Best Routes to Parksville: Travel Tips from Victoria, Vancouver, Duke Point
Planning a trip to Parksville? Whether you're coming from Victoria, Vancouver, or Duke Point, there are several convenient and scenic routes to make your journey enjoyable. Here's your ultimate guide to getting to Parksville, with the best travel options and tips for each route.
Traveling from Victoria to Parksville
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is a popular starting point for many visitors to Parksville.
By Car:
- Victoria to Parksville: From downtown Victoria, take the Trans-Canada Highway (BC-1) northbound. Follow BC-1 all the way to Nanaimo. Just before Nanaimo, take exit 27 for BC-19 North toward Parksville/Qualicum Beach. Continue on BC-19 North until you reach exit 46 for Parksville/Qualicum Beach. Follow signs to Parksville. The entire journey takes about 2 hours.
- Scenic Detour: For a picturesque drive, consider taking the BC-19A (Oceanside Route) after Nanaimo. This route adds a bit of time to your trip but rewards you with breathtaking coastal scenery.
By Bus:
IslandLink Bus: IslandLink provides bus services from Victoria to Parksville with a transfer in Nanaimo, offering a convenient and efficient option for travelers. Check their schedule and book your tickets in advance.
VI Connector: VI Connector offers another convenient option from Victoria to Parksville with one transfer in Nanaimo. While slightly longer, it is a reliable and comfortable choice for travelers. More information and booking details can be found on their website
Traveling from Vancouver to Parksville
Traveling from Vancouver to Parksville involves a ferry ride, offering a blend of land and sea travel.
By Car:
Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay
- Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay: Drive to the Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal in West Vancouver. The terminal is well-signposted, and the drive takes about 30 minutes from downtown Vancouver.
- Ferry to Nanaimo (Departure Bay): Take the BC Ferries service from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo's Departure Bay. The ferry ride takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes and offers stunning views of the Gulf Islands.
- Nanaimo to Parksville: From Departure Bay, follow signs to BC-19 North. Take BC-19 North and exit 46 for Parksville/Qualicum Beach. Follow signs to Parksville. The drive from Departure Bay to Parksville takes about 30 minutes.
Tsawwassen to Duke Point:
- Vancouver to Tsawwassen: Drive to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal. The terminal is located south of Vancouver and is well-signposted.
- Ferry to Nanaimo (Duke Point): Take the BC Ferries service from Tsawwassen to Duke Point. The ferry ride takes about 2 hours.
- Duke Point Ferry Terminal to Parksville: Once you arrive at Duke Point, it's a straightforward drive to Parksville. Follow Maughan Road to the Trans-Canada Highway (BC-1). Head north on BC-1 and take exit 60 for BC-19 North toward Parksville/Qualicum Beach. Continue on BC-19 North until you reach exit 46 for Parksville/Qualicum Beach. Follow signs to Parksville and you'll arrive in about 45 minutes. Scenic Route: For a more scenic drive, consider taking the BC-19A North (Oceanside Route) instead of BC-19. This route takes you along the coastline, offering stunning ocean views and charming seaside towns.
By Bus:
Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay
- Getting to Horseshoe Bay: First, find a local bus service from your location in Vancouver to the Horseshoe Bay terminal. TransLink offers multiple routes that connect various parts of Vancouver to Horseshoe Bay.
- IslandLink Bus: IslandLink Bus provides convenient services directly from Departure Bay to Parksville. Check their schedule and book your tickets in advance.
- VI Connector: VI Connector also provides bus services directly from Departure Bay to Parksville.
Tsawwassen to Duke Point:
- BC Ferries Connector: The BC Ferries Connector service provides a seamless bus and ferry combination from multiple locations in Vancouver to Duke Point. You can take a bus from Vancouver to the Tsawwassen terminal, board the ferry to Duke Point, and then take a connecting bus to Parksville. This is another excellent option for those who prefer not to drive.
- IslandLink Bus: With this option, you will need to make your way to Departure Bay, about a 15 minute drive away. IslandLink Bus provides services from Departure Bay to Parksville.
- VI Connector: VI Connector provides bus services from stops near Duke Point to Parksville. The closest pickup points from Duke Point are “Nanaimo - Bus Depot (Departure Bay)” and “Nanaimo - Port Place Mall”.
Tips for a Smooth Journey
- Plan Ahead: Check ferry schedules in advance, especially during peak seasons, and consider making reservations to avoid long wait times.
- Pack Snacks: While there are food options on ferries and along the routes, having your own snacks can be convenient and save time.
- Enjoy the Scenery: Each route offers unique scenic views, from coastal landscapes to lush forests. Take your time and enjoy the journey.
No matter which route you choose, traveling to Parksville promises to be a delightful experience. With its stunning beaches, vibrant community, and numerous attractions, Parksville is well worth the trip. Safe travels and see you at Beach Acres Resort!
