discover the hidden gem of Parksville, BC: the perfect family-friendly getaway
Parksville, British Columbia is a hidden gem that should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Canada. Located on Vancouver Island, this charming seaside town is the perfect destination for families looking for a relaxing and fun-filled getaway. Don’t miss out on these incredible family-friendly activities!
One of the biggest draws of visiting Parksville is its incredible natural beauty. The town is situated on the east coast of Vancouver Island, right on the edge of the Salish Sea. The area is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Canada and at Coast Parksville Hotel, you’ll have direct beach access through Paradise Fun Park, located just across the street! Rathtrevor Beach is also a short drive away and is well known for its long stretches of white sand and calm, shallow waters, making it the perfect spot for families with young children. Spend your days walking along the beach, building sandcastles, or enjoying a picnic while you take in scenic ocean and mountain views. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the local wildlife!
If you’re bringing your dog along on your vacation, they’ll enjoy strolling along the pup-friendly Parksville Boardwalk. The trail starts at Parksville Community Park and continues for 445 meters, stretching along the vast beaches of Parksville Bay. This pathway accommodates strollers and wheelchairs and is a great place to take the kids for a walk while still enjoying amazing beach views.
We can’t forget to mention some of the amazing events that happen during the summer months in Parksville. The Parksville Beach Festival runs from mid-July to the third week in August and includes an epic sandcastle building competition, weekend concerts, daily buskers, an artisan market and more!
When people think of Parksville, they think of mini golf! That’s because directly across the street from Coast Parksville Hotel is Paradise Fun Park, a Refreshingly Local™ amenity that families adore! Here, our guests enjoy an added perk for booking - free unlimited mini golf! Choose between two courses: the Turf n’ Surf course, featuring a waterwheel, lighthouse, and windmill or Treasure Island, where you will putt across the galleon's deck and peek into the skeletons’ treasure cave! There is also an arcade with many classic games and great prizes up for grabs. In the summer, beat the heat with a round of bumper boats, a game that is loved by kids and adults alike! Paradise Fun Park also offers an outdoor picnic area and an onsite cafe when hunger strikes.
“So welcoming! Free mini golf and staff greeted my daughter with gummy treats. They even gave us popsicles after a hot day playing mini golf! Great Queen suite with everything we needed and lots of space!”
If you’re a family who's up for experiencing unique adventures, visiting the Coombs Old Country Market is a must! Here, you’ll be able to enjoy delicious ice cream, local vendors, and most notably - goats on the roof! You read that right; at this market, you’ll be able to spot adorable goats snacking on grass and vegetation planted on the roof just for them. There are also excellent restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat. If you love Mexican food, make sure you stop in at Taqueria Cantina, a quaint food truck tucked under the shade of a giant cedar tree. Try their delicious tacos that are served on fresh house-made tortillas! Are you drooling yet?
So if you’re ready to explore Parksville, the only thing left is booking your accommodations. With its central location, Coast Parksville Hotel is a favorite amongst those seeking a comfortable and family-friendly hotel. Their spacious rooms are large enough to accommodate the whole family, with some rooms even coming with kitchenettes, perfect for extended stays. Plus, if you plan on bringing your pet, they gladly offer pet-friendly accommodations - complimentary belly scratches included! You’ll also enjoy free parking, an outdoor courtyard featuring a BBQ for guest use, and the option of having breakfast delivered to your room from Paradise Café. Whether you’re coming from far away or you’re a local seeking a getaway, they have the perfect hotel deal for you!