Unlike practically everywhere else in North America, the Qualicum Beach shopping experience strictly involves independent retailers. National chains and familiar brand names are nowhere in sight here, leaving the marketplace free to local entrepreneurs who deliver friendly service and unique product selections. Learn about shopping in Qualicum Beach, courtesy of Oceanside Tourism: Qualicum's Shopping Areas The shopping district is concentrated onto three streets – the main axis of Memorial Avenue and its cross streets Second Avenue and Fern Street. Stores either face the pretty, flower-bedecked streets or are clustered into courtyard complexes. The retail district can be walked in 15 leisurely minutes. Most shoppers will want to browse for hours, however. A diverse selection of restaurants and plenty of coffee shops lets one pause and recharge as needed.
Consider beginning the tour in front of the town hall and library complex on Primrose Street between First and Second Avenues. Handy parking is nearby, with space on First Avenue reserved for RVs.
Unique Shops Antiques : Yesterday's Child Antiques is renowned for its collectable china figurines. The store also carries vintage buttons, art glass, coins and even old-time wireless radios. 674 Memorial Avenue. Folk Art : Smithford's motto ("If you don't need it, we've got it") reflects this local landmark's selection of hand-crafted furniture, functional pottery, jewellery, clothing and amusing gift items. Local folk artist Don Thompson, whose fans include actors Goldie Hawn and Danny DeVito, is responsible for the cats loitering in the store's fenced courtyard. 164 Second Avenue West. Toys : The Qualicum Toy Shop carries stuffed animals, board games, kites and all the tools one needs to build the perfect sandcastle. 222 Second Avenue West. Fine Art : The Old School House Arts Centre 's Gallery Shop is a treasure house of original work by local artists. Ceramics, jewellery, paintings, glasswork and more. 112 Fern Road West. Home Accessories : Hidden Waters Gift Shop is known for its decorative, custom-designed fountains, streams and ponds. 208 First Avenue West. Looking for more familiar branded retail outlets? They do exist and not too far from Qualicum Beach. Head to Parksville , 8km/5mi to the south along the West Island Highway (aka Highway 19A or the Oceanside Route), or to Namaimo 's plethora of big-box superstores.