Parksville and the nearby town of Qualicum Beach have a fantastic array of beaches, trails, markets and parks where dogs are welcome.
Here's a list of our Top 10 places to visit with four-legged friends.
Number 10. Springwood Dog Park & Rail Trail
On the south side of Parksville, this grass and gravel Dog Park is a sizable enclosed area, where dogs can play off-leash.
Number 9. Doehle Beach Access Stairs
This hidden gem in West Parksville offers you and your leashed pup access to a quiet, scenic pebbled beach via a cardio-pumping 116 steps.
Number 8. Qualicum Beach Off-Leash Dog Trails
Nestled beside Qualicum Civic Centre, these forested trails are a great place for a shaded stroll on a sunny day.
Number 7. Qualicum Beach On-Leash Beach Access
This expansive sandy beach welcomes leashed dogs year round, with the exception of the Spring Brant Geese migration.
Number 6. Englishman River Falls Provincial Park
For a refreshing break from the beach crowds, head to Englishman River Falls, where on-leash dogs can enjoy the forested trails, while you admire the stunning waterfalls.
What do you think of our choices so far?
Let us know in the comments if you have other favourite pet-friendly places to recommend!
Number 5. Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
With
its vast shoreline and lush, forested trails, Rathtrevor Beach is one
of Vancouver Island’s most popular vacation destinations.
Number 4. The Old Country Market in Coombs
Famous for its resident goats on the roof, this vibrant market area is a bustling hub of shops and eateries, including doughnuts and ice cream.
Number 3. Top Bridge Regional Trail
On the outskirts of Parksville you’ll find a scenic riverside trail with an awe-inspiring suspension bridge and some secluded river access.
Number 2. Parksville Community Beach & Boardwalk
The boardwalk at Parksville Community Beach features stunning ocean and mountain views.
Number 1. Little Qualicum Cheeseworks
Top of our list for good reason! This pet-friendly working dairy farm is a fun experience the whole family will enjoy!
Finally, here's an Honourable Mention that didn’t quite make it onto our Top 10 list:
Qualicum Beach Airport Dog Park
Just
across from Qualicum Airport is an enclosed off-leash park with chairs
where you can rest and chat, while your off-leash pup frolics with
friends. There’s not much shade at this park, which is why it didn’t
make it onto our Top 10 list, but it’s still a good choice on a cloudy
day.