The City of Parksville is a wonderful place to raise a family, retire or simply have up your sleeve as a vacation spot. This spectacular seaside community is known for its long sandy beaches, annual events for families and an amazing, tight-knight, small-town community to live in. Real Estate in Parksville has become hot in the past decade, and there’s a good reason why!
History of Parksville
The first settler of The River area (now known as Parksville) arrived in 1870. After the turn of the century, a road was built from nearby Nanaimo making the area more accessible, and as a result, grow in size. A post office was added at the cabin of Nelson Parks which is where Parksville eventually got its name. The railway expanded to the area and logging and tourism became major industries as people flocked to the beautiful beaches.
Over the past century, Parksville has continued to grow – being incorporated as a village in 1945, then as a city in 1986.
Where Exactly Is Parksville?
Parksville is located along the east coast of Vancouver Island. This area is commonly referred to as “Oceanside” which also includes the communities of Qualicum Beach, Coombs, Nanoose Bay, Bowser, Errington and French Creek.
Only a half hour or so drive from Nanaimo and the awesome fishing communities of Port Alberni, Parksville is very accessible to everywhere on the island.
Tourism
The tourism industry has been strong in Parksville for decades and shows no signs of slowing down! Parksville is home to many popular family campgrounds, beaches and provincial parks like Rathtrevor Beach and Englishman River Falls Provincial Park. If camping’s not your thing, there are luxury hotels and spas that draw visitors from all over — on and off the island.
The Parksville Sand Sculpting Competition & Exhibition has been drawing major crowds since it started back in 1982. This world championship qualification event is a world-class competition that brings sculptors from all over the globe. With local vendors, live entertainment, children’s activities, and amazing sculptures, this event is not to be missed!
Other Economy
After tourism, construction and service are the major industries and employers in the Parksville area. Shops, both chain stores and local businesses, are abundant in the area and popular with both tourists and locals. Fishing and forestry make up some more of the economic sectors found in Parksville.
Activity
Long sandy beaches, and several hiking and biking trails in the nearby wooded area are perfect for the outdoorsy person. And with a newly built recreation complex, Parksville offers plenty of options for those who are active. However, the city also offers plenty of quaint coffee shops and small parks for sitting and relaxing.
Want More Information?
Real Estate in Parksville is booming, and it has become one of the fastest growing communities on Vancouver Island. Pemberton Holmes has had REALTORS® serving Parksville and areas all over Vancouver Island for over 30 years. We’re more than happy to answer any further questions about activities or Real Estate in the Parksville area. And if you’re ready to buy your dream home in this fantastic highly-liveable area, contact us today!
