Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
grey
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
1 000 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 000 m
Frequently asked questions
Rathtrevor Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +18.0°C, warms up to +22.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Rathtrevor Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.1 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Rathtrevor Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 1000 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Rathtrevor Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — grey. Texture — fine. Beach length — 2 000 metres.
Rathtrevor Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Rathtrevor Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Rathtrevor Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Mosquitoes, Ticks, Bears (rare). We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Rathtrevor Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: showers, toilets, changing rooms, parking, Wi-Fi, kids playground, sports ground. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Rathtrevor Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor. A first aid station is available.
Rathtrevor Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Parksville Restaurants. Cuisines available: Canadian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Rathtrevor Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash.
Rathtrevor Beach: when is the best time to swim?
Best time for swimming is from June to September when the water warms on the sand flats. In the morning there are fewer people.
Rathtrevor Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Keep the beach clean, do not make noise. Dogs are prohibited on the beach from February 15 to April 30.
Rathtrevor Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for families with children thanks to very shallow water and vast sand flats. Suitable for birdwatching and walks. Not suitable for those who want deep water for swimming right away.
Rathtrevor Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Rathtrevor Beach is famous for its vast sand flats: at low tide the ocean recedes almost 1 km, exposing hundreds of acres of sand. In summer the water warms to a comfortable temperature. The beach is part of a 347-hectare provincial park.
Rathtrevor Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: One of Canada-s best beaches, Vast sand flats at low tide, Warm water in summer, Migrating Brant geese watching, Provincial park with campground, Scenic sunsets, Sand flats for play. Cons: Crowded in high season, Water is very shallow, long walk to swim, Low tides expose muddy flats, Dogs prohibited from February 15 to April 30, Paid parking.
Rathtrevor Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Parksville, Qualicum Beach, Rathtrevor Provincial Park. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Rathtrevor Beach: how do I get to the city of Qualicum Beach?
The beach is located near the city of Qualicum Beach. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Qualicum Beach.