Retire to the Jewel of Vancouver Island

Parksville, Qualicum Beach, and Nanoose

One of the best kept secrets in Real Estate. Snow birds have been flocking to one the best places to retire in Canada. Why head south when the west coast life is one of the most ideal climates to enjoy your retirement?

• Hike locally at Mt Arrowsmith, Rathtrevor Beach, Englishman River Falls, and Little Qualicum Falls.

• Boat or fish at French Creek Harbour, Beachcomber Marina Ltd., and  Schooner Cove Yacht Club

• Golf at one of 6 local golf courses.  Qualicum Beach Memorial, Pheasant Glen, Eaglecrest, Morningstar, Fairwinds, and Brigadoon golf course.

• Local Farmers Markets  - Qualicum Beach Farmers Market, Summer by the Sea

• Mount Washington Alpine and Downhill skiing 1 1/2 hr drive away

• Amazing camping all over Vancouver Island

Frequently asked questions about moving to the Parksville Qualicum Beach area.

1. Housing: Parksville offers a wide range of housing options, from waterfront properties, to more inland homes.  This include patio homes, townhomes and condos with the majority of homes being the typical rancher layout.  The housing market is generally less expensive than major Canadian cities but can vary depending on location and property size*(see home price stats above).  Recently a large number of condos have been built and added to the rental market.

2. Taxes and Utilities: Property taxes (City of Parksville) are competitive and reflect the services provided. Utilities in Parksville include electricity, water, and gas, which are typically in line with other regions in BC but can fluctuate based on consumption and seasonal changes.

3. General Expenses: Daily living expenses such as groceries and personal items might be slightly higher due to the town's island location, but generally, costs are reasonable and comparable to other small towns in BC.

4. Healthcare Services: Parksville has several medical practices and has an acute care health clinic (Oceanside Health Center). For more specialized medical needs, residents may travel to nearby Nanaimo or Victoria. The town also hosts facilities for senior care, including assisted living and residential care homes.

5. Climate: The climate in Parksville is characterized by mild winters and warm summers. The town experiences less rainfall than much of the west coast, making it an attractive location for those who prefer drier weather. This climate supports outdoor recreational activities throughout the year. More rainfall info.

6. Recreational Activities: Parksville is well known for its beautiful sandy beaches, particularly Parksville Beach, which is a hub for activities like swimming, kayaking, and beachcombing. The town also boasts several golf courses, parks, and trails ideal for biking and hiking.  The nearest community pool is located at Ravensong in Qualicum Beach.

7. Community and Social Life: With a significant proportion of retirees, Parksville has a vibrant community life centered around its seniors. The town hosts various cultural events, including the annual sand sculpting competition, outdoor theater music events, and art exhibitions. There are numerous social clubs and volunteer organizations that encourage community involvement and social interaction. At the heart of the community is the Parksville Community Center.

8. Transportation Options: While Parksville is compact enough to navigate easily by car, it also has a reliable bus service that connects to larger hubs like Nanaimo. The town’s layout supports walking and cycling, making it convenient for residents to get around without relying solely on a vehicle. 

9. Shopping and Dining Options:  Parksville offers a good mix of local shops and national retailers, providing residents with ample shopping options. The dining scene includes a variety of restaurants and cafes, some of my favourites are Saigon Gardern, Sushi Ichi, Beach Club Resort Restaurant and Lounge, Cedars Restaurant and Lounge, Bayside Restaurant and Lounge, and the Rod and Gun.