Chasing the Shoreline: The Best Beaches on Vancouver Island

person in a red jacket sitting on a beach on Vancouver Island

The west coast of Canada has long been known for its incredible beaches and Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is no exception! Whether you go north, south, east or west, you’re sure to find some of the most stunning beaches in the world. From remote windswept beaches to enormous shorelines, on Vancouver Island there are hundreds of absolutely stunning beaches to explore and enjoy! Soak up the sun, surf, swim in the refreshing saltwater, make sandcastles, kayak, paddleboard, spot majestic orcas, minke and grey whales from the shores and so much more! If you’re looking for the very best beaches on Vancouver Island, we’ve got you covered! Check out our list of favourite beaches and get out there! 

Tofino & Ucluelet 

Nestled in the charming town of Tofino, these beautiful Canadian beaches are a haven for surfers and windsurfing enthusiasts who travel here from far and wide! With pristine sands and incredible waves reminiscent of Hawaii’s shores is a coastal paradise that leaves a lasting impression! Overlooking the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, these mesmerizing beaches in Tofino offer visitors the perfect place for thrilling surfing adventures and unforgettable moments!

Long Beach 

Tucked between Tofino and Ucluelet on the edge of the Pacific Rim National Park, Long Beach epitomizes the spirit of the wild west coast. Surfers flock to its legendary waves, while beach enthusiasts delight in its soft sand and sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean. This expansive beach is the perfect place to enjoy the freshest ocean breezes and beachcomb as you wander along its seemingly endless expanse. With its awe-inspiring beauty and invigorating ambiance, Long Beach embodies the essence of Vancouver Island’s renowned surf culture, making it an absolute must-visit destination for both locals and travellers!

Sooke & Jordan River

Mystic Beach

Follow a scenic hiking trail from the parking lot through lush greenery to reach the magical shores of Mystic Beach. This compact, gray-sand beach along the Juan De Fuca Marine Trail boasts a unique charm, with a cascade gracefully pouring over sheer cliffs. Located near Jordan River, it offers a serene and secluded retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking a tranquil coastal experience.

China Beach

This tranquil beach offers a serene escape when you’re staying near Sooke. With a forested walking trail that takes you from the parking lot to the beach and a wide sandy beach with views of Washington to enjoy, whether you’re paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply basking in the sun, China Beach is a stunning place to bask in the beauty of the west coast.

French Beach

A family favourite, French Beach offers visitors a playground, picnic table and a beautiful pebbly beach to enjoy. Here, you can spend many hours enjoying the fresh air, playing in the waves, climbing the driftwood, and finding beautiful stones and shells – it’s perfect for a family day out! 

Cape Scott 

San Josef Bay

Discover the untamed beauty of San Josef Bay, nestled within the Cape Scott Provincial Park. This remote beach is a paradise for hikers, boasting captivating trails that lead to its pristine shores. With its white sand and blue waters, San Josef Bay offers a stunning, remote coastal experience.

Gulf Islands

Tribune Bay

Located on Hornby Island, Tribune Bay is an idyllic beach with white sand and crystal-clear waters. The only access to Hornby Island is via two ferries: one from Vancouver Island to Denman Island and then from Denman Island to Hornby Island. While it is quite the journey to get here, this remote beach is worth it! 

Parksville

Rathtrevor Beach

Located in the gorgeous little resort town of Parksville, Rathtrevor Beach is the perfect beach on the east coast to do some serious beach exploration. At low tide, you can walk for kilometres along the sand, beachcomb and see the creatures in tidal pools! This is the perfect beach for families with kids because the immense stretch of sand and warm, shallow water means that you can have a stress-free beach experience! Whether you’re staying right in Parksville or in nearby Nanaimo, this beach is a must! 

Comox Valley

Kye Bay

Experience the magic of low tide at Kye Bay, nestled on the shoes of Comox. This beach has a mixture of pebbles and soft sand and offers a wonderland of tidal pools, perfect for beachcombing and exploration! With its peaceful ambiance and stunning vistas, Kye Bay is a coastal haven that invites you to embrace the beauty of nature’s rhythms.

Victoria 

Willows Beach

Nestled in one of Victoria’s most picturesque neighbourhoods, Willows Beach is one of the best beaches in the city. It’s an ideal spot for beginners to paddleboard or launch a kayak and it is one of the most popular windsurfing spots in the summer! With stunning views and soft sand to sunbathe on, Willows is by far one of the best places in Victoria to spend a sunny, summer day! 

 

Living on Vancouver Island: What to Know Before You Relocate

view of the Saanich Inlet and Peninsula from the Malahat at sunset

Considering a move to Vancouver Island? This west coast gem of British Columbia is known for its natural beauty, relaxed lifestyle, and close-knit communities. With lush rainforests, charming coastal towns, and year-round outdoor activities, it’s no wonder that more and more Canadians and international newcomers are setting their sights on the island. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or simply a change of pace, Vancouver Island offers a high quality of life for those seeking something different from the hustle of mainland or urban living.

Before making the leap, it’s important to understand what life here really looks like. From cost of living and housing to job opportunities and lifestyle fit, here are the essentials you need to know!

If you’re serious about a relocation, booking a long-term vacation rental with EMR Vacation Rentals is one of the best ways to explore the island and get a real sense of what living here could be like!

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Pros & Cons of Living on Vancouver Island

PROS

  • Year-round access to hiking, kayaking, biking, and wildlife viewing
  • Breathtaking ocean views, rainforests, and natural beauty
  • Mild climate compared to much of Canada
  • Smaller towns with strong sense of community
  • High-quality healthcare and education
  • Great for outdoor enthusiasts and relaxed lifestyles

CONS

  • Higher cost of living, especially groceries and housing
  • Competitive real estate and rental markets
  • Fewer job opportunities outside healthcare, education, and tourism
  • Limited nightlife and cosmopolitan options
  • Slower pace may not suit everyone
  • Rainy winters, especially in coastal regions

Is Vancouver Island Right for You?

soft, cool sunrise light over a pebbly beach with snowcapped mountains in the distance Island living isn’t one-size-fits-all. People relocating from larger cities like Vancouver, Toronto, New York, or Los Angeles may appreciate the slower pace, natural beauty, and easy access to outdoor recreation. However, they may also miss the variety, energy, and anonymity of urban life. Vancouver Island has no true metropolis. Even its largest cities feel like small towns compared to major urban centres. For Canadians from provinces like Nova Scotia or Quebec, the lifestyle may be desirable, but the housing prices can be a shock. Meanwhile, Americans from the southern U.S. may struggle with the cooler climate and grey winters, even though the natural surroundings are stunning year-round.

Those best suited to island life are typically:

  • Remote workers or digital nomads
  • Retirees seeking a slower, nature-forward lifestyle
  • Outdoor enthusiasts and creatives
  • Families looking for safe, tight-knit communities

Those who may struggle include:

  • Singles or couples who thrive on nightlife and cosmopolitan experiences
  • Anyone dependent on large-scale industry or niche job markets
  • People uncomfortable with seasonal rain and fewer big-city amenities

South Vancouver Island: Greater Victoria & the Cowichan Valley

The vibe: Refined, artistic, and community-oriented with city perks and coastal beauty.

Main centres: Victoria, Sidney, Saanich, Sooke, Duncan

Best for: Professionals, retirees, and those seeking amenities with a small-town feel

Considerations: High housing costs, traffic near Victoria, and limited nightlife

Greater Victoria encompasses Victoria, Sooke, Langford & Westshore, and the Saanich Peninsula. 

Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a hub for healthcare, education, and government. It’s also home to a rich arts scene, historic architecture, and walkable neighbourhoods filled with cafes, bookstores, and boutiques. 

The surrounding Saanich Peninsula and the oceanfront town of Sidney offer a quieter lifestyle with great access to parks and beaches.

On the far west coast of South Vancouver Island, Sooke stuns with its wild, rugged coastline and quaint village lifestyle.

The Cowichan Valley, stretching north of Duncan and Lake Cowichan, is known for its vineyards, ciderhouses, and relaxed agricultural communities. The area has a strong First Nations presence and a growing food and drink scene, making it a culturally rich and laid-back place to settle.

Central Vancouver Island: Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach & the Comox Valley

The vibe: Friendly, affordable (in parts), and ideal for families and retirees

Main centres: Nanaimo, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Courtenay, Comox

Best for: Outdoor lovers, families, and semi-retirees

Considerations: Fewer nightlife options, car-dependent in many areas

Nanaimo is a vibrant city with a growing job market in education, healthcare, and transportation. It also offers excellent ferry access to the mainland. Further north, Parksville and Qualicum Beach are peaceful seaside resort towns known for sandy beaches and active retirement communities. These towns combine natural beauty with a slower pace of life.

The Comox Valley, including Courtenay and Comox, is a hub for outdoor recreation and artistic culture. Residents enjoy skiing Mount Washington in winter, biking trails in summer, and a strong local food scene all year long.

North Vancouver Island: Campbell River, Port McNeill & Telegraph Cove

The vibe: Rugged, affordable, and full of outdoor opportunity

Main centres: Campbell River, Port Alberni

Best for: Affordability, fishing, and easy access to nature

Considerations: Limited jobs outside of trades and services; more remote feeling

Campbell River is known as the salmon capital of the world! It’s a hardworking coastal city with whale watching, fishing, and boating built into its lifestyle and a perfect fit for any avid anglers!

Port Alberni, located inland, offers some of the most affordable housing options on the island. With easy access to forest trails, lakes, and rivers, these communities appeal to adventurers and those seeking a break from the hustle.

West Coast Vancouver Island: Tofino & Ucluelet

The vibe: Wild, artistic, and quietly luxurious

Main centres: Tofino, Ucluelet

Best for: Nature lovers, creatives, and those wanting a truly relaxed lifestyle

Considerations: Expensive housing, remote access, and limited healthcare services

Tofino and Ucluelet are small towns with global reputations. Known for surfing, storm watching, and stunning old growth forests, the west coast is where you go to get away from it all. The real estate market is steep, and permanent jobs can be scarce, but for artists, remote workers, or those in the hospitality industry, the lifestyle is hard to beat.

Cost of Living & the Real Estate Market

Quick Look:
  • Housing: Victoria & Tofino = high; Nanaimo & Campbell River = moderate; Port Alberni = more affordable (Sources: WorkBC, Living Wage BC, Numbeo) 
  • Groceries & Fuel: 6–15% higher than on the mainland 
  • Utilities: Comparable to BC average
  • Rental Market: Tight in most areas; long-term rentals are in high demand

 

Vancouver Island’s cost of living is above average, especially when it comes to groceries, fuel, and housing. According to WorkBC’s Cost of Living Calculator, a family of four in Greater Victoria needs an annual household income of $108,168 to maintain a basic standard of living. Numbeo’s cost comparison data shows that groceries and restaurant prices in Victoria are approximately 6–12% higher than in Vancouver. 

 

The real estate market remains competitive: as of early 2024, benchmark home prices average around $935,000 in Victoria, $770,000 in Nanaimo, and $550,000 in Port Alberni. Rental demand is high across most regions, with low vacancy rates making long-term rentals especially competitive.

What Daily Life Looks Like

Quick Look:

  • Outdoor activities: Kayaking, hiking, surfing, storm watching, wildlife watching

  • Community life: Farmer’s markets, art galleries, local volunteering, seasonal events

  • Climate: Mild winters, warm summers, and regular rain. Especially from November to March

  • Lifestyle: Relaxed, community-driven, nature-oriented, with occasional logistical trade-offs

Living on Vancouver Island isn’t just about where you live, it’s about how you live! The day-to-day rhythm here is shaped by nature, seasons, and community. For most residents, life centres around proximity to the outdoors: whether it’s walking the dog along a foggy beach, paddling out for a morning kayak, or heading to a forest trail for a post-work hike, daily life leans into the island’s wild, restorative beauty.

 

The pace is noticeably slower. Many shops close early, and nightlife is limited outside of Victoria. Instead, the evenings are filled with home-cooked meals, board games, craft beer, and watching storms roll in from the Pacific. Weekends revolve around farmer’s markets, community events, local breweries, and seasonal festivals. This is especially true in smaller towns where community involvement is strong.

 

In more urban areas like Nanaimo or Victoria, the lifestyle includes coffee shop culture, independent bookstores, yoga studios, and access to healthcare and education. In rural and coastal towns, it may mean living off well water, relying on ferries, and planning ahead for winter storms or power outages. In many areas, self-sufficiency and a deep respect for nature are embedded in everyday life.


For families, island life offers space to grow, outdoor adventures, and strong school communities. For retirees, it means tranquility and access to nature. For professionals and remote workers, it’s a place to find balance between career and quality of life. Provided your field aligns with the local job market or you’re set up to work remotely.

Try Before You Buy: Long-Term Rentals with EMR

smiling couple with a suitcase enter a room - vacation rentals

The best way to see if island life is right for you is to live it! EMR Vacation Rentals offers long-term stays in fully furnished, professionally managed homes across Vancouver Island. Stay for a month or more and get a feel for daily rhythms, community fit, and what life here is really like.

Explore EMR’s Island Homes:

EMR Vacation Rentals offers an impressive selection of long-term rental homes that reflect the diversity of lifestyles across Vancouver Island. Whether you’re looking for a modern oceanside condo in a vibrant city centre, a forest-fringed cottage in a laid-back surf town, or a spacious family home in a rural farming valley, EMR has something for everyone!

For urban convenience and

Mount Finlayson View Villa Main Image - EMR vacation rentals

professional access, explore homes in Greater Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula.

 

For a relaxed, family-friendly setting with ocean views and hiking trails, Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and Nanaimo offer wonderful options.

 

For those seeking an outdoorsy lifestyle in creative, connected communities, check out the Comox Valley and Cowichan Valley.

 

For peace, quiet, and a slower pace of life, our Sooke properties place you right next to wild beaches and west coast forests.

 

From retirees and remote workers to young families and digital nomads, EMR’s wide range of professionally managed and fully furnished  properties lets you experience the real rhythms of Vancouver Island before making your move permanent.

Is Living on Vancouver Island Right for You?

Vancouver Island offers an exceptional lifestyle rooted in natural beauty, community, and connection. It’s not the right fit for everyone but for many, it offers a better balance than most people.

Explore before you relocate! Book a long-term rental with EMR Vacation Rentals and experience island living for yourself!

Book Today!

Top 10 Things to Do in Qualicum Beach

soft, cool sunrise light over a pebbly beach with snowcapped mountains in the distance

Welcome to Qualicum Beach!

If you’re dreaming of a beachfront escape surrounded by natural beauty, Qualicum Beach on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is a must-visit destination. Located in the heart of the Parksville Qualicum Beach region, this laid-back town offers everything from stunning ocean views and family-friendly outdoor activities, to creative hubs and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Whether you’re travelling from elsewhere in Canada or planning a quick getaway from Parksville, you’ll find that Qualicum Beach has something to offer year-round.

Booking directly with EMR Vacation Rentals is the best way to experience it all—our professionally managed homes, local service, and added value ensure a seamless and comfortable stay!

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Why Visit Qualicum Beach?

Qualicum Beach is the kind of place that encourages you to slow down. Locals ride bikes along the waterfront, visitors wander through local markets, and the salty sea air pairs perfectly with a morning coffee. With walkable streets, vibrant art spaces, and access to incredible natural attractions, this Oceanside town is ideal for couples, families, and solo adventurers alike.

 

1. Explore the Outdoors

Surrounded by forests, rivers, caves, and mountains, Qualicum Beach is an incredible launch point for outdoor adventure. Whether you’re into high alpine hikes, peaceful forest walks, or cycling through quiet woodlands, these outdoor activities highlight the raw natural beauty of Vancouver Island. Many local parks offer excellent biking and hiking trails for all skill levels.

shot from above of the rushing waters of Little Qualicum falls - dark blue turquoise water and lush green banks - Vancouver Island parks and trails

Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Address: Hwy 4, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-474-1336
Price: Free
Good for: Families, photographers, nature lovers
Why we love it: This peaceful loop trail through an old-growth forest with multiple waterfall lookouts is a great day out, year round! A popular biking and hiking destination also connects to scenic forest paths that are accessible for a variety of skill levels.

Horne Lake Caves

Address: 3905 Horne Lake Caves Rd, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-248-7829
Price: $$
Good for: Adventurers, teens, outdoor enthusiasts
Why we love it: Guided tours take you deep into the earth through winding limestone tunnels and caverns offering a unique way to explore Vancouver Island’s geology! Suitable for all levels and a must-visit for lovers of geology and underground exploration.  

Hike Mt. Arrowsmith

Trailhead: Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail, near Cameron Lake
Price: Free
Good for: Experienced hikers, summit seekers
Why we love it: This may be a challenging trek but the views are worth it! Bring sturdy boots and prepare for a solid climb through forested ridgelines that showcase the island’s natural diversity.

Englishman River Falls

Address: 2245 Errington Rd, Errington, BC
Phone: 250-474-1336
Price: Free
Good for: Families, casual hikers, waterfall lovers
Why we love it: With several easy walking and biking trails with viewpoints, this is a great day out for the whole family!  The park offers a peaceful setting to enjoy Vancouver Island’s rainforest landscape and is especially stunning in spring and fall!

 

2. Fishing, Kayaking, and More

Love life on the water? The area surrounding Qualicum Beach offers excellent access to marine activities like kayaking, boating, and freshwater lake paddling. It’s also home to one of the best-known marinas and charter launch points in the region.

older man wearing a blur hoodie and basball hat holding a large slamon - fishing in bc

French Creek Marina & Charters

Address: 1055 Lee Rd, French Creek, BC
Phone: Varies by operator
Price: $$$
Good for: Fishing fans, families, wildlife watchers.
Why we love it: Easy access to charters and fresh seafood.
Description: Book a charter for salmon fishing or whale watching—or just stop by for fish and chips by the dock.

Kayaking in Qualicum Bay

Launch Points: Judges Row or Qualicum Beach waterfront
Price: $$ (rental rates vary)
Good for: Active travellers, paddlers, couples.
Why we love it: With calm waters and gorgeous views exploring Qualicum Bay by kayak or SUP is a great way to get out there! You’ll find many local outfitters that offer rentals and guided tours in the warmer months.

Cameron Lake

Address: Hwy 4 between Parksville and Port Alberni
Price: Free
Good for: Swimmers, picnickers and paddlers.
Why we love it: This scenic and peaceful freshwater lake is great for a refreshing dip, paddle, or laid-back picnic. Popular in summer but quiet in the shoulder season.

 

3. Visit MacMillan Provincial Park

A trip to Qualicum Beach isn’t complete without a visit to nearby MacMillan Provincial Park, home to one of Vancouver Island’s most iconic old-growth forests. Towering trees, flat trails, and cool, shaded groves make it an unforgettable stop.

view from the ground up to the canopy of old growth trees in Cathedral Grove

Cathedral Grove

Address: MacMillan Provincial Park, Hwy 4, BC
Price: Free
Good for: Everyone!
Why we love it: This section of heritage forest features some of the oldest Douglas firs on the island, many over 800 years old! You can stroll the short loop trails and marvel at these towering ancient trees in a magical forest setting.

 

4. Visit Coombs

A quick drive inland brings you to the quirky village of Coombs — a legendary roadside stop known for its funky shops, delicious food, and famous roof-dwelling goats.

Old Country Market

Address: 2326 Alberni Hwy, Coombs, BC 

Phone: 250-248-6272
Price: $$
Good for: Families, browsers, foodies.
Why we love it: This market is a fun and offbeat experience with international foods, produce, baked goods, souvenirs, and, of course, the famous “goats on the roof.” Goats. On the roof. Need we say more?

Cuckoo Trattoria & Pizzeria

Address: 2326 Alberni Hwy, Coombs, BC (behind the Old Country Market)
Phone: 250-248-6280
Price: $$–$$$
Good for: Couples, families, Italian food lovers.
Why we love it: Located just behind the market, Cuckoo’s serves wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta, and hearty mains — all in a cozy indoor space or beautiful garden patio.

woman holding an ice cream cone on a sunny day

Billy Gruff Creamery & Café

Address: 2326 Alberni Hwy, Coombs, BC
Phone: 250-248-6272
Price: $
Good for: Ice cream lovers of all ages.
Why we love it: This spot inside the Old Country Market is known for its creamy, house-made gelato and kid-friendly atmosphere — the perfect treat after browsing the shops.

 

Arts & Culture in Qualicum Beach

From vibrant art galleries to peaceful gardens and fascinating museums, Qualicum Beach’s cultural side reflects its creative and community-driven spirit. These stops offer thoughtful insight into the area’s history, art scene, and natural beauty.

The Old School House Arts Centre

Address: 122 Fern Rd W, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-752-6133
Price: $
Good for: Art lovers, creatives, culture seekers
Why we love it:
With rotating exhibitions, artist studios, and workshops, this beloved local arts hub in a beautiful heritage building is the heart of the Qualicum Beach arts scene.

Qualicum Beach Museum

Address: 587 Beach Rd, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-752-5533
Price: $
Good for: Families, history buffs, rainy-day explorers
Why we love it: From paleontology to pioneer life, this little museum covers a lot of ground and offers hands-on exhibits for kids.

Milner Gardens & Woodland

Address: 2179 West Island Hwy, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-752-6153
Price: $$
Good for: Garden lovers, couples, photographers
Why we love it: A romantic and peaceful space with forest trails, seasonal blooms, and a charming teahouse!

 

5. Golf Courses

man taking a swing from a sand trap on a golf course - sunny day

With ocean views and rolling greens, golfing in the Qualicum Beach area is both relaxing and scenic. Here are a few options to suit every skill level:

Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course

Address: 469 Memorial Ave, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-752-6312
Price: $$
Good for: Golfers of all levels.
Why we love it: This 9-hole heritage course has offered lovely ocean views and a laid-back pace perfect for casual or vacation golfers for over 100 years!

Pheasant Glen Golf Resort

Address: 1025 Qualicum Rd, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-752-8786
Price: $$
Good for: Intermediate to advanced players, tournament fans.
Why we love it: If you’re looking for a scenic day on the green, this 18-hole championship course nestled beneath Mount Arrowsmith, perfectly blends challenging fairways with a peaceful countryside atmosphere!

Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club

Address: 2250 Fowler Rd, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-752-9727
Price: $$
Good for: Beginners, casual golfers, families.
Why we love it: With shorter yardage and well-kept greens, Arrowsmith is ideal for a relaxed day on the course — and it’s only a short drive from town!

 

6. Day Trips from Qualicum Beach

Ready to explore beyond town limits? These nearby communities offer an easy chance to expand your adventure while still keeping the laid-back Island vibe. Each destination offers its own unique flavour — from bustling harbours to serene inlets, surf towns to waterfall trails.

Nanaimo: Discover a bustling seaside city filled with culture, cuisine, and charm. Highlights include the Harbourfront Walkway, the Bastion, and the beloved Nanaimo Bar Trail.

Nanoose Bay: A peaceful retreat for nature lovers. Enjoy scenic drives, birdwatching, kayaking, or a stroll through Moorecroft Regional Park.

Tofino: Though it’s a longer drive, Tofino is a bucket-list destination for surfers, foodies, and storm watchers. Explore Long Beach, enjoy world-class dining, or relax in the surf town vibe.

Port Alberni: A great stop for inland adventure. Check out Stamp River Falls, take a stroll along Harbour Quay, or book a historic steam train ride through the forest. These nearby communities offer day-trip-worthy experiences just a short drive away.

 

7. Farms & Markets

Support local makers, farmers, and creators while enjoying delicious food and vibrant community energy. From bustling weekly markets to tranquil farm tours, these stops offer a delicious way to get a taste of the region.

woman selling fresh produce at a farm market pesspers, potatoes, tomatoes etc.

Qualicum Beach Farmers Market

Address: 644 Veterans Way, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-757-9627
Price: Free
Good for: Everyone
Why we love it: Open year-round on Saturdays, this market features fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more — it’s a great way to connect with the community!

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

Address: 403 Lowrys Rd, Parksville, BC
Phone: 250-954-3931
Price: $
Good for: Families, foodies, kids
Why we love it: Located on Morningstar Farm, this spot offers self-guided tours, cheese tasting, and a chance to meet the farm animals.

Silver Meadows Farm Market

Address: 1343 Alberni Hwy, Qualicum Beach, BC
Phone: 250-248-4450
Price: $
Good for: Families, food lovers, local produce seekers
Why we love it: This charming roadside stand offers fresh produce, preserves, flowers, and friendly service just minutes from downtown Qualicum Beach.

 

8. Beaches

From calm bays to long sandy stretches, these beaches define the region’s coastal charm.

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Address: 1240 Rath Rd, Parksville, BC
Phone: 250-474-1336
Price: Free
Good for: Families, beachcombers, sunset watchers
Why we love it: Just south of Qualicum Beach, Rathtrevor is known for its wide beaches and warm, shallow water at low tide.

Qualicum Beach

Address: Waterfront along Hwy 19A, Qualicum Beach, BC
Price: Free
Good for: Everyone
Why we love it: Perfect for strolling, picnicking, or watching eagles soar above. This is the heart of the community’s beachfront vibe.

 

9. Family Fun

little girl playing mini golf with her parent - family fun

Travelling with kids? These spots are entertaining, educational, and easy to enjoy with the whole crew.

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

Address: 1240 Leffler Rd, Errington, BC
Phone: 250-248-8534
Price: $
Good for: Families, animal lovers
Why we love it: A local favourite with educational displays and a chance to see eagles, owls, and even a resident bear being rehabilitated!

Paradise Fun Park

Address: 375 Island Hwy W, Parksville, BC V9P 1A1

Phone: 250-248-6612
Price: $
Good for: Kids, groups, casual outings
Why we love it: Paradise Fun Park is a local favourite featuring two themed 18-hole mini-golf courses — one pirate and one fantasy — plus bumper boats and arcade games. It’s a fun stop for all ages, just 15 minutes from Qualicum Beach.

 

10. Where to Stay in Qualicum Beach

After a day of exploring, there’s nothing better than settling into your own comfortable home base. Our Qualicum Beach vacation rentals offers a curated selection of high-quality vacation homes throughout the Qualicum Beach area and beyond.

Columbia Beach House

Choose from a wide variety of homes, including:

  • Oceanview cottages with beach access
  • Family-friendly homes with multiple bedrooms
  • Secluded forest retreats
  • Pet-friendly rentals
  • Long-term and short-term stay options

Many EMR homes include top-notch amenities such as:

  • Full kitchens with modern appliances
  • Hot tubs and spacious outdoor decks
  • High-speed Wi-Fi and streaming services
  • Fireplaces and cozy living spaces
  • Washer/dryer and ample storage
  • Proximity to trails, beaches, and attractions

Browse our Vancouver Island vacation rentals and start planning your Qualicum Beach getaway today!

 

Ready to Visit Qualicum Beach?

From waterfalls to markets, old-growth forests to sunny beaches, Qualicum Beach offers everything you need for a rejuvenating escape on Vancouver Island. Whether you’re here for a weekend or staying a little longer, this beautiful British Columbia destination is worth exploring in every season!

Plan your visit today — and let EMR Vacation Rentals help you make the most of your stay in the Parksville Qualicum Beach region!