Top 15 Things to Do in Parksville with Kids

If you are searching for the perfect family vacation destination on Vancouver Island, Parksville should be at the very top of your list. This charming coastal community on the eastern shore of the island has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the most family-friendly destinations in British Columbia, offering an extraordinary range of activities that will keep children of all ages entertained, educated, and thoroughly worn out by bedtime. From the warmest sandy beaches in Canada to underground cave adventures and everything in between, there is never a shortage of things to do in Parksville with kids.

What makes Parksville especially appealing to families is its combination of natural beauty, compact geography, and welcoming community atmosphere. Most attractions are within a 30-minute drive of downtown, accommodation options cater specifically to families, and the pace of life here is relaxed and unhurried. Whether you have toddlers who need gentle splash parks and sandy beaches, school-age children eager for outdoor adventures, or teenagers seeking something thrilling, Parksville delivers. Here are our top 15 family activities in Parksville BC that will make your vacation unforgettable.

1. Parksville Community Park Playground and Splash Park

No list of things to do in Parksville with kids would be complete without starting at the heart of the town: Parksville Community Park. This expansive waterfront park is a paradise for young families. The playground features a large, modern play structure with climbing walls, slides, swings, bridges, and sensory play elements designed for children from toddlers through to pre-teens. Adjacent to the playground, the seasonal splash park is a massive hit with younger children during the warm summer months. Jets of water shoot from the ground, sprayers mist from above, and interactive water features provide hours of free, cooling fun on hot days.

The park's wide, paved waterfront promenade is ideal for strollers, scooters, and bikes, and the vast green lawn areas are perfect for frisbee, kite flying, or simply spreading out a picnic blanket. With public washrooms, change rooms, covered picnic shelters, and a summer concession stand, you have everything you need for a full day without ever leaving the park. And of course, the famous Parksville Beach is right there, with its warm, shallow tidal waters that are among the safest and most enjoyable for young swimmers anywhere in the Pacific Northwest.

2. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Beach is a must-visit for any family in Parksville. Located just two kilometres south of town, this provincial park protects five kilometres of pristine sandy beach backed by an old-growth Douglas fir forest. At low tide, the beach extends up to a kilometre from shore, creating an immense sandy playground where children can build sand castles, explore shallow tidal pools teeming with crabs, starfish, and small fish, and wade in sun-warmed water that barely reaches their knees.

Beyond the beach, the park's Rathtrevor Trail is a gentle 2.5-kilometre loop through towering ancient trees, perfect for a family nature walk. Interpretive signs along the route teach children about the forest ecosystem, and the trails are wide and smooth enough for jogging strollers. During summer, BC Parks runs family-oriented Nature House programs and evening campfire talks in the park amphitheatre, giving kids a chance to learn about local wildlife, tides, and ecology in an engaging, hands-on way.

3. Paradise Mini Golf and Fun Park

When the kids need a break from the beach, Paradise Mini Golf offers 36 holes of beautifully landscaped miniature golf set among tropical-themed gardens, waterfalls, and whimsical obstacles. This well-maintained attraction is enjoyable for all ages, from the youngest first-time golfer to competitive parents. The courses range from beginner-friendly to genuinely challenging, and the lush garden setting makes it a pleasant experience even for non-golfers in the family.

The facility also includes a fun park area with additional attractions including bumper boats, batting cages, and an arcade. Plan for at least 90 minutes to two hours if you want to enjoy both the mini golf and the fun park activities. It is located right along Highway 19A, making it an easy stop on the way to or from the beach.

4. Horne Lake Caves Family Tour

For a truly unforgettable family adventure, drive 30 minutes west from Parksville to Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park and take the Family Cavern Tour. This 90-minute guided exploration of Riverbend Cave takes you underground into a world of stalactites, stalagmites, and ancient rock formations that will captivate children and adults alike. Each family member receives a helmet and headlamp, and the knowledgeable guides make the experience educational and exciting, sharing stories about the cave's geology and the creatures that live in the darkness.

The Family Cavern Tour is suitable for children aged five and up, and the underground path involves walking on uneven terrain with some steps but no difficult climbs or tight squeezes. The constant 7 to 9 degree Celsius temperature inside the cave provides a refreshing escape from summer heat. Be sure to book in advance, as summer tours sell out quickly.

5. Coombs Old Country Market

No family trip to the Parksville area is complete without a visit to the legendary Coombs Old Country Market, universally known as "the place with the goats on the roof." Yes, you read that correctly. During summer months, a herd of friendly goats lives on the grass-covered roof of this eclectic country market, and watching them graze overhead is a delight that children (and adults) never tire of.

Inside and around the market, you will find a treasure trove of local produce, specialty foods, homemade fudge, ice cream, international delicacies, and unique gifts. The surrounding Coombs village includes additional shops, galleries, and eateries that make this a wonderful place to spend a couple of hours. Located about 10 minutes west of Parksville on Highway 4A, Coombs is also the gateway to Cathedral Grove and the Pacific Rim region, making it an easy addition to any day trip itinerary.

6. Morningstar Farm

Morningstar Farm offers families a chance to connect with local agriculture and enjoy a genuine farm experience. Depending on the season, activities may include berry picking (strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in summer), visiting farm animals, exploring the farm market for fresh produce, and purchasing locally made jams, cheeses, and baked goods. The farm's relaxed, pastoral setting is a wonderful counterpoint to the beach-focused activities that dominate most Parksville itineraries.

Children love the hands-on experience of picking their own berries straight from the plant, and the farm market is a great place to stock up on healthy snacks and picnic supplies for the rest of your trip. Check seasonal hours before visiting, as availability varies throughout the year.

7. Englishman River Swimming Holes

For a refreshing change from saltwater swimming, take the family to the Englishman River Falls Provincial Park, located about 15 minutes south of Parksville. This stunning park features two impressive waterfalls connected by a network of hiking trails through old-growth forest. Below the falls, natural swimming holes with clear, emerald-green water provide a magical swimming experience that children adore.

The main trail to the upper and lower falls is approximately 2 kilometres round trip and is suitable for families with children who are comfortable walking on uneven forest paths. The swimming holes vary in depth, with some shallow areas suitable for younger children (always under close supervision) and deeper pools favoured by older kids and teenagers for jumping and diving from rocks. Pack a picnic and make an afternoon of it. Note that the water here is cooler than the ocean at Parksville Beach, fed by mountain runoff, so it is best visited on warm summer days.

8. Parksville Beach Festival and Sand Sculpting

If you are visiting Parksville between mid-July and mid-August, the annual Parksville Beach Festival is an absolute must for families. The centrepiece is the Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition, where professional artists from around the world create breathtaking, intricate sculptures from Parksville's fine beach sand. The sculptures are displayed for weeks after the competition, and walking among these temporary masterpieces is inspiring for children and adults alike.

The festival also features live music, food vendors, artisan markets, and a variety of family activities including sand sculpting workshops where kids can learn basic techniques from the professionals. There is a children's sand sculpting area where young artists can experiment with their own creations. It is one of the most popular summer events on Vancouver Island, so plan to arrive early for the best parking and viewing.

9. Birdwatching at the Parksville-Qualicum Wildlife Management Area

For families interested in nature and wildlife, the Parksville-Qualicum Beach Wildlife Management Area offers outstanding birdwatching opportunities year-round. The estuaries, mudflats, and marshlands that stretch along the coastline support a remarkable diversity of bird species, making this area one of the premier birding destinations on Vancouver Island.

Spring brings the spectacular Brant Wildlife Festival (March to April), when thousands of black Brant geese stop in Parksville during their migration from Mexico to Alaska. The festival includes guided nature walks, educational programs specifically designed for children, and wildlife viewing stations with telescopes and interpretive displays. Even outside of festival season, families can spot herons, eagles, ospreys, kingfishers, and dozens of shorebird species along the waterfront. Bring binoculars and a bird identification guide to turn your beachside stroll into an educational scavenger hunt.

10. Family Kayaking and Paddleboarding

The calm, protected waters along Parksville's coastline make this an ideal location for family kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Several local outfitters offer equipment rentals and guided tours specifically designed for families with children. Tandem kayaks allow a parent and child to paddle together, while calmer days provide perfect conditions for older children to try stand-up paddleboarding with instruction.

Guided family kayak tours typically paddle along the shoreline, exploring rocky outcroppings, kelp forests, and marine habitats. Guides point out wildlife including seals, sea lions, herons, and sometimes even passing dolphins or porpoises. Most family tours last about two hours and require no prior experience. Children as young as six can participate in tandem kayaks with an adult. It is a wonderful way to see Parksville's coastline from a completely different perspective.

11. Parksville Museum and Heritage Park

The Parksville Museum is a charming small-town museum that gives families a glimpse into the region's history. Housed in a collection of heritage buildings including a restored one-room schoolhouse, a post office, and a pioneer church, the museum brings local history to life in a way that is accessible and engaging for children. Kids can sit at old-fashioned school desks, try their hand at heritage tools, and explore the rooms of a restored pioneer cabin.

The surrounding heritage gardens and grounds are pleasant for a stroll, and the museum frequently hosts special events, demonstrations, and seasonal programs. Admission is by donation, making it a budget-friendly activity for families. Located in the heart of downtown Parksville, it pairs nicely with a visit to the nearby beach or a lunch at one of the town's family-friendly restaurants.

12. Ice Cream Shops and Sweet Treats

No family vacation is complete without ice cream, and Parksville delivers with several excellent ice cream shops and bakeries that children will beg to visit repeatedly. Downtown Parksville and the surrounding area feature locally owned ice cream parlours serving handcrafted flavours made with real cream and fresh, local ingredients. Look for shops offering flavours inspired by local berries, honey, and seasonal fruits for a truly Vancouver Island treat.

Beyond ice cream, the Parksville area is home to artisan bakeries, candy shops, and the famous fudge makers at Coombs Market. Build an afternoon "sweet trail" into your itinerary, combining a beach visit with a walk through town that includes stops for gelato, fresh-baked cookies, or a slice of homemade pie. It is the kind of simple, delicious pleasure that children remember long after the vacation ends.

13. Englishman River Fish Hatchery

The Englishman River Fish Hatchery is a free, educational attraction where families can learn about Pacific salmon conservation and see fish at various stages of their life cycle. The hatchery raises Coho and Chinook salmon as well as steelhead trout, and the staff are happy to explain the fascinating life cycle of salmon and the important role hatcheries play in maintaining healthy fish populations.

Depending on the time of year, children can observe tiny salmon fry in the rearing tanks, watch juvenile fish being released into the river, or during autumn months, witness the dramatic return of adult spawning salmon swimming upstream. The hatchery is located along the Englishman River about 10 minutes from downtown Parksville and can easily be combined with a visit to Englishman River Falls. It is a genuinely educational experience that helps children understand the interconnected ecosystems of Vancouver Island.

14. Nature Walks and Forest Trails

The Parksville area is threaded with family-friendly nature trails that range from short, flat boardwalk strolls to longer forest hikes. These trails offer children a chance to connect with the natural world, burn off energy, and discover the remarkable ecosystems of Vancouver Island's east coast.

Top picks for families include:

• Rathtrevor Beach Trail: A 2.5 km loop through old-growth forest with interpretive signs. Flat, well-maintained, and stroller-friendly.
• Shelly Road Waterfront Trail: A flat, paved coastal path with gorgeous ocean views, perfect for strollers and young walkers.
• Heritage Forest Trail (Qualicum Beach): A short but enchanting walk through a protected stand of ancient Douglas fir trees, just 15 minutes from Parksville.
• Top Bridge Trail: A moderate riverside walk along the Englishman River with a suspension bridge that kids find thrilling.
• Little Qualicum River Regional Park: A beautiful forested trail with river views and swimming holes, about 20 minutes west of Parksville.

For the best experience, bring snacks, water, and a simple nature scavenger hunt checklist to keep younger children engaged. Look for banana slugs, shelf mushrooms, woodpecker holes, and the massive root systems of ancient trees. These walks are free, accessible, and provide lasting memories of the island's forests.

15. Parksville Skateboard Park

For older children and teenagers, the Parksville Skateboard Park, located within Community Park, offers a well-designed concrete skate facility that caters to all skill levels. The park includes bowls, rails, ramps, and street-style features that provide hours of entertainment for skaters, BMX riders, and scooter enthusiasts. The park is free to use and is open from dawn to dusk year-round.

The skateboard park's location within Community Park means that parents can relax nearby on the beach or at a picnic table while older kids enjoy the skate facilities. It is a popular gathering spot for local youth, giving visiting teenagers a chance to meet other kids and experience the laid-back Parksville lifestyle. Helmets are strongly recommended and legally required for riders under 16 in British Columbia.

Planning Your Parksville Family Vacation

With 15 incredible activities to choose from, plus the countless simple pleasures of beach time, ice cream runs, and lazy evenings watching the sunset over the Strait of Georgia, Parksville offers enough family fun to fill a week or more. Here are some practical tips for planning your trip:

"Parksville is that rare family destination where children play freely, parents relax completely, and every day ends with the satisfying tiredness that comes from a day well spent in the sun, the forest, or the surf."

Whether your family is drawn to the warm waters of Parksville Beach, the thrill of exploring underground caves, the simple joy of watching goats on a roof, or the quiet wonder of a forest trail, Parksville has something for every member of the family. These 15 activities represent just the beginning of what this remarkable community has to offer. The hardest part of a Parksville family vacation is not finding things to do; it is finding the time to do them all.

Start planning your Parksville family vacation today and discover why families from across British Columbia and beyond return to this coastal gem year after year. Your kids will thank you, and the memories you create here will last a lifetime.