 Parksville
Here, at the beginning of Beach Country, the focus, naturally, is on the outstanding waterfront. On low tide days, the water recedes for hundreds of metres, leaving the hard sand exposed for beachcombing and sandcastle building; the area sponsors a Sandcastle Competition which draws builders from around the world. The water, warmed over the hots sands as the tide comes in, makes for wonderful swimming. The water, however, is not just for swimming; fishers come from all around for exciting salt-water and fresh-water fishing.
Nature lovers will thrill to the arrival of thousands of Brant geese in April (Brant Festival) and the ecological reserve for wild rhododendrons at Rhododendron Lake. History buffs will be enthralled with the historic St. Anne's Church, the History Museum and the petroglyphs along Englishman River.
Whether it is for camping, hiking, fishing, playing on the beach or exploring the natural wonders of the area, Parksville has something to offer everyone.
Population: 7,320.
Access: Parksville is located on the east coast of Vancouver Island, 37 km (23 mi.) north of Nanaimo, on Highway 19 or 144 km (89 mi.) north of Victoria. The area is also serviced by bus and rail.
Recreation Facilities & Activities: golf courses, swimming, fishing, hiking, boating, photography, camping, exploring
Local Attractions: Heritage Museum, Englishman River Falls, Little Qualicum Falls, MacMillan Provincial Park, Rhododendron Lake, St. Anne's Historic Anglican Church, Rathtrevor Provincial Park
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