Parksville City Guide

Seafood like oysters and salmon is popular. Some international cuisines exist. Most places close by 9-10 PM. Vegan and vegetarian options are available.

Nightlife is quiet with a few pubs and casual restaurants. No vibrant late-night spots.

Good coffee scene with independent cafes offering quality local roasts and third-wave options.

Tipping is standard in Canada. 15-20% in restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and 15-20% for services. Expected in most service settings.

SIM cards are available at Telus, Rogers, Bell, Freedom Mobile stores, and Best Buy. Registration requires ID or passport.

Generally clean and well-maintained with regular waste pickup and no sanitation issues.

Limited 24/7 services. Some convenience stores open late, but no 24/7 pharmacies or clinics.

Supermarkets have good international products from US and UK. Local farmers' markets run in season.

Cards are widely accepted. Cash is handy only for small vendors and farmers' markets.

ATMs are common at major banks and some supermarkets. Expect CAD 2-3 fees if you use non-bank ATMs.

Schools follow BC curriculum with English instruction. French immersion may be available. No international schools.

Very small digital nomad community. No dedicated meetups or coworking spaces. Limited remote work support.

Excellent access to parks and green spaces for walking and running with shaded trails.

Safe running routes on boardwalks, beaches, and parks with good air quality except occasional wildfire smoke.

Several gyms and fitness centers with outdoor options.

Public tennis courts are available, mostly first-come, first-served, with some clubs offering coaching.

No padel courts available.

Several yoga studios offer various styles and drop-in classes with English-speaking instructors.

Few martial arts schools teaching Karate and Taekwondo locally. For other disciplines, travel to nearby cities is needed.

Mount Washington Alpine Resort is 1.5 hours away with skiing from December to April. Good snow and terrain for all levels.

Kayaking and paddleboarding rentals and guided tours are available on calm local waters, best in summer.

No surfing spots in Parksville. Nearest surf is 2.5-3 hours away in Tofino. Water is cold year-round.

Cold-water diving around Vancouver Island is available. Equipment and certification centers are nearby.

Main hospital is 30 minutes away in Nanaimo with English-speaking staff. Local clinics and pharmacies are available. Public healthcare quality is high but wait times exist.

Tap water meets high Canadian safety standards and is safe to drink.

Many parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly cafes. Attractions include community park with splash park, Rathtrevor Beach, and mini-golf.

Generally accepting with safe public spaces and some local pride events nearby. Low discrimination risk.

Pet-friendly town with off-leash parks, vets, and many pet-friendly accommodations.