Parksville vacation rentals

Explore British Columbia’s pretty Parksville

A quintessential summer getaway on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Parksville puts true meaning into the phrase that life’s a beach. People come to the city to relax on its broad sandy shores and frolic in the warm Pacific waters but end up equally enthralled by its fascinating cultural landscape and abundance of family-friendly attractions. Whether you plan to spend your days relaxing on the beach with the sound of gentle waves in the background or are determined to take in the view from the dizzy heights of Mount Arrowsmith, Parksville vacation rentals offer the perfect spot to call home during your stay.

Enjoy fun-packed family days in Parksville

Family fun can be found around every corner here. The Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition draws the crowds every July but there’s plenty to keep you entertained all year round. Butterfly World & Gardens is a big hit with kids as is nearby Tiger Lily Farm where a petting zoo and trail rides through the forest are among the attractions. You can find both within a 15-minute drive of many Parksville vacation rentals. Be sure to squeeze in a little culture with a trip to Craig Heritage Park & Museum. The half-dozen heritage homes and the classic red 1940s fire truck make the park a must-visit for budding historians.

Explore the great outdoors in and around Parksville

You’ll find that life here is almost always best experienced outdoors. While the sandy beaches hold obvious appeal, don’t miss the chance to explore the open water. Kayaking in Nanoose Bay’s Schooner Cove is an idyllic way to do just that and the calm waters make it an ideal activity for the whole family. Cruises offer a less energetic pace so you might like to head to Cowichan Bay or the Campbell River, both within an hours’ drive of Parksville, where multiple tour companies offer excursions to see the whales, dolphins, and sea lions out in the water.

All 4 seasons can be enjoyed in Parksville

Parksville is understandably a popular spot for summer vacations, not least because temperatures hover around a comfortable 70 degrees throughout July and August. Competition for Parksville vacation rentals can be higher during this peak season so you shouldn’t rule out visiting during spring and fall, the former bringing local gardens to life with showy displays of fragrant cherry blossom. Winters in Vancouver Island, in general, are somewhat milder than in rest of Canada, which serves to attract those who want to explore the crisp white slopes of area ski resorts while enjoying the comfortable base of a home-style stay in Parksville.

Exploring the beaches and other natural features in Parksville

Travelers enjoy Parksville for its seaside, island views and sunsets. Whether you're an active traveler or just want to appreciate the scenery, you'll be sure to find the perfect setting for your vacation in Parksville. These are some of the area's most eye-catching features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:

• Parksville Community Park (0.3 mi / 0.5 km)
• Parksville Beach (0.4 mi / 0.7 km)
• Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park (2 mi / 3.3 km)
• Rathtrevor Beach (2.4 mi / 3.9 km)
• Long Lake (15.2 mi / 24.5 km)
• MacMillan Provincial Park (15.5 mi / 25 km)

Transportation to and around Parksville

The nearest airport is in Nanaimo, BC (YCD), located 27 mi (43.5 km) from the city center. If you're unable to find a flight that fits your schedule, you can also fly into Nanaimo, BC (ZNA-Nanaimo Harbour Water Aerodrome), which is 20 mi (32.2 km) away.