I rented a very decent Rocky Mountain 10 bike from Oceanside outfitters in July 2019. I rode down…read moreto French creek and took the passenger ferry to Lasqueti island which was fun in its own right ( about a 20 min ride from parksdale to the French creek marina). The ride around Lasqueti is very pleasant with a couple of beaches to stop at and relatively car free hilly dirt roads . There is a hotel /pub at fakes bay where the ferry lands You need a mountain bike or a hybrid or gravel bike with 32 mm plus tires . Suspension is useful for the sweeping corners that are gravel covered with washboard in some spots. I called Greg at Oceanside outfitters about one minute after closing to try and get a bike for the 9:45 ferry the next day. Greg kindly offered to open the store at 8:30 the next morning and I made the ferry with no problem. He also let me drop the bike off after shop closing time , at his beach rental spot. A really nice guy and I appreciate the above and beyond service and the great bike as well. Stefan

From the owner: Get outside and explore the natural beauty of Vancouver Island. Oceanside Outfitters Inc. rents…read morestand up paddle boards (SUPs), bikes and bike equipment at affordable rates. With our product rentals, we offer you the perfect way to enjoy the pristine waters of Vancouver Islands' east coast or explore the nearby parks, rivers and lakes.

What a fabulous marina store! Owners Carie and Cameron are super helpful and friendly. If you…read moreneed it, they have it. If they don't have it, you don't need it. Fishing tackle, snacks, boat parts, provisions, etc.

Think twice before dealing with this store- they used to be a hands on knowledgeable place to go…read morebut now more like the big car dealers. Cheery customer greeters but no knowledge and poor listening skills- we were overcharged for work not requested and they won't stand behind the products they sell.

From the owner: sales of new bikes parts and clothes, repairs to all makes of bikes.read more

BUYER BEWARE! This businessman has a con going that I am sure many have fallen for. He sold me a…read morepair of orthotic inserts for $200. Then I find the same inserts in a Sports Store for $55. His reply when confronted was that I paid for his 40 years of experience. I have never encountered this kind of service in any other store in town. Sad that we have someone who is so deceptive in his business.

When I'm in the area I look forward to visiting the SOS to stock up on cheap clothing and household…read moregoods. Downstairs are kitchen goods, toys, some furniture and great collectibles. Upstairs is clothing, with retro separated and lots of retro stuff. Excellent prices. The best part is it's a charity and an active part of the Parksville community, all the money goes to local outreach programs and they aren't associated with any church. Best thrift shop on the island.

My mom goes here regularly, and always raves about the stuff she finds - lots of great stuff,…read morebarely used, and for next to nothing. Things are well organized and sorted, which is a bonus. She has taken me here more than once, and I have always found something. Make sure you have some time to spare when you make the trip here, because the place is huge. Not to mention it's a great charity to support. So if you don't need anything, consider donating something you no longer need to the store/organization.