Person walking on wooden boardwalk alongside beach in Parksville on Vancouver Island

Parksville, BC


OVERVIEW

Drive 30 minutes north from Nanaimo to visit Parksville, offering long sandy beaches, lots of water sports, and plenty of arts and crafts to suit all tastes. Known as Canada's Riviera, Parksville is the perfect destination for romantic getaways and family fun. 

Parksville map with BC Ferries routes and nearby cities on Vancouver Island

Top things to do

Explore activities

Ocean Ecoventures - Whales, Whales & Wildlife Adventure Tour Parksville

Cruise the Salish Sea for chance encounters with BC’s most celebrated marine mammals. Venture slowly up the glacial fjords to view the wondrous waterfalls in Jervis Inlet, sightseeing the Malibu Rapids and beyond to Chatterbox Falls. Once docked, voyage deep into the coastal rainforest to watch the magical falls tumble onto the rocky shoreline below.  
Highlights:

  • 7 – 8 hour Waterfall, Wildlife and Whale-Watching guided tour of the Salish Sea and Jervis Inlet with an experienced guide 
  • Small personalized tour of 12 guests or less
Learn more >

FROM

per adult

Book now

Ocean Ecoventures - Half Day Whale & Wildlife Adventures Parksville

The Ocean Ecoventures Half Day Whale & Wildlife Adventures in Parksville has closed for the 2024 season. Stay tuned for 2025 availability!

Escape to the secluded waters of the Salish Sea on a 4 hour expedition and exWatch whales migrate to the coast of Vancouver Island with an experience guide on this 4-hour whale watching tour. Explore the edges of Lasqueti Island and sail deep into the Salish Sea in search for orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, minke whales and more.

Tour highlights

  • See orcas, humpback whales, grey whales, and more hunt and feed in their natural habitat.
  • Depart from the picturesque beach town of Parksville and see marine birds, harbour seals, and porpoises during your sailing.
  • Travel in the comfort of an open air vessel with an expert naturalist and learn about the area's ecosystem.
  • Guaranteed whale sightings so you can sail with confidence. 
Learn more >

FROM
$179.00
per adult

Book now

Nearby cities

Boats in harbour of waterfront marina in Nanaimo BC on Vancouver Island

Nanaimo

Take the ferry from Vancouver to visit Nanaimo—the second-largest city on Vancouver Island, with plenty of outdoor activities and adventures for everyone, situated along one of the most beautiful waterfronts in Canada. 

Aerial view of Marine Park and Estruary in Courtenay BC

Courtenay

Drive 90 minutes from Nanaimo to the heart of beautiful farming landscapes on Vancouver Island to visit Courtenay—the urban centre of the Comox Valley. Downtown Courtenay boasts charming streets filled with art galleries, theatres, shops, artists’ studios, boutiques and gardens, and out of town there are sandy beaches, forests, mountains, parks and lakes. Plus, drive just 15 minutes to the local ski hill.

Mountain biker on the Wizard Bike Trail at Mount Washington British Columbia

Comox

Located on the East Coast, Comox is rich in agricultural land, forests and mountains. Relax on a beach in summer, or go skiing in winter at Mount Washington, but whenever you visit, head to Fisherman’s Wharf to buy fresh fish right off the boat.

Coastline of Port Alberni with Camper Trailer driving along road

Port Alberni

Drive to Port Alberni for a variety of activities and attractions. Close to Barkley Sound, Clayoquot Sound and the Pacific Rim National Park, Port Alberni is the perfect base for exploring the west coast of Vancouver Island.


 
 
 

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Reach us by phone

1-888-BC FERRY (223-3779) Ext. 3
MONDAY TO FRIDAY 8:30 am - 5:00 pm
WEEKENDS & HOLIDAYS 9:00 am- 5:00 pm

 

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