5 Things You Didn't Know About Rathtrevor Beach

Here are 5 things you might not have known about Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in Parksville.

autumn rathtrevor beach
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

1. Really Low Tide

How low does it go? At low tide, the ocean recedes almost 1 km, leaving a wide sandy beach ideal for tide pool exploration.

2. Migrating Brant Geese

In the spring, Rathtrevor is one of the best spots on Vancouver Island to view the migrating Brant Geese. During the Brant season (February 15 – April 30), no pets are allowed within 100 m of the beach. For more on viewing birds and other wildlife in Parksville Qualicum Beach, check out our blog.

Brant Geese
Brant Geese (Photo: Ed Wilson)
“ Rathtrevor takes its name from the Irish family headed by William Rath who homesteaded on the land in the late 1800s. ”

3. The Rathtrevor Beach Nature House

The Nature House can be found near the campground gate and offers educational programs, on-site naturalists, local flora/fauna displays, and a gift shop.

4. Rathtrevor Cheese

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks at Morningstar Farm in Parksville makes a Rathtrevor Cheese, named after the very popular park and beach. It's a long-aged fine table cheese that pairs well with fruits and nuts.

5. The Origin of the Rathtrevor Name

Rathtrevor takes its name from the Irish family headed by William Rath, who homesteaded on the land in the late 1800s.

About the Author

Sharyn Sadauskas


Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

Morningstar Farm, home to Little Qualicum Cheeseworks, is a local food hub featuring self-guided tours, a farmgate store...