The Best Beaches of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands
There’s something about the beaches on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands—they’re not just beautiful, they each feel completely different. Some invite you to surf or storm-watch, while others are made for sandcastle competitions, fossil hunts, or quiet cliffside walks. Whether you’re adventuring with family or finding your own moment of peace, there’s a beach here for every kind of traveller.
Here are 15 of our favourite beaches across the coast—each one tried and loved by our crew. We’ve grouped them from north to south so you can plan your route or road trip. Some of these are quick and easy to access, others require a little more planning.
?? San Josef Bay (Cape Scott Provincial Park – North Vancouver Island)
This remote and stunning beach rewards those who make the effort to reach it. With sea stacks, sea caves, and wide open space, it’s easy to see why it’s been called one of Canada’s best wilderness beaches. After a gravel forest service road, there’s an easy 2.5 km trail that leads to white sand and west coast magic. Well worth the trek to get there.
? Tofino & Long Beach (Pacific Rim National Park)
Wild, wide, and windy—Tofino’s beaches are made for surfing, sunsets, and storm watching. Long Beach lives up to its name and is perfect for exploring, building driftwood forts, or watching surfers on waves. Even in the mist, this place is magic. Cox Bay, Tonquin and Chesterman beaches are our favourites.
? Wild Pacific Trail Shoreline (Ucluelet)
While not a traditional beach for lounging, this rugged shoreline trail is breathtaking. Walk along dramatic cliffs with constant ocean views—and if you’re lucky, spot whales offshore. It’s the perfect blend of forest, sea, and sky. Bring your binoculars.
? Botanical Beach (Port Renfrew)
On clear days, this beach glows with tide pools full of sea life. On stormy ones, waves crash over the rugged rocks. Either way, it’s unforgettable. Make sure to check tide times so you can explore. Botany Bay is our favourite stop along this hour-long hike. Make sure and pair this visit with a meal at the Renfrew Pub.
? Sandcut Beach (Between Jordan River and Shirley)
A short forest walk brings you to a quiet beach with a waterfall that flows right onto the pebbly shore. It’s a great mix of natural wonder and peaceful vibes—perfect for a tucked-away picnic or a beach wander. Stop at Shirley Delicious on the way for a beach snack or lunch.
? French Beach (Sooke Area)
This beach is ideal for rock/shell hunting and listening to the waves crash against the shore. The driftwood here tells stories, and the forested picnic spots make it a great stop for families or quiet wanderers.
?? Parksville Beach (Central Island)
Classic beach day energy! Warm, shallow water makes this a favourite for swimming, paddling, and building sandcastles. The huge beachfront park and playground are bonuses for families. This beach pairs perfectly with an ice cream on a warm day. For more on Island ice cream spots, check out this post.
? Malaspina Galleries (Gabriola Island)
A geological wonder carved by wind and waves, the sandstone cliff face here looks like a frozen wave about to crash. It’s a short walk from the road and best visited at low tide. While not a swimming beach, it’s one of the most awe-inspiring coastal features in the Gulf Islands—and makes for epic photos.
? Transfer Beach (Ladysmith)
A central-Island gem with a big playground, grassy picnic areas, and calm waters for swimming. Perfect for families, this is a great spot to get out and stretch during your island road trip.
? Rebecca Spit (Quadra Island)
A local favourite for its protected bay, mountain views, and easy walking trail along the spit. It’s a peaceful place to launch kayaks, comb the beach for treasures, or settle in for a lazy afternoon.
?? Whaling Station Bay (Hornby Island)
Quieter than nearby Tribune Bay, this spot is known for its interesting sand formations, calm waters, and relaxed atmosphere. A favourite for a chill beach day.
? Fossil Beach (Hornby Island)
A beach with a twist—here you can search for ancient fossils embedded in the sandstone. It’s a great spot for curious kids and geology lovers alike.
? Island View Beach (North Saanich)
Flat and long, this sandy beach is ideal for sunset walks, beachcombing, and spotting seabirds. The gentle landscape and ocean breezes make it feel peaceful and open, even when it’s busy.
? Cadboro Bay Beach (Victoria)
A local family favourite, this beach has gentle waves, lots of space to play, and a fantastic playground just off the sand. Bonus: washrooms and free parking make it easy for a full beach day with the family.
? Gowlland Point (South Pender Island)
Not your typical sandy beach, but the views are unbeatable. Look out across the sparkling water to the San Juan Islands while you wander the rocky shoreline or find a flat perch to watch for passing boats and seals.
Every Beach Tells a Different Story
That’s the beauty of beach-hopping on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands—you never get the same experience twice. Some are shaped by waves and wilderness, others by fossils or family memories. Whether you love surfing, swimming, tide-pooling, or just soaking up the scenery, there’s a beach that will feel like it was made just for you.
Which beach do you love most? Tag us in your adventures @planitadventures or share your go-to hidden gems in the comments! Pair these beached with the best ice cream spots of Vancouver Island and your summer holidays are planned for you. You’re welcome.