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Central Vancouver Island
Golf courses, beaches, family attractions, and a plethora of outdoor fun — the Central Island region is a vacation paradise.
Nanaimo, Vancouver Island’s harbour city, is the heart of Vancouver Island. It’s a bustling community with more than 200 gorgeous parks and a long list of exciting experiences in a magnificent natural setting. It’s also a vibrant centre for arts, culture, and history and home to an impressive conference centre. The Parksville and Qualicum Beach area borders Nanaimo to the west and north, encompassing the massive old-growth trees in Cathedral Grove, the rural farmland and parkland of Arrowsmith Coombs Country, the romance of Lighthouse Country, and more than 20 kilometres of spectacular beaches.
THINGS TO DO
Diving
Diving is a huge sport here. Project Reef in Nanaimo is an ongoing development of artificial reefs that is already one of the world’s largest upright artificial diving reefs, and plans are underway to make it even bigger. Not a diver? You can still get in on the underwater fun by signing up for a snorkelling session with seals.
Kayaking
The spectacular scenery makes kayaking especially rewarding, and the sheltered waters in this region are ideal for every skill level. If you’re new to the sport, sign up for lessons and learn all the basic techniques. For an experience with a twist, take a kayaking tour on a full moon evening in the spring or summer.
Mountain Biking/Cycling
Mountain bikers from all over the world test their mettle on Top Bridge Trail, which extends five kilometres from Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park to Top Bridge Park, one of only three purpose-built mountain biking parks in B.C. Other great places to check out include the Hammerfest trails and downhill and cross country races by Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. Nanaimo’s Abyss and Dumont trails also offer challenges. For something a little tamer, try the multi-use pathways and designated cycle routes, including Nanaimo’s 20-kilometre Parkway Trail.
Bird Watching
More than 250 bird species live in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area, an acclaimed bird watching destination. Nanaimo’s favourite birding spots are Buttertubs Marsh Sanctuary and Morrell Sanctuary. Bird attractions include the Wildlife Recovery Centre in Errington and the World Parrot Refuge in Coombs.
Caving
Caving at Horne Lake Caves, Central Vancouver IslandAt Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park, go on a guided caving tour year-round or sign your whole family up for a four-day, all-inclusive adventure camp, featuring caving, canoeing, camping in a teepee, beach games, and a wheelchair-accessible cave theatre.
Bungy/Ziplines
For those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime thrill, Nanaimo has bungy jumping from a 43-metre (140-foot) bridge over the Nanaimo River, a gigantic swing that moves with rocket speed through a narrow canyon, scenic ziplines, and aerial adventure courses that test balance and agility at 1.5 metres (five feet) to 16 metres (53 feet) off the ground set in several acres of Douglas fir forest.
Fishing
Enjoy the Central Island region’s waters and catch your own dinner at the same time. Saltwater fishing charters, boat rentals, supply stores, and licensing outlets are widely available. You can also drop a trap for crab from the Nanaimo harbourfront pier or fly-fish for salmon in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area. Freshwater anglers have plenty of choices in the region’s many lakes and streams; canoe, kayak, and fishing gear rentals are available. The river estuaries along the coast are great spots for catching sea-run cutthroat trout.
Boating/Sailing
With superb facilities, stunning coastal scenery, and ideal conditions, the Central Island region is a boating paradise.
Spas
Give yourself the royal treatment with a visit to one of Central Island’s spas.
Vacationers have been coming to the Central Island region for almost a century to relax on the beaches, sail and fish in the peaceful waters, and enjoy the natural beauty. And while some things have changed since the early days, the Central Island region continues to be one of the best-loved vacation areas in the province.
Outstanding golf is a major draw and no wonder — this is a golfer’s dream destination. Several courses are located in and around Nanaimo, and the city’s central location makes it easy to access courses all over the Island. In fact, golfers in Nanaimo boast that 19 courses are within an hour’s drive! In the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area, seven courses are within 20 minutes of each other. One of the 18-hole courses is among Canada’s top 10 and there is a nine-hole course that was founded in 1913.
The beaches are another key reason vacationers love it here. The soft, clean sand stretches for miles and is a focal point for activities in every season. In the summer, you can play on the sand, dig for clams, build castles, and swim in the sun-warmed waters. In cooler weather, the beaches are perfect for strolling, bird watching, and enjoying the scenery. In Nanaimo, beach lovers enjoy Pipers Lagoon Park, Swy-a-Lana Park, and Newcastle Island Provincial Marine Park. In the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area, four main beaches add up to almost 20 kilometres of glorious sand: Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, Parksville Community Beach, Qualicum Beach, and Qualicum Bay.
In addition to great golf and beautiful beaches, the Central Island region has everything else you could want in a holiday: attractions, outdoor activities, shops and art galleries, and festivals and celebrations.
If you are travelling with your family, you’ve got all kinds of options. Gardens, butterflies, petting zoos, pony rides, mini-golf, harbour ferries, and museums with exhibits on First Nations heritage, pioneer history, coal mining, and more. There are caves to explore and a fish hatchery to tour, civic art galleries to visit, and an historic bastion with cannon firings every day at noon from May to September. You can cool off at a water spray park and playground in Parksville and even bungy jump or tackle a treetop obstacle course. A parrot refuge, wildlife recovery centre, and an artisan cheese-making facility are just a few more ways to keep the whole family happy.
Accommodation options range from hotels, resort spas, and bed and breakfasts to campgrounds, cabins, yurts, teepees, and treehouses. Central Island has some unique dining experiences that run the gamut from cafés and bistros to ethnic, family, and fine dining, and even floating restaurants. Many restaurants specialize in local cuisine, such as fresh seafood, produce, and B.C. and Vancouver Island wines and ales. Winemakers’ dinners, wine tastings, and culinary events such as the Nanaimo Bar Trail, are held regularly.
Coast Bastion Inn
Stunning ocean views from all guest rooms, and a 4-star experience make The Coast Bastion Inn a perfect base camp for island getaways. Located on Nanaimo's inner harbour, the Coast Bastion Inn is steps away from the seawall walk-way, Swy-a-lana Lagoon, specialty stores and quaint cafes. Get pampered at Pure Spa, or savour contemporary west coast dining at our Minnoz Steak and Seafood Restaurant and Lounge featuring local seafood and meats, pasta dishes and tapas.
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Harbour Air Seaplanes
Harbour Air offers frequent scheduled flights connecting Victoria, Vancouver, Richmond (YVR), Comox, Sechelt, and the Sunshine Coast. Experience a true West Coast tradition, scenic tours and flight seeing packages available. All flights are carbon neutral.
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Richmond, Vancouver, Victoria, Nanaimo, Comox, Sechelt
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Fairwinds Community & Resort
Fairwinds is a master-planned oceanfront community located only 15 minutes north of Nanaimo. Lush forest, abundant wildlife, and homes built to the natural landscape comprise the 1,350 acres. Play at the award-winning Fairwinds Golf Club, drop anchor at the 360 berth Schooner Cove Marina, and stop by the Clubhouse Restaurant & Lounge for some delicious west coast cuisine. Fairwinds Fitness Centre is located in the heart of Fairwinds, acting as the social spot for residents.
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Nanoose Bay
Central Island
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The Beach Club Resort
The Beach Club Resort is a stunning beachfront resort featuring the most luxurious accommodation in Parksville, on Vancouver Island's east coast; offering every guest an unparalleled vacation experience. Rated 4+ Stars by Canada Select and 5 Keys from the Green Key Eco Rating System, all guest rooms offer private balconies, spectacular ocean and mountain views, thoughtful amenities, and features beautifully appointed West Coast décor.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre
Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort & Conference Centre is an all-season destination resort offering 192 beautifully appointed log constructed accommodation units set in 22 acres of forest. Tigh-Na-Mara is home to the #1 Spa in Western Canada, The Grotto Spa, featuring signature treatments with a focus on West Coast ingredients. Tigh-Na-Mara Resort has everything you could ask for and more – it’s the Natural Choice year-round for your next get-away.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Travelodge Parksville
The newly renovated Travelodge Parksville is only 50 km from the Nanaimo Airport with easy access off Highway 19A. We are in the heart of the town’s downtown area, just steps away from the Parksville Beach. Enjoy continental breakfast, spacious guest rooms, and hospitable, friendly service. Travelodge Parksville is a great choice when visiting the area for business or pleasure. Nice Rooms. Great People. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Parksville
Central Island
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Ocean Sands Resort in Parksville
Situated on four acres of beautiful oceanfront property overlooking Rathtrevor Beach with a heated outdoor pool, hot tub and sauna. The resort consists of one and two bedroom oceanfront condominium units with fully equipped kitchens, gas fireplaces and balconies with spectacular ocean and mountain views.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Oceanside Village Resort
Beautifully appointed two bedroom cottages centrally located in Parksville/ Qualicum. Walk to miles of sandy beach, golf one of 6 nearby courses, visit Englishman River Falls Park, shop Coombs Country Market. Relax in our indoor pool and hot tub. Riptide Mini Golf, Day Spa & Sushi Cafe conveniently located on site.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Beach Acres Resort
Sit back, relax and let the beach take over....You and your family will feel at home in a two bedroom cottage with full kitchen and fireplace. Stay in a cozy oceanfront unit on sandy Rathtrevor Beach or a private forest cottage tucked away on our property in Parksville, just 20 minutes north of Nanaimo. Amenities include: indoor swimming pool, hot tub and sauna, tennis courts, kids playground, bikes, kayaks, paddleboards and full beach access. The way life was meant to be....
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Parksville
Central Island
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Golf Vancouver Island
Golf Vancouver Island is a "one-stop-shop" for booking golf packages and vacations on the Vancouver Island Golf Trail – a 250 km of Pacific paradise from Victoria to Campbell River, awaiting golfers on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Owned and operated by the golf courses on Vancouver Island, consumers save time and money, while choosing from 11 golf courses and over 15 accommodation options on the Vancouver Island Golf Trail. From airfares and ferry reservations to tee times, accommodations and even après golf activities, Golf Vancouver Island takes care of it all!
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Victoria (Head Office)
South, Central, North Central Island and Cowichan Region
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Best Western Northgate Inn
Best service in Nanaimo and conveniently located 2 blocks from the Island’s largest shopping centre. Great amenities including a deluxe Continental Breakfast, Free Parking and Wireless Internet. Call us today or visit our website.
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Sand Pebbles Inn
Oceanfront accommodation offering quality, comfort and spectacular views. Boutiques, galleries, restaurants, golf and many other sporting activities are close by. The perfect location to explore the central Island with Tofino/Ucluelet an easy day trip.
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Qualicum Beach
Central Island
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Madrona Beach Resort
Located on five acres of oceanfront, this quiet property on the safest, sandiest, warmest ocean beach in BC offers spectacular ocean views. A pleasant five minute stroll from Rathtrevor Beach, our units at beach level are 2 bedroom with fireplace. Ridge ocean view units feature: ground level studios with fireplace and second level one bedroom kitchenettes. With reasonable rates year round, we also feature a third night-at-no charge option for most times during the shoulder season. Use of propane BBQs, access to tennis court and children's playground are all included.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Ocean Trails Resort
Ocean Trails Resort offers family friendly accommodations on the bluff above sandy Rathtrevor Beach. Offering all the comforts of home in our bright, one, two and three bedroom condominiums. All units have fully equipped kitchens, in-suite washers/dryers, free WIFI, free local calling, cable TV, DVD, cozy fireplaces. Outdoor hot tub, seasonal pool, children’s playground, tennis/ basketball and complimentary access to fitness centre. Make us your relaxation destination. Ask our friendly staff about specials and discounts.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Jumping Jiminy's Playland and Cafe Inc
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Horne Lake Caves and Campground
Voted "Best Natural Outdoor Site in BC" by Attractions Canada. Discover an outdoor-lover's dream with crystal-clear water, lakefront camping and Vancouver Island's coolest adventures. Explore the caves, get out on the lake or simply relax on the beach. Visit the new Cave Theatre and Museum, hike the trails, rent a canoe, kayak or paddle board, try rock rappelling and camp in a teepee! The choice is all yours.
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Horne Lake
Central Island
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Sandcastle Inn
*Location: Five minutes walk to beach, restaurants, mini golf, etc. Easy access to highway. *Facility: Clean & comfortable rooms, air-conditioning, kitchenette, coin laundry, BBQ area *Services: Free Wi-fi. complimentary continental breakfast, free movie channel.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Sunrise Ridge Waterfront Resort
Situated beachfront on the east coast of Vancouver Island, Sunrise Ridge is at the center of all the amenities and activities one could wish for. Relax in a one, two or three bedroom luxury Parksville vacation home with incredible views of the surrounding landscape, rippling ocean waters and sandy beaches.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Best Western Plus Dorchester Hotel
Conveniently located in the heart of downtown over looking picturesque Nanaimo Harbour. A charming heritage boutique-style hotel decorated in a style that blends old world class with modern conveniences. Featuring an onsite restaurant, lounge complimentary high-speed internet, Guest Laundry, Fitness Facility, Bicycles, overnight parking, rooftop deck and more!
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Howard Johnson Harbourside Hotel
The Howard Johnson Harbourside Hotel is a centrally located downtown Nanaimo Hotel on beautiful Vancouver Island, BC. This Vancouver Island Hotel boasts an excellent location adjacent to the seawall where guests can experience a vibrant waterfront just steps away with many charming boutiques, restaurants and Nanaimo parkland to enjoy. Whether you’re traveling to Nanaimo on business or pleasure, you will find our hotel rooms spacious and well equipped to ensure a relaxing and comfortable stay.
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Milner Gardens & Woodland
Milner Gardens & Woodland offers visitors a beautiful old-growth forest walk, a delightfully wild artist's garden highlighted by more than 400 Rhododendrons, and a magnificent view of the Strait of Georgia. Enjoy afternoon tea and views in the 1930's cottage style Milner House where the Queen once stayed.
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Qualicum Beach
Central Island
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North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre
Nestled in the district of Errington, BC on Vancouver Island NIWRA has a park like setting with a peaceful rustic atmosphere. When visiting the centre you will be able to view eagles, owls, falcons, hawks and black bears. This is truly a "Wildlife Experience for the Whole Family".
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Errington
Central Island
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Riptide Lagoon
Vancouver Island's Premier Adventure Golf!
Riptide Lagoon offers two challenging 18 hole themed courses. Play through "Wandering Willie's" snug little harbour, have your picture taken with the "Catch of the Day", enjoy an ice cream on the patio. Bring the whole family and experience mini golf at its finest. NEW! Laser Tag Bumper Cars!
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Parksville
Central Island
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Quality Resort Bayside
The Quality Resort offers affordable beachfront accommodation with ocean views and delicious dining all in one great location. Each of our Oceanside rooms has a private balcony, inviting you to enjoy the breathtaking view. Combined with ample facilities like indoor pool, racquet courts, free wi-fi and affordable rates, you simply can't ask for better accommodation.
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Parksville
Central Island
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Shorewater Resort
The Shorewater Resort is situated on a beautiful natural beachfront in Qualicum Beach. Come and experience the benefits of staying in a self contained condominium resort with the ocean at your doorstep.
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Qualicum Beach
Central Island
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Travelodge Nanaimo
The newly renovated Travelodge Nanaimo is conveniently located and within walking distance to the Nanaimo BC ferries, and only 20 km from the Nanaimo Airport. We offer comfortable guestrooms including standard, deluxe and suites with kitchenettes. Guests enjoy deluxe continental breakfast in the new breakfast room with a great location only minutes away from the downtown area, the inner harbour, restaurants and specialty shopping. Nice Rooms. Great People. We look forward to seeing you soon!
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Nanaimo Airport YCD
The Nanaimo Airport (YCD) is located on Island Highway # 1, just 20 minutes to downtown Nanaimo and 2.5 hour drive to Tofino. YCD is a modern air passenger facility supporting a broad range of services and amenities including a new expanded terminal, onsite car rental agencies, airporter shuttle and Greyhound bus service. Fly Nanaimo Airport and get more time for what matters most to you – beaches, wineries, wildlife, special time with family and friends.
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Quality Foods Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition
The Quality foods Canadian Open Sans Sculpting Competiton and Exhibition is a world-class event for Master Sculpters and is an official qualifying event for the World Championship of Sand sculpting! Master Sand Sculptors travel from all corners of the globe to participate in our remarkable competition and exhibition n Parksville, BC, Canada
Parksville
Central Island
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Inn On Long Lake
The Inn On Long Lake is your lakeside resort in the heart of North Nanaimo. All rooms feature lakeview patio or balconies, microwave, mini fridge, and coffeemaker. Complimentary enhanced Continental breakfast included. Free high speed wireless and parking. Pedal boat and kayak rentals in-season.
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Nanaimo
Central Island
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Crown Mansion Boutique Hotel, Villas & Butlers restaurant
Located in beautiful Qualicum Beach, Crown Mansion offers the most elegant address in town, along with fine dining. A heritage forest behind, a verdant golf course in front, garden and ocean view rooms with king-size, four-poster beds. Relaxation at its best! Just a stroll to the beach, boutiques and galleries of Qualicum.
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Qualicum Beach
Central Island
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