The stretch of highway between Nanaimo and Port Alberni is a treasure trove of natural beauty and unique experiences, perfect for crafting unforgettable half-day adventures. Whether you’re a local looking for a quick escape or a visitor exploring the Island’s hidden gems, these seven combos offer the perfect blend of activities and sights, from tranquil nature walks to quirky roadside attractions.
1. Bowen Park & Picnic at Jack Point
Bowen Park isn’t trying to be something it’s not – it’s a city park that feels genuinely lived in and loved. The well-worn trails along the Millstone River tell stories of countless family walks and morning jogs. The duck pond never fails to delight little ones, and if you time it right in fall, you might catch salmon fighting their way upstream – nature’s own drama playing out right in the heart of our city.
But Jack Point – that’s where the real magic happens. The view isn’t postcard-perfect, and that’s exactly what makes it special. There’s something honest about watching the working harbour, with ferries cutting across the strait and mountains rising in the distance. Pack a simple picnic, find your spot along the bluffs, and watch the landscape change with the light. I’ve never had the same experience twice here, and that’s precisely why I keep coming back.
2. Rathtrevor Beach & Parksville
There’s something almost meditative about walking Rathtrevor Beach at low tide. The sand stretches out impossibly far, creating a vast playground for beachcombers and wanderers alike. Time your visit right, and you’ll find yourself exploring a world of tide pools, each one a tiny universe teeming with life. My favorite approach is to arrive early, when the morning light is soft and the beach feels like it belongs just to you.
Parksville afterwards feels like a natural progression – a gentle return to civilization. The town moves at its own pace, unhurried and unassuming. Grab a coffee from one of the local cafes, browse the bookstore where time seems to stand still, or simply watch the world go by from a beach-side bench. It’s the kind of place that reminds you that not every moment needs to be action-packed to be meaningful.
3. Hiking Notch Hill Park & The Rusted Rake
Let’s be honest about Notch Hill – it’s a climb that’ll get your heart pumping. But that’s part of its charm. Each step up reveals a new perspective of our harbour city, and by the time you reach the top, you’ve earned that spectacular 360-degree view. I love watching the small boats cutting through the harbour below, looking like toys from this vantage point.
The Rusted Rake afterwards isn’t just about refueling – it’s about savoring the moment. The food here tells the story of our island: fresh, unpretentious, and deeply satisfying. Grab a seat on the patio if weather permits, order something hearty, and let your muscles recover while you swap stories about the climb.
4. Goats on the Roof & Qualicum Falls
There’s something wonderfully peculiar about Coombs Market. Yes, the goats on the roof are a tourist draw, but they’re also genuinely delightful – watching them munch away on their rooftop pasture never gets old. Inside is a treasure trove of international foods and local finds, each corner offering something new to discover.
Qualicum Falls provides the perfect contrast – raw, untamed nature at its finest. The falls command attention as they thunder through the canyon, creating a constant mist that catches the sunlight just right. The well-maintained trails offer multiple viewpoints, each one showcasing a different aspect of the falls’ power. The combination of quirky Coombs and the natural drama of the falls might seem odd on paper, but trust me – it works.
5. Cameron Lake & Hole in the Wall
Cameron Lake is one of those places that reminds you why our island is so special. The water is crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding mountains like a mirror on calm days. It’s a place that invites you to linger – whether you’re swimming in the cool waters during summer, fishing from the shore, or simply watching the light play on the surface.
The Hole in the Wall is something else entirely – a perfect circular portal carved through solid rock. It’s a reminder that sometimes the most interesting sights are the ones we create almost by accident. The short trail getting there is part of the experience, winding through forest before revealing this unique landmark.
6. Englishman River Falls & Top Bridge
Englishman River Falls showcases nature’s raw power, with water cascading through a deep rocky canyon that seems carved by giants. The trail system here is fantastic, offering different perspectives of both the upper and lower falls. In summer, the mist from the falls provides natural air conditioning, making this a perfect escape on hot days.
Top Bridge complements the falls perfectly. The suspension bridge offers a bird’s-eye view of the river below, but it’s what’s underneath that draws most people. The swimming holes here are legendary – perfect for cooling off after a day of exploring. It’s a local favorite for good reason, combining easy access with that feeling of discovering somewhere special.
7. Ammonite Falls & Paddleboard Westwood Lake
The hike to Ammonite Falls is an adventure in itself. The trail leads through second-growth forest before descending (with the help of ropes) to the base of the falls. Look closely at the rock walls and you might spot the fossilized ammonites that give the falls their name – ancient sea creatures frozen in time.
Westwood Lake afterwards is pure tranquility. On a calm day, paddleboarding here feels like gliding across glass, with Mount Benson reflected in the water. Circle the lake, explore the quiet coves, or simply float and soak in the silence. It’s the perfect way to end your adventure.
Don’t Forget To…
- Keep an eye on the weather, depending the season, it can change quickly.
- Always check tide tables for beach visits
- Pack snacks and water – hunger can turn a great adventure sour
- Bring a camera – these spots offer plenty of photo opportunities
- Wear appropriate footwear – many trails are uneven
- Leave time for unexpected discoveries – some of the best moments are unplanned
These spots showcase what makes our stretch of Vancouver Island so special – the perfect blend of natural beauty, local culture, and hidden gems. Each pairing offers a different perspective on our island home, and I hope you’ll discover your own favorite moments along the way.
