Top 10 Things to Do in Parksville, BC This Summer

Plan Your Perfect Parksville Summer Getaway

Parksville, British Columbia is a hidden gem on Vancouver Island that transforms into a vibrant summer destination. Whether you're looking for beach days, outdoor adventures, culinary experiences, or relaxation, Parksville offers something for everyone. Our guide covers the absolute best things to do in Parksville during the summer months.

#1: Parksville Beach and Community Park - The Heart of Summer Fun

There's a reason Parksville Beach is considered one of the most picturesque stretches of sand on Vancouver Island. Located right next door to our property, you can reach this stunning beach by walking along our beach path or taking a quick stroll on the sidewalk into town.

Parksville Community Park is a complete recreation hub featuring:

• Beach boardwalk
• Pickleball, tennis and lacrosse box facilities
• A massive playground perfect for families
• An attached water park for children
• Covered picnic areas and food truck stations

The beach itself hosts the famous annual Parksville Sand Castle Competition, a beloved summer tradition where families and artists create incredible sculptures. Throughout the summer season, you'll find Beachfest celebrations and countless community events, plus Canada Day festivities that light up the waterfront.

Visitor Tip: Check our Things To Do tab for detailed event listings throughout the month, and our What To Do tab to see what's happening the specific week you're visiting. Pack a picnic or grab food from one of the many food trucks stationed in the park.

#2: Craig Street Markets - Local Food & Artisan Treasures

Every Tuesday, Craig Street Markets transforms into a vibrant gathering place for foodies and shoppers. This weekly farmers market and food truck celebration captures the heart of Parksville's community spirit.

What to expect:

• Fresh, locally-grown produce and artisan products
• A rotating selection of food trucks offering diverse cuisines
• Local artisans selling handmade goods
• A true taste of Vancouver Island

Visitor Tip: Arrive early for the best selection, bring reusable bags, and plan to spend an hour exploring. It's the perfect spot to grab fresh ingredients for a beach picnic or dinner back at your accommodation.

#3: Explore Parksville on E-Scooters and E-Bikes

Want to see Parksville like a local while staying active? Rent an e-scooter or e-bike from the EVO Scooter and Bike Rental drop-off/pick-up location located right outside our property on the roadway.

This eco-friendly way to explore town lets you:

• Cover more ground while enjoying the fresh ocean air
• Discover charming neighborhoods and local spots
• Experience scenic coastal routes at a relaxed pace
• Navigate easily through town with minimal physical exertion

Safety Reminder: Always wear a helmet, follow traffic rules, and ride on designated paths and bike lanes. E-bikes and scooters are the perfect way to maximize your sightseeing while keeping active.

#4: Relax at Our Outdoor Pool with Ocean Views

True bliss awaits at our outdoor pool, where you can tan and swim while taking in views of the beach, ocean, and mountains. It's the perfect complement to your beach days, offering a controlled-temperature alternative when the ocean is chilly.

This serene setting is ideal for:

• Swimming laps or casual lounging
• Soaking up the sun with stunning views
• A midday break from beach crowds
• Families seeking a safe, supervised swimming environment

Visitor Tip: Bring sunscreen and arrive early on hot summer days to secure a prime lounging spot. The mountain views create the perfect backdrop for sunset swims.

#5: Golf - Play World-Class Courses on Vancouver Island

Parksville is a golfer's paradise. There are six fantastic golf courses within 30 minutes of each other, making Parksville a golfer's ideal holiday destination. Thanks to the mild climate, Vancouver Island golf courses are open almost 365 days a year.

Our resort is the perfect home base for a golf getaway. After an exciting day on the links, return to relax in our hot tub and pool, then enjoy cocktails and dinner at our lounge.

Top courses include:

• Morningstar Golf Club - An 18-hole, par-72 championship course designed for all skill levels
• Fairwinds Golf Club - Located in Nanoose Bay with stunning ocean and mountain views
• Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Club - A historic 9-hole gem built in 1913 with a full-service restaurant (local favourite)
• Arrowsmith Golf and Country Club - A challenging 18-hole, par-61 course with complete facilities (personal favourite)

Visitor Tip: Book your tee times in advance during peak summer season. Many courses offer package deals when you stay at a local resort. Don't forget to pack sunscreen and plenty of water.

#6: Happy Hour on the Patio - Best Views in Town

Our brand new patio is the place to be on a hot summer day. Treat yourself to the best views in Parksville while enjoying twice-daily happy hour deals.

Featured offerings:

• Afternoon happy hour specials
• Evening happy hour deals
• Crafted cocktails and local beverages
• Appetizers and small plates perfect for sharing
• Unobstructed views of the beach and mountains

Insider Tip: Nothing beats the experience of sipping a cold drink on our patio with ocean breezes and stunning natural scenery as your backdrop. Sunset happy hour is particularly magical during the long summer days.

#7: Little Qualicum Cheeseworks - Taste Local Agriculture

Visit Little Qualicum Cheeseworks to experience authentic Vancouver Island agriculture. You can see working dairy cows, watch the cheesemaking process, and purchase fresh milk and artisan cheeses.

This hands-on farm experience offers:

• Educational tours of the working dairy
• Fresh milk straight from the source
• Award-winning locally-made cheeses
• Farm shop with specialty dairy products
• A chance to connect with real farming practices

Visitor Tip: Call ahead to ask about tour availability. Bring a cooler if you plan to purchase fresh products, and arrive midday to potentially see milking operations. It's a wonderful activity for families and food enthusiasts.

#8: Explore Qualicum Beach Farmers Market on Saturdays

Just a short drive north of Parksville, the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market operates on Saturday mornings. This beloved community institution showcases the region's agricultural abundance and artisan products.

Discover:

• Seasonal produce from local farms
• Fresh baked goods and prepared foods
• Handmade crafts and local art
• Farm-fresh flowers and plants
• A genuine community gathering space

Visitor Tip: Arrive in the morning for the best selection and to enjoy the relaxed community atmosphere. Many vendors sell out of popular items by midday.

#9: Cameron Lake - Swim and Paddle Board Paradise

Cameron Lake offers crystal-clear freshwater swimming and paddleboarding opportunities. Located just a short drive from Parksville, this scenic lake is perfect for water sports enthusiasts and families.

Water activities include:

• Swimming in clean, freshwater lake
• Paddleboarding with mountain views
• Kayaking along peaceful shorelines
• Picnicking on surrounding beaches
• Photography opportunities with dramatic backdrops

Visitor Tip: Bring your own paddleboard or rent equipment locally. The lake is less crowded than ocean beaches on hot days, and the calm water is perfect for beginners.

#10: Rathtrevor Beach and Provincial Park - Hiking and Nature

Rathtrevor Provincial Park encompasses one of Vancouver Island's most expansive sandy beaches, surrounded by ancient old-growth forest. This natural wonder combines beach relaxation with serious outdoor adventure.

Activities at Rathtrevor include:

• Swimming on the expansive sandy beach
• Hiking scenic forest trails through towering trees
• Tide pool exploration
• Picnicking with ocean views
• Wildlife watching and birdwatching
• Photography of dramatic coastal landscapes

The park features multiple trails of varying difficulty, ranging from easy beach walks to challenging forest hikes. The contrast between wild forest and open beach creates a unique ecosystem worth exploring.

Visitor Tip: Bring sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and plenty of water. Visit at low tide to explore the tide pools and access more of the beach. The park can get busy on peak summer days, so arrive early for parking.

Plan Your Parksville Summer Escape

Parksville offers the perfect blend of beach relaxation, outdoor adventure, local culture, and culinary experiences. Whether you're a golfer, foodie, nature lover, or family seeking vacation fun, these 10 must-do activities ensure an unforgettable summer on Vancouver Island.

Pro Tip: Book your accommodation early for peak summer months (July and August). Many activities are free or low-cost, making Parksville an accessible destination for families and budget-conscious travelers.

Ready to experience the best of Parksville? Check our Things To Do tab for complete event calendars and our What To Do tab for weekly activity highlights tailored to your specific travel dates.

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