Top 5 Things to Do in Parksville This Summer 2025

Top 5 Things to Do in Parksville This Summer

Looking for the perfect summer getaway? Parksville, British Columbia, offers an unforgettable mix of coastal charm, outdoor adventure, and small-town hospitality. Whether you're here for a weekend escape or a weeklong vacation, here are the top five things to do in Parksville during the sunny season.

5. Explore Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Just minutes from town, Rathtrevor Beach offers shaded forest trails, warm shallow waters, and excellent picnicking spots. Bring a beach blanket, a frisbee, and your sense of wonder. It’s an ideal spot for families, photographers, and nature lovers alike. Stick around in the evening to watch the tide roll in—it’s a Parksville classic.

4. Visit the Morningstar Farm & Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

Summer is the best time to visit Morningstar Farm, where you can sample handcrafted cheeses, meet the farm animals, and even take a self-guided tour of the dairy operation. Located just outside Parksville, it’s a fun, educational, and flavourful stop for all ages.

3. Discover Englishman River Falls

Cool off with a scenic hike at Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, where forested trails lead you to cascading waterfalls and refreshing swimming holes. Bring your camera—the dense old-growth forest and rushing water make this one of the most photogenic spots in the area.

2. Stroll the Parksville Summer Markets & Festivals

From the Craig Street Night Market in Parksville Downtown, Qualicum Farmer's Market on Saturdays,  to local artisan pop-ups, Parksville comes alive in summer with community events. Don't miss Beachfest and the Parksville Beach Sandcastle Competition, where jaw-dropping sand sculptures line the shore.

1. Beach Walk at Parksville Beach + Cocktails at the Bayside Patio

You haven’t truly experienced Parksville until you’ve strolled the wide sandy shoreline of Parksville Beach at low tide. The tidal flats stretch out for what feels like miles, creating the perfect backdrop for a peaceful morning walk or a splash-filled family outing.

After your walk, make your way to Bayside Oceanfront Resort’s award-winning ocean view patio. Sip a refreshing cocktail or enjoy a crisp local wine while soaking in panoramic views of the Salish Sea. With gentle sea breezes, delicious West Coast cuisine, and one of the best sunset views on Vancouver Island, it's a must-do for every summer visitor.

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