Outdoor Activities
Hiking
Home to a diverse range of hiking trails that showcase the natural beauty of central Vancouver Island.
The area’s well-maintained parks and trail networks make it easy to immerse yourself in nature, spot wildlife, and take in breathtaking views of mountains, waterfalls, and ocean vistas. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely afternoon walk or a more challenging backcountry route, Parksville is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
A feast for the senses, offering a rich variety of trails that wind through old-growth forests, skirt along rivers and waterfalls, and open up to sweeping ocean vistas.
Trails like Little Qualicum Falls provide layered views of rushing water over volcanic rock, while Top Bridge Trail connects hikers to serene swimming holes and mountain glimpses. The terrain ranges from flat, family-friendly routes to more rugged, root-laced paths for seasoned hikers.
Surrounding communities such as Nanoose Bay, Qualicum Beach, and Lighthouse Country add even more options to your hiking list. In Nanoose, the Moorecroft Regional Park trail system offers oceanfront routes with tranquil lookouts, while Qualicum Beach’s Heritage Forest offers a peaceful canopy of towering Douglas firs. Up north, the Spider Lake area and Horne Lake Caves region mix hiking with opportunities for spelunking and lake views. Each location delivers a unique terrain experience—from soft forest floors to rocky bluffs—and the views range from hidden waterfalls to open stretches of coastline and mountains. Whether for a quick nature fix or a daylong adventure, Parksville’s trail network invites you to explore it one step at a time.
Whether you're wandering the coastal paths of Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park or trekking through the mossy forests of Englishman River Falls, each hike offers a unique connection to Vancouver Island’s natural beauty.
Photos (coming soon)
Popular Locations
We’ll be back soon with some of the top spots for you to hike in Parksville and the surrounding areas.
Parksville Golf Course
Morningstar Golf Club
Morningstar Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience set against the stunning backdrop of Vancouver Island’s coastal landscape. Designed with both challenge and playability in mind, this championship 18-hole course features rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and well-manicured greens that reward accuracy and thoughtful play.
Nanoose Bay Golf Course
Fairwinds Golf Club
Nestled on a scenic peninsula in Nanoose Bay, Fairwinds Golf Club offers a premier golfing experience set against breathtaking ocean vistas and framed by lush forest terrain. This 18-hole championship course challenges players with its carefully designed fairways, rolling greens, and strategically placed bunkers—all while delivering spectacular views of the Salish Sea and distant mountain ranges.
Qualicum Beach Golf Course
Pheasant Glen Golf Resort
Pheasant Glen Golf Resort offers a delightful blend of relaxed country club ambiance and family-friendly hospitality. This 18-hole championship course weaves through gentle terrain and open meadows, providing a welcoming layout that challenges players of all skill levels without overwhelming them.
Qualicum Beach Golf Course
Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Course
Memorial Golf Club offers a timeless 9-hole layout that blends classic charm with the serenity of Vancouver Island’s natural landscapes. Established over a century ago, this picturesque course winds through gentle hills and mature trees, offering golfers of all skill levels a relaxed and approachable playing experience.
Lighthouse Country Golf Course
Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club
Arrowsmith Golf & Country Club offers a leisurely and welcoming golf experience set against the backdrop of gentle hills and ocean glimpses. This 18-hole course combines a relaxing layout with a touch of strategic play—featuring curated fairways, well-maintained greens, and tree-lined corridors that provide a peaceful setting for golfers of all skill levels.
Qualicum Beach Golf Course
Eaglecrest Golf Club
Eaglecrest Golf Club in Qualicum Beach offers golfers a refreshing and accessible experience infused with the charm of a classic island course. This well-loved 9-hole layout is nestled within a canopy of Douglas firs, cedars, and arbutus, creating a peaceful woodland setting that feels a world away from busy fairways.
Parksville Golf Course
Bridadoon Golf Course
rigadoon Golf Course offers a relaxed 9-hole layout that’s ideal for players seeking a casual, friendly round of golf. With a mix of par-3s and par-4s winding through gentle terrain and pockets of Douglas firs and cedar groves, Brigadoons compact design and approachable ratios make it a great choice for newcomers to golf, juniors honing their skills, or seasoned veterans looking for a quick, low-pressure game.
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More Activities
Check out more outdoor activities in Parksville & the surrounding areas.
Get Outside
Golfing
Some of Vancouver Island’s most scenic and enjoyable golfing experiences are found in the region. From championship courses to relaxed public greens, golfers can enjoy sweeping ocean views, forested fairways, and well-maintained facilities. With a mild climate allowing for nearly year-round play, the area is a perfect destination for both seasoned players and casual enthusiasts looking to combine sport with natural beauty.
Get Outside
Beach Volleyball
Parksville offers a lively beach volleyball scene right along its stunning, sun-kissed shoreline. The primary courts are nestled within Parksville Community Park, adjacent to the wide sandy beach and sweeping Salish Sea views. These well-maintained courts are open to the public year-round, with peak activity during warm summer months when friends, families, and local athletes gather for casual pick-up games, practice sessions, and spirited rallies against a scenic ocean backdrop.
Get Outside
Kayaking & Paddleboarding
The calm, sheltered waters throughout the region are perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Glide across glassy bays, explore hidden coves, or drift along estuaries rich with birdlife and marine views. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a peaceful shoreline paddle or an experienced adventurer seeking new routes, the region’s scenic waterways make for a truly refreshing outdoor experience.
Get Outside
Boating
With easy access to marinas, sheltered bays, and the open waters of the Salish Sea, it's a paradise for recreational boaters, sailors, and fishing enthusiasts. Cruise along the coastline, drop anchor near hidden coves, or set out for nearby Gulf Islands—whether you're after relaxation or adventure, the waters around Parksville invite you to chart your own course.
Get Outside
Cycling
From peaceful seaside routes along Highway 19A to forested trails and winding country roads, cyclists of all skill levels can find enjoyable terrain. Whether you're out for a leisurely coastal ride or a more challenging inland adventure, the region’s mix of ocean views, rural landscapes, and well-connected paths makes it ideal for exploring on two wheels.
Photo Creds
top background paddleboard – Take Off Adventures | cycling – Beach Acres Resort | attractions – Coombs Market
