The Qualicum/Parksville region of Vancouver Island is known world-wide for it's breath-taking scenery, hospitable climate, and friendly people. The variety of parks, recreation, and services available makes it a vacation paradise and a popular retirement retreat. Visit at your own risk, for you may find yourself among the many who were drawn irresistibly to settle in this region permanently.

The Qualicum/Parksville area also known as "Oceanside" is situated on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, approximately 2 hours north of the city of Victoria (B.C's capital), and only one-half hour north of Nanaimo, where the BC Ferries provide ferry service to Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen on the mainland. Port Alberni lies one hour west of Parksville, and a scenic two and one-half hour drive from Parksville will take you to the West Coast of Vancouver Island, home of Long Beach, Tofino and Ucluelet. Qualicum Beach and Parksville form the heart of District 69, which includes the smaller communities of Errington, Coombs, Hilliers, Whiskey Creek, Deep Bay, Qualicum Bay, Bowser, Dashwood, French Creek and Nanoose.

District 69 covers approximately 350 square miles. The two largest communities are Qualicum and Parksville. Qualicum has an approximately population of 7,500 and is located approximately eight kilometers north of Parksville. Qualicum is a quieter and more relaxed community with lush year-round golf courses, sandy beaches, friendly people and a bustling downtown with a "British" atmosphere. Parksville has the area's largest concentration of population at approximately 11,000. With a diverse business district, it is able to satisfy most shoppers. It is home to a variety of facilities, including an arena, mini golf courses, restaurants and tourist accommodations. It has a large community park that includes tennis courts, playing fields, a huge children's playground right next to a spectacular sandy beach.

Qualicum and Parksville offer a unique climate - probably the most favorable in Canada. The average low temperature in the winter is zero degrees (Celsius), while the average high in the summer is twenty degrees (Celsius). Area gardeners enjoy tremendous success with the help of the longer growing season. The average precipitation in this region is one of the lowest along the coast of B.C., leaving us a larger share of the sunshine. Snow is a rarity in the winter and never stays long, except in the high mountains. The mild climate together with the natural beauty of Vancouver Island has enticed many a visitor from all over North America, and many return to remain permanently.