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Race Rocks Diving

Besides a great diversity of wildlife and inhabitants, one of Canada's oldest lighthousesRace Rocks Lighthouse, makes the Race Rocks diving experience exceptional. Marine mammals such as whales oblige visitors to take care of diving in the Race Rocks area. However, taking an experienced guide may guaranty the safety of visitors. Because this site is in Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, activities like hunting, freshwater fishing, camping, livestock grazing, removal of materials, plants or animals are prohibited.


Race Rocks Diving Location

Race Rocks diving location is near Rocky Point in the southern part of Vancouver Island. Race Rocks is near Victoria's diving sites and is accessible by boat. This boat diving location has marine tours from Sooke and Victoria. Some other diving places near Race Rocks include Ogden Point, Ten Mile Point, Saanich Inlet, Octopus Point, North Cod Reef, South Bedford Island, Octopus Island, Graham's Wall, Strongtide Island, and Saxe Point


Race Rocks Diving Coordinate

Latitude: 48.298° or 48° 17' 52.8" north
Longitude: -123.5315° or 123° 31' 53.3" west


How to Get to Race Rocks by Car

From Victoria:
Getting to Race Rocks from downtown Victoria is via Rocky Point Rd. It is 33.7 km (21 miles) and takes about 40 minutes.
Take Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and Metchosin Rd to Rocky Point Rd in Metchosin and drive 28 km (17.3 miles). Follow Rocky Point Rd to your destination, and after 5.7 km (3.5 miles), you will reach Race Rocks.

From Nanaimo:
The access to Race Rocks from Nanaimo is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S. It is 116 km (72 miles) and takes about an hour and 40 minutes.
Take Wallace St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S for 550 m (1804.4 ft). Turn right onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S and drive 94.1 km (58.4 miles). Continue on Westshore Pkwy to your destination in Metchosin, and after 21.4 km (13.3 miles), you will reach Race Rocks.

The Best Dive Sites Near Race Rocks

Race Rocks Diving

Race Rocks Diving

A fantastic offering for those who would like to dive and learn about the history of marine activities of Vancouver Island is lying on the grounds of Race Rock Lighthouse. The existence of this lighthouse adds up to the exceptionality of this diving adventure. However, you have to look out for the whales living there.

Race Rocks Diving Plan

Diving Package Details

What you Can Expect to See Near Race Rocks

Emilia Cave

Emilia Cave

Emilia Cave, a standout feature of the Emilia Creek system on Vancouver Island, is a hidden treasure for the adventurous and environmentally conscious. Known among local cavers as a challenging and rewarding destination, this cave system embodies the rugged spirit of BC’s wilderness. With multiple caves accessible only by bushwhacking and the occasional rope-assisted descent, Emilia Cave offers an authentic Canadian cave adventure that emphasises eco-friendly travel, sustainable tourism, and respect for natural heritage.

Disappearing River Cave

Disappearing River Cave

Deep within the rugged landscapes of Vancouver Island lies the intriguing Disappearing River Cave—a natural wonder that beckons adventure travelers, eco-tourists, and families alike. This unique cave system, where a river mysteriously vanishes underground, offers an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s dynamic geology and rich Indigenous heritage. Whether you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure or a family-friendly day out, the Disappearing River Cave is an experience that marries natural beauty with cultural significance.

Fry Car Cave

Fry Car Cave

Tucked away on Vancouver Island, Fry Car Cave is fast becoming a must-visit spot for adventure travellers and families. Known for its intriguing history and natural beauty, this cave offers an unforgettable experience that combines mystery with the rugged charm of coastal British Columbia.

Owen Point Sea Caves

Owen Point Sea Caves

In summary, the Owen Point Sea Caves are dynamic geological features sculpted by the persistent mechanical erosion of sandstone cliffs by ocean waves, with biological and chemical factors contributing to their unique appearance. Their formation is a testament to the powerful natural forces at work along Vancouver Island's rugged coastline.

Middle Scallop Caves

Middle Scallop Caves

Discover the Middle Scallop Caves on Vancouver Island—a lesser-known, yet captivating destination for cave exploration and outdoor adventure. Nestled within the diverse landscapes of British Columbia, these caves offer a unique blend of geological wonder, pristine natural beauty, and sustainable eco-tourism opportunities. Whether you’re an experienced explorer or an eco-tourist seeking a new challenge, the Middle Scallop Caves promise a memorable Canadian wilderness experience.

Chicken 2 Cave

Chicken 2 Cave

Nestled within the heart of Vancouver Island, Chicken 2 Cave is a remarkable geological formation that attracts adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. This limestone cave, part of the island’s intricate karst system, offers a glimpse into the island's ancient geological history while providing an accessible yet thrilling spelunking experience.

Eggshell Cave

Eggshell Cave

Eggshell Cave is one of the smallest caves in the Horne Lake Caves system on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. Despite its size, it offers a fascinating underground experience, particularly for those interested in geology and karst formations. The cave gets its name from the distinctive hollow-sounding floor, which is due to a thin layer of calcite covering underlying mud.

Devils Bath

Devils Bath

Nestled in the remote wilderness of northern Vancouver Island, Devil’s Bath stands as one of Canada’s most fascinating karst formations. As a cenote-style sinkhole, it is part of an extensive underground cave system shaped by thousands of years of geological processes. This natural wonder is located within the Quatsino Formation limestone belt and is one of the largest sinkholes in Canada, drawing geologists, adventurers, and curious travelers alike.

Buttle Lake

Buttle Lake

Are you struggling with spending a ton of time searching for the best family-friendly vacation? Then you need to visit Buttle Lake and get better results camping around it. Learn how Buttle Lake gives you an unfair advantage with camping, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing in Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park on Vancouver Island.

Woss

Woss

Woss is situated along a trade route to link the east and west coasts of North Vancouver Island. The area is so famous for its superb scenery, especially during summertime. Woss offers many lakes, pristine wilderness parks, and mountains and has excellent opportunities for hiking, climbing, boating, windsurfing, kiteboarding, skiing, snowboarding, and camping.

Spiral Beach

Spiral Beach

Spiral Beach in Victoria is where the blue of the sea and sky and the Olympic Mountains at a distance is situated in a perfect picture. There are hills along the beach to stand on for a wide view. Walk on the sands and pebbles with the driftwoods around on the beach. Listen to the waves, walk on the shoreline, and have the storm watching pleasure in the fall and winter.

Tahsis

Tahsis

Tahsis is an accessway to many hiking trails. This village municipality is situated at the top of the steep-sided Tahsis Inlet and is surrounded by breathtaking wilderness and abundant wildlife. Some of the best water activities like ocean kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, recreational fishing or sport fishing, scuba diving, and kiteboarding are popular.

McNeill Bay

McNeill Bay

McNeill Bay has plenty of benches along the seawall to sit and enjoy the landscape of Trial Island, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Olympic Mountain. Do exciting water activities on McNeill Bay Beach and experience its wonderful esplanade and photogenic scenery. It is considered one of the fantastic off-leash dog beaches in Victoria.

Great Central Lake

Great Central Lake

Great Central Lake is a popular destination near Port Alberni for hot summer days. As it is nestled beneath low mountains, and secondary-growth forests mostly surround it, there is a reflection on the water, making a scenic view. Photography, boating, hiking, swimming, and camping are suggested while you are in the area. So go on the adventures and pour your heart into them.

Sayward

Sayward

Sayward Valley is located in northern Vancouver Island. Mount H'Kusam, the Salmon River and Kelsey Bay are the hit in Sayward, what you shouldn't miss. Natural surroundings and access to the waterways and Mount H'Kusam, allowing opportunities like bird watching, kayaking, canoeing, caving, hiking, camping, horseback riding, hunting, wildlife viewing and photography.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Race Rocks

Hiking on the Grass Lake Trail

Hiking on the Grass Lake Trail

Wear decent hiking boots for a moderate hiking trail near Sooke. It is not for the faint of heart, but it is an enjoyable trail that leads you to Grass Lake and featuring Monument Mountain makes it possible to have amazing views from the top. Doing the Grass Lake Trail overnight and camping by the lake turns it into a memorable trip. Enjoy the trail in warmer seasons and get a dip into the lake.

Hiking on Mount Manuel Quimper

Hiking on Mount Manuel Quimper

It is time to put your heart into hiking and step into a moderate multi-use trail with some great views along the way and on top. Mount Manuel Quimper has a beautiful summit worth the climb, which gives you excellent vistas of Sooke Harbour and a chance to visit one of the last fire lookouts left on the island.

Hiking on Mount Empress from Sooke Potholes via Mary Vine and Todd Creek Trails

Hiking on Mount Empress from Sooke Potholes via Mary Vine and Todd Creek Trails

Here is a highly recommended and well-marked trail for challenges enthusiasts. Hiking on Mount Empress from Sooke Potholes via Mary Vine and Todd Creek Trails offers you insane 360° views of the Sooke Basin, Victoria, and San Juan Islands.

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast Trail

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast Trail

Hiking on the entire East Sooke Coastal Trail is an experience not to be missed! This beautiful trail is a mix of the fantastic coast and beautiful greenery. Hiking boots are required! The route takes you along bluffs and cliffs by the Pacific Ocean that worth it for the views. This well-marked trail can take full-day hiking in East Sooke Regional Park.

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop

Hiking on the East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop

The East Sooke Coast and Interior Trail Loop is a well-marked trail with beautiful scenery. It is a combination of an easy access road and a more challenging coastal pass, which offers you incredible viewpoints. This excellent trail is along the Pacific Ocean and allows you to see marine life such as whales from a distance.

Otter Point Park Whale Watching

Otter Point Park Whale Watching

While exploring Sooke Area, if you happen o take a long calm walk on the Otter Point shoreline, you may see whales from the beach. Otter Point Park provided you with other activities, too, such as hiking, wildlife and birdwatching, and also a scenic nature to appreciate.

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

West Coast Outdoor Adventure Whale Watching

As one of the best tourist attractions of Sooke and Vancouver Island, West Coast comprises many outdoor excitements that cannot be denied. You are provided with different wildlife to watch and various food to eat, not to mention that you observe a rare nature that is outstanding. So, chances are high to see different whales and other marine creatures.

Cabin Point Whale Watching

Cabin Point Whale Watching

You would better plan a visit to Cabin Point Coastline between April-September. It is the best time for those preparing for Sooke Whale Watching in one of the famous coastlines for it in the Salish sea. You are given adequate opportunity to gaze upon these marvellous sea creatures.

Beechey Head Whale Watching

Beechey Head Whale Watching

Beechey Head and its loop are two of the hot spots for whale watching in Sooke. In addition to fantastic opportunities for whale watching, Beechey Head is a hiking and nature trip location that offers you excellent activities, such as birdwatching.

Spirit Bay Visitor Centre Whale Watching

Spirit Bay Visitor Centre Whale Watching

Spirit Bay has a rich community offering settlings for whale watching lovers beside incredible wildlife; therefore, it would be an excellent point to start your Sooke Whale Watching. Plus, it has a cute beach. You cannot get over the beauty of it and its scenic views.

Creyke Point Whale Watching

Creyke Point Whale Watching

Featuring wildflowers and fantastic sceneries, Creyke Point Trail is a suitable spot for whale watching, bird watching, and nature trips with splendid beaches and forests. So if you are having a great time in Sooke, remember to stop by Creyke Point to have more fun.

Victoria Harbour Ferry Whale Watching

Victoria Harbour Ferry Whale Watching

Located in the heart of Victoria and adjacent to many whale watching operators, Victoria Harbour Ferry is a starting point for your whale watching tour. Many visitors come here to watch whales annually; not only whale watching but open waterways of Salish make Victoria Harbour Ferry a remarkable place for anglers, wildlife followers and daily tourists.

Fisherman's Wharf Park Whale Watching

Fisherman's Wharf Park Whale Watching

Due to certified whale watching agencies, Fisherman's Wharf Park is a significant place to visit for whale watching enthusiasts. As one of the most prodigious and phenomenal creators worldwide, whales are ample during specific whale watching seasons.

West Bay Esquimalt Whale Watching

West Bay Esquimalt Whale Watching

Featuring Victoria Harbour and West Bay, Esquimalt could be your starting point for whale watching in Victoria. You can also have the pleasure of watching sea lions, seals, porpoises, and a wide variety of marine birds are other stunning creators that may be highly admirable to wildlife watching fanatics.

Cattle Point Storm Watching

Cattle Point Storm Watching

Cattle Point is a part of Uplands Park in Victoria, runs along the coastline of Oak Bay. During falls and winters, especially November through March, the Cattle Point Storm Watching is an exhilarating experience. Watch storms smashing from spectacular vantage points as dark clouds blanket the sky, rains whipping, gusts of winds making barreling high waves.

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