In Parksville, luxury meets relaxation on Vancouver Island's east coast. If you're looking for a posh summer escape, consider your search officially over. With sun-soaked beaches, a vibrant dining scene, rejuvenating spa experiences, and beach resorts just steps from the sand, Parksville has everything you need for an unforgettable retreat.
Join us as we dive into all the ways to make the most of your vacation in Parksville, from the exciting activities you can add to your itinerary to all the amazing dining options and luxurious accommodations.
Top 5 Things to Do on Your Vacation in Parksville
While there are plenty of Parksville attractions and activities to enjoy in all four seasons, summer has a special kind of magic. After all, it's beach season!
1. Hit the Beach
When you're planning a vacation in Parksville during the summer, your priority is likely spending lots of time on the beach (as it should be!). Parksville is home to some of the most pristine beaches in all of Canada. With wide strips of sand and warm, shallow water with calm waves, the beaches here are ideal for families and anyone who prefers to simply lounge and soak up the sun.
The Beach Club Resort is mere steps from Parksville Beach and its iconic wooden boardwalk. Rathtrevor Beach, famous for its dramatic tides, is also within a 10-minute drive. Low tide reveals an extra kilometre (half a mile) of beach, making this a popular destination for family activities in Parksville, such as tide pooling and building sandcastles.
Be sure to ask the front desk about complimentary beach rentals. As part of our Stay® | Well amenity program, resort guests can check out beach chairs and umbrellas, boogie boards, coolers, metal detectors for beachcombing, children's sand toys, adult bicycles, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards, and more.
2. The Parksville Beach Festival
Image courtesy of Parksville Beach Festival
Speaking of sandcastles, the Parksville Beach Festival, AKA Beachfest, should certainly be part of any summer vacation in Parksville. This 5.5-week-long festival runs from mid-July to mid-August and includes concerts, food trucks, street performers, an artisan market, and the main attraction, elaborate sand sculptures. The sculpting competition is held the first weekend of the festival, and the sculptures will be on display until it's over in August.
3. Take to the Water
For those who prefer being on the water, there's no shortage of ways to do it. Take out a kayak or SUP for a DIY adventure, or book a guided adventure to try kiteboarding or windsurfing. Fishing charters are also popular, whether you want to try fly fishing or prefer a traditional rod and reel.
4. Go Hiking
You can hike in Parksville year-round, but many people consider summer prime hiking season since all area trails are fully open and the weather is favourable. Pack your hiking boots and check out River Falls and Little Qualicum Falls for waterfall chasing. Head inland to hike the unique Arrowsmith CPR Regional Trail or Cathedral Grove, and don't miss Little Mountain Lookout.
5. Plan a Spa Day
What's a luxury vacation without some indulgent relaxation? At Stonewater Spa, conveniently located on The Beach Club Resort's grounds, you can treat yourself to a wide array of self-care treatments. Whether you opt for a rejuvenating massage, a facial, or a specialty body treatment, you'll leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated—the perfect counter-balance to all those outdoor-focused Parksville activities.
Best Parksville Restaurants
Parksville has an exciting food scene, largely focused on local ingredients and farm-to-table dishes. Regardless of what type of cuisine you're in the mood for, this is a fantastic destination for foodies.
Here are some of the best local restaurants:
The Beach Club Resort’s Restaurant & Lounge: Not only does our onsite restaurant have one of the best beachfront patios in town, but it also serves up excellent seafood, steaks, and upscale bar fare. Don't miss our famous Prime Rib Thursdays, daily happy hour specials, or the special Pour & Explore dinner series.
Realm Food Co: Organic, light eats with a focus on hyper-local ingredients, plus craft beer
Lefty's Fresh Food: A longtime staple in downtown Parksville, with creative "Left Coast" dishes like poke bowls and fish tacos
Bistro 694: One of the highest-rated restaurants in town, offering an intimate, romantic ambiance and globally-inspired menu
Cuckoo Trattoria & Pizzeria: In nearby Coombs (the home of the famous goats on the roof), this is a go-to for Italian classics
Tips for Planning a Vacation in Parksville
Getting Here
Many people take the ferry to Nanaimo, just 30 minutes south of Parksville. The trip is about three hours from Vancouver, and visitors are welcome to bring their own vehicles. If you aren't travelling with a vehicle, you can rent a car or take public transportation from Nanaimo. Victoria, the capital of BC and just two hours from Parksville, is also a popular destination on Vancouver Island.
If you'd prefer to fly, there are a handful of daily connecting flights from Vancouver International Airport into Nanaimo Airport and Comox Valley Airport (YQQ). The Nanaimo airport is approximately a 45-minute drive from Parksville.
Getting Around
While having a car offers flexibility for exploring, Parksville, and the beachfront area near The Beach Club Resort, are easily navigable on foot or bike. Of course, the beach is steps away, and there are grocery stores and restaurants within walking distance. The Island Link Bus runs between Parksville and other cities, including Nanaimo and Victoria. For guests who drive in, The Beach Club proudly offers complimentary parking.
Book Your Luxury Vacation in Parksville Today
Ready to experience the ultimate luxury getaway in Parksville? Look no further than The Beach Club Resort, offering guests an unbeatable combination of upscale accommodations, top-tier amenities, and a convenient location.
Choose from guest rooms or suites, all with private balconies, soaking tubs, and access to amenities, including a pool and hot tub, gym, and the spa! Check out our currentoffers and packages, and book your stay at The Beach Club!
