Best Beaches on Vancouver Island

When it comes to unforgettable beach adventures, Vancouver Island beaches offer some of the most stunning coastal landscapes in Canada. From sandy stretches perfect for family picnics to tidal flats made for beachcombing, there’s a shoreline here for everyone.

1. Rathtrevor Beach – A Family Favourite

Just steps from Beach Acres Resort, Rathtrevor Beach stands out as one of the most beloved beaches on Vancouver Island, offering something special for every type of traveler. Known for its expansive sandy shoreline, this beach transforms dramatically with the tides, creating a dynamic and ever-changing coastal playground.

At low tide, the ocean recedes nearly a kilometre, unveiling vast sand flats and warm tidal pools that invite hours of exploration. These shallow pools are perfect for families with young children, offering safe spaces for little ones to splash, wade, and discover tiny marine life like crabs, sand dollars, and small fish. The exposed sandbars also make Rathtrevor Beach a haven for beachcombers, who can stroll along the shore searching for driftwood, shells, and other coastal treasures.

As the tide comes back in, the calm, shallow waters warm up under the sun, making it an ideal spot for a refreshing swim. The gentle slope of the beach means that even at high tide, the waters remain safe and welcoming for swimmers of all ages. For couples and solo travelers, the wide-open sands provide a peaceful setting for long walks, picnics, or simply relaxing while taking in the panoramic ocean views.

Beyond the beach itself, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park offers a network of walking and biking trails through old-growth Douglas fir forests, where you can enjoy shaded strolls and spot local wildlife like deer and eagles. During the spring, the park becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise, as thousands of Brant geese stop here during their annual migration.

Whether you're building sandcastles, exploring tide pools, or watching a stunning sunset over the water, Rathtrevor Beach offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure—just moments from your door at Beach Acres Resort.

2. Qualicum Beach – Relax and Recharge

A short drive from the resort, Qualicum Beach offers a peaceful and picturesque spot perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and soaking in the natural beauty of Vancouver Island. Known for its long, sandy shoreline and calm, warm waters, it’s an ideal beach for families looking for a relaxing day by the sea. The gentle slope of the beach creates shallow swimming areas, making it safe for kids to splash around while adults enjoy the sun and stunning ocean views.

One of the highlights of Qualicum Beach is its breathtaking vistas—on clear days, you can see all the way across the Strait of Georgia to the Coastal Mountains on the mainland, creating a postcard-worthy backdrop for your beach day.

But it’s not just the scenery that makes Qualicum Beach special—it’s also a haven for local wildlife. Bald eagles often soar overhead, while great blue herons wade gracefully along the shoreline. Seals can frequently be spotted bobbing in the waves, and during certain times of the year, you might even catch sight of migrating whales passing through the area. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love here, especially with the nearby estuaries and tidal flats that attract a wide variety of shorebirds.

When you’ve had your fill of beach time, the charming town of Qualicum Beach offers quaint cafes, local shops, and beautifully landscaped gardens to explore. Whether you’re there for a peaceful seaside stroll, a family swim, or a bit of wildlife spotting, Qualicum Beach is a must-visit destination just minutes from Beach Acres Resort.

3. Parksville Beach – Sandcastles and Sunshine

Home to the world-famous Parksville Beach Sandcastle Competition—officially known as Parksville Beach Festival—Parksville Beach is a vibrant summer hotspot that draws visitors from around the world. Every year, the beach transforms into an outdoor art gallery during the sand sculpting competition, where master sculptors craft jaw-dropping creations from just sand and water. These incredible sculptures remain on display for weeks, making it a must-see attraction during the summer months.

But beyond the sandcastles, Parksville Beach offers endless opportunities for classic beach day fun. Its shallow, warm waters make it one of the most family-friendly beaches on Vancouver Island. As the tide recedes, vast stretches of soft, sun-warmed sand are revealed, creating perfect conditions for swimming, wading, and splashing around. The gradual slope of the beach ensures that even young children can safely enjoy the water.

The expansive sandy shoreline also makes it an ideal spot for sandcastle building, beach volleyball, frisbee games, or simply laying out a blanket and soaking up the sun. During the summer, the beach is alive with families, couples, and solo travelers all enjoying the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
Adjacent to the beach, Parksville Community Park adds to the fun with its large playground, skate park, splash pad, and picnic areas. It’s a perfect spot to grab an ice cream cone from a nearby vendor and enjoy a seaside picnic. The park also hosts a variety of summer events, including live music, markets, and family-friendly festivals.

For nature lovers, the beach offers stunning views of the Coastal Mountains across the Strait of Georgia, and during low tide, it’s common to spot herons hunting in the shallows or eagles soaring overhead.

Whether you're visiting for the Sandcastle Competition, enjoying a swim in the warm waters, or simply relaxing on the beach with family and friends, Parksville Beach offers a quintessential Vancouver Island summer experience that’s just a short drive from Beach Acres Resort.

4. Tribune Bay – An Island Tropical Escape

Not on Vancouver Island but worth a mention - located on nearby Hornby Island, Tribune Bay is often called the "tropical beach" of BC thanks to its white sands and crystal-clear waters. It’s perfect for swimming and kayaking, and the ferry trip adds a fun mini-adventure to your beach day. Getting there is part of the adventure - the journey to Tribune Bay Beach involves two ferry rides from Parksville, turning your beach day into a fun mini road trip.

5. Neck Point Park – For the Adventurous Soul

If you're craving a more rugged beach experience, head to Neck Point Park in Nanaimo. This rocky shoreline is a local favourite for snorkelling, diving, and wildlife watching. (Check out our Nanaimo beaches guide for more tips and great beaches in the area!)

Your Mid-Island Beach Getaway

After your ferry ride or drive, there’s no better place to relax than Beach Acres Resort, where Rathtrevor Beach is just steps away. Its warm tidal pools, expansive sandy flats, and safe swimming waters make it a favourite for families and couples alike. Nearby, you can explore Qualicum Beach or take part in classic summer fun at Parksville Beach—home to the famous Sandcastle Competition.

Whether you’re coming from Vancouver or Victoria, Parksville offers a perfect mid-point to recharge, explore, and enjoy some of the best beaches on Vancouver Island before heading to Tofino’s wilder shores.

Heading West: The Scenic Drive to Tofino

Once you've soaked in the sun at Parksville's peaceful, sandy beaches, it’s time to hit the road west towards Tofino. The 2.5-hour drive takes you through some of Vancouver Island’s most breathtaking landscapes—from lush rainforests and alpine passes to crystal-clear lakes.

Along the way, consider stopping at:

Cathedral Grove – Wander through ancient Douglas fir trees, some over 800 years old.
Sproat Lake – A great spot for a swim or picnic before continuing west.

As you approach the coast, the calm beaches of Parksville give way to Tofino’s rugged shoreline and iconic surf spots.

Tofino Beaches: Surf, Sand, and Untamed Beauty

After your relaxing start in Parksville, you’ll be ready for Tofino’s dynamic beaches:

Long Beach – Endless shoreline and powerful surf make this the most iconic beach in Tofino.
Chesterman Beach – A family-friendly favourite with tide pools and beginner surf waves.
Cox Bay – A hotspot for experienced surfers and sunset watchers alike.
Mackenzie Beach – Calm waters, soft sands, and perfect for families and paddleboarding.

Beachfront Bliss at Beach Acres Resort

Staying at Beach Acres Resort means you’re just steps away from Rathtrevor Beach and a short drive from some of the best beaches on Vancouver Island. Our beachfront cottages and cozy townhomes provide the perfect setting to relax after a sun-soaked day of sand and sea.
Whether you're beachcombing at low tide, building sandcastles with the family, or simply soaking in the ocean views, Vancouver Island’s beaches offer something for everyone—and Beach Acres Resort is your perfect home base for it all.

Book your beach getaway today and start exploring the beauty of Vancouver Island’s coastline!