family fun in the vancouver island region
Bumper Boats in Parkville, Vancouver Island
Your kids are going to love it here!
The Island’s sunny beaches are perfect for building castles, and our cool green parks offer interpretive programs and nature trails. Family-friendly activities include wildlife watching, camping, caving, kayaking, hiking, skiing, rafting, horseback riding, snorkelling with salmon, mini-golf, bumper boats, wave pools, waterparks, skateboard parks, BMX tracks, go-karts, car races, ziplines, geo-caching, petting zoos, corn mazes, marine education centres, and vehicle-free cycling routes.
And that’s not all!
A bug zoo, butterfly gardens, wildlife sanctuaries, salmon hatcheries, whale centres, military forts, steam trains, carriage rides, lighthouses, and museums with hands-on exhibits — the list goes on and on.
In fact, the Vancouver Island region boasts so much to see and do, you and your kids will be talking about it long after the vacation is over!
Destination Nanaimo
From the protected picturesque harbour and outdoor adventures, to vibrant city amenities, Nanaimo offers countless options for visitors. Relax in a rural setting sampling cranberries, herbs, honey and visit tucked away gardens and galleries. Downtown Nanaimo offers a 5-km walkway along one of the prettiest harbours on the West Coast. While strolling, visitors can browse the shops, take in free concerts during the summer, or buy fresh fish and crabs from the Fisherman’s Wharf.
1-800-663-7337
Nanaimo
Central Island
Central Island
Parksville and Qualicum Beach
Parksville and Qualicum Beach is Canada’s best family friendly beach destination according to Better Homes and Gardens. The Globe & Mail called these towns “Canada’s Riviera”. Relax by the sea, explore huge old-growth forests, or rappel down a 7-storey underground waterfall. Then pamper yourself with a spa experience, endless dining options, and a quiet sunset stroll along our famous beaches. Stay on the beach and save with seasonal Web Specials.
1-888-799-3222
Parksville / Qualicum Beach
Central Island
Central Island
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.
1-800-663-7302
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
Tourism Cowichan
The Cowichan region encompasses verdant farmland, deep ocean bays, whitewater rivers, numerous lakes and low rolling mountains. Cowichan’s pretty towns and villages – including Chemainus, Ladysmith, Duncan, Cobble Hill and Cowichan Bay – offer art galleries, outdoor murals, fishing piers and farmers markets. One of the top culinary destinations in Canada, Cowichan is home to medal-winning wineries, organic farms and artisan food-producers who have created a thriving agritourism industry based on the mantras of fresh, local, seasonal and sustainable.
250-746-1099
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
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.
1-800-663-7373
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
Tourism Campbell River & Region
So full of outdoor recreational adventures that the hardest decision you’ll have to make is what activity to enjoy next. World-renowned fishing, whale watching, kayaking, rafting, diving, caving, golfing, skiing, …- challenge yourself a little or a lot. Campbell River & Region has an irresistible lure to visitors from around the world in search of outdoor experiences, tranquil beauty, spectacular scenery, and traditional First Nations culture. Discover Your True Nature! Call for your free Visitor Guide today
1-877-286-5705
Campbell River & Region
North Central Island
North Central Island
Duncan Business Improvement Area Society
Shopping in Downtown Duncan is fresh, fun and fabulous! Our jem of a town boasts hundreds of remarkable shops and services. The quality and diversity of what we have to offer surprises and delights visitors from near and far. Just one hour from Nanaimo or Victoria on Vancouver Island, with plenty of free 3-hour parking spots or parking for $1-2 dollars for extended visits.
250-715-1700
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
AlberniHeritage:Steam Train
Board our 1929 Baldwin steam locomotive at the historic Port Alberni Railway Station and experience the romance of live steam on a 35 minute ride to the McLean Mill National Historic site. The sound of steel wheels on rail serenades you as you pass through the town and its friendly inhabitants, by fields and forest and along side a vineyard and winery.
250-723-1376
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
AlberniHeritage:Maritime Discovery Centre
Port Alberni’s Maritime Discovery Centre, constructed from an actual coastal lighthouse, invites you to experience the rich history of the Alberni Inlet, Barkley Sound and Vancouver Island's rugged west coast. Get up close to the working harbour and envision the many changes over time; explore the history of west coast lighthouses and tales of their keepers; learn about the 1964 tsunami that hit Port Alberni and how current research tells us more about the activity of the ocean floor.
250-723-2181
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Wya Point Resort
The stunning new Wya Point Resort offers the only beach front camping south of Long Beach National Park. With over 1 km of private beaches the resort offers up 40 camping sites and 15 glamping sites in fully furnished beach front Yurts. The resort also provides surfing lessons and rentals with a 10% discount offered to guests at the Wya Point Surf Shop Cafe.
250-726-3435
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Strathcona Park Lodge & Outdoor Education Centre
Let our wilderness lodge be your comfortable home base for exploring the beauty of Strathcona Provincial Park. Overlooking the shores of Upper Campbell Lake and a procession snow capped peaks, our accommodations include timber-framed chalets and cottages. Adventure options include: rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, white water paddling, backpacking, survival skills, ropes course and zipline, wildlife viewing.
1-250-286-3122
Campbell River
North Central Island
North Central Island
AlberniHeritage:McLean Mill National Historic Site
Experience the sights, smells and sounds of the old days as the steam donkey hauls logs from the woods and the 1925 steam mill cuts them into lumber. Original camp buildings are yours to explore, vintage equipment is working on site and a theatre troupe tells tales from the past. The Steam Pot Café, special mill shop and childrens activities add to the experience. Site is accessible by steam train, vehicle or bicycle.
250-723-1376
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
WildPlay Element Parks, West Shore Victoria
Unleash your wild! Primal fun and games are just a climb, scramble and zip away at WildPlay Element Parks. Kids, teens, and adults enjoy conquering suspended wobbly bridges, hanging nets, zip lines and more surprising obstacles on the Monkido® Aerial Adventure courses. Visit http://www.WildPlay.com for videos and Park details.
1-888-856-7275
Victoria
South Island
South Island
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.
1-888-248-6212
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
Quw'utsun' Cultural and Conference Centre
First Nations cultural experience- Open June thru September. Let a Cowichan Tour Guide tell you stories passed from generation to generation, see the Authentic Cowichan Knitters display and purchase hand carved art pieces and jewelry. Try Authentic Native cuisine in the Riverwalk Café- along the banks of the Cowichan River.
250-746-8119
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
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....
1-800-663-7309
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
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.
1-877-248-8961
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
BC Forest Discovery Centre
This museum tells the story of the logging industry in coastal BC. Exhibits of logging machinery, camp life and the role of the B.C. Forest Service are found throughout the 100 acre site. Depending on the season, visitors can ride a ride in either “Samson” the Centre’s 1910 steam train or the “Green Hornet” the gas powered locomotive.
250-715-1113
Duncan
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
WildPlay Element Parks, Nanaimo
Unleash your wild! Primal fun and games are just a climb, zip, jump, and swing away at WildPlay Element Parks. Kids, teens, and adults enjoy conquering suspended wobbly bridges, hanging nets, zip lines and more surprising obstacles on the Monkido® Aerial Adventure courses. Extreme thrill-seekers earn bragging rights on the 150’ Bungy Jump, and g-force King Swing. Zip lovers can’t resist soaring across the Nanaimo River Canyon. Visit http://www.WildPlay.com for videos and Park details.
1-888-716-7374
Nanaimo
Central Island
Central Island
Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
We have room for you to relax! Make yourself at home at the Royal Scot Hotel & Suites. With spacious Guest Rooms and wonderfully appointed Suites with full kitchens, we have everything to fit your needs. Inner Harbour location - Flat Screen TVs & DVD players - Free Wi-Fi - Restaurant - Indoor Pool & Hot Tub - Courtesy Shuttle - Games & Billiards Room - 100% non smoking.
1-800-663-7515
Victoria
South Island
South Island
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
Central Island
AlberniHeritage: Alberni Valley Museum
Excellent community museum with visible storage display system for maximum public access to collections. Explore First Nations culture, early settlement, industrial and maritime history and see unique local folk art and archival photographs. A highlight is the fine examples of local contemporary art. 2012 features special exhibit on the community’s centennial with hands- on childrens’ component.
250-723-2181
Port Alberni
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
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.
250-248-7829
Horne Lake
Central Island
Central Island
Pacific Sands Beach Resort
Pacific Sands Beach Resort boasts Tofino’s only Deluxe all Suite Oceanview and Beachfront accommodation with Vancouver Island’s finest and most comfortable, fully equipped Suites and Beach Houses. Enjoy peaceful moments at Pettinger Point or meandering along Cox Bay – our one mile beach. Some of our popular packages include: Surfing, kayaking, whale and bear watching, storm watching, and romance. Parents and kids enjoy free kids camps all summer long, Spring Break and every Saturday. Check us out @ http://www.pacificsands.com
1-800-565-2322
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
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!
250-248-8290
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
Reef Point Cottages
Vancouver Island's hidden gem, Reef Point Cottages offer an exciting, intimate and self-indulging experience for those who want to explore what British Columbia’s most spectacular and natural landscape has to offer. With clean fresh air, idyllic scenery and breathtaking activities, we are casually situated in the middle of raw nature.
1-877-726-4425
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Quatse River Regional Park and Campground
62 tenting or RV sites situated within a richly forested regional park. All sites near river, firewood, washrooms and host. Power, water, sani-dump, free showers, coin laundry, WIFI, firewood, wheelchair accessible, leashed pets welcome. Next to the Quatse Salmon Stewarship Centre. All proceeds fund salmon conservation on Northern Vancouver Island.
1-866-949-2395
Port Hardy
North Island
North Island
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.
1-800-663-7302
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
Long Beach Lodge Resort
Luxury oceanfront resort on the sandy beach of Cox Bay; relaxed inspirational West Coast setting & award winning architecture. Iconic Great Room with oceanview dining. Complimentary continental breakfast. Beachfront Lodge rooms most with oceanviews, gas fireplaces, double soaker tubs and balconies. Cottages ideal for families or extended stays each with two bedrooms, full kitchen, fireplace & hot tub. Surf Club offers on-site surf lessons & rentals. Private Marine Adventures (fishing, wildlife viewing &/or photography) offered on heated vessel.
1-877-844-7873
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Best Western Plus The Westerly Hotel & Convention Centre
As Courtenay's only full-service hotel providing a host of convenient hotel facilities. From an onsite restaurant, lounge, pub and specialty wine and liquor store to a heated indoor pool, hot tub and sauna, enjoy great value and complimentary at-home extras including hot buffet breakfast, internet, parking and local phone calls.
1-800-668-7797
Courtenay
North Central Island
North Central Island
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".
250-248-8534
Errington
Central Island
Central Island
District of Ucluelet Parks & Recreation Dept.
Ukee Days (July 27-29, 2012) in Ucluelet, B.C. is 72 hours of action-packed festivities for the entire family! Our sleepy seaside town explodes in a summery haze of Live Music, Logger Sports, beer gardens, and tons family fun!
250 726-7772
Ucluelet
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
Clayoquot Ventures Tofino Fishing
Tofino's Most Recommended Saltwater and Freshwater Fishing Outfitter since 1996. Private or shared charters for Halibut, Chinook and Coho Salmon. Professional Guides, Top Quality Gear, & Certified, Comfortable Vessels ensure Fun, Safe and Productive fishing. Fly-In River and Lake trips. Fly-Casting lessons. Full Service Tackle Shop. Accommodation packages. Online Specials!
1-888-534-7422
Tofino
Pacific Rim Region
Pacific Rim Region
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.
1-877-977-8669
Parksville
Central Island
Central Island
Tourism Chemainus
Chemainus is one of the most beloved places by visitors to Vancouver Island. An Arts & Cultural Destination that is famous for its well over 40 murals painted on the towns various walls. Golf, diving, shopping and exploring our natural surroundings in this seaside village.
250-246-3944
Chemainus
Cowichan Region
Cowichan Region
Painter's Lodge
Nestled on the pristine shores of Vancouver Island, Painter’s Lodge offers exhilarating outdoor adventure in a stunning natural setting. From legendary salmon fishing, whale watching and wildlife viewing to relaxing in the new Aveda spa, experience the best of British Columbia at Painter’s Lodge in Campbell River.
250-286-1102
Campbell River
North Central Island
North Central Island
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