Begin your trip by heading south from Nanoose Bay, following signs toward BC Highway 19. Take this main route and stay on it for approximately 20 kilometers, enjoying scenic views along the coast. Your destination, Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park, is well-marked, and the drive offers a smooth transition from rural landscapes to the bustling atmosphere of nearby Vancouver-area attractions.
As you approach Parksville, keep an eye out for exit signs directing you toward the park. Exit the highway and turn onto Resort Drive; follow this road for about 2 kilometers until you reach the park entrance. The pleasant drive showcases varied scenery typical of coastal BC communities, making your journey enjoyable from start to finish.
For those coming from the Vancouver area, take Highway 1 (Trans-Canada Highway) west until you reach Nanaimo, then merge onto Highway 19 North. Continue on Highway 19 for roughly 60 kilometers, then follow the same directions: exit at Resort Drive and proceed to Rathtrevor Beach. This route ensures a straightforward drive with well-maintained roads, allowing you to relax and focus on the stunning coastal views en route.
Whether you’re driving from Nanoose Bay or traveling from Vancouver, these directions provide a clear and efficient path to Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Once there, you will find ample parking, inviting sandy beaches, and scenic trails–perfect for a day of outdoor fun in beautiful BC.
Step-by-step driving route including road names, distance, and estimated travel time
Start your drive from Nanoose Bay, BC, by heading south on Marine Drive (BC-19). Continue for approximately 3.5 kilometers, passing through the neighborhood and enjoying the scenic views of the coast. After reaching the intersection with Northwest Bay Road, turn left and follow the signs toward Parksville.
Proceeding to Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park
Continue along Northwest Bay Road for about 2 kilometers until you reach the entrance to Parksville. Follow the road as it curves and then turn right onto Pym Street. Travel on Pym Street for approximately 1 kilometer, then turn left onto Island Highway/BC-19. Stay on BC-19 North for roughly 7 kilometers, enjoying the rural surroundings of coastal BC, Canada.
Take the exit toward Parksville/Qualicum Beach and turn left onto Vye Road. Drive about 1.5 kilometers, then turn right onto West Island Highway/BC-19 North. Proceed for 2.5 kilometers until you see signs for Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park. Turn right into the park entrance; the parking area is close to the main beach access.
Total distance: about 17 kilometers (10.6 miles). Estimated travel time: approximately 25 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
Guidance on public transportation options, schedules, and walking routes from nearby transit stops to the park entrance
If you are arriving from Nanoose Bay, consider taking BC Transit bus routes that service the area around Parksville and Qualicum Beach, as these connect to nearby transit hubs. Bus route 68 operates regularly between Nanoose Bay and Parksville, with buses departing approximately every hour from early morning until late evening. Check the BC Transit schedule for exact times, especially on weekends and holidays.
Disembark at the Parksville Transit Centre or the Oceanside Community Centre stop. From either transit stop, you can walk to Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park in approximately 15 minutes. The walking route follows Rotary Park Drive and Island Highway West, with well-maintained sidewalks and clear signage guiding the way. Turn onto the main park entrance road, and you will reach the park facilities efficiently.
For a more scenic approach, walk along the designated trail along the shoreline at low tide, which provides beautiful views of the beach and surrounding nature. If you prefer a guided route, maps available at the transit stops indicate pedestrian pathways, which are accessible and suitable for all visitors. Planning your trip ahead ensures smooth transit transfers and a comfortable walk to Vancouver Island’s popular BC destination.