Things to Do in Qualicum Beach
If you’re looking for things to do in Qualicum Beach, honestly, you’ll have a hard time picking where to start. There’s just so much, and the best part is, a lot of it happens right outside your door.
Beach Life: Start With the Sand
Every day here starts (and ends, if you want) with the beach. Some mornings, you’ll see folks walking the shoreline with coffee in hand, scanning for driftwood or just watching the waves. Beachcombing is a classic—shells, rocks, maybe even a little sea glass if you get lucky. And when the tide’s out, clam digging and oyster picking are a must. It’s the kind of hands-on fun you can only get at the ocean.
Tide Pools and Wildlife
Don’t skip the tide pools—kids and adults both love poking around for crabs and starfish. Sometimes you’ll spot something you weren’t expecting. Last summer, one family came running back after finding a tiny octopus!
Fishing Adventures Right at Home
Fishing is more than a pastime in Qualicum Beach—it’s practically a way of life. If you’re here during salmon season, you’ll see anglers lining the shore, some with fancy gear and others just with a net and a bucket. A lot of folks staying at the house have landed their first salmon right in front of the beach house. Or, head up to the Deep Bay marina (five minutes away) and join a local charter for a bigger adventure.
Explore Golf Courses Near Qualicum Beach
You wouldn’t expect so many golf courses near Qualicum Beach, but they’re here. And wow, some of the views on the greens are tough to beat. Even if you’re not a pro, it’s worth a round just for the scenery. It’s a great way to spend a relaxed afternoon, and you might even meet a few locals willing to share their favorite hidden spots.
Local Breweries and Vancouver Island Farmers Markets
After all that fresh air, it’s hard not to crave something cold and local. Drop by one of the local breweries in Qualicum Beach—there’s usually a food truck or two parked out front, and the beer is as West Coast as it gets. People are friendly, and you’ll pick up on the relaxed island pace right away.
Don’t forget the farmers markets. Vancouver Island farmers markets are the real deal: bread that smells so good you want to eat it right away, cheeses and jams, fresh fruit, you name it. A quick visit and suddenly your beach house breakfast goes from simple to something special.
Family Activities for All Ages
Families never seem to run out of things to do in Qualicum Beach. Young ones do a lot of activities like, dig tide pools, chase after little crabs, or get sticky fingers at the ice cream stand. There’s Butterfly World close by—a surprise hit for kids and adults. The Bowser village is an easy walk from the house, with a grocery store, gift shops, and tennis courts if you’re feeling sporty.
Make Each Day Yours
Truth is, even if you don’t plan much, the best things to do in Qualicum Beach tend to just show up. Maybe it’s a neighbor offering fresh oysters, or a last-minute invitation to a community event. Sometimes you just end up sitting by the water, pockets full of rocks, watching the sky turn colors at sunset.
Need Ideas? Just Ask
We’re always happy to help you find your new favorite spot for your trip, whether it’s the best bakery, a casual tour, a quiet beach, or a last-minute kayak rental. Things to do in Qualicum Beach really do change with the season, and that’s half the fun.
