Multi-lane highways, a scenic oceanfront route and quiet country backroads serve Parksville and the neighboring communities of Coombs, Errington, French Creek, and Nanoose Bay, most easily navigated by car. Rail service, ferry service, and public transportation are also available.
Car TravelTwo main exits off Highway 19 north from Nanaimo serve Parksville. Follow the signs for the "Oceanside Route" southeast of town for easy access to the Visitor Centre, the museum, the major accommodations clustered on Resort Drive and Rathtrevor Beach. Those who miss that turn can access downtown Parksville directly via Highway 4A (aka the Old Alberni Highway).
Nanoose Bay traffic turns off Highway 19 at Northwest Bay Road just past the open waters of Nanoose Harbour ten minutes further south towards Nanaimo. Both Errington and Coombs are easy to find off Highway 4A southwest of Parksville. Car rentals are available at various operators in Parksville and surrounding communities.
Rail TravelThe Malahat (train 198 in the VIA Rail passenger fleet) stops at Parksvile twice a day: in the morning on its way north to Courtenay; and then again in the afternoon while returning south through Nanaimo, Chemainus, and finally Victoria. Short-term visitors can disembark at the Parksville station, enjoy lunch, walk it off in the nearby Lions' Community Park and then catch the returning train.
Ferry TravelBC Ferries provides automobile and foot passenger service on a frequent basis year-round to terminals in Nanaimo and Schwartz Bay (near Victoria). US visitors arrive via the Black Ball Ferry (Port Angeles, WA. to Victoria) or Washington State Ferries (Anacortes, WA. to Sidney, BC).
Public TransportationThe Nanaimo Regional Transit System provides regularly scheduled morning, afternoon and early evening service linking Parksville's Wembley Mall with Nanaimo's Woodgrove Centre (the largest shopping mall on Vancouver Island) and the Qualicum Beach Civic Centre.
Greyhound Canada delivers passengers to Parksville twice daily from points north and south. Buses arrive and depart from Jandi Investments at 540 East Island Highway. Ferry foot passengers can jump aboard shuttle buses operated by IslandLink and head to many Vancouver Island locales, Parksville included.
MapsThe Oceanside Tourism Association's Pocket Guide, a free publication produced annually, features nine maps that thoroughly cover the region (Qualicum Beach included). A full street index is included. The Pocket Guide can be picked up at the Visitor Centre, along with a handy large-format map courtesy of the Chamber of Commerce.
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