10 Unique Things to Do in Parksville Qualicum Beach

Whether it’s your first time visiting Vancouver Island or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to discover here. Do you think you will try all 10 of these under-the-radar attractions on your next visit to Parksville Qualicum Beach?

1. Qualicum Beach Heritage Forest

Locals love visiting this old-growth forest of Coastal Douglas Fir, Western Red Cedar, Hemlock, Grand Fir, and Sitka Spruces, just five minutes from downtown Qualicum Beach. Walk the two kilometres of wide, flat paths and meander through 50 acres of forest dating back hundreds of years. Look for deer and many bird species, including Flycatchers and Warblers in the springtime. To protect the delicate ecosystem, always stay on the trail and keep pets leashed at all times.

2. Wild Culture Artisan Bakery

Experience fresh, organic, and traditionally-made bread, sweets, and pizza at this incredible local bakery in Qualicum Beach. The owners at Wild Culture Artisan Bakery source grain from hand-picked organic suppliers and mill many grains on-site in a German stone mill! Stop by for a delicious treat and chat up the bakers to learn more about traditional fermentation and baking techniques.

3. Deep Bay Marine Field Station

Visit a working research station designed with sustainability in mind at Vancouver Island University's Deep Bay Marine Field Station. This unique green facility and Science Center hosts a wide variety of activities, including tours, school groups, meetings, and weddings. Feel the sea anemones and other marine life with your hands in the touch tank and learn about marine conservation issues. Take in views of Baynes Sound or even attend a workshop or concert.

Know before you go: The Deep Bay Marine Field Station is typically open to the public from mid-spring to late summer.

4. Big & Little Qualicum Fish Hatcheries

Two local fish hatcheries help to protect populations of Pacific salmon and serve as research facilities for scientists to further study salmon behaviour. Visit the Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery too see a topographical model of the project and watch fish at eye-level in the viewing area. Enjoy lunch in the picnic area and walk the nature trails. You may call ahead to book a guided tour of the Big Qualicum Fish Hatchery, while nearby Little Qualicum Fish Hatchery offers self-guided access. The best time of year to see salmon at both locations is from mid-September to mid-November.

5. Hamilton Marsh

Hamilton Marsh is located just a few minutes from Parksville Qualicum Beach. This beautiful wetland is 3 kilometres long and ½ a kilometre wide - the largest wetland between Nanaimo, Cumberland, and Port Alberni. Birdwatchers and naturalists will appreciate the largest waterbird brood marsh on this part of Vancouver Island and the surrounding woods that are home to many red and blue listed species. In addition to the over 130 species of birds recorded at Hamilton Marsh, it also has plenty of amphibians, fish, and many other critters. For directions and more information on Hamilton Marsh, click here.

6. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park

Venture through an outdoor oasis, where breathtaking waterfalls, swimming holes, and campgrounds await. Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park is a natural treasure. Here, outdoor splendour can be found from cascading waterfalls and the verdant Douglas Fir forest. Create the ultimate fresh air-breathing itinerary with plenty of hikes along wooded trails and a swim at the nearby Cameron Lake.

7. Butterfly World Coombs

Make your way to this stunning insectarium and marvel at an array of colorful butterflies fluttering in the air. Running from the spring to the early fall, Butterfly World Coombs is an ecological paradise for a variety of winged critters. Watch Monarch butterflies and Atlas moths fly through a tropical greenhouse.

Plan your visit: Butterfly World Coombs is a seasonal attraction that generally runs from mid-March to mid-October.

8. Salish Sea Market

The Parksville Qualicum Beach region is brimming with one-of-a-kind artisanal hubs and the Salish Sea Market is no exception. Located in Bowser, this shop showcases the culture of the Salish Sea area through the works of talented artists. Peruse through striking ceramics, wooden sculptures, paintings, and jewelry. Whether you're looking for home decor or adding to your accessories collection, the Salish Sea Market has it all.

9. Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

Calling all cheesemongers! Little Qualicum Cheeseworks will amaze your taste buds with a variety dairy delights. From petting farm animals to a milk on-tap dispenser, there's no shortage of farm-centered fun at this spot! If you're also a coffee fan, we recommend trying the creamiest latte at the onsite Farmgate Store.

10. Guided Marine-Watching Tours

Marvel at the fascinating sea creatures that call the eastern coast of Vancouver Island home. Whales, sea lions, and seals can be found swimming through the Salish Sea. Learn about the fascinating ecosystem of our local waters and spot awe-inspiring species such as Orcas and Pacific White Sided Dolphins.

For even more travel inspiration, request a copy of the Discovery Guide and start planning your visit to Parksville Qualicum Beach today.