Oceanside Visitor's Guide - 2010

VANCOUVER ISLAND • BRITISH COLUMBIA

PARKSVILLE/QUALICUM BEACH & REGION

2010

… o t e m o c l e W Vancouver Island’s Oceanside Region!

What a great place tto grow up in! Living h here is like being on a constant vacation.

E Even if we only have a few hours to spend, tthat’s not a problem.

O Oceanside is all about d diversity and everything iis only minutes away.

W Whether it’s strolling a along the beach, alpine h hiking in the mountains o or relaxing at the spa, iin less than an hour, you are there. And we’re so central to everything else Vancouver Island is famous for. You ski in the morning, surf in the afternoon and catch a world-class performance in the evening!

You‘ll be so glad you chose Oceanside for your vacation destination. The pages in this Visitor’s Guide will help you to plan your best holiday ever. Find out why we’re known as Canada’s Riviera.

Courtney Davidson, Miss Charity B.C.

Table of Contents Table of Contents ....................................... Pg. 1 Visitor Information...............................Pg. 2 & 3 Highlights .............................................Pg. 4 & 5 Natural Wonders .................................Pg. 6 & 7 Festivals & Events ............................... Pg. 8 - 11 The Great Outdoors .........................Pg. 12 & 13 Golf ...................................................Pg. 14 & 15 Map ...................................................Pg. 16 & 17 Spa............................................................. Pg. 18 Shopping................................................... Pg. 19 Arts ..................................................... Pg. 20 - 22 Farm Market ............................................. Pg. 23 Dining ....................................................... Pg. 24 The Islands ................................................ Pg. 25 Dining Guide ....................................Pg. 26 & 27 History & Heritage............................Pg. 28 & 29 Calendar of Events 2010 ..................Pg. 30 & 31 Accommodation Guide ............................ Pg. 32

On the Cover

Masson Graphic Visitors soak up the sun by the gazebo at the beach in Parksville. Cover photo by Kris Masson

The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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Visitor

OCEANSIDE Alaska

OCEANSIDE

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Nanoose Bay Parksville Qualicum Beach Coombs Errington Deep Bay Qualicum Bay Queen Charlotte Islands

EMERGENCY NUMBERS: Fire, Ambulance, Police......................................911 Crimestoppers/Tips .......................... 1800-222-8477 Wild Fire Reporting ........................ 1-800-663-5555 Crisis Line ......................................... (250) 248-3111

BRITISH COLUMBIA

PACIFIC OCEAN

SERVICES: Alberta

Vancouver Island

Washington State USA

Vancouver Island Regional Library Parksville ........................................................(250) 248-3841 Qualicum Beach.............................................(250) 752-6121 Bowser ...........................................................(250) 757-9570 Parksville & District Historical Society ..........(250) 248-6966 Canada Post Parksville ........................................................(250) 248-3932 Qualicum Beach.............................................(250) 752-6435 Nanoose .........................................................(250) 468-7722

“TAKE THIS GUIDE WITH YOU” The residents of the Oceanside area are here to

welcome you!

Area population As of May 16, 2006

Statistics Canada census says...

Nanoose Bay & Area 5,000 Parksville 11,000 Qualicum Beach 9,000 Coombs & Area 6,700 Errington 3,500 Bowser-Horne Lake-Deep Bay-Qualicum Bay 3,500

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11 77 55 11

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32 35 22

Visitor

OCEANSIDE

FROM HERE TO THERE (in kilometres) (1 km = approximately 0.6 miles)

From Oceanside to: Vancouver Victoria Nanaimo Port Alberni Tofino Courtenay Campbell River Port Hardy

56 kms 146 kms 35 kms 47 kms 171 kms 73 kms 117 kms 355 kms

PARKSVILLE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Parksville Visitor Centre 1275 E. Island Hwy. Ph. (250) 248-3613

www.chamber.parksville.bc.ca

QUALICUM BEACH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE 124 W. 2nd Ave., Qualicum Beach Ph. (250) 752-0960

www.qualicum.bc.ca

BC FERRIES TO VANCOUVER ISLAND There are frequent sailings throughout the day between either Horseshoe Bay (Vancouver) and downtown Nanaimo (central Vancouver Island), or Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and Duke Point (south of Nanaimo).

Victoria, on Vancouver Island’s southern tip, is connected by frequent ferry sailings to the Mainland and there is service as well between Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands and between Vancouver Island and points north of Vancouver on the Mainland.

Vehicle reservations ............... 1-888-223-3779 www.bcferries.com/schedules/

PROUD TO PRODUCE THE OCEANSIDE STAR OFFICIAL TOURISM GUIDE!

Welcome to Oceanside! We hope you find this guide is a valuable resource during your stay.

WE HAVE OCEANSIDE COVERED FROM NANOOSE TO DEEP BAY! The Oceanside Star has Oceanside’s largest audited distribution!

Questions or Comments?

Call at 250-954-0600 www.oceansidestar.com

MERCEDES LANE * Unique Fashions & Accessories * Furniture & Gifts 119 Craig Street, Parksville, B.C.

(250) 248-2662 mercedeslane@shaw.ca

The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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Highlights

OCEANSIDE

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Welcome!

In creating this vacation guide, we at the Oceanside Star, a Canwest community newspaper, tried to put ourselves in your shoes: on the Prairies and plotting your escape, in the big city and looking for something different, on the ferry and browsing the pamphlet racks, lying on your hotel bed and flipping through the pages.

What do you want to know? What piques your interest? What catches your eye?

Carrie Powell-Davidson, our well-known gal about town in the Oceanside area, has provided us with bright, chatty, informative articles we hope will whet your appetite to further explore this unique piece of paradise.

Kris Masson, our graphic arts and design whiz, has arranged it all in an attractive package we hope will suit your needs.

If you have any suggestions for future editions, please send them to me at news@oceansidestar.com.

Welcome to our home. Enjoy your stay.

— Brian Wilford, Editor

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1, 2 & 3 Bedroom m Vacation V cation Condominiums Va

Location is a point of view!

Hospitality comes with an oceanview at the Quality Resort Bayside. We offer beachfront accommodations with exceptional views. Enjoy casual west coast dining in the Bayside Bistro & Lounge or watch the game in the Upperdeck Sports Bar & Grill.

Quality Resort Bayside 240 Dogwood Street, Parksville, B.C.

250.248.8333 www.qualityresortparksville.com

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• Fully equipped kitchens • Fireplaces • Cable TV with DVD • Free local calls • In-suite washers & dryers • Seasonal outdoor pool • Year-round outdoor hot tub • Wireless Internet • Tennis court, basketball, volleyball • Walkway to sandy Rathtrevor Beach • Close to golfing, shopping & dining

1135 Resort Drive ~ Parksville 245-248-3636 • 1-888-248-6212 email: info@ocean-trails.com www.ocean-trails.com

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Highlights

OCEANSIDE Hike the Oceanside Trails With all our provincial, regional and municipal parks, finding trails will never be a problem. A dedicated army of trailblazers has been quietly forging through the woods, creating and maintaining pathways for all levels. For more information, contact the Visitor Information Centres or go the Regional District of Nanaimo’s website and type in ‘trails.’

Dive in the ‘Emerald’ River So, maybe you want to save this one for the summer and it’s the Englishman not ‘Emerald’ River but it does have a green hue and jumping off the ‘Nose’ is a local favourite. Just before you dive in, check out the petroglyphs to the right of the ‘Nose.’

Set Foot on Every Gulf Island The Gulf Islands are close and beautiful. Take a day trip or spend a weekend. For starters, head down to French Creek and hop a foot passenger ferry to Lasqueti Island.

Summit a Mountain The mountains are so close. Visit the new Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park or, closer yet, Little Mountain.

Discover our Heritage

Yes, we have a history and it is quite interesting. Craig Heritage Museum and the Qualicum Beach Museum are undiscovered gems and they welcome local visitors who want to learn more about the early days.

Devour Oceanside Our local farmers and crafts people are always growing and creating delicious food for us. From Nanoose Bay to Deep Bay, you will find eggs, corn, cheese, herbs, candy, pasta, shrimp and just about anything else your taste buds could desire.

Fly a Kite Our beaches are the perfect venue for kite flying and, if it’s been a while since you did this, why not give it a try? Kites are not just for kids anymore and there is something very relaxing in making that connection with the wind.

Revel in a Wildflower Meadow All the way up to the summits of Mount Arrowsmith and Mount Cokely are wildflower fields and they are glorious when in bloom.

The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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Natural Wonders

OCEANSIDE

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Little Mountain

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Just a 10-minute drive from downtown Parksville and you are on top of this spectacular little mountain. The view from up here is breathtaking and the rock formations are a photographer’s dream. Peer out over miles of treetops, valleys and mountains.

Fawlty Tower fans will love the drive up!

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The Beaches Let’s face it: Oceanside is famous for its beaches! With miles and miles of sandy shore, little wonder that seaside activities abound.

Parksville’s beaches were voted the best beaches in Canada by readers of Better Homes and Gardens magazine and The Globe and Mail. And even though we are on the east side of Vancouver Island, there is a mile of shoreline along Qualicum Beach where the sunset is completely visible. Our year-round mild climate, coupled with the warmest ocean waters in the CUSTOM DENTURE CARE country, is the reason we’re For All Your FULL Denture Needs known as Canada’s Riviera.

Carol English DENTURIST

So Many Reasons To Smile!

Carol English R.D. 248-3734 9A-826 W. Is. Hwy., Parksville Wembley Mall

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Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park Though this park was dedicated in 2009, the work to acquire these two

summits began many years ago. Extremely dedicated people fought hard to save the Mount Arrowsmith and Mount Cokely summits, which are home to rare and endangered subspecies.

Enjoy Alpine hiking, ice climbing, snowshoeing, ski touring and some of the most magnificent vistas on Vancouver Island. This culturally and environmentally significant land is about a onehour drive from Qualicum Beach.

Horne Lake Cave Listed as the Best Natural Outdoor Site in B.C. by Attractions Canada, Horne Lake Caves are not to be missed. It doesn’t matter what the weather is doing outside, it never rains in the caves, though the underground waterfalls can be pretty spectacular. Enjoy a 90-minute family cavern tour or, for the more adventurous, rappel seven storeys down into the underground world!

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Your Community Shopping Centre 826 W. Island Hwy., Parksville, B.C.

...Where Friends Meet 6 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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OCEANSIDE

Natural Wonders

Cameron Lake Perhaps this lake would be better categorized in the ‘Super Natural’ Wonders of Oceanside. Yes, Cameron Lake is a beautiful lake nestled in the mountains on the west side of our region. And yes, there is a multitude of fun activities here, from swimming and fishing to camping and picnicking, but there is also something quite unusual going on: Apparitions from drowned souls and Cammy, the lake creature, call Cameron Lake home, too.

Cathedral Grove Listed as one of the most accessible old-growth temperate rainforests in the world, Cathedral Grove was described in 1941 as the greatest scenic tourist asset in B.C. Back in the early 1980s, it was the location for the Hollywood prehistoric epic ‘Quest for Fire.’ Imagine what an ant feels like as you stand beneath these towering giants and explore the forest floor along beautifully groomed trails.

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is so spectacular that we have an entire festival dedicated to it. The Brant Festival occurs in early spring (March and April) and visitors come from all over the globe to witness this phenomenon. It is absolutely stunning to see these little black birds arriving for their holiday on the beach.

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Englishman River Falls During the rainy season, these falls gush through tiny crevices with enough force to move logs and gouge rock. A suspension bridge over the falls allows visitors to safely experience the wrath of nature so close that the spray will engulf you. Not far up the road is Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park. Both parks are ideal locations for outdoor activities such as camping and hiking.

Brant Geese Every year, these tiny black geese make the trek from Mexico to Alaska. Along the way, they make a stop to fuel up on the herring roe that washes up on the beaches of Oceanside, as do herds of barking sea lions and clouds of gulls. This scene

While a relatively short walk, tthis trail is rated moderate for hikers but the end result is w worth it. Located in Nanoose Bay, you will soar with the eagles above the Strait of Georgia while taking in stunning ocean and mountain vvistas. Because Nanoose Bay has one of the driest climates in Canada, expect to see diverse and interesting flora including the Coastal Prickly Pear Cactus.

Moving

to the Island?

Contact me for your free, no obligation

¸)<@,9: )662š (mail or email format)

I appreciate your referrals!

Dale Rumming P.R.E.C. (Pks) Ltd., Parksville, B.C.

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-H_!

www.dalerumming.ca deadlydale@shaw.ca

The Oceanside Visitorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Guide

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OCEANSIDE

Festivals & Events

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Festivals & Events

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Oceanside loves to celebrate and with so many reasons to do that, it’s no surprise that there are over 140 annual festivals and events. In a region where diversity is our second name, you will find celebrations honoring everything from kids to kites and from cars to cowboys. So, whether you plan your vacation to coincide with one of these great events or leave it up to fate, you can count on something fun going on during your visit.

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Fire & Ice Street Festival Qualicum Beach turns up the heat and chills out every year at the beginning of May. (This year it’s May 1st.) What a brilliant way to bid adios to the colder months and welcome the heat of summer! Street performers, ice carvers, fire breathers and the famous chili competition take over the downtown village in this tribute to the opposing elements.

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SERVING ALL OF VANCOUVER ISLAND www.rebath.com Visit our show room @ 12B 1209 East Is. Hwy., Parksville, B.C.

250-586-1555 Independently Owned and Operated

8 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

Nestled among 6 acres of beautiful country setting in Qualicum Beach.

• Private ensuites in all rooms.

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• Full Gourmet Breakfast.

• Scrapbook Retreats offered Oct-May

Your hosts: Jocelyn & Trevor Rod contact@wyldflower.ca www.wyldflower.ca

778-424-2224

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Festivals & Events Father’s Day Seaside Cruizers Show & Shine

Head back to Qualicum Beach for Father’s Day and dad will have his best day ever. Over 500 classic, custom cars and trucks line the streets for car buffs of all ages to ogle. This multi-generational event transports visitors back in time when hot cars and cool dudes were all the rage. The street dance on Saturday night is a perfect example of a time when all the family hung out together. This Show and Shine was even listed on Oprah’s Top 10 things to do on Father’s Day.

Canada Day Canada Day Celebrations take place in Qualicum Beach and the Lighthouse Community but if you want to participate in one of the largest celebrations in B.C., plan to be in Parksville’s Community Park. Each year, thousands converge along the main street to take in the 70 plus floats that parade by before heading down to the beach for a full day of activities, entertainment and great food. Top name bands take to the stage just before dusk and prepare the crowds for one of the best fireworks displays on the Island.

Featuring the Parksville Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition, this year’s Beach Festival begins July 16th and runs for a whole month! Entertainment, activities and vendors all gather on Parksville’s sandy shores for the most fun you can have with sand in your pants.

34th Annual Coombs Country Rodeo Yee Haw! It’s Rodeo time! If you have never attended the Coombs Rodeo, mark July 23-25th down on your calendar and dust off that cowboy hat. There will be steer wrestling, barrel racing, saddle bronc and more. Cow folk of all ages will holler as snot-dripping bulls toss cowboys around like rag dolls and rodeo clowns perform their antics. Kick up your spurs at the Country Dances because that’s how we do it in Coombs Country!

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Parksville Beach Festival

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OCEANSIDE Parksville Visitor Centre 1275 E Island Highway Use Exit 46 Weekend Artisan Market Gift Shop The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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OCEANSIDE

Festivals & Events

Coombs 32nd Annual Bluegrass Festival Make sure y’all hang around Coombs for the next week and take in one of the oldest bluegrass celebrations in B.C. (and quite possibly, one of the largest!). They will be pickin’ n’ grinnin’ all B.C. long weekend with bluegrass bands from all over the continent. Enjoy great jam sessions and fun for the whole family.

Parksville Lion’s International Kite Festival Look up. Look way up and you will see the sky filled with every imaginable shape and colour. Kite fliers come from as far away as Alberta and Washington to spread their strings on Parksville’s expansive shore. Bring your own kite to fly or simply hunker down and enjoy.

St. Mark’s Fair in Qualicum Beach One of the oldest and largest markets on Vancouver Island is celebrating its 38th year on July 24th. With over 130 vendors selling everything from antiques to jelly, this fair attracts over 10,000 visitors each year. Activities such as a petting zoo and face painting keep the kids busy while you enjoy the live entertainment.

Oceanside Overdrive Rathtrevor Beach, Parksville, British Columbia

Luxury y Oceanfront Condominiums

Featuring F i

• Sauna • Full Kitchens • Coin Laundry • Outdoor Pool • Gas Fireplaces

What could be more fun than hanging out on the beach, listening to some golden oldies while checking out hundreds of classic, custom cars, trucks, hot rods and motor cycles?

Parksville beach is the place to be on August long weekend but don’t forget the sunscreen! P.S. The Cruise is pretty cool, too!

250-248-8371 • Indoor Hot Tub • Playground • High speed Internet

Toll Free 1-877-733-5969 Tel 250-954-0662 • Fax 1-866-709-0110 reservations@oceansandsresort.ca www.oceansandsresort.ca 10 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

coastrealty.com

Coast Realty Group Ltd. Parksville, B.C. Cell: (250) 927-2385 Toll free: 1-888-954-4433 Email: jill@jilltuggle.com www.jilltuggle.com

Jill Tuggle

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OCEANSIDE

Knox United Church Fall Fair Every year it’s a grand garage sale with furniture bargains, family entertainment, children’s games, home baking, a silent auction and much more. This year it’s Sept. 18, 8:30 a.m to 2:30 p.m., at Knox United Church, 345 Pym St., Parksville.

Christmas in Oceanside

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Festivals & Events

Kid Fest If you got kids, you may as well pitch a tent in Parksville because August 8th is Kid Fest. Kids of all ages will love this fun-filled day stuffed with entertainment, activities and the always popular, Kids Sandcastle Competition. Dust off your sand bucket because you won’t want to miss this; they have awesome prizes!

Christmas Craft Explosion begins that last few weeks of November and runs until the beginning of December. Visitors come from as far away as the U.S. to get a jump start on their Christmas shopping as various Craft markets conveniently coordinate their event to coincide with others. Most notable is the Kris Kringle Craft Market, which boasts over 100 booths of high quality crafts, and the Original Village Christmas Arts Faire, featuring many of the area’s top artists and artisans.

Milner Christmas Magic at Milner Gardens and Woodland is a must-do on any list. Thousands of twinkle lights illuminate the forest as vignettes whimsically entertain. Talented musicians fill the air with the sounds of the holidays and local artists offer their wares-at very reasonable prices. Enjoy a hot chocolate in the historical home and take home a real wreath. An oldfashioned Christmas experience that is magical indeed!

Bethlehem Walk is unlike any Christmas event you have ever seen. Imagine walking through the village of Bethlehem on your way to see the Baby Jesus at His birth. This is it! The whole village, recreated; live animals, real soldiers and even a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes. Wrap up your visit with hot chocolate, goodies and a great choir.

The Santa Claus Parade lights up the night sky in downtown Parksville and kicks off midnight shopping, caroling and all kinds of great Christmas fun.

For more information on any of these events or the 130 others that take place throughout the year, www.

VisitParksvilleQualicumBeach.com or pop by one of the Visitor’s Centres.

Check our website for Season Specials…

1145 Resort Drive., www.madrona-resort.com • info@madrona-ressort.com Parksville, B.C. Toll free Canada and U.S.A. 1-800-663-7302 V9P 2E3 or (250) 248-5503 • Fax (250) 248-6304 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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OCEANSIDE

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Canada’s only designated Mountain Bike Parks, or head up to the Mount Arrowsmith Massif Regional Park for a rugged alpine climb. A regional loop trail system that connects Nanoose Bay to Deep Bay has neared completion. When it’s done, hikers and bikers will be able to travel the entire length of the Island’s east coast from Victoria to Cape Scott. For more information on the parks and trails of Oceanside, visit www.rdn.ca

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The Great Outdoors Recreation

Whether you choose to walk or ride on land or sea, above surface or below it, on top of the waves or beneath them, the Oceanside Region of Vancouver Island is the outdoor enthusiast’s ultimate playground.

Whatever your interest, whatever your skill level, our yearround mild climate and spectacular natural surroundings ensure something for everyone.

Hiking and Walking We have eight provincial, six regional and numerous municipal parks in Oceanside. They’re as abundant as they are beautiful.

For easy walking, Rosewall Creek Provincial Park provides several kilometers of coastal rainforest along a meandering creek. One would almost expect fairies and imps to dash out from beneath the giant maples and sphagnum moss in this magical place that even has faces carved right into the stumps. The walk is so accessible that even wheelchairs can mosey along this tranquil spot. Another easy walking trail is found in Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Deemed as the most popular Provincial Park in B.C., Rathtrevor offers miles of shoreline and old wooded areas.

Campers and picnickers love this place. Top Bridge Regional Park is just minutes away from the resort area in Parksville. Residents and visitors alike love the myriad of trails that range from easy walking to more challenging. The new suspension bridge allows hikers to easily go from one side of the Englishman River to the other, increasing the trail capacity even more. See if you can find the petroglyphs! And, for the really adventurous, test your mountain bike skills at Top Bridge Mountain Bike Park, one of At Nevaeh we provide top quality treatments, premiere products and legendary service. Our highly qualified estheticians will provide a memorable, personal experience from the minute you walk in the door.

Nevaeh Day Spa

Escape to a little piece of heaven in the woods just minutes away from beautiful downtown Qualicum Beach.

250-752-4800 jennatneveah@gmail.com

3250 Grandon Road, Qualicum Beach, B.C.

12 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

Marine Activities With miles and miles of sandy shoreline, Oceanside has plenty of seaside activities but we also have rivers, waterfalls and lakes. Jump off the ‘Nose’ at Top Bridge or float in the peaceful waters of Spider Lake. Rent a canoe at Horne Lake or a rowboat at Cameron Lake but don’t forget the trout rods. Cool off in the crystal pools at Englishman River or Little Qualicum River. Enjoy the falls at both these parks or discover the hidden ttreasure of Nile Creek. Down at the beach, dive into some of the warmest oocean waters in Canada, explore the ttidal pools for aquatic creatures (but please, don’t take any home — they aare a crucial part of the ecosystem) or ccreate the ultimate sand castle. Our ccool breezes and shallow waters are a haven for windsurfers, skim boarders aand kite flyers. Romantic types will fall in love again strolling hand-in-hand into the sunset as gentle waves lap aagainst your bare feet. For those who want to be on the water, how about sailing, sea kayaking or fishing? And, speaking of fishing, Bowser has some of the finest shore fly fishing on the continent. Perhaps you want to be under the sea. Diving and snorkeling in Nanoose Bay is considered some of the best on the Island. Can’t get enough seafood?

Before you go clamming or picking oysters, make sure you have a license for harvesting shellfish.

Bird Watching Bird watching has been a popular recreational activity since the 1700s. In recent years, it has become so popular that in 2001 North American ‘birders’ are estimated to have spent US$32 billion. Well, birders of the world-rejoice! You are in feathery heaven. Oceanside has stores, clubs and even entire festivals dedicated to this growing sport. Enthusiasts can enlist the guidance of one of the local pros or conduct self-guided tours using the online bird list created by the Nanoose Bay Naturalists. The Arrowsmith Naturalists have created an online seasonal bird checklist for year-round bird watching.

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OCEANSIDE Outdoor Tours

The Great Outdoors

If you can tour it, we have a tour for you.

Eco Tours allow visitors to experience the Oceanside Region and neighboring Island destinations in a unique and natural way. Tour caves deep beneath the Earth’s surface or old-growth rainforests that tower high above.

Get up close and personal with the rugged shoreline via a sea kayak or take a larger vessel out to spot bears, sea lions and whales.

For a most relaxing and thought-provoking experience, try touring the back country on horseback.

Sports The residents of Oceanside are very active.

From the regional recreation programs to seniors organizations such as the Parksville Golden Oldies Sports Association (PGOSA), every age group and interest is wellcovered. Our largest sports centres include Ravensong Aquatic Centre and Oceanside Place ice arenas. The Ballenas Whalers are a kick for football fans while the Parksville Royals hit it out of the park during baseball season. Martial arts have become a large part of the Oceanside sports scene with such disciplines as Taekwondo, Karate and German Ju Jutsu, as well as martial arts derivatives such as Tai Chi and Yoga. With so many beautiful trails to run on, it’s little wonder that running clubs have become as popular as walking groups. If you are horsecrazy, you will love our expansive equine community. Arbutus Meadows is one of the largest equestrian centres on the Island and hosts the many local clubs, as well as clubs from out of town at year-round horse shows.

For those who would rather ride than watch, Oceanside has many riding schools, trail rides and even therapeutic riding. Parksville’s

Community Parkk is a hhubb off sporting activity with everything from croquet to cricket, not to mention world-class beach volleyball. You will find one of Oceanside’s two curling rinks in this park, right on the beach!

Let’s Talk to the Animals Even the animals love it here. Just as Oceanside has become a haven for human visitors, so has it for the furry variety. Many of our hotel operators have special rates for Fido and our trails and flat streets are ideal for taking walks. We have three doggy parks and plenty of services in case your pet falls ill.

We live in harmony in our natural paradise so, while you are out enjoying the great outdoors, don’t be surprised if you spot a family of deer, a ggaggle gg of ggeese or a bandit raccoon. Animals have many sspecial places tto call home here and some oof those homes aare open to the public. The North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre rehabilitates wild animals w aand releases them if they are able. Come and see abandoned bear cubs or the release of an eagle. The World Parrot Refuge is the largest free-flight parrot refuge in the world and those birds will amaze you with their human-like characteristics. Down the road are Butterfly World, the B.C. Orchid Gardens, Turtle Town and Big Bug Jungle.

Experience habitats from around the world without leaving Oceanside and be sure to visit their beautiful gift shop upon your return. And what about those farm animals? Tiger Lily Farm and Little Qualicum Cheeseworks are hands-on, interactive farms with enough stuff to keep farm hands of all ages entertained.

‘Cheeseworks’ also has the region’s only winery — try the gooseberry wine!

For more information on all these activities and more, pop by one of the Visitor Centres or visit www.parksvilequalicumbeach.com

Errington Farmers Market SATURDAYS 10 am to 1 pm

37 th Anniversary!

EVERY SATURDAY from MAY 1st to SEPTEMBER 25th 2010 We have 40+ vendors offering spray free produce and cut flowers in season, plants, herbs and spices, fresh baked goods, preserves, potters, artists, photographers and jewelers just to name a few! Our market also showcases some of the best local musicians, playing live in our Band Shelter, while you shop.

So come out and enjoy the country market atmosphere in Errington g Park!

On Errington Rd.,

2 km. off the Alberni Hwy. en route to Englishman River Falls.

Contact Susanne for more info 954-2292

www.erringtonfarmersmarket.bc.ca

Come and Stay… for the Rest of Your LIFE!

Deborah Nicol (Associate Broker) nicolde@shaw.ca

Wendy Hofforth (Property Manager) cbmanagement@shaw.ca

Buy now as an investment… Rent it through our property manager…

Live here in the future!

1-866-386-2735 www.cbvanisland.com 124 Craig St., Parksville, B.C.

250-248-2488

The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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OCEANSIDE

Golf

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Golfing in Paradise

Four! No, make that seven golf courses have established Oceanside as a golfer’s dream.

Our year-round golfing weather, coupled with WestJet’s service from Comox Valley Airport (only 45 minutes away), makes it easy and affordable for golfers from colder climates to tee off.

All golf courses in Oceanside are less than 30 minutes away and they are often open 365 days a year.

With so many courses, getting a tee time is almost never a problem and you won’t have to mortgage the farm to pay for green fees. In fact, the only problem with golfing in Oceanside is stealing your gaze from the jaw-dropping beauty that surrounds our courses long enough to focus on the next hole.

Swingers of all skill levels will find a course to match their ability, even if that ability only extends to the miniputt; we have three of those, too. We even have a Disc Golf Course for something completely different. So, pack your bags, practice your swing and dust off those shoes — we’re going golfing!

Arrowsmith Golf and

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l b is the h most northern h club l b in our region andd Country Club boasts the best 18-hole golf value on Vancouver Island. Full practice facilities and a full-service clubhouse are enhanced by spectacular views of Mount Arrowsmith.

Brigadoon Golf Course is the newest nine-hole course on Central Vancouver Island and it is conveniently located right outside downtown Parksville. This course was designed and constructed to minimize the impact on local habitats and, • Trendy handbags through responsible management, continues to practice • Fashion accessories environmental stewardship.

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Fairwinds Golf Club in Nanoose Bay is designed by renowned course architect Les Furber. Often referred to as the ‘thinking 7166 EE. Island Hwy, Hwy wy (250 Parksville arksville 25 )-58 586-3800 86 380 golfers’ course, the natural beauty that surrounds Fairwinds is Corner of Martindale Rd. & Is. Hwy before the Orange Bridge. Beside North Pacific Window. bound to be a distraction.

14 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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Golf

Experience Vancouver Island’s

Premier Adventure Golf!

RIPTIDE R IPTIDE LAG LAGOON OFFERS TWO CHALLENGING 18 HOLE THEMED COURSES. Play through “Wandering Willie’s” snug little harbour, have your picture taken with the “Catch of the Day”, and enjoy an ice cream on the patio.

Bring the whole family and experience mini golf at its Ànest.

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Morningstar Golf Course is also designed by Les Furber and is conveniently situated just outside of Parksville. The site of numerous CPGA events, Morningstar is considered to be one of B.C.’s most challenging courses.

Pheasant Glen Golf Resort, located in Qualicum Beach is just beautiful. Majestic Mount Arrowsmith towers over little lakes and expansive valleys that surround this course. Pheasant Glen is said to have three of the toughest finishing holes in B.C. Qualicum Beach Memorial Golf Club has the distinction of being the fourtholdest course in B.C. and its second hole is one of the most photographed. Enjoy gorgeous ocean views from the nine-hole All Natural ~ Bake Shop course and the new 250-248-8825 clubhouse.

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The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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Buena Vista By The Sea 1. Arbutus Grove Prov. Park 11. MacMillian Prov. Park 2. Beachcomber Reg’l Park 12. Marks Nature Park 3. Shelly Park 13. Spider Lake Prov. Park 4. Englishman River Falls Prov. Park 14. Mount Arrowsmith 15. Nanoose Estuary Wildlife Area 5. Springwood Park 6. Ermineskin Park 16. Parksville Community Park 7. Heritage Forest 17. Parksville Qualicum Reg’l Park 8. Horne Lake Reg’l Park 18. Qualicum Community Park 9. Little Qualicum Falls Prov. Park 19. Rathrevor Beach Prov. Park 10. Little Qualicum Falls Reg’l Park 20. Top Ridge Community Park

16 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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Spa

OCEANSIDE

Le Sh

Spa-aaaaah!

Often when people think about spas, they presume that these royal treatments are just for the rich and famous. We don’t agree.

Oceanside is a spa destination and that means we have day spas, full-service spas and everything in between.

Our largest resorts have luxury spas right on site, while the many day spas offer just as much variety in soothing services.

With so many spas to choose from, you might think that the residents of Oceanside have become a little spoiled.

Again, we don’t agree.

Sure, our spas have won awards and we do have the largest resort spa in B.C. (Tigh Na Mara) but does this make us pampered? And with such a wide variety to choose from, the services each offer are unique and specialized but that does not make us coddled.

Of course, the affordability does keep us going back but we are not indulgent.

No, the residents of Oceanside recognize the importance of maintaining a balanced life. The great outdoors keep us physically active, while organizations such as Vancouver Island University challenge our minds. Our many festivals and events cater to our social needs and but, when the soul needs attention, many of us head to the spa Hot-stone treatments using B.C. stones really rock. Wrap up your day with a seaweed wrap. Get down and dirty in a mud bath. Let one of our highly skilled massage therapists rub you the right way. What do facials, pedicures and manicures all have in common? They all feel amazing while you are getting one and, when it is all over, you look great, too!

Let the spas of Oceanside soothe your tired soul, release that g yyou with all the energy gy yyou need to take stress and invigorate

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18 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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OCEANSIDE Let’s Go Shopping!

Shopping

Forget regurgitated air and carbon-copy clutter, most shops in Oceanside are independently owned, making for a one-of-akind shopping experience.

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For shopping with a European flair, the town of Qualicum Beach can’t be beat. Picturesque gardens and old-worldstyle architecture enhance the experience but, again, it’s all about diversity.

From perfumers to chocolatiers to kitchen gadgetiers — if you are searching for a unique item for someone special, you will find it in Qualicum Beach.

Artist & Studio Guide for Qualicum & Parksville Area YOUR GUIDE TO THE BEST STUDIO/GALLERIES IN OCEANSIDE! e at Look for this guid on tourist informati nd centers, hotels a k BC Ferries or pic the up a guide from unity Oceanside Comm Arts Council!

Parksville is the commercial centre of Oceanside. A lightindustrial zone inhabits the south end but all along the main Island strip and into the downtown core, retail and commerce marry, providing a vibrancy and sense of innovation. Gift shops, clothing boutiques and life’s essentials provide the variety, while the flat terrain makes getting around easy.

While shopping in Parksville, take advantage of the quintessential 2 for 1 special. Not only do you get in some great purchases but we’ll throw in an ocean view and one of the most beautiful community parks in the province for free!

Both Parksville and Qualicum Beach have earned top honours in the Community in Blooms Competitions for many years, so be sure to leave a little time to stop and smell the flowers — they’re everywhere!

Outside of our municipalities are smaller commercial nodes full of unique shops of their own. Coombs Old Country Market, famous for its goats on the roof, and the surrounding businesses cater to everything tasty and beautiful. Handcrafted pottery, homemade fudge and international products make the Coombs shopping spree an all-day event.

We are big on benches in Oceanside, so no matter where you do your buying, a quiet spot to contemplate your day amidst fresh aromas is only a breath away.

The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

19

OCEANSIDE

Arts Arts are flourishing in Oceanside If you hope to find artistic beauty while on vacation you have come to the right place. Oceanside draws many artists to live here because of the mild climate and natural beauty that inspires them.

Pottery, textiles, painting, photography and more — local artists exhibit their work in galleries and participate in arts activities throughout the area, and you are always invited to come see what they’re up to.

You’ll find many galleries and studios nestled between the arbutus trees and the ocean. In Parksville, you’ll want to check out Morison Avenue, which has several independently owned

ll lk up McMillan ll Street bbrings galleries, andd just a quickk walk you to the picturesque Oceanside Community Arts Council, a one-stop shop to find out about many not-to-miss galleries and arts services for the entire Oceanside area.

The Old School House in Qualicum Beach is a beautiful spot to see a working gallery and studio any day of the week.

It’s also home to Music On Sundays, an award-winning series of affordable concerts ffeaturing top names in a variety of genres. By walking the lovely small-town streets of Qualicum Beach, you’ll come across galleries and shops that are bound to inspire you.

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ANNUAL ART IN THE GARDEN EVENT! For more information visit our website

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OCEANSIDE The City of Parksville and the Town of Qualicum Beach are home to many galleries and studios but so are the back roads and municipalities of Oceanside. By picking up the locally produced “Artists and Studio Guide to Qualicum Beach and Parksville Area” you can take self-directed arts tours of commercial and private galleries, artists homes and studios. The brochure is a must for those interested in meeting artisans or for the connoisseur looking for a unique treasure. This brochure is available for free at most tourist outlets and hotels, as well as on BC Ferries.

For theatre-goers, there are two excellent companies. Bard to Broadway is located on Jensen Avenue in Parksville’s Community & Conference Centre and offers comedy, musicals and drama all summer. This season, its 11th, features one great musical, Gypsy, and two cutting-edge comedies, Maggie’s Getting Married and The Wild Guys. Shows will run every day from about July 3 to Sept. 5. For season passes call 250-248-0444.

In Qualicum Beach, Echo Players Community Theatre, housed in the Village Theatre, like B2B engages the area’s many talented musicians and thespians. From June 10 to 26 you can see The School for Scandal. Echo takes a break for the summer but then presents its annual One Act Play Festival Nov. 4-8.

Arts

CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

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OCEANSIDE

Arts

Old-time Old i ddances hhaven’t ’ gone out off vogue; they’re h ’ still ill available in Oceanside. Check out the Bradley Centre in Coombs for big band music the last weekend of the month, while the Coombs Community Hall offers dances as well.

Mid-summer, you won’t want to miss the annual Bluegrass Festival or the exciting Rodeo, both in the Coombs Rodeo Grounds.

Check out the Errington Hall website, as they often bring in cutting-edge bands from afar and hot local acts as well. It’s officially the Errington War Memorial Hall, and something not

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to be missed.

For those with more refined tastes, Vancouver Island Opera — yes, a true opera company with a sterling track record led by a former opera star, Tatiana Vasilieva — is presenting another full opera in October.

Finally what premier arts area would be complete without activities for visitors? Workshops, classes and studio sessions are in abundance for those who feel inspired while on holiday.

To find out what is happening you can visit Oceanside Community Arts Council or contact the offices at 250-2488185.

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Farm Markets

LIVE

Summer

Theatre

Bard To Broadway Theatre Society Multi-tony Award winner! GYPSY is the ultimate story of stage mom-itis! Join Rose, June and Louise in their trip across the United States during the 1920’s, when vaudeville was dying and burlesque was born. Jule Styne’s music and Stephen Sondheim’s lyrics include Let Me Entertain YYou, Some People, You’ll Never Get Away from Me, If Momma Was Married, All I Need Is the Girl, Everything’s Coming Up Roses, You Gotta Get A Gimmick and Together Wherever We Go. Directed by Eileen Butts

To market, to market!

It’s Saturday morning and what do the locals love to do most?

Head to the farmers’ markets, of course!

Errington has the cutest market going. Nestled into the forest across from the old Errington Hall, residents and visitors alike nosh on fresh baking while combing the stalls for Mrs. Smith’s pickles and Uncle Joe’s rhubarb. Local musicians provide the soundtrack, which sees many a happy neighbour break into spontaneous dance. This is country living at its finest.

Qualicum Beach hosts a huge farmers’ market right downtown every Saturday morning. They have fresh produce and baking but also fresh seafood and plenty of crafts. Live entertainment and an ocean breeze is the backdrop for this weekly ritual. Note: Both markets run out of farm fresh eggs early, so be sure to get yours jiggity-jig!

Parksville, Nanoose Bay and Bowser have farmers’ markets on occasion but every Tuesday night in downtown Parksville, the ‘Summer by the Sea Street Market’ sets up. While some farmers bring their wares to sell, you will find everything here from massages to petting zoos. This is just like a big street party complete with dancing and plenty of good food. A great way to spend a hot summer evening!

Maggie’s Getting

Married Penned by comic genius Norm Foster! In this touching romantic comedy, you’ll join the Duncan family as they prepare for the wedding of their daughter. It is the night before the big day, and Maggie’s older sister discovers that she knows the groom a little better than Maggie would like her to.

Four guys, with nothing in common except their gender! Randall, Andy and Robin – all modern men for whom “hunting and gathering” means looking in the produce section of the grocery store – head out for a “soul exploring” weekend in the woods, “guided” by Stewart. Of course they get lost, and of course they confront their own fears and emotions, and of course there’s a virtually endless stream of jokes. Without food or shelter, they are stalked by man and beast and start to come to terms with their blind spots, and their bald spots. They are middle-aged men who are confused about where life has taken them. They need some answers… any answers.

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G – GYPSY............................................................... $26-$24 M – MAGGIE’S GETTING MARRIED ................. $22-$20 W–THE WILD GUYS .............................................. $22-$20 Parksville Community & Conference Centre 132 Jensen Ave., East, Parksville B.C.

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The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

23

Dining

OCEANSIDE

Just as the diversity of Oceanside attracts visitors from every corner of the globe, chefs and foodies are drawn to experiment with the vast array of locally grown products. They exercise their culinary prowess with the eagerness of an artist holding a limitless palette. Like the scenery, the natural abundance of Oceanside is an eternal source of inspiration.

Here, in one of Vancouver Island’s most diverse ecosystems, Mother Nature rewards us with bounteous treasures from the sea, soil and surface. Our expansive shores provide us with the freshest and cleanest seafood, including Qualicum Bay scallops and clams, Fanny Bay oysters, juicy prawns and crab from Nanoose Bay and Wild Pacific Salmon. From the gourmet greens of Nanoose Bay to the exotic truffles of Parksville and the peerless potatoes of Qualicum Bay to Errington’s sweet corn, our region is rapidly making its mark in culinary tourism.

Let us invite you to feast at the plenteous tables of Oceanside. Whether you dine in one of our many restaurants or gather goodies to prepare back at your hotel, you are in for a unique and memorable culinary experience.

Come taste our culture for yourself!

Food Shopping While our large grocery stores carry many local products, buying direct from the farms or the farmers at markets and roadside stands makes a cheery country drive even more pleasurable. Visit one of our fine bakeries for such delicacies as homemade artisan bread and ‘Beestings.’ The Little Qualicum Cheeseworks offers their famed artisan cheeses and, while you’re there, visit the Mooberry Winery and try their selection of fruit wines. Many shops sell local meat and poultry but, for fresh seafood, head down to one of the local marinas.

Pick up a copy of the 2010 Oceanside Farm Products Guide for a full listing of local producers.

Bars and Restaurants With so many dining locations in Parksville, Qualicum Beach and surrounding communities, there is bound to be a sumptuous option to suit every palate and budget. Our relaxed and casual lifestyle spills into our dining scene whether you crave home cooking or gourmet fare.

West Coast cuisine is prominent here as most of our restaurants feature treasures ffrom the sea but no menu item garners more attention than crispy battered fish and home-cut chips. Ethnic restaurants boast a full range of global cuisine, including Japanese, Italian, Thai, Mexican, Indian and Vietnamese.

Most of the fast-food outlets can be found in Parksville, while all communities offer their oown special brand.

We are a coffee-crazed community and many of our cafés even roast their own beans.

Numerous bars dot the landscaped with eeverything from old-world-style pubs to newaage-chic bistros.

Dining on the beach is easy when you live oon the ocean, so whether you are perched high on the bank or at a shore-level patio, ssunset viewing is made even more special w with the smells of an evening tide.

Food Festivals We are definitely the land of festivals so, naturally, we have celebrations that honour our food. Parksville Uncorked pays tribute to our local food, as well as the great wine region of Vancouver Island.

The Taste of Oceanside, Crab Fest and Fire and Ice are just a few of the delectable events Oceanside devours throughout the year.

To help with the preparation of your Oceanside menu, visit the many bookstores and kitchen supply shops or take a course from one of our many experts. Bon Appetit!

PineRidge Farm Market Opening This Summer!

2715 Turnbull Rd. North of Qualicum Beach

24 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

• Coffee & Tea • Fresh Eggs • Summer Flowers

SOUTH TO PARKSVILLE

• Fruit & Berries • Farm Vegetables • Ice Cream

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OCEANSIDE

The Islands

Plan a day trip to Lasqueti Island Just off the coast from Oceanside in the Strait of Georgia are some of BC’s spectacular Gulf Islands, many of which are accessible by a regular ferry service, including the island closest to Oceanside: Lasqueti.

A first-time visitor to Lasqueti Island might think they are somewhere other than Canada. Jokingly referred to as “a thirdworld experience without leaving Canada,” a visit to Lasqueti quickly dispels notions that they might be anywhere “ordinary” — from the hustle and bustle on the dock at French Creek, where a case of chickens might well be keeping company with a cluster of musical instruments, a chainsaw and an antique Chinese door, to a possibly stomach-churning one-hour ferry ride, to a pint at the False Bay Pub, overlooking the Strait of Georgia.

Occasionally, killer whales, porpoises and (unusually) dolphins have been known to enjoy the confines of False Bay. False Bay, though the commercial hub of the Island, is mostly the collection and dispersal point for the Centurion VII, a passenger-only ferry that can hold 60 passengers. The Bay is a place for island residents to buy a pint, gas up the old beater and catch up on the latest solar-panel news and whatever other scuttlebutt there is to be had.

Close by at the arts centre, there is a market each Saturday morning. Fresh fruits, jams and locally grown veggies can be purchased here, along with carvings and locally minted gold and silver coins. A good burger can also be enjoyed.

A short distance from the arts centre is the Old Bakery Guest Cottage. As its name suggests, this rustic cabin was once home to a thriving bakery. It is often rented by bird watchers and others who wish to avail themselves of the kayaks and bicycles offered there.

Further along, there is False Bay School, where the locals will be happy to have you join in a game of Frisbee football.

Opposite is the Crystals and Chamomile gift shop, where prints of the legendary Lasqueti artist Allen Farrell may be purchased.

The Teapot House is home each year to the island’s Canada Day celebrations and people come by the ferryload to attend the annual firefighters picnic.

Further inland and to the south, a visit to the community centre is well worthwhile and don’t be surprised to stumble in on a group of musicians.

Squitty Bay, at the southernmost end of the island, is home to the beautiful Squitty Bay Provincial Park, offering a panoramic view of the southern Gulf Islands and the approaches to Vancouver. The storm watching here is excellent.

Other attractions include a hike through a nature reserve to the summit of Mt. Trematon or a visit to some of the secluded beaches which abound on Lasqueti and attract many artists.

For those on foot, a simple ‘thumb’ will usually be all the ‘fare’ that’s needed to get them around.

— From Rob and Jo Rose, owners of The Old Bakery Guest Cottage on Lasqueti Island; 250-333-8890; oldbakery@ gulfislands-bc.com

Anne Sperling “Your Lasqueti Island Specialist”

• Cell (250) 248-0932 • Toll Free 1-800-818-9550 • www.coastrealty.com • www.oceansideproperty.ca

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Specializing in Lasqueti Island Recreational & Residential Properties Since 1994 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

25

Sakura

Japanese Tea & Coffee • 100% Organic Coffee Beans • Authentic Green Tea • Fresh Sushi Roll • Cakes, Muffins & More!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 1080 Resort Drive, Oceanside Village Resort

Dining out is one of our favourite things to do in Oce of small communities but we offer a diversity of dinin city. Many of our resorts and restaurants boast worldto our island paradise — because they can! There are a experiences, and an array of fast-food

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778-424-4478 26 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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THE FINAL APPROACH

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o do in Oceanside and it shows. We may be a collection ity of dining experiences usually found only in the big oast world-class chefs and sommeliers who have come There are also busy cafés, fun pubs, great family dining f fast-food and take-out places. Enjoy!

55

(250)

British Bobby

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Creek House Restaurant

Old English Charm & Friendly Service Eat In or Take Out Heritage Shopping Centre

250-954-3232

#3-1209 E. Island Hwy. Parksville, B.C

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www.creekhouserestaurant.com

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545 E. Island Hwy, Parksville, BC

FEATURING FRESH WEST COAST SPECIALTIES,

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Fully Licensed. Reservations Recommended.

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French Creek Marina, Parksville, BC The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

27

History & Heritage

O

What’s in a name?

Oceanside is the region found between the City of Nanaimo and the Courtenay-Comox area on the Vancouver Island’s east side. You won’t find Oceanside on the map but you will find all the diverse communities that make up this unique region famous for its friendly people, gorgeous beaches and rugged outdoor adventure.

Nanoose Bay: Our most southern community is also one of the driest in Canada. Nanoose likely gets its name from the local First Nations’ people: ‘Nanooas.’

Parksville: Oceanside’s largest community does have many parks but that’s not where the name comes from. This little city of 12,000 was originally known as The River but when the E&N Railway created a stop in 1910, the name was changed to McBride Junction. Shortly after that, the area got its first post office and its first postmaster, Nelson Parks. Apparently, he hung a shingle outside of the post office that read, ‘Parksville’ and in 1945, Parksville was incorporated as a village.

Qualicum Beach: The second-largest community is named after the local First Nations word for the dog or chum salmon, which were plentiful in the area’s rivers.

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Errington: Back in the 13th century, an English family took their name from a river that winds its way through the English countryside: Erring Burn. The brother-in-law of Parksville’s postmaster used this contraction to distinguish this inland village from the seaside village. The Englishman River winds its way through the Errington countryside.

Coombs: This bustling community was named after Captain Thomas Coombs, Commissioner of the Salvation Army in Canada in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The SA’s Ensign Cargo program brought many English and Welsh settlers

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28 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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OCEANSIDE to Canada, and the ones who made it out this way showed their appreciation by naming the community after the Commish.

Bowser: No, Bowser did not get its name from the community’s famous bartending dog of the 1930s. His name was Mike and he served up beer by the bottle (and gave change) at the Bowser Hotel which was located across the highway from where the Bowser Esso now stands. Bowser was named after the Premier of B.C. from 1915-1916, William John Bowser.

Fascinating Heritage Sites Between the First Nations inhabitants and the early European settlers, the history of Oceanside is as diverse as its present. Thankfully, our forefathers had the foresight to preserve many landmarks for future generations. These have been lovingly cared for, so we invite you to take a trip back into our past.

Moorecroft Camp: The founder of the B.C. Camping Association, Gertrude Moore ran a girls camp on her property during the 1930s and 40s. She sold the camp to the United Church in 1955 but little has changed over the those years.

Rustic cabins share the landscape with old growth forests and pristine waterfront on this 85-acre gem in Nanoose Bay. Craig Heritage Park Museum & Archives is a walk back in time to Parksville’s earliest days. Original buildings and their contents have been carefully located to this ‘hands-on’ museum that includes Parksville first post office (1886) and Knox Heritage Church (1912).

Historical Walk: City hall in Parksville has brochures that will guide you as you stroll through downtown historical sites such as the Rod and Gun Hotel (Est.1898) and Memorial Avenue.

Each site is commemorated with an interpretive plaque.

St. Anne’s Anglican Church is one of the oldest churches on Vancouver Island. Built in 1894, this little log church is still used for Sunday services and the graveyard that surrounds it is the final resting place for many of the area’s pioneers.

The train station in Parksville will be 100 years old this year and celebrations are being held July 10th. The water tower is one of only two remaining on the E&N rail line and the only one left of its design in all of Canada. The train station in Qualicum Beach is slightly younger but the grounds, which are beautifully manicured, house another one of the oldest churches in the area.

Just across the street from the station is Qualicum Beach’s Museum Complex, which includes the Vancouver Island

Paleontology Museum. Here, you will find one of the finest collections of fossils in Western Canada, including 70,000 year old Ramblin Rosie.

Milner Gardens and Woodland (circa 1930) is our version of Butchart Gardens, complete with beautiful seaside gardens, old-growth woodland and the finest afternoon tea this side of the Malahat.

Heritage Forest of Qualicum Beach is located right in town and even the story behind preserving this marvel of nature is fascinating. 50 acres of Coastal Douglas Fir, including a significant stand of 300-year-old-trees, have been saved thanks to the efforts of many residents. Be sure to check out theheritage boutique hotel next door and, out front, Qualicum Beach Memorial, one of BC’s oldest golf courses.

An Antique Hound’s Haven At last count, Oceanside was home to 17 antique stores, the second-highest on the Island and that doesn’t even include the thrift stores and collectible shops. One reason there is an abundance of antique shops is because, like so many, antique dealers have chosen this area for their retirement and they have kept their infatuation with antiques.

The huge senior population is another reason for this thriving antique business. Seniors, while generally not big buyers, will bring vast amounts of treasures with them upon their retirement move. As years go by, they downsize and the local dealers are the beneficiaries.

The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

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May 1 Deep Bay Harbour Festival, Deep Bay Marina, 20 minutes north of Qualicum Beach, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

18th annual Fire & Ice Street Festival, downtown Qualicum Beach.

25-teams in chili cook-off, plus ice carving competition and a Kids Zone. www.fireandicestreetfestival.com Milner Gardens & Woodlands opens Thursday to Sundays and holiday Mondays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., until Oct. 10. www. milnergardens.org; 250-752-6153

May 8-9 19th annual Mount Arrowsmith Rhododendron Society Garden Tour, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets $15 at most nurseries, Mulberry Bush Bookstores and Milner Gardens.

May 21-23 Making a Difference Symposium, Quality Inn Bayside, Parksville.

International symposium on parrots and fund-raiser for the World Parrot Refuge. See www.worldparrotrefuge.org

May 29 Big Coombs Dance 4 U, held at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds Community Hall, 8 p.m. to midnight. A different live band every month. Tix $15 at Cranky Dog Music, The Shoe Inn, Coombs General Store, and at the door. No minors.

3rd annual Yard sale for the cure, Re/Max First Realty fund-raiser for breast cancer, Wembley Mall parking lot, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info: 250248-1071.

June 15 Summer By The Sea Market, Tuesday evenings, 6-9 p.m., until Aug. 17, Craig Street, Parksville. Unique artists, food producers, live entertainment.

June 20 Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Oceanside Cruizers Show & Shine, downtown Qualicum Beach.

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Events 2010 June 26 Big Coombs Dance 4 U, held at the Coombs Rodeo Grounds Community Hall, 8 p.m. to midnight. A different live band every month. Tix $15 at Cranky Dog Music, The Shoe Inn, Coombs General Store, and at the door. No minors.

July 17

July 1 Rotary Club Canada Day, Parksville Community Park, parade at noon, fireworks after dark. Music all day, featuring Trooper, displays, food, go-karts, art 7 crafts.

July 3 Bard to Broadway’s 10th season of Summer Theatre. Three fabulous shows every day, all summer in the Chrysler Theatre, Parksville Community & Conference Centre, until Sept. 5: Gypsy, The Wild Guys, Maggie’s Getting Married. Tickets $20-$24. www.b2btheatre.com/

Nanoose Bay Teddy Bear Picnic, an afternoon of fun, food and festivities in Jack Bagley Park in Nanoose Bay.

July 24 38 th Annual St Marks Fair, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., Memorial Ave. & Veteran’s Way, Qualicum Beach. Vancouver Island’s largest sale of antiques, collectibles, crafts, linens, specialty foods, white elephant tables, clothing and jewellry with over 135 vendors. See www. bc.anglican.ca/~stmarkqb/

Aug. 14-15

July 16 Parksville Beach Festival, Parksville Community Park. Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition July 16-18 and then creations open for public viewing until Aug. 15. Enjoy Music in the Park in the evenings See www.parksvillebeachfest.ca.

Coombs Fair, at the Coombs Fairgrounds, Ford Road, Coombs.

Animal barns, 4-H skills, pet the bunnies, chickens, and more. Special events include chicken and duck races, pet parade, two-day horse show, pancake breakfast and live local talent like the Cloggers and Old Time Fiddlers. www.coombsfair.com

Coombs Junction

The Biggest Little Furniture Store on Vancouver Island

FURNITURE 250-752-4205 OCEANSIDE’S LARGEST FURNITURE & MATTRESS SHOWROOM Mattresses, Sofas, Ottomans, Love Seats, Futons, Recliners, Leather Sofas, Dining Room Suites, Table & Chairs, Bar Stools, Entertainment Centres, Beds, Dressers, Armoires & more!

We will Beat All Island Competitors by 10%

WE ARE HERE

Delivery anywhere on the island for $50.00 Highest Percentage of BC & Canadian made Products.

2701 Alberni Hwy., Coombs, BC (Coombs/Qualicum Junction)

www.coombsfurniture.com

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The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

31

Weird and Wonderful Places to Stay With so much to see and do in Oceanside, you are definitely going to need a comfy place to recharge your batteries.

As with the rest of our region, diversity is the main theme and our accommodation sector lives up to that reputation with every imaginable kind of place to stay. We have luxurious resorts, quality family motels, quaint B&Bs and stunning vacation homes. But how many vacation destinations can boast tree houses, tipis and yurts?

Whatever your preference, whatever your style, we have a bed for you.

Romantic Get-Aways Romantic get-aways are made even more special when you curl up beside a cozy fireplace while gazing out over the sea. Share a bottle of wine just before you slip into the Jacuzzi tub. A plush bathrobe is the outfit for savoring the night air on your private balcony. Many of our B&Bs have separate quarters ensuring absolute seclusion.

Family Fun A fully equipped cottage right on the beach allows hours of play before bundling up and gathering the family around your own campfire. Bring on the S’mores before sleepy heads fall exhausted into deep slumber dreaming of the next day’s fun. If you brought your own bed, the whole family will love our campsites. Whether you are tenting or hooking up, we have camping on our rivers, beaches and lakes and in the forest. If you are feeling energetic, you can even camp on a mountain top!

Artists Retreat Hunkered down in a cozy seaside motel or a cabin in the forest, creative juices flow unobstructed. Listen to the crashing surf or the song of a night bird and come alive with rejuvenation. This is why so many artists have come to call Oceanside home.

Live like Nomads Yurts are felt-covered wood lattice-framed dwellings that were used by the Nomads in Central Asia. Our Yurts are fully serviced and they come with a river or a lake.

Go Back in Time Live like the first settlers and stay in a tipi right on a lake. These are large enough for the entire family and very comfortable. Fast forward to another time and visit St. Andrew’s Lodge and Glen Cottages in Qualicum Beach. Opened in 1938, these little cottages are nestled in a wooded setting along the shore and have changed very little in all these years. The Crown Mansion, formerly known as the Brown Mansion, is a beautifully restored heritage mansion turned boutique hotel in Qualicum Beach. Also in Qualicum Beach are grand old homes that function today as antique-filled B&Bs.

Live like a Monkey Have a ball and stay in the trees. These camper-sized cabins are the shape of a ball and hang suspended in the tall evergreens in Qualicum Bay. Fall asleep to the rustle of leaves while swaying gently with the night breeze.

And now for something completely different…

Sneak Away with Friends A huge, luxury bungalow in one of our resorts offers endless opportunity for friends to gather. Cook a meal together featuring some of the local delicacies or head out to an onsite restaurant. What better way to catch up than to spend the evening reminiscing at a good old-fashioned P.J. party?

How about renting a whole island? The Land Conservancy is in charge of South Winchelsea Island and they rent it out. Be assured of absolute privacy on this 25-acre retreat with a 3-bedroom cabin.

To check out more great places to stay in Oceanside, drop by one of our two Visitor’s Information Centres or visit www.parksvillequalicumbeach.com the

Perfect Getawayis a point of view!

Quality Resort Bayside 240 Dogwood Street, Parksville

250.248.8333 1.800.663.4232 www.qualityresortparksville.com

32 The Oceanside Visitor’s Guide

OPEN DAILY March thru December 9am – 5pm - Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre that encourages public viewing - Self guided tours or guided tours for large groups - View eagles, owls, turkey vulture, hawks, falcons, black bears and much more!

“A Wildlife Experience for the Whole Family”

www.niwra.org 1240 Leffler Rd., Errington, BC

250-248-8534

QUALITY FOODS

Quality Foods

®

Canadian Open Sand Sculpting Competition and Exhibition

Parksville - July 16th to August 15th, 2010

“More Than Just Sandcastles!”

Master sculptors have just 24 hours to create their sculpture with only sand, water and a lot of ingenuity!

Join the fun at Parksville’s Community Park each weekend for live entertainment during the month of Beachfest!

COMPETITION:

July 16, 17, 18.

Gates open July 17 at 2 p.m.

EXHIBITION:

July 18 to August 15.

Daily 9 am. to 9 p.m.

FENCELINE Ozero Sand & Gravel

250-951-2678

www.beachfestparksville.net

Suggested donation 2.00 per person with partial proceeds supporting local charities $