauce made fresh, daily and high quality toppings, whether you dine in their vintage beachside style restaurant or take pie to go, make sure you top off your order with some locally made gelato! Delizioso!
181 Beachside Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2H5 | 250-586-5500
For many years, Chameleons has been known for their amazing local seafood dishes and impeccable service without the frills. Whether you’re looking to try something new like the unique seafood crepe, need a lot of great gluten free options or want to treat yourself to a to-die-for dessert, Chameleons is the place to go!
625 Island Hwy E, Parksville, BC V9P 1T5 | 250-947-2109
If you’re looking to dine in one of the top restaurants in Parksville, Pacific Prime is a great choice! With one of the best beachfront patios just off the Parksville Beach Boardwalk, you can dive into a juicy BBQ Stilton Burger or savoury Seafood Linguini with a spectacular view. Plus, every dish is made with locally and ethically sourced ingredients and oceanwise seafood making this one of the the best spots for a special evening or a delicious brunch by the sea!
Another one of the best restaurants in Parsville’s dining scene is Kalvas. Just off the Island Highway, you can find this charming log cabin with a unique circular dining room and some of the best surf and turf that you’ll find in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area. Kalvas is the perfect place to find elevated casual dining and great food. When you’re in the mood for prawns, steak and pasta, this is the place to go!
1080 Resort Dr #101b, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3 | 250-586-8676
Need a taco fix? Taste Taco Bistro has your back! At Taste, you’ll find mouthwatering options inspired by the flavours and dishes south of the border. And if you’re looking for a quick, delicious brunch, this is the place to go!
280 Island Hwy E, Parksville, BC V9P 2G3 | 250-954-3886
For over 20 years, Lefty’s has been the place to go for casual dining and delicious comfort food in Parksville. Their large menu can easily cater to everyone from salad lovers and burger enthusiasts to celiacs and kiddos! With mouthwatering appetizers, an incredible brunch menu and great service, Lefty’s will quickly become your favourite casual eatery during your stay in Parksville!
192 Island Hwy W, Parksville, BC V9P 2H5 | 250-954-1010
One of the most popular restaurants in downtown Parksville is the nautically themed, Aioli Seafood Restaurant. With a charmingly kitsch dining room and a menu that offers delicious west coast comfort food and fresh seafood dishes like fish and chips, pasta and burgers, you’re sure to feel right at home!
1051 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E4 | 250-586-1001
If you’re looking for a distinctly British inspired pub, this is the place to go! The Black Goose Inn is in a 1920s home and bedecked with dark wood, comfortable high backed chairs and fireplaces throughout. In the winter, you can cozy up beside a fire and enjoy a pint and an appy or bring the whole family in for a delicious British fare. In the summer, the garden has lots of seating so you can enjoy a great burger, scotch egg and a pint or two and enjoy the view!
1155 Resort Dr, Parksville, BC V9P 2E3 | 1-800-663-7373
For an afternoon of true pampering, book a visit to the Grotto Spa and enjoy dining at Treetop Tapas & Grill after your dip in the mineral pool. At this exclusive restaurant, guests can wear their robes and slippers and enjoy some gorgeously plated, fresh tapas while overlooking the forest.
1385 Alberni Hwy, Parksville, BC V9P 2B8 | 250-586-2226
If you’re looking for great food and homestyle cooking with honest ingredients and lots of options, you’ll want to grab a table or a take out order from Trees! This beloved neighbourhood eatery has a laid back vibe where you can find incredible brunch, delicious baked goods, lunch and dinner and lots of gluten free options!
163 Alberni Hwy, Parksville, BC V9P 2H2 | 250-248-6511
This laid-back pub is always a great time! Established in 1898, the Rod & Gun is one of the oldest establishments on Vancouver Island and serves incredible, classic pub fare with a great community hub vibe.
