10 Amazing Swim Spots to Cool Off This Summer in Parksville Qualicum Beach

Between all the beautiful beaches, rivers, and lakes in our backyard, there are plenty of scenic spots to take a dip. The hardest decision you have to make is which one to explore first! Whether you're looking for warm-weather activities or seeking new ways to embrace the outdoors, our swimming areas offer plenty of ways to relax and soak in the sunshine.

Here are some of our favourite spots to cool off from the summer sun:

1. Top Bridge Park & Regional Trail

Top Bridge Park & Regional Trail in the Englishman River Regional Park is a local favourite swimming hole. Drift away in its natural lazy river, jump off ‘the nose’, and play or lay on its beaches. | 249 Allsbrook Road

2. Rathtrevor Beach

Swim in bathtub-warm waters after the tide comes in over sun-baked sand.⁠ Lined with towering Douglas Fir trees, Rathtrevor Beach is the ultimate place for nature lovers and birders. | 1240 Rath Road

3. Ravensong Aquatic Centre

From leisurely swim sessions to fitness programs, Ravensong Aquatic Centre offers year-round for all swimmers in an indoor setting. Make your way through the pool's vast lanes, featuring ample space to practice your techniques and skills. | 737 Jones Street

4. Cameron Lake

Enjoy the crystal-clear waters and sandy shores of Cameron Lake. It's recommended to use caution when swimming as the beach is not monitored. | 4655 Alberni Highway

5. Parksville Community Beach

With its calm oceanfront, this beach is a popular destination for families. And when low tide hits, there’s plenty more space to explore. Kids will love hunting for seashells during low tide and exploring the beachfront playground and water park. | Corfield Street North

6. Spider Lake

A big, sandy beach area near the parking lot is a central spot to hang out, swim or paddle. Best of all, Spider Lake is off-limits to all motorized boats. That means the peace is only likely to be broken by the sound of happy laughter and the cheers of anglers catching small-mouth bass that frequent these waters. This park can be found through Lakeview Road. | Lakeview Road

7. Brickyard Community Park

Brickyard Community Park is located on Amberwood Lane, with easy access to the water. This rocky beach is less suited to sunbathers but perfect for swimming. If you’d rather stay dry, take a seat on the benches and soak in the incredible ocean views. | 3828 Amberwood Lane

8. Qualicum Beach

Qualicum Beach is family-friendly, with wide expanses of white sand during low tide and a paved, shady promenade to enjoy when the tide comes in. The calm, warm waters make it the perfect place to take your little ones for a dip. | Highway 19A

9. Horne Lake

Grab your floaties or SUP boards to enjoy this serene spot. Along with exploring geological phenomena and fossils inside of the Horne Lake Caves, the park area offers a vast swimming area with a breathtaking mountainous backdrop. | 3890 Horne Lake Caves Road

Tip: Next to Big Qualicum River, there is a day-use area that is shallow and perfect for wading or swimming.

10. Grotto Spa at Tigh-Na-Mara

If it’s a cooler day and you want to treat yourself, book a spa package at the Grotto Spa and Treetop Tapas at Tigh-Na-Mara to warm up and relax. The pool is infused with natural minerals and trace elements that help to detoxify the body. This has been voted the #1 best spa in Canada year after year. | 1155 Resort Drive