Sandcut Beach Waterfall Hike: One of the Best Spring Hikes Near Victoria, BC
If you are searching for one of the best waterfall hikes near Victoria, BC, Sandcut Beach should be at the top of your list.
Located just west of Sooke, this short coastal forest hike leads to a dramatic waterfall that spills directly onto the beach. It is accessible, scenic, and especially impressive in spring when rainfall strengthens the flow.
Whether you are planning a long weekend outing, hosting visiting family, or simply looking for a rewarding spring hike on Vancouver Island, here is everything you need to know before visiting Sandcut Beach.
Where Is Sandcut Beach?
Sandcut Beach is located along West Coast Road, approximately 15 minutes west of Sooke and just over an hour from Victoria. It makes an ideal day trip from Victoria and pairs well with other stops along the Sooke coastline.
How Long Is the Sandcut Beach Hike?
The hike to Sandcut Beach is short and manageable for most families.
- 15 to 20 minute forest walk to the beach
- Uneven and often muddy in spring
- Ends with a long wooden staircase down to the shoreline
The trail is not stroller friendly and would be challenging for anyone with mobility limitations due to the staircase and rocky beach terrain. For most visitors, however, it strikes an excellent balance between effort and reward.
What Makes Sandcut Beach Unique?
Unlike many waterfall hikes on Vancouver Island, Sandcut’s waterfall flows directly onto the beach. After descending the staircase and stepping onto the rocky shoreline, turn left. A short walk along the rocky beach brings you to the waterfall. In spring and fall, the waterfall is at its strongest. Seasonal rain and runoff from the river above create a powerful cascade that drops over the cliff face and lands on the beach below.
Best Time to Visit Sandcut Beach
Spring is arguably the best season for this hike because:
- The waterfall is significantly stronger
- The forest feels fresh and vibrant
- Visitor numbers are lower than peak summer
- Temperatures are comfortable for walking
If you are planning a Family Day or Easter long weekend outing, Sandcut Beach is an excellent choice.
Visit at Low Tide
Timing your visit around low tide is ideal. At low tide:
- More of the rocky shoreline is exposed
- Walking is easier
- You can explore further along the beach
At high tide, the shoreline narrows and navigating the rocks becomes more difficult. Always check local tide tables before visiting.
Is Sandcut Beach Good for Kids?
Yes, children love:
- The short forest walk
- The dramatic staircase descent
- Exploring around the waterfall
- Collecting stones, racing the waves and climbing driftwood
The waterfall area creates shallow flowing streams across the beach, which are fun to jump over and explore. Waterproof footwear is helpful, as someone usually ends up with wet socks.
Multi Generational Friendly?
Sandcut works well for a multi-generational outing.
Grandparents can take the forest trail at their own pace. Teenagers often enjoy photographing the waterfall and coastal views. Younger children remain engaged because the destination feels dynamic and interactive. The hike is short enough to be manageable, but scenic enough to feel worthwhile.
If you enjoy getting out with the family on Vancouver Island, you might also like our guide to Backcountry Camping with Kids on Vancouver Island or our guide to car camping, both of which focus on creating memorable shared experiences outdoors.
Sandcut Beach Parking and Facilities
Here is what to expect:
- Free parking at the trailhead
- Outhouse available near the car park
- No garbage bins, pack in and pack out
- Dogs welcome but must remain on leash
The car park can fill up on sunny weekends, especially in summer. Arriving earlier in the day helps avoid congestion.
What to Pack for a Spring Waterfall Hike
Spring conditions on Vancouver Island can shift quickly. Consider bringing:
- Waterproof hiking shoes
- Layers for wind and rain
- A small backpack with water and snacks
- A towel or spare socks if children plan to explore the waterfall
If you prefer not to pack a full picnic, consider stopping at Shirley Delicious along the way for takeaway lunch or a baked treat. It is a perfect pre hike stop and turns a simple outing into a small tradition.
How Long Should You Plan to Stay?
Most visitors spend a couple of hours:
- 30 to 40 minutes walking in and out
- 1 to 2 hours exploring the beach and waterfall
You can easily combine this hike with other things to do in Sooke or make it the centrepiece of a relaxed spring day trip.
Why Sandcut Beach Is One of the Best Waterfall Hikes Near Victoria
Vancouver Island offers many impressive waterfalls, but Sandcut stands out for three reasons:
- It is close to Victoria
- The hike is short and accessible
- The waterfall flows directly onto the beach
Few places combine forest, waterfall, and ocean so seamlessly.
If you are building your own list of waterfall hikes on Vancouver Island, Sandcut Beach deserves a place near the top.