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Vanislander

Sandcut Beach

You are already an adventure traveller! One of the hidden gems on Vancouver Island is Sandcut Beach. A very maintained beach with boardwalks and stairs for getting to the rugged west coast beauty. A great sandstone beach where everyone can enjoy a beautiful walk through a coastal forest. Tones of lives camouflaged and sheltered behind the woods.
The massive stretch of tree-lined coast over Sandcut Beach provides cool shadows away from the sun's hit. You can find a fantastic spot to spend a peaceful time relaxing. If you bring your camera along, there are many photogenic rocks to explore further up the beach. When walking on the beach, you will feel the stones rustling under your feet, giving you a pleasant sensation. Listening to the sound of the receding waves running over the pebbles would touch your soul.
On top of that, Sandcut Beach Waterfall pours onto the beach, finding its way into the ocean. It gives a unique taste to this lovely stretch of the shoreline. If you are coming here in the middle of the summer, you may experience fogs coming down and mixing everything they find, making a scenic and hazy view.


Sandcut Beach Location

Sandcut Beach is located southwest of Vancouver Island, 64.7 km (40.2 miles) away from the capital of British Columbia, Victoria, between Port Renfrew and Sooke and close to the Jordan River Community. Sandcut Beach can be accessed from BC Highway 14. There is a place to leave the car by the road at Jordan River Regional Park. It is where you can start a pleasant hike to Sandcut Beach. The cobbled beach is 3.5 km long (2.1 miles), part of the Jordan River Regional Park.


How to Get to Sandcut Beach by Car

From Victoria:
From Victoria to Sandcut Beach, there is a 64.7 km (40.2 miles) distance. It takes about one hour and five minutes. The best route is via Juan De Fuca Hwy/Sooke Rd/BC-14 W and Juan De Fuca Hwy/BC-14 W.
Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N to Westshore Pkwy in Langford for 16.1 km (10 miles). Then follow Westshore Pkwy to Juan De Fuca Hwy/Sooke Rd/BC-14 W for 4.2 km (2.6 miles). Drive to Juan De Fuca Hwy/BC-14 W in Shirley. After 44.4 km (27.5 miles), you will reach Sandcut Beach.

From Nanaimo:
From Nanaimo, the fastest route is via Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S, which is 143 km (88.8 miles) long, and it takes about two hours. Take Wallace St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S. After 550 m (1804 ft), turn right onto Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 S. Continue for 94.1 km (58.4 miles) and drive to Juan De Fuca Hwy/BC-14 W in Shirley. After 48.6 km (30.1 miles), you will reach Sandcut Beach.


The Hike to Get to Sandcut Beach

The hiking route to Sandcut Beach ain't long but full of adventure and mystery. Although there are no trails registered around the beach, you can have a magical pass through the beautiful wildlife along the trail, starting from the parking lot located 247.29 m (811.31 ft) away from the east of the beach. Find your way in the mysterious rain forest with foliage trying to hide the trails, where eventually the waterfall is calling you. It's located south of the beach. From the trails, it can be found on the left. Double stellar waterfalls carved out of the rocks made of little creeks that spill over the sandstone cliff into the ocean. When the water is low, it gives you a chance to explore underneath. After hiking among the boardwalks and stairs, you will be rewarded by getting a panoramic view from the Strait of Juan de Fuca over the Pacific Ocean. Don't forget to wear your boots.


History of Sandcut Beach

The beach is named after Sandcut Creek that has cut through the stone to create a double waterfall, falls to the beach. Different layers and curvy patterns visible in the cliffs formed by water movement million years ago are impressive, looking at the whole beach. Shell fossils shaped on the rocks take you years back in history.


Things to do around the Sandcut Beach Area

A lot of adventure can be made in this pebble beach, which lends the most beautiful to the front rain forest, particularly to the beautiful cavern rocks that host a quaint waterfall descending over them—a real delight for children and an excellent spot for a romantic picnic. The shadows of foliage with a unique view of the ocean made a pleasant environment for relaxing and meditating. Climbing from good formation rocks gets you a bird's eye to have a broader view of every beauty around you. There is a rope swinging just beside the waterfall, enjoyable for kids to swing. Watching the waterfall, when raging in its full glory, can inspire a feeling of comfort.
There is a lot to explore if you start looking for it. It is recommended when the tides are low. Taking photos while gathering with your family or loved ones makes your journey unforgettable.
Preparing everything to roast a tasty lunch over a campfire is something many prefer to have on their vacation.

The Best Beaches Near Sandcut Beach

Botanical Beach

Botanical Beach

If you are an adventure lover or a backpacker who enjoys hiking in the forest, make your way toward the Juan de Fuca trail and hike through the trails to get to Botanical Beach. It is a gift for nature lovers, a remote beach to hike, camp and watch the wildlife live in the tidal pools at the shoreline. In March and April, you have the chance to watch orcas or killer whales.

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach is placed between the Pacific Ocean and a forest. It gives you a mixture of land-based and water-based adventures. Marine animals, birds, Mystic Beach Waterfall, sunrise and sunset, are worthy of watching. Feel the beach by standing where the ocean kisses the shoreline and listen to the waves. Hiking on the beach and Juan De Fuca Marine Trail could be at the top of the list.

China Beach

China Beach

Being at China Beach could be a memorable experience. The beach is a mixture of sand, pebbles, and grit, with access to the Juan de Fuca Trail. China Beach is suitable for watching whales, seals, dolphins, and even storms. With perfect waves, you would have an unforgettable adventure surfing there. If you desire to get the most out of the beach, stay at China Beach Campground.

French Beach

French Beach

Time does not move on the beach, but your mood does with currents. French Beach is a rocky beach in French Beach Provincial Park, which has a wide swath of green lawn at the backside and the blue ocean in front. Relax and enjoy having a picnic with your family or take a dip in the water. You can have a view of Olympic Mountain if the weather is not foggy.

Sandcut Beach

Sandcut Beach

Beaches fix everything, and the tides convey perfect vibes. Sandcut Beach embodies the visual aspects of the west coast beauty. A glorious attraction for those who enjoy walking through a coastal forest and a fantastic spot to spend a peaceful time relaxing. It is where the sound of the waves running over the pebbles would touch your soul. Sandcut Beach is delightful for children and an excellent spot for a romantic picnic.

Sandcut Beach Activities

Hiking

When there is a rainforest in sight, nobody can resist not to go on foot and explore. Hiking outdoor beach is needed to get a whole of your journey, especially when stunning trails and nature surround the ocean. When exploring among mysterious wildlife, you are visualizing rare and hidden life behind the woods and under the leaves, which couldn't be seen in any manner. You'd be ignited!

Sunbathing

There is an excellent spot for those who are fans of getting a pleasant sunbath by the waterfall. Despite all the issues behind getting a sunbath, it can be a desirable experience for many; by following some tips, you will make a pleasant experience. Don't burn yourself!

Camping

Camping is the first thing that almost everyone prefers to do on vacation. While relaxing after a long journey on the road, enjoying the famous story of a campfire and marshmallows that gather friends and families for a warm reunion would cheer you up.

Wildlife/Bird watching

Everywhere on the beach has something for you to see. Nature around, tracks of rare animals, seals get out of the water, and all the beauties coming through the tides. If you close your eyes and listen to the birds around you, it inspires a sense of euphoria. Relaxing and watching rare eagles flying over the ocean makes the wildlife even wilder! May to September is the best time for bird watching.

Geocaching

There are plenty of hidden geocaches all over the world. Some of them could be around you somewhere. So, why don't you check your receiver and start a hide & seek adventure? Like the Sand dollars hiding under the sands, they could be anywhere.

Rock Climbing

Well-shaped rocks around the beach hosting the waterfalls spilling from them are perfect for climbing when the water is low. Layers on these stones take you years back in history while giving you excellent feedback when grabbing them.

What you Can Expect to Do Near Sandcut Beach

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.

Sooke Whale Watching

Sooke Whale Watching

Among all the adventures in Sooke, which leave you speechless by the wat, whale watching opportunities are undeniable. The chances of observing the world's largest Mammals vary season by season, but it is best to come during May-October. Sooke will bring you the opportunity to experience a whale-watching trip to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. So, let your journey take you to the destined places.

Victoria Whale Watching

Victoria Whale Watching

Almost 70% of whale-watching adventures take place in the BC capital. So, while you are in Victoria, try to make the most out of your freedom from work and check our incredible whale watching tours provided for you there. A trip to Race Rocks Ecological Reserve may also be available for the admirers of nature.

Port Renfrew Whale Watching

Port Renfrew Whale Watching

Enjoy discovering the best spots for whale watching on Vancouver Island, starting from Port Renfrew, in which chances are high to gaze upon these majestic sea creatures. Adventure awaits in Port Renfrew, and you can capture the pictures of the whales and the memory of it aside. While fishing around Port Renfrew, whales during their movements and diving or spouting near there might be observable.

Pacheedaht Beach Kayaking

Pacheedaht Beach Kayaking

If you want to make every moment on Vancouver Island worthwhile, remember to plan for a kayaking adventure on the waters next to Pacheedaht Beach. The San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve is the habitat for a variety of wildlife worthy of visiting. In addition to paddling, visitors can enjoy themselves doing other outdoor activities in the region.

Sandcut Beach Outline

Specifications

Climate

Water Temperature

Timing


1. All the climate data are on average.
2. The numbers are for Jordan River North, beginning of the beach.
1. The numbers are estimated on average.

What you Can Expect to See Near Sandcut Beach

Botanical Beach

Botanical Beach

If you are an adventure lover or a backpacker who enjoys hiking in the forest, make your way toward the Juan de Fuca trail and hike through the trails to get to Botanical Beach. It is a gift for nature lovers, a remote beach to hike, camp and watch the wildlife live in the tidal pools at the shoreline. In March and April, you have the chance to watch orcas or killer whales.

Jordan River (Settlement)

Jordan River (Settlement)

Jordan River is a small settlement famous among surfers. It has many tourist attractions like Hidden Falls, Mystic Beach and Mystic Falls, Sandcut Beach Waterfall and Sandcut Beach, China Beach, Juan de Fuca Trail Trailhead, and Jordan River Regional Park. Enjoy storm watching, kayaking, and Camping or have a picnic in the area, which could be an experience of a lifetime.

Sooke

Sooke

Sooke is known as the Tall Tree Capital of Canada. The area's popularity is mainly based on tourists visiting the wilderness parks, hiking the West Coast Trail and the extremely popular Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. Sooke is also famous for its beaches and is a destination for cycling and mountain biking. The arts community of Sooke is vibrant and hosts the annual Sooke Fine Arts Festival.

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve was established to preserve intertidal and subtidal communities that became very rich due to strong tidal currents. It features marine mammals like whales, sea lions and seals, birds like ducks, cormorants, black oyster-catchers and bald eagles. Fish species, marine invertebrates, and animals like marine algae and seagrass are among other inhabitants.

San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve

San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve

Located north of Sooke, the San Juan River Estuary Ecological Reserve was established in 1996 to protect the lower alluvial forest communities on the San Juan River flood plain. The ecological reserve's first aim is to preserve forest communities and rare sensitive plant species like Mimulus dentatus and Tooth-leaved monkeyflower.

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach

Mystic Beach is placed between the Pacific Ocean and a forest. It gives you a mixture of land-based and water-based adventures. Marine animals, birds, Mystic Beach Waterfall, sunrise and sunset, are worthy of watching. Feel the beach by standing where the ocean kisses the shoreline and listen to the waves. Hiking on the beach and Juan De Fuca Marine Trail could be at the top of the list.

China Beach

China Beach

Being at China Beach could be a memorable experience. The beach is a mixture of sand, pebbles, and grit, with access to the Juan de Fuca Trail. China Beach is suitable for watching whales, seals, dolphins, and even storms. With perfect waves, you would have an unforgettable adventure surfing there. If you desire to get the most out of the beach, stay at China Beach Campground.

French Beach

French Beach

Time does not move on the beach, but your mood does with currents. French Beach is a rocky beach in French Beach Provincial Park, which has a wide swath of green lawn at the backside and the blue ocean in front. Relax and enjoy having a picnic with your family or take a dip in the water. You can have a view of Olympic Mountain if the weather is not foggy.

French Beach Provincial Park

French Beach Provincial Park

French Beach Provincial Park is the perfect combination of a pebble beach, a lush forest, and the blue ocean. Step into the French Beach Trail and choose your camp between tent and RV sites. Watch marine wildlife on the beach or birds flying over your head. With Juan de Fuca's Strait view, you may have chances to see migrating gray whales in spring and fall.

Jordan River Regional Park

Jordan River Regional Park

On the west coast of Vancouver Island, Jordan River Regional Park is a scenic place nestling among coastal hemlock, fir and cedar trees. The park features a long cobble shore and the Juan de Fuca Strait with a fantastic overlooking of the Olympic Peninsula. Locating on the ocean side made it a perfect choice for swimming, kayaking, and surfing.

Mystic Beach Waterfall

Mystic Beach Waterfall

Victoria has a lot to say when it comes to attractions, and among them is Mystic Beach Waterfall. This stunning waterfall is placed right in front of the sea, water cascading gorgeously from a high rock cliff on the sandy beach. If you want to make the most valuable use of your time and sunset is your favourite colour, stay long enough to watch the sunset by the waterfall.

Sandcut Beach Waterfall

Sandcut Beach Waterfall

Being on the beach with the ocean in front and trees and a waterfall backside is a perfect view. A cheery on top of Sandcut Beach is Sandcut Beach Waterfall. This picturesque beach waterfall cascades gracefully from the rock cliff over the pebble beach. Watching the sunset is spectacular by the fall; the orange sky and the last rays of sunshine reflexing in water drops are something worth seeing.

Juan De Fuca Provincial Park

Juan De Fuca Provincial Park

Juan de Fuca Provincial Park is a spectacular seaside park with waterfalls, beaches with tide pools, and chances of watching marine species and land animals. Going into the several hiking trails along the Pacific coastline of the Strait of Juan de Fuca would be pleasant. Enjoy wilderness camping and do water activities such as fishing, kayaking & canoeing, surfing, and windsurfing.

Hidden Falls

Hidden Falls

It worth searching the hidden beauty, especially for what the mother of nature made. As mysterious as its name, Hidden Falls or Sombrio Beach Falls is hiding by a cave, which is why the waterfall was named Hidden Falls. The magical aura with pristine nature is mystic and thrilling, making your wilderness hiking experience memorable. The surrounding wildlife and birds deserve lots of attention.

Sandcut Beach

Sandcut Beach

Beaches fix everything, and the tides convey perfect vibes. Sandcut Beach embodies the visual aspects of the west coast beauty. A glorious attraction for those who enjoy walking through a coastal forest and a fantastic spot to spend a peaceful time relaxing. It is where the sound of the waves running over the pebbles would touch your soul. Sandcut Beach is delightful for children and an excellent spot for a romantic picnic.

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