Top 10 Parks & Rec Hotspots in the Comox Valley
There are many things that draw residents to the Comox Valley but if you ask the locals what they love most about the Valley, they’ll likely highlight the vast array of parks, beaches, swimming holes, and sports facilities available. For me in particular, it’s what I love most about this place. My previous work experience in parks and rec combined with my passion for sports and the outdoors has made me somewhat of an expert on the topic and so I am happy to share my personal list of favourite spots with you below.
1. Mount Washington Alpine Resort
Mount Washington is a year-round recreation destination located only a short drive from the Comox Valley. In the winter months, you can enjoy alpine and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and winter tubing, and in the summer you can hike the alpine or Paradise Meadows, downhill mountain bike or go ziplining.
2. Crown Isle Resort & Golf Community
The Comox Valley is home to many golf courses but there is no doubt that the Crown Isle is the crowning (no pun-intended) jewel. The resort is home to an 18-hole championship golf course and the best clubhouse and practice facility on the North Island. If you’re an avid golfer you can even choose to build or buy your home in this residential golf community.
3. Barber's Hole
Barber’s Hole is a long time favourite swimming spot amongst the locals. It’s located on the outskirts of Courtenay off of Forbidden Plateau Road. This swimming hole has it all with warm rocks to lounge on, a large rock to jump off for daring cliff jumpers, and a clay river bed for those looking for an all natural (and humorous) spa treatment. Be aware that the entry into the swimming hole is a bit steep so this isn’t an ideal location for those with small children.
4. Goose Spit Park
The Goose Spit is a narrow coastal park with a sandy beach, firepits, and awesome views. It is also a hot spot for kitesurfing and sailing and the water is generally very warm throughout the summer months. If you walk to the very tip of the spit, you’ll reach a place that the locals have affectionately named Comexico; given its name because it genuinely feels like a little slice of paradise.
5. Seal Bay Park
If you’re a nature lover, then you’ll love Seal Bay Park. Seal Bay is centrally located within the Comox Valley and it offers a large network of peaceful hiking and biking trails in a tranquil setting. Most of the trails meander through the forest but some lead you to the ocean, where you’ll find a beautiful rocky beach.
6. Comox Lake
Comox Lake is a glacier fed lake located in Cumberland. The lake is a recreational hotspot, offering fishing, hiking, swimming, world-class mountain biking, boating, and other water sports.
7. Kye Bay Beach
Kye Bay offers beautiful sandy beaches and many shallow tidal pools perfect for families with children. If you plan it just right, when the tide is coming in the water is incredibly warm as it passes over the hot sand.
8. Nymph Falls Nature Park
Nymph Falls Nature Park protects 61 hectares of second-growth forest located on the north side of the Puntledge River in Courtenay. In the summer months, the glacial waters run calm, clear and cool, making the park a popular spot for a refreshing dip on hot days. It’s also a stunning spot for a beautiful walk along the river.
9. Puntledge River
Previously mentioned swimming spots, Nymph Falls and Barber’s Hole, are both found along the Puntledge River but the river actually has much more to offer. It is also a great spot for fishing and if you’re up for an exhilarating ride, you can tube the river starting at the fish hatchery and ending at Lewis Park.
10. Air Force Beach & TeePee Park Campground
Air Force Beach is a beautiful long sandy beach located in Comox, boasting fantastic views of the Coastal Mountains and Georgia Straight. It is open from April to October to military families and members of the general public can visit too with the purchase of an annual pass ($25+GST). The area is also home to a beautiful camping spot, Tee Pee Park Campground, with many oceanfront camping sites.
About The Author
