Peachy Beach

When the dog days of summer mean hot and cranky kids, it’s time to get out of the city. And for an easy beach getaway, we like the kid-friendly environs of Qualicum Beach.

From the moment your family hits the pebbly beach, Qualicum Village abounds with summer fun. Explore the winding pathways and magical surroundings of an ancient coastal forest in Milner Gardens, or check out cheese making the old-fashioned way at Little Qualicum Cheeseworks. The tiniest spelunkers can rediscover the ice age with a Family Cavern Tour at Horne Lake Caves.

Animal lovers can check out the Museum of Nature at the North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre. Experience the barnyard at Tiger Lily Farm, a working farm replete with huggable lambs, goats for milking, great picnicking, and a free pony ride with admission. Roam the Big Bug Jungle and visit Turtle Town at Butterfly World & Orchid Gardens, or amaze budding ornithologists with a trip to the World Parrot Refuge, home to 700 parrots from 50 different species.

Hungry? The kids’ menu at the quirky Lefty’s Fresh Food is fantastic, or go back in time at Gary’s Bistro. For ice cream, check out The Beach Hut’s 24 flavours of soft serve, or if it’s the hard variety you crave, kids can play in the park while moms sit in the shade of the courtyard fountain at Bailey’s In the Village. And if you plan to do any cooking, Heaven on Earth boasts an all-organic line up of produce and groceries.

And what’s a getaway without a little shopping? Qualicum Beach doesn’t disappoint with unique recycled threads from My Girlfriend’s Closet, or untold treasures at the Red Door Gift Shop.

So, whether your plan is to splash around at the beach, or strike out on family adventures, Qualicum Beach is a little piece of summer heaven, perfect for day-trippers of all ages.

Which way to the beach?