One of the biggest perks of staying at the Beach Club Resort is how easy it is to enjoy the very best of Parksville without ever needing to hop in your car. With the ocean just beyond your patio, vibrant community spaces a stroll away, and exclusive guest amenities to fuel your adventure, summer fun is truly right at your doorstep.
Here’s how to make the most of those long, sunny days while staying in the heart of Parksville.
1. Paddle & Play with the Stay Amenities Program
Guests of the Beach Club Resort have access to a fantastic collection of complimentary Stay Amenities designed for fun on the water. Launch a stand-up paddleboard or kayak right from the beach at high tide for a peaceful glide along the calm shoreline.
Or, if you’re in the mood for playful beach fun, try the resort's boogie boards or skim boards during low tide. The gentle slope of Parksville Beach makes it an ideal place to splash, skim and enjoy the warm waters.
With everything provided on-site, it’s easy to turn a beach day into a seaside adventure.
2. Hit the Trails by Bike
If two wheels are more your speed, grab a cruiser from the resort and head out on one of Parksville’s scenic, bike-friendly routes. The area offers excellent options for casual riders or those looking to log a few extra kilometres.
The Rail Trail is a wide, gravel-covered multi-use path that stretches for 7 km connecting Springwood Park in Parksville to Station Road in Coombs. It’s a peaceful, accessible route perfect for a relaxed ride or group outing.
Once you reach Coombs, take some time to explore the quirky charm of this rural village, home to the famous Goats on the Roof market. You’ll find plenty of unique shops and casual eateries with a country flair.
For a slightly longer ride, follow the 13-km low-traffic route that links Parksville and Qualicum Beach. The Qualicum Beach Links features quiet suburban roads, a pedestrian-cyclist bridge over French Creek, and paved sections near Qualicum.
Once you arrive in Qualicum Beach, you’ll find a walkable village core filled with cafes, boutiques, and galleries, plus a beautiful waterfront promenade perfect for a rest while taking in the ocean views.
Whether you are looking for ocean views, quirky stops, or a scenic cruise between seaside towns, biking around Parksville offers the perfect mix of exercise and discovery.
3. Make the Most of Parksville Beach
You won’t find many beaches like this one. Thanks to its wide tidal range and warm, shallow water, Parksville Beach is perfect for families, couples or anyone who just wants to stretch out on the sand and breathe the salty air..
Build sandcastles, wade through tide pools, or simply bask in the sun with a good book. And when the tide is low, you’ll be amazed at just how far you can walk out across the hard-packed sand. In the evening, the beach becomes a tranquil place for a stroll as the sun sets.
To make your beach day even more enjoyable, the resort’s Stay Amenities Program also includes practical and playful extras such as beach wagons, umbrellas, metal detectors, children’s beach toys, and lawn and beach games.
Whether you want to relax in the shade or dig for treasure, everything you need is already at your fingertips.
4. Family Fun at Parksville Community Park
Right next door to the Resort, you’ll find Parksville Community Park - the ultimate summer hangout for families. Kids will love the enormous playground, which includes climbing structures of all kinds, a small zipline, and a splash park. Teens can test their skills at the skate park using either a skateboard or a BMX bike. And the entire family will love walking the beach promenade for the epic ocean scenery.
For sports enthusiasts, the park also has volleyball, pickleball, and tennis courts, a Lacrosse Box, Horseshoe Pits, and a Kite field where you’ll find people flying large colourful kites, playing frisbee, or simply enjoying the space. Please note that to enjoy any of these activities, you must have your own equipment.
The added bonus of a variety of food trucks and plenty of shaded picnic areas makes it easy to spend a whole day at the Community Park. With the ocean breeze in the air and plenty of space to run, play or relax, it’s one of the most beloved public spaces in town.
5. Beachfront Wellness & Relaxation
If your idea of a great summer day involves slowing down, the Beach Club has you covered. Start your morning with yoga on the sand, or simply bring your mat out onto your balcony for a peaceful sunrise stretch. Yoga mats are also included in the Stay Amenities Program, so there’s no need to pack your own!
Later, treat yourself to a visit to the on-site Stonewater Spa, where you can enjoy massages, facials, and full-body treatments designed to leave you feeling refreshed and recharged.
6. Stroll into Downtown Parksville
Downtown Parksville is a delightful blend of small-town charm and local creativity, and it’s only a few blocks from the resort. Wander up Craig Street or Alberni Highway to discover boutiques, gift shops, galleries, and a variety of eateries.
Stop in for an iced latte or locally roasted coffee, browse artisan jewelry or beach-inspired decor, and pick up a keepsake that reminds you of your time by the sea. It’s the perfect way to spend a slower afternoon or a pre-dinner walk.
7. Discover Local Art, Culture & Events
Parksville shines in the summer with events and cultural experiences just a short stroll from the Beach Club Resort.
Live Music: Many summer weekends bring live music to the Community Park or beachfront amphitheatre. Bring a blanket and enjoy free performances from talented local musicians as the sun sets over the bay.
Parksville Beach Festival: Known to locals as Beachfest, this 5 ½ week-long family-oriented festival runs from mid-July to mid-August. It features the renowned Quality Foods Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition, showcasing impressive sandcastle creations. Plus, visitors can enjoy live performances, an artisan market, and various family-friendly activities throughout the festival.
Summer by the Sea Street Market: Every Tuesday evening from early June to the end of August (6:00 - 9:00 pm), Craig Street transforms into a lively pedestrian-only marketplace. Shop for artisan crafts, local produce, handmade goods, and snacks while enjoying live entertainment and a welcoming community vibe.
8. Treat yourself to Summer Eats & Sweets
No summer trip is complete without a few indulgences. Fortunately, Parksville’s culinary scene is filled with delicious options.
Pick up a cold cone while you are out enjoying the boardwalk at Coastal Cones Beachfront Ice Cream. They offer 24 flavours of hard-scoop ice cream, plus New Zealand-style soft serve with tons of toppings and add-ins available.
Enjoy oceanfront dining at the Beach Club's on-site restaurant. Indulge in freshly caught seafood or other delectables from their seasonal menu. Each dish showcases the bounty of Vancouver Island and includes fresh, locally sourced, and sustainable ingredients crafted into exquisite meals by talented chefs. Oh, and don’t forget dessert! The Milk & Honey (cheesecake) will put the finishing touch on any meal.
If you are looking for something more casual, walk into town. Whether you’re craving fish and chips, sushi, pizza or just some locally sourced comfort food, you’ll find plenty of tasty, relaxed options nearby.
Ready to Dive into Summer?
Whether you’re craving adventure, looking to unwind or simply hoping to soak up the sun, the Beach Club Resort places it all within easy reach. Parksville’s best summer experiences are waiting just outside your door.
