Discover Sooke: A Hidden Gem on Vancouver Island
Looking for an unforgettable West Coast getaway? Nestled just over an hour from Victoria, the town of Sooke in British Columbia is where rugged coastline, forested trails, and untamed ocean meet. Whether you’re in the mood for outdoor adventure, scenic drives, or peaceful coastal strolls, Sooke offers a slice of true Vancouver Island charm.
Find your ideal home base in Sooke with EMR Vacation Rentals and experience the region like a local!
Let’s dive into the top 10 things to do in Sooke, BC!
Fast Facts & Tips About Visiting Sooke
Location: Southwestern
Vancouver Island, British Columbia
Distance from Victoria: ~45-minute drive via Highway 14
Setting: Coastal town on the Strait of Juan de Fuca
Vibe: Laid-back, outdoorsy, artsy, and nature-rich
Top Activities: Hiking, kayaking, whale watching, biking, ziplining
Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall
Typical Weather: Mild, often misty winters; dry, warm summers
Nearby Destinations: Langford, Port Renfrew, Jordan River, Cowichan
Great For: Outdoor adventurers, nature lovers, families, and photographers
Why You Should Visit Sooke
Sooke is tucked away on the wild southwestern edge of Vancouver Island, where moss-draped rainforests tumble down to meet the churning sea.
Just a scenic drive from Langford or Cowichan, this charming coastal town is a gateway to the island’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders, from stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca to winding, forested trails and serene inlets.
Whether you’re a thrill-seeking adventurer or a quiet nature lover, Sooke’s dramatic landscapes and laid-back spirit offer a uniquely West Coast welcome!
Travel Tips for Sooke
Book in advance. Accommodations and whale watching tours fill up fast in summer.
Pack layers. Weather shifts quickly on the coast!
Plan your route. Highway 14 is beautiful but winding; cell service is spotty.
Bring water and snacks. Especially for longer hikes.
Watch for wildlife. You may see orcas, deer, eagles, or even black bears.
Top 10 Things to Do in Sooke
1. Explore the Sooke Potholes & Provincial Park
Top Highlights:
- Swim in crystal clear glacier-fed pools
- Hike to waterfalls along the trails
- Family-friendly
- Great picnic area
These unique geological formations along the Sooke River are perfect for swimming, hiking, or a quiet picnic with forest views. Wander through Sooke Potholes Provincial Park and discover cascading waterfalls, rocky pools, and multiple access points from the main parking lot.
2. Hike East Sooke Regional Park
Top Highlights:
- Stunning hikes through rainforest and coastal trails
- Breathtaking ocean views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca
- Explore rocky shorelines and mossy forest paths
One of the most stunning places to hike on Vancouver Island, East Sooke Regional Park boasts rugged shoreline, mossy rainforests, and incredible viewpoints across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Start your adventure from the Aylard Farm entrance for access to well-maintained trails.
3. Walk the Whiffin Spit
Top Highlights:
- Scenic ocean front walk
- Views of Sooke Harbour and the Olympic Mountains
- Great for birdwatching and peaceful reflection
This long, narrow boardwalk is ideal for a peaceful stroll. Watch seabirds and boats glide by in Sooke Harbour, with views stretching out toward the Olympic Mountains. It’s a great spot to catch the sunset, and it’s popular with locals and visitors alike.
4. Go Whale Watching
Top Highlights:
- See orcas, humpbacks, and other marine life!
- Guided tours available right from Sooke Harbour
- Learn about the local ecosystem from marine experts
The Sooke Basin and the open waters just beyond offer some of the best whale watching in Canada. Join a guided Sooke whale watching tour and keep an eye out for orcas, humpbacks, and other marine wildlife.
5. Trek the Juan de Fuca Trail
Top Highlights:
- Explore waterfalls, beaches, and tide pools
- Walk through lush rainforest and along cliffside trails
- Discover popular beaches like Mystic, Sombrio, and China Beach
This rugged coastal hiking trail begins near China Beach and stretches past Mystic Beach and Sombrio Beach all the way to Botanical Beach in Port Renfrew. Whether you’re doing a short day hike or tackling a section of the trail, expect waterfalls, tide pools, and jaw-dropping views.
6. Zipline Through the Trees
Top Highlights:
- Glide through towering rainforest canopies
- Year-round tours suitable for most ages
- Breathtaking views of the forest below
Experience the thrill of ziplining through old-growth rainforest at Adrena LINE just a short drive from downtown Sooke. Perfect for adventurous travellers, these year-round tours offer a new perspective on the region’s diverse ecosystem.
7. Kayak the Sooke Basin
Top Highlights:
- Paddle calm and scenic waters
- Spot seals, eagles, and maybe whale
- Rentals and tours available locally
The calm waters of the Sooke Basin are perfect for kayaking. Rentals and guided tours are available locally, and it’s not uncommon to spot seals, eagles, or even the occasional whale while you paddle.
8. Bike the Galloping Goose Trail
Top Highlights:
- Long, multipurpose trail
- Connects Sooke to Langford and Victoria
- Flat terrain, ideal for all skill levels
Running through Sooke and connecting to Langford and Victoria, the Galloping Goose Trail is a favourite for biking. This converted rail trail offers gentle terrain and scenic West Coast views, making it ideal for a relaxing outdoor ride.
9. Visit the Sooke Region Museum & Visitor Centre
Top Highlights:
- Discover local and Indigenous history
- See rotating exhibits and outdoor artifacts
- Convenient stop along West Coast Road
Learn about the area’s Indigenous history, early settlement, and maritime culture. The museum also hosts seasonal exhibits and is located right off West Coast Road, making it a perfect stop on your way through town.
10. Dine at West Coast Grill
Top Highlights:
- Fresh, locally sourced seafood
- Oceanfront views from the Prestige Resort
- Ideal for casual lunches or romantic dinners
Located in the Prestige Oceanfront Resort, this spot is a go-to for fresh seafood and farm-to-table fare. Whether you’re fueling up after a hike or enjoying a date night, West Coast Grill delivers local flavours with a view.
More Parks That We Love Around Sooke
There’s no shortage of stunning natural beauty in Sooke! While these may not have made our top 10 list, if you’re looking for a magical place to be in nature, these are a must!
Matheson Lake Regional Park: A peaceful spot for a swim or paddle, with easy hiking trails.
Sandcut Beach: Waterfalls flow right onto the beach at this hidden gem near Shirley just north of Sooke.
French Beach Provincial Park: Great for family picnics and driftwood collecting.
Botanical Beach Provincial Park: Located near Port Renfrew, this beach is famous for its tide pools and unique geology.
Jordan River Regional Park: A beloved surf spot and scenic pull-off along Highway 14.
Best Time to Visit Sooke
Sooke is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own charm. Here’s what to expect:
Spring
In spring you can expect a little bit of everything! You’ll find mild temperatures ranging from 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F), with many days of rain punctuated by dry, partly cloudy days and beautiful sunshine. This season is a great time to explore the beaches and forests as the forests are filled with lush flora, birds singing and flowing waterfalls. This is a shoulder season and is a great time to visit if you’re looking for quieter trails, ideal for hikers and photographers.
Packing Tips: Waterproof hiking shoes, a light waterproof rain jacket, and quick-dry layers are a must for this drizzly but beautiful season! Make sure you also pack sunscreen, sun hat and sunglasses in case you hit some warm spring weather during your visit!
Summer
Daytime temperatures range between 18°C and 25°C (64°F to 77°F), making it the best time for water activities and beach days. While this is one of the best seasons to explore without having to battle our infamous rain, it can become very busy with visitors from across the globe. Be sure that you plan ahead, make reservations ahead of time and make sure that you get ready for lots of fellow visitors!
Packing Tips: Other than the basics that you’ll need based on what activities that you’re planning to do, you’ll want to bring a refillable water bottle and warmer, light layers for cool, breezy evenings.
Fall
Autumn in Sooke is peaceful, colourful, and incredibly photogenic. As the summer crowds fade, the forests burst into golden yellows and deep reds, with crisp temperatures ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F). It’s the perfect time for forest walks, stormy beach hikes, and quiet moments along Whiffin Spit. Wildlife activity ramps up in the fall, making it a great season for birdwatching and spotting orcas or humpbacks on late-season whale tours.
Packing Tips: Layered clothing is key. Bring a fleece or wool mid-layer, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots with good traction, and a thermos for warm drinks on the go.
Winter
Sooke in winter is a moody, magical coastal experience. Temperatures hover between 4°C and 9°C (39°F to 48°F), and misty rains give the forests a lush, otherworldly feel. It’s the perfect season for storm watching, quiet retreats, and long walks wrapped in fog. Waterfalls are at their most dramatic, and popular trails become serene escapes with very few other visitors. Winter wildlife is active too — keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, and eagles along the coast. This time of year is ideal for travellers who don’t mind a little rain in exchange for solitude, off-season pricing, and cozy evenings beside a fireplace. Sooke’s charm doesn’t hibernate—it simply becomes more intimate.
Packing Tips: Waterproof everything—boots, jackets, and daypacks. Bring warm, insulating layers (including a base layer), wool socks, gloves, a toque, and hand warmers if you plan on staying outdoors for long stretches.
Bottom Line
No matter when you visit, we have the perfect Sooke cabin rental for you! With stunning homes and peaceful surroundings, there’s no better time than now to book one of our homes and come experience the natural beauty of Vancouver Island with EMR!
Plan Your Sooke Getaway with EMR Vacation Rentals
From majestic waterfalls to whale sightings and peaceful beach strolls, Sooke delivers a true West Coast experience! Whether you’re planning a quick day trip from Victoria or a week-long escape, EMR Vacation Rentals offers a wide range of beautiful homes that let you stay close to the action.