Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
Parksville, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Rathtrevor Provincial Park is a large beach park located in the community of Parksville, BC on Vancouver Island, Canada. The 347 hectare park enjoys a large sandy beach, fantastic marine views, hiking trails and a very popular campground.

The ocean tides recede 900 metres at low tides revealing many more kilometres of wet sand. Left in its retreating path are tidal pools, shells and marine life. The 2 kilometre long beach attracts allot of activities to the park. Some of the summer activities include picnicking, beachcombing, camping, birdwatching, hiking and kayaking.

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park enjoys one of the larger provincial campgrounds on the island. The park is serviced by 5 parking lots. There is a day use area and separate campground area.

Throughout the park are picnic shelters for large gatherings, sitting benches and many, many picnic tables. The campground includes pit and flush toilets, an adventure playground, an outdoor Amphitheater and a Nature House.

The hiking trail in the park is a good way to explore the wilderness. There are over 5 kilometres of trails in the park. Many are wheelchair friendly. The trails explore along a sandy beach and through a forest. A forest full of Douglas Fir, Hemlock, Balsam, Western Red Cedar, Spruce, Arbutus and Maple trees. There are information shelters with trail maps at strategic locations in the park.

Families enjoy the park because the waters are shallow and sand is everywhere at low tides. There is so much beach to play. Plus the ocean water is very warm because the hot sand acts like a heater. It is an ideal beach that is great for swimming or just soaking in the sun.

There is no boat launch in Rathtrevor Provincial Park. All pets must be leached, The park is busy during the summer and long weekends so it is wise to book well in advance with the Parks Office.

How to get to Rathtrevor Provincial Park

Travel to the community of Parksville BC via the Oceanside Route (Inland Hwy) on Vancouver Island. Look for exit #51 into Parksville approaching from the south. Continue down the road to the access road leading to the park. It is located off the highway, near the bridge, towards the waterfront. It is about 3 kilometres south of Parksville on the highway.