Rathtrevor Beach Park
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Rathtrevor Beach Park in Parksville is one of the premier vacation destinations on Vancouver Island. Rathtrevor offers majestic old-growth woodland, beautiful ocean sunsets, and a wide, sandy beach with campsites nestled among the trees.
At low tide, the ocean recedes almost a kilometre, providing an ideal place for visitors of all ages to play in the sand and explore the shoreline. When the tide rolls in over sunbaked sand, the warmed water is perfect for swimming.
Rathtrevor is ideal for a relaxed family outing. Sit back and soak up the seaside atmosphere or take a walk through the wooded upland area of the park. All campsites are within a five-minute walk of the beach, which stretches for two kilometres. The park also features a large day-use and picnicking area.
Bird watching is another popular activity at Rathtrevor, particularly in the spring when large numbers of seabirds congregate for the annual herring spawn. During February, March, and April, this park is also one of Vancouver Island’s best spots for viewing migrating Brant geese.
Special instructions
Pet closures are in place on park beaches
Permanent and seasonal beach closures exist for pets along the shores of Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park to protect migratory birds. to pets year-round. Leashed pets are only permitted on the rocky north shore of the park from May 1 – Feb 14. Pets must be physically restrained and under control at all times within the park. Those found in contravention of this notice are liable for fines starting at $115.00.
Please reference the below map to better understand where and when you can take your pet within the park.
Western thatch ants
Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park is home to Western thatch ants. During the spring and summer months these ants are very active so please respect these natural insects and avoid any unnecessary disruption of their homes, which are in the form of mounds. Please keep all food sealed and stored away when not in use, and use garbage and recycling bins to dispose of waste. These actions will help avoid any unwanted interaction with these tiny creatures.
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Farmers Field closed due to bear activity
Farmers Field will be closed for at least two weeks due to a sow and cubs frequenting the area. Depending on bear movement and activity, other areas within the park may become closed.
