We’ve rounded up a list of the best restaurants in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada! From fine dining to local pubs, with these local favourites, you’re sure to feel right at home while you’re staying on the Saanich Peninsula!
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There’s a lot to see and do on Vancouver Island but if you’re an avid angler, there’s only one way to spend one of our many sunny days–and that’s out fishing! There are tons of fishing opportunities all over the Island and you’ll find some of the best fishing in the world off the coast of British Columbia, Canada! Whether you decide to spend a slow, peaceful day casting a line from one of the great fishing spots on the shore or you book a charter to head out on the pacific ocean, you’ll have an incredible day followed by an incredible dinner! With so many types of fish to catch from Dolly Varden trout to pacific salmon, cod and even halibut, Vancouver Island fishing is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Just make sure you have a valid stamp and fishing licence! Both freshwater and saltwater fishing licences are conveniently available to purchase online or at most sporting shops.
One of the earliest independent settlements in the Province, Sooke is a peaceful, historic town nestled amongst wild West Coast landscape. If you’re lucky enough to stay right in Sooke or in the beautiful neighbouring village of Metchosin, you’ll know how quickly you can fall in love with the beauty and tranquillity of this area. Sooke is the perfect spot for all outdoor adventures, especially fishing.
Just a twenty minute hike from the parking lot will take you to the bluffs where the ocean drops off sharply. Here the water runs deep and you can easily fish for chinook, sockeye, pink and coho salmon. If cod and rockfish are more to your liking, a short 5 minute walk will take you to a plethora of sites that are perfect for bottom fishing. In these sites you can cast a line for rockfish and delicious ling cod. A day here is always well spent. If you need equipment, or advice from lines to lures the Crab Shack Store and the Sooke Marine Center are great options to make sure you have all the gear to have a successful day out!
As the weather gets warmer, Victoria becomes abuzz with activity! There might be many ways to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of BC’s capital city but fishing is the only one that has a (potential) edible reward at the end of it! Whether you’re staying right in the heart of downtown Victoria or a little farther away in Sidney, there are lots of great fishing areas nearby to do some shore fishing.
In the late summer months, Ten Mile Point is a great spot to try your luck! The rocky outcrops provide the perfect place to set up for the day. With strong currents and an ocean floor that drops away for hundreds of feet, Ten Mile Point provides an ideal spot to fish for chinook. If you hit those tides perfectly, you can even catch some bottom fish like feisty lingcods.
Right in the bustling neighbourhood of James Bay, you’ll find the popular Ogden Point Breakwater. The huge, concrete walkway is a great place to catch salmon, cod, geenling, flounder, perch and more! If you’re looking for a peaceful angling spot, it’s best to go here on cloudy days and during the week as it’s a very popular walking path that attracts lots of people!
If you’re looking for some freshwater fishing, Langford Lake, right in the heart of Langford is stocked full of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass that you can easily catch from the fishing dock found along the Ed Nixon Trail just off Leigh Road.
Sidney is a stunning, walkable seaside town that lives life at a slower pace. One of the most popular features of this little town is the beautiful waterfront trail that offers incredible views, beach access and access to the popular Sidney pier!
This popular lake is a great local option to find excellent shore fishing. There are several rest stops around the lake where you can find spots to cast a line to catch rainbow and coastal cutthroat trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, common carp or yellow perch.
In the heart of Sidney’s town centre you can find beautiful gardens, a stunning seashore, outdoor gallery and the famous Sidney Fishing Pier. This enormous pier that juts out above the water, makes a great platform for crabbing and fishing. Here you can catch pacific salmon, cod, sole, flounder, and so much more!
If you’re looking for the very best freshwater fishing on Vancouver Island, you’ve found it! Known for the incredible sizes and species of trout in this river, no matter where you choose to cast a line, you’re sure to get a photo-worthy catch! While the Cowichan River is open to fly fishing, and freshwater river fishing, the rules and regulations for this river change from time to time and they can be tricky to navigate. If you’d like to fish in the Cowichan River, you’ll want to do you research or hiring a guide to make sure you’re doing everything by the book so you can focus on just having an incredible time!
If you’re looking for great shore fishing in the heart of Nanaimo, this is the spot for you! While there are fish here during the winter, the main run will show up as early as April and peak in later summer, you can grab your gear and head down to the picturesque walkway and drop a line to catch pacific salmon, bull head, dog fish, Dungeness crab, perch, herring, cod and so so much more! For a full list and all the information check here!
While this fishing spot is one of the best for river fishing near Nanaimo, there are some strict rules about where you can and more importantly–where you can’t fish in Englishman River. There is no fishing below the lower falls all the way to Top Bridge and crossing at the end of Allsbrook Road from December to the end of May. But don’t let those restrictions stop you! You can still fish for most months of the year in this gorgeous river and you can start catching steelhead trout as early as January, cutthroat trout arrive in spring and stay to feed on the salmon hatchery in the fall which brings spawning pink, chinook, coho and chum salmon in good numbers, making Englishman River a teeming fishery for many months of the year! For more information about this location, click here!
This stocked lake is a great place if you’ve got kids you want to take fishing with tons of rainbow trout ready to bite! The fishing platform in Westwood Lake Park can get busy on the weekends so if you’re heading here, you might want to plan on showing up early, when the weather is cloudy or on a weekday and avoid other anglers!
If you’re looking for the best spot for fly fishing on Vancouver Island, you’ll want to pack up your gear and head up to Campbell River! This river offers year-round fly fishing opportunities and there are even some areas of the river that have been set aside for fly fishers only! Cast your line in the spring for rainbow trout, summer for pink salmon and steelhead or into the beaches and estuaries for feisty cutthroat! There’s no end to the incredible fly fishing experience you can have here – just make sure you keep your eyes peeled for hungry bears who also fish in this incredible river!
If you’re looking for the premier spot in Campbell River to cast a line from the shore, this is it! With incredible amenities like rod holders along the pier’s length, fishing chairs and even dip nets, this pier is one of the best fishing spots on Vancouver Island! This pier is Canada’s first saltwater fishing pier and it extends along Discovery Passage right near Fisherman’s Wharf in Campbell River. Just make sure that you bring or rent heavy duty gear – the currents are strong and the fish here can be huge! Even if you’re not planning to cast a line, this is a must see when you’re in the area as you can get incredible views of the Passage, spot breaching whales, sea lions and watch the boats navigate the rushing currents while you enjoy food and ice cream from the nearby stand.
Ok this pool is not exactly shore fishing but it needs an honourable mention for its popularity! There’s nowhere else you can find the perfect combination of modern sportfishing and classic fishing like Tyee Pool. Reserved for non-motorized boats only, this elite tidal fishery is great for challenging salmon fishing and can bring you close to enormous salmon (think 30+ lb) and you can spend hours with aspiring Tyee Club members trying to boat massive fish with heavy tackle and traditional lures. While the fishing here is not for the faint of heart, it is one of the most rewarding experiences for the avid angler!
Perched on the edge of beautiful Quadra Island, this scenic lighthouse looks out onto some of the area’s most popular – and populated – fishing grounds! Known for what the locals call “The Hump” this fishing spot has an underwater fish magnet making it a safe bet for finding salmon and even the occasional halibut!
Shore fishing is great, but if you want a serious crack at Vancouver Island fishing and you’re up for an adventure, you’re going to want to book a charter to take you out on the water! The waterways around Vancouver Island hold hotspots for incredible fishing whether you’re looking for salmon, deep water fish like halibut, crabs or even prawns! There are so many fishing charters to choose from so we’ve rounded up our favourites to make your choice easier!
6947 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC | 778-966-1436
Book salmon or halibut fishing charters as well as tours through Sooke’s pristine waterways to find steelhead and salmon!
1581 Dufour Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-704-9653
Owner and operator, Roy Carver has made a name for himself as a fun, experienced fishing guide and chef. Every guest is sent home with a few of Roy’s favourite recipes to help make your catch into a fabulous meal!
7062 Richview Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-532-9284
Tory Howe, owner, operator and fishing guide extraordinaire knows all the nooks and crannies of the ocean floor and is ready to help you catch a big one!
6971 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-208-9879
If you’re looking for creature comforts while out on the ocean, look no further. Their boats are outfitted with heated cabins and kitchenettes and offer experienced guides for a deluxe fishing experience.
4901 East Sooke Road, Victoria, BC | 250-883-9252
Looking for a laid-back, fun loving guide who knows the waters around East Sooke like the back of his hand? Good Time Dave’s is the charter you!
6947 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-642-4410
Whether you’re new to fishing or an avid angler, a small group or large, 30 year fishing veteran Elden Smith is ready to make sure you have a great time and catch some amazing fish!
475 Head St Unit 2, Victoria, BC | 250-658-1848
Located right in the Inner Harbour, this team of experienced fishermen offer guests 20 years of experience fishing off southern Vancouver Island and have everything they need to have a great day out!
453 Head St, Victoria, BC | 250-244-1821
No matter the season, Salmon Eye is ready for guests! With heated cabins and seats for five people under cover, experienced guides and top-of-the line equipment, booking with this charter is a great idea.
12 Erie St, Victoria, BC | 250-514-4070
No matter if you’re hoping to go deep water fishing for halibut, coasting in the ocean for salmon or exploring one of the island’s gorgeous rivers for steelhead, this fun, inclusive company makes fishing fun for every age and ability!
812 Wharf St, Victoria, BC | 250-370-2326
Specializing in salmon and halibut charters, this company has high performance vessels ready to take guests from Sooke to Oak Bay in search of the perfect catch!
1327 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC | 250-507-5500
Boasting one of the biggest, top performing charter vessels in the Victoria charter fleet, King Size adventures takes guests onto the Strait from Oak Bay to fish for halibut, salmon, lingcod, rockfish and Dungeness crab.
1104 Wharf St, Victoria, BC | 250-888-2277
With a reputation built on outstanding salmon and halibut fishing charters, owner and operator, Lewis Freeman offers guests memorable fishing trips off the coast of Victoria.
10441 Resthaven Dr, Sidney, BC | 250-920-6531
For something a little different than your average fishing charter, consider Sea King’s ‘Deadliest Catch’ fishing tour that includes prawning, crabbing and fishing for salmon and halibut all in an amazing 6-7 hour adventure!
9835 Seaport Pl, Sidney, BC | 604-306-2619
If you’re looking for a charter that offers flexible tours and year-round fishing in Sidney’s calm waters, Bon Chovy is a great charter option!
No matter where you stay or what your speed is, there is always lots of excellent fishing to be found all across the southern end of Vancouver Island!
5650 West Riverbottom Rd, Duncan, BC | 250-748-4776
If you want a full fishing experience in the Cowichan Valley, this is the place to go! Stay in a gorgeous fishing lodge on the banks of the Cowichan River, and let expert guides show you everything you need to know about fly fishing or spin fishing on the river as well as take you to local lakes for still water fishing!
7469 Hudgrove Rd, Lake Cowichan, BC | 250-701-3670
Whether you’re an expert who knows exactly what kind of fishing you’re looking for or a total novice who is looking for a fun, relaxing and educational day out, Kenzie’s customizable charters are the perfect place to start!
1956 Zorkin Rd, Nanaimo, BC | 250-667-6950
With over 2 decades of experience on the waters around Nanaimo, Captain Andrew Turkstra offers incredible and affordable tours and friendly, encouraging expertise–which is why he has so many happy customers!
1000 Stewart Ave, Nanaimo, BC | 250-667-8272
If you’re looking for a great easy to spend an afternoon in Nanaimo, you’ll want to book a fishing trip with Captain Michael Hill! With lots of experience and a friendly demeanour, he’ll take you out to all the great fishing spots and even clean your catch for you to take home!
1374 Island Highway, C Dock #19A, Campbell River, BC | 250-702-4515
Originally from Australia, Captain Dean Parsonage has fished all over the world – so when he says that Campbell River is the fishing capital of the world, he means it! Come and see what makes this area an angler’s heaven!
1374 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC | 250-895-3165
With decades of sportfishing experience, Captain Dan is ready to welcome you and your family aboard for a day of fun, sun and fishing!
We’re lucky here on the West Coast with Septembers that are usually mild and sunny. And while the leaves may have started to change, the harbinger of the fast-approaching fall, the weather is still warm and dry. This is the perfect time to get out there and explore, enjoy the late summer breeze and find a few lookout locations to admire the view from. There are so many hills, mountains and lookout areas on Vancouver Island which can make it difficult to find your favourites so we’ve made a short list of our go-to spots to take in the scenery and have a peaceful moment in Vancouver Island’s natural beauty.
If you’re looking for an easy lookout spot, Mt. Tolmie should be at the top of your list. Perfect for anyone staying in Victoria, this is a spectacular spot to find gorgeous 360 degree views of Victoria, the Saanich Inlet and beyond. The best part about Mt. Tolmie? You can drive right to the summit so you don’t have to worry about taking on a hike, unless you want to! To make the most of the views, from the parking lot, head to the railing and enjoy the sweeping southern views of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca and on a clear day, the Olympic range. On the other side, you’ll find a few steps up that takes you to an area where you can enjoy panoramic views of Mount Douglas, the Saanich Peninsula, the Saanich Inlet and beyond.
Tucked away in the picturesque neighbourhood of Oak Bay, you’ll find one of the city’s most stunning hidden gems. Anderson Hill Park features rocky outcrops, wildflowers and gnarled Gary oaks. Despite its size, this residential park has spectacular views. To the south you will see the Trial Island ecological reserve and have unobstructed views across McNeil Bay to the west.
At the edge of the water on Dallas Road, is the popular and beautiful Holland Point Park. This waterfront park is the perfect place for guests in downtown Victoria to stroll down and watch colourful kite surfers sail through the sky and sailboats skim over the sparkling ocean while the Olympic range shimmers in the distance.
At the top of the Peninsula, you’ll find the lovely Horth Hill Regional Park. With numerous trails that wind through lush plants and colourful wildflowers, Horth Hill is one of those late summer hikes that are worth the effort. As you climb to the summit of Horth Hill, you can enjoy the beautiful sun speckled trails and marvel at the huge Douglas firs. At the summit, take a break and enjoy the view of Satellite Channel, the Saanich Inlet and the Salish Sea.
To the south of Horth Hill you’ll find the lush, forested trails of John Dean Provincial Park, a great places to find incredible views. John Dean offers stunning panoramic views of the Saanich Inlet and the Salish Sea for anyone willing to brave the steep climb.
One of the newest attractions on Vancouver Island is the incredible Malahat SkyWalk. This stunning experience starts with a ten minute walk on a boardwalk through a beautiful arbutus forest leading to a gentle spiral ramp that takes you to the summit 32 metres (104 feet) up. At the summit, you’ll have unmatched panoramic views of Finlayson Arm, Saanich Peninsula, Mount Baker and the distant Coast Mountains. If you have the stomach for it, you can walk out onto the sturdy Adventure Net and look straight down to the ground below! Kids of all ages will love coming down from the tower on the 20 metre spiral slide or take a leisurely walk back down and enjoy the descent.
Another great lookout point for guests in the Cowichan Valley and a worthwhile drive for anyone staying in Victoria is the amazing Kinsol Trestle that draws thousands of visitors every year. As one of the only free-standing timber trestles in the world, the Kinsol trestle stands at an impressive 44 metres high and offers visitors an incredible view of the Koksilah River as it winds its way through the valley. Being among the tops of the fir trees at this historic site is something you won’t want to miss!
Linley Valley is one of the most popular hiking areas in Nanaimo to go and experience nature on the West Coast. This incredible park has a mix of wild meadows, hidden ponds and streams, lush forested areas and rocky outcrops, providing visitors a real sense of West Coast beauty all in one park. For spectacular, panoramic views of Nanaimo, Gabriola Island and the Strait of Georgia, the Peak Lookout is your best bet.
While a beach may be a surprising addition to a list of incredible views, guests staying at an EMR Parksville property will be thrilled to discover that Rathtrevor is no ordinary beach. With a tide that recedes almost a kilometre from the shoreline and stretches five kilometres, this beach is a truly unique experience. Here, you can look out at the Strait of Georgia, across to Sechelt and watch the clouds roll over the Sunshine Coast in the distance, see the weather roll in and enjoy some big sky watching.
This hike is as gorgeous as the view at the destination, Cruikshank Canyon should be your next outing. Starting at the trail access at Mt Washington, you’ll hike through immaculate sub-alpine terrain, past numerous crystal clear lakes, perfect for cooling off on a hot late summer day and lush alpine meadows strewn with wildflowers. At the summit you’ll find mind-blowing 180 degree views of the Comox Valley where you can watch the shadows of the clouds on the mountains as they move through the sky and hear nothing but the wind blowing through the valley. Friendly Whiskey Jacks will land on a steady, outstretched hand looking for seeds and other treats but be careful of the cliff edges, there are 100 foot drops that are as dangerous as they are awe-inspiring
Summers on Vancouver Island are something special. While we may not have soaring summertime temperatures, the beautiful blue skies and moderate weather of an Island summer allows you to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and creates the most stunning conditions for a perfect round of golf. If you’re an avid golfer, you know that a long day on the course in blistering heat can make the back nine even harder than it already is, which is why there really is no better place to enjoy a great summer day than on one of the beautiful courses on South Vancouver Island.
450 Creed Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 6C9
Just minutes from downtown Victoria, is Highland Pacific Golf, the perfect course for players looking for something that is both scenic and challenging. This championship golf course is playable all year round but really comes alive in the summer. This stunning course overlooks the beautiful Thetis Lake Park and has views that encompass the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the shadowy Olympic Mountains in the distance. Don’t have it in you to take on a round? Have a great afternoon in the driving range and take a break at the Range Cafe for lunch. They also have lessons for anyone looking to start golfing or improve their game.
5333 Cordova Bay Rd, Victoria, BC V8Y 2L3
In the beautiful neighbourhood of Cordova Bay, perfect for guests staying at one of the EMR vacation properties near Sidney, you’ll find Cordova Bay Golf Course. With its forward-thinking design elements and a constant adherence to best practices, this impressive and suitably challenging course is perfect for scratch players and beginners alike! At this fun-loving course with it’s self-described irreverent philosophy, you can feel good about enjoying yourself, taking it easy and hitting a few great shots. There’s no doubt, the summertime is the perfect season to get a round in on this thoughtfully designed course – after all, golf is a great excuse to get in a good walk!
1400 Derby Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 1T1
Travelling with a non golfer? The Cedar Hill Golf Course might be your next favourite course! Just north of downtown Victoria, this beautiful and challenging 18 hole course not only has everything you need for a great game but non-golfers have access to the charming, licenced clubhouse and a lovely wooded 3.5km chip trail around the perimeter which is perfect for a easy walk or light jog.
2291 Cedar Hill Cross Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 5H9
Nestled amongst beautiful trees, in the lovely burrough of Oak Bay you’ll find Henderson Park Golf Course. This little neighbourhood course is perfect for beginners or those who are in a group with mixed ability levels. Advanced players will find the course a fun way to practice their short game and beginners can enjoy learning the beautiful sport in a relaxing environment. At this lovely course you’ll find reasonable fees and tee times to ensure you get the most out of your game!
1999 Country Club Way, Victoria, BC V9B 6R3
Are you an avid golfer looking for a real challenge? Something unique, out-of-the-ordinary, something to write home about? Then you had better book an EMR rental in Langford, just minutes away from the luxurious Bear Mountain Golf & Country Club. Just outside Victoria in Vancouver Island’s new, award winning resort community is the awe-inspiring, 36 hole, Nicklaus designed, double course. You can choose between the rugged and challenging Mountain Course, the more serene Valley Course, or for the brave of heart, you can book all 36 holes, both courses for one epic day on the green. This club offers all their guests gold-standard service and ensures that a day here will be one of the best golf days of your life.
643 Latoria Rd, Victoria, BC V9C 3A3
If you’re staying in Metchosin, you’re in luck because the award winning Olympic View Golf Club is just a 15 minute drive away! No matter where you are staying though, this course is worth the trip. It has ranked in the top 50 Golf Courses in Canada by both the Golf Course Ranking and SCOREGolf Magazine as well as being rated amongst the Top 10 Best Public Golf Facilities in BC by SCOREGolf Magazine. It’s no wonder this course has picked up so many accolades as it boasts over 12 acres of pristine land stretching an impressive 330 yards with sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains. Plus, with extensive grass tee decks, five target greens and three versatile short game areas, no matter what your skill level is, you’ll have a great day at Olympic View. Looking for a great way to unwind after a round? The newly restored Table Nineteen is a spectacular location to sip a cocktail and enjoy some fresh, local dishes.
3515 Telegraph Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L4
Located in the beautiful seaside community of Cobble Hill in the Cowichan Valley is the popular and highly celebrated Arbutus Ridge Golf Club. This Bill Robinson designed, 18 hole course has hosted both provincial and national championships, has been given a prestigious four star rating by Golf Digest, named Best Destination Golf course in British Columbia by Golf Nerve Magazine and One of Canada’s Ten Best Courses for Your Money by WestJet Magazine, as well as achieving a Sustainability Award from Tourism Vancouver Island. This truly stunning course is situated amongst the unique serpentine Arbutus trees and offers breathtaking views of the waters of the Satellite Channel Ecological Reserve. Travel companion not interested in a round? No problem! Arbutus Ridge has a state-of-the-art, covered tennis facility that you can enjoy! With excellent instructors available if necessary, luxury locker rooms and extensive hours, everyone can enjoy a day at the club. Whether it’s after a great round or if you’re popping by for a special evening, the Satellite Bar & Grille offers a sensational ocean and mountain views and elevated casual cuisine inspired by locally sourced ingredients.
If you’re planning on making your way to more than one of these courses during your stay, Golf Central is a great way to make the most of your trip. Their dedicated team will provide you with preferred tee times, arrange green fees and transportation to and from your choses courses all in one easy payment. Included in their gold-star service are arrangements for power carts or rental clubs and tours of the clubhouse and facilities. Additionally, they confirm all reservations made so you don’t have to worry about anything but having a great time!
No matter where you are staying on southern Vancouver Island, there is the perfect golf experience waiting for you!
There’s a lot to do on south Vancouver Island during the spring but one of the best ways to spend a sunny day is fishing! Whether you decide to spend a slow, peaceful day fishing from the shore on one of the many spots in and around Southern Vancouver Island to drop a line or you can book a charter to head out on the ocean to do some deep fishing, get ready to have an amazing day followed by an amazing dinner! Just make sure you have a valid fishing licence! Both freshwater and saltwater licences are conveniently available to purchase online or at most sporting shops.
One of the earliest independent settlements in the Province, Sooke is a peaceful, historic town nestled amongst wild West Coast landscape. If you’re lucky enough to stay right in Sooke or in the beautiful neighbouring village of Metchosin, you’ll know how quickly you can fall in love with the beauty and tranquillity of this area. Sooke is the perfect spot for all outdoor adventures, especially fishing.
Just a twenty minute hike from the parking lot will take you to the bluffs where the ocean drops off sharply. Here the water runs deep and you can easily fish for Chinook Salmon, Coho, Sockeye and Pink Salmon. If cod and rockfish are more to your liking, a short 5 minute walk will take you to a plethora of sites that are perfect for bottom fishing. In these sites you can cast a line for rockfish and delicious ling cod. A day here is always well spent. If you need equipment, Crab Shack Store and the Sooke Marine Center are great options to make sure you have all the gear to have a successful day out!
As the weather gets warmer, Victoria becomes abuzz with activity. There are so many ways to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of BC’s capital city but fishing is the only one that has a (potential) edible reward at the end of it! Whether you’re staying right in the heart of downtown Victoria or a little farther away in Sidney, there are lots of great spots nearby to do some shore fishing.
In the summer months, Ten Mile Point is a great spot to try your luck! The rocky outcrops provide the perfect place to set up for the day. With strong currents and an ocean floor that drops away for hundreds of feet, Ten Mile Point provides an ideal spot to fish for Chinook. If you hit those tides perfectly, you can even catch some bottom fish like feisty lingcods.
Right in bustling neighbourhood of James Bay, you’ll find Ogden Point Breakwater. The huge, concrete walkway is a great place to catch salmon, cod, geenling, flounder, perch and more!
A secret local spot for excellent salmon fishing in Gordon Head, from mid August to late October around 4pm, you can see the water swarming with salmon ready to be caught!
If you’re looking for some freshwater fishing, Langford Lake, right in the heart of Langford is stocked full of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass that you can easily catch from the fishing dock found along the Ed Nixon Trail just off Leigh Road.
Sidney is a stunning, walkable seaside town that lives life at a slower pace. One of the most incredible draws is the portion of the Lochside trail that hugs Sidney’s waterfront.
This popular lake is a great local option to find excellent shore fishing. There are several rest stops around the lake where you can find spots to cast a line to catch rainbow and coastal cutthroat trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, common carp or yellow perch.
Here you will find beautiful gardens, a stunning seashore, outdoor gallery and the famous Sidney Fishing Pier. This enormous pier that juts out above the water, makes a great platform for crabbing and fishing. Here you can catch salmon, cod, sole, flounder, and so much more!
Shore fishing is great, but if you don’t have access to gear and you’re up for an adventure, you’re going to want to book a charter to take you out on the water. Out on the waterways around the southern end of the island you can find tons of great salmon fishing, deep water fishing for larger fish like halibut, crabbing and even prawning. There are so many fishing charters to choose from so we’ve rounded up our favourites to make your choice easier!
Book salmon or halibut fishing charters as well as tours through Sooke’s pristine waterways to find steelhead and salmon!
Owner and operator, Roy Carver has made a name for himself as a fun, experienced fishing guide and chef. Every guest is sent home with a few of Roy’s favourite recipes to help make your catch into a fabulous meal!
Tory Howe, owner, operator and fishing guide extraordinaire knows all the nooks and crannies of the ocean floor and is ready to help you catch a big one!
If you’re looking for creature comforts while out on the ocean, look no further. Their boats are outfitted with heated cabins and kitchenettes and offer experienced guides for a deluxe fishing experience.
Looking for a laid-back, fun loving guide who knows the waters around East Sooke like the back of his hand? Good Time Dave’s is the charter you!
Whether you’re new to fishing or an avid angler, a small group or large, 30 year fishing veteran Elden Smith is ready to make sure you have a great time and catch some amazing fish!
Located right in the Inner Harbour, this team of experienced fishermen offer guests 20 years of experience fishing off southern Vancouver Island and have everything they need to have a great day out!
No matter the season, Salmon Eye is ready for guests! With heated cabins and seats for five people under cover, experienced guides and top-of-the line equipment, booking with this charter is a great idea.
No matter if you’re hoping to go deep water fishing for halibut, coasting in the ocean for salmon or exploring one of the island’s gorgeous rivers for steelhead, this fun, inclusive company makes fishing fun for every age and ability!
Specializing in salmon and halibut charters, this company has high performance vessels ready to take guests from Sooke to Oak Bay in search of the perfect catch!
Boasting one of the biggest, top performing charter vessels in the Victoria charter fleet, King Size adventures takes guests onto the Strait from Oak Bay to fish for halibut, salmon, lingcod, rockfish and Dungeness crab.
With a reputation built on outstanding salmon and halibut fishing charters, owner and operator, Lewis Freeman offers guests memorable fishing trips off the coast of Victoria.
For something a little different than your average fishing charter, consider Sea King’s ‘Deadliest Catch’ fishing tour that includes prawning, crabbing and fishing for salmon and halibut all in an amazing 6-7 hour adventure!
If you’re looking for a charter that offers flexible tours and year-round fishing in Sidney’s calm waters, Bon Chovy is a great charter option!
No matter where you stay or what your speed is, there is always lots of excellent fishing to be found all across the southern end of Vancouver Island!
Traveling can be an exhilarating experience. Sometimes though, that sense of adventure can turn into feeling like a fish-out-of-water. You begin to miss your familiar haunts; the grocery store you know like the back of your hand, your hometown coffee shop where the barista knows you like your latte extra hot or the restaurant where you’ve found your favourite dish and your favourite server. We know. That’s why we’ve rounded up a list of the best restaurants in Sidney, British Columbia, Canada! From fine dining to local pubs, with these local favourites, you’re sure to feel right at home while you’re staying on the Saanich Peninsula!
One of the best ways to start feeling at home on Vancouver Island is to visit the local pub – and you’re in luck because our top three are right on the Sidney waterfront!
9881 Seaport Pl, Sidney, BC V8L 4X3
If you are looking for great food in a relaxing atmosphere with unparalleled views of the San Juan and Gulf Islands this pub is a must-visit. With two cozy fireplaces for those cold rainy days and a large patio to soak up the sun, a great list of local, Canadian beer on-tap, classic comfort pub food and incredible fresh seafood dishes (the coconut curry prawns are a must!), the Rumrunner Pub is a perfect place to start your Sidney introduction.
9851 Seaport Pl #1b, Sidney, BC BC V8L 4X3
Right next door, with great views of the Sidney Marina is the casual, contemporary Surly Mermaid. With impressive drink and food menus – you’ve gotta try the Pacific seafood chowder – and really friendly staff, this pub is sure to win your heart.
2537 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1Y3
For a different vantage point, check out the Beacon Landing Restaurant and Pub where you will find an inviting, laid-back atmosphere, all-day happy hour, delicious appetizers and great views of the Sidney Pier.
2215 Canoe Cove Rd, North Saanich, BC V8L 3X9
To the north of Sidney, tucked away in Canoe Cove is the quaint Stonehouse Restaurant and Pub. This classic, tudor style cottage pub combines old-world style charm with elevated pub staples as well as pizza and fresh, local seafood.
9812 Fifth St, Sidney, BC V8L 2X4
This classic British fare is a must when you visit the seaside and right in the heart of Sidney is the family owned and operated Fish on Fifth. For twenty years, this local favourite has been serving up the classic takeout combo as well as soups, salads, burgers, wraps, as well as gluten-free and vegan options!
10153 Resthaven Dr, Sidney, BC V8L 3G8
This charmingly chintzy, nautical eatery has a great patio for those sunny days and an extensive menu that isn’t relegated to just fish and chips! They serve up delicious chicken wings, popcorn shrimp and calamari as well! So if you’re in the mood for some local fast food, Fish O Chips is a great place to go!
2321 James White Blvd, Sidney, BC V8L 3Y2
When you’re looking for great pizza in Sidney, skip the old favourites at Panago Pizza and try something local! For twenty years, Mariner has been offering customers delicious, quality pizza made with fresh pizza dough, homemade sauce, and high quality toppings! Plus with so many flavour combos, it’s no wonder why this pizza spot has such a loyal customer base! So come and try one of their specialty pizzas or make your own but be sure to order the cinnamon sticks for dessert!
9681 Willingdon Rd, North Saanich, BC V8L 5V6
Calling all aviation fans! This aviation themed, friendly restaurant is the perfect place to find delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner menus and views of all of the take-offs and landings at Victoria International Airport.
2466 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1X8
Right in the heart of Sidney town center you’ll find this funky, local brunch hotspot offering everything from silky eggs benny to scrumptious deli sandwiches and burgers. It can get busy but they pride themselves on fast turnover times and impeccable service. Even on the busiest days, you won’t be disappointed – this place is worth the wait!
2305 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1W9
A favourite with families, this diner offers everything from the specialty waffles and smoothies to huge sandwiches and burgers made with locally baked bread and so much more! Try one of their famous milkshakes made with local ice cream and feel like a kid again!
2550 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1Y2
If you’re in the mood for a unique dining experience, take a stroll down the Sidney Pier to The Pier Bistro. This charming little diner right on the pier itself offers stunning views of the water and reliably delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
9535 Canora Rd, Sidney, BC V8L 1P3
Take a trip down memory lane at Mary’s Bleue Moon Cafe! Originally called Mary’s Coffee Bar this little spot opened in 1939 to serve the airport personnel and servicemen that were flying out during WWII. While Mary’s has changed since that time, the food and service has just grown better with age which is why it is still a favourite spot for locals and airport staff!
2395 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1W9
Consistently voted one of the best Indian restaurants on Vancouver Island, Fresh Tandoori Flavour serves up incredible, authentic East Indian food. From warm soft naan to spicy vindaloo and crowd pleasing butter chicken plus everything in between! If you’re looking for incredible Indian cuisine, this is the place to go!
101-9842 Resthaven Dr, Sidney, BC V8L 1Z6
This relaxed eatery serves up incredible Japanese dishes from noodles to classic sushi rolls and so much more!
2493 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1X9
When you’re craving some pad thai, there is only one place to go: Sabhai Thai in the heart of Sidney. Voted the best ethnic food in Sidney since they opened in 2006, Sabhai Thai has been impressing visitors with their incredible, authentic Thai dishes ever since!
2360 Beacon Ave #101, Sidney, BC V8L 1X3
When it comes to upscale small plates, specialty cheese and wine from all over the world The Farmer’s Daughter has cornered the market in Sidney. With cheese tasting boards, one of the most unique wine selections on Vancouver Island in a charming European-style bistro, this is the place to take a cheese lover for a special evening!
2320 Harbour Rd, Sidney, BC V8L 2P6
Nestled right in the heart of the Sidney marina is the, an easygoing but elegant restaurant that offers guests elevated comfort food, a sophisticated wine list and unparalleled views. No matter where you are staying, the fish tacos in a warm flour taco shell is worth the trip!
11190 Chalet Rd, North Saanich, BC V8L 5M1
On the other side of the Peninsula, tucked away on the shores of a calm cove, you’ll find Deep Cove Chalet. This perfectly situated restaurant will impress even the most scrupulous gourmand with French-inspired dishes, fresh, local seafood, impeccable service and breathtaking views.
Canadian winters are notoriously tough and while winter on Vancouver Island, Canada is more mild than the rest of the country, it can be drudgery. In British Columbia’s temperate rainforest, winters are cold and wet with a minimum of 1500 millimetres of rain falling per year – that’s rain with a capital ‘R’. With days are dark and looming clouds during the season, it can hamper even the toughest outdoor lover’s plans. If you’re a little tired of the coffee shop visits and endless rain walks and need something a little outside of the box, try visiting one of the many award-winning cideries on Vancouver Island! Take a day to tour the cideries, learn about cider making and try the incredible batches made from heritage apples!
8750 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 1H2 | 250-642-1956
To kick off our list of West Coast cideries, we’re starting at the southwest corner of Vancouver Island in Sooke. While technically not a cidery, this unique farm needed to be on this list! At Tugwell you can find many different types of mead, the ancient potable made from fermented honey, yeast and water. This beautiful farm is home to carefully tended beehives that are perfectly placed to allow the bees to forage the local wildflowers, producing the most flavourful honey. If you are searching for a unique experience and you’re staying at a lovely EMR rental in Metchosin or Sooke, Tugwell Farms is worth the trip!
2487 Mt St Michael Rd, Saanichton, BC V8M 1T7 | 250-544-4824
All the way on the other side of Vancouver Island, on the Saanich Peninsula close by all the gorgeous EMR rentals in Saanichton you’ll find one of the most well-known cideries on Vancouver Island. Boasting over 60 certified organic varietals of both cider and heritage apples, Sea Cider offers visitors a chance to both sample their large selection of award-winning ciders, explore the beautiful apple orchard and snack on carefully created dishes in the tasting room.
1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L0 | 250-743-4293
Just north of Victoria, in the Cowichan Valley, is the charming Merridale Cider. The large, inviting, barn-turned-restaurant and tasting room sits on the 20 acre farm & orchard in Cobble Hill. It’s a great place to kick back on a rainy day and sample some small batch dry ciders, especially if you’re staying close by at one of the many beautiful EMR rentals in the Cowichan Valley.
7661 Mays Rd, Duncan, BC V9L 6A8 | 250-510-1018
Heading north, just outside Duncan and only 20 minutes away from the EMR Cowichan Valley rentals is the hip Valley Cider. Bruce MicKinlay, the passionate owner and operator ensures that Valley Cider always creates excellent quality craft cider and that the super friendly, knowledgeable staff can answer all your questions. Make sure you leave with some cider to enjoy later – the label alone is worth purchasing a few!
4905 Darcy Rd, Courtenay, BC V9J 1R5 | 250-338-9765
In the beautiful town of Courtenay, just a hour north of Nanaimo you’ll find this cool cidery that not only produce traditional cider apples for their libations but a variety of fresh fruit like blueberries, blackberries and plums, grown right on the farm to produce some surprisingly delicious flavour combinations on-site!
2186 Endall Rd, Black Creek, BC V9J 1G8 | 250-337-8325
Just north of Raven’s Moon is the quirky-meets-classic farm, where they take their slogan take a break from the grape very seriously. You won’t find any traditional grape varietals here, instead, the folks at Coastal Black produce sensational, farm based fruit wines, mead, sparkling wine and port-style wine using local berries and fruit.
The Gulf Islands are home to some incredible cideries and while they are a little off the beaten track, they are absolutely worth a visit.
5601 Lupin Rd, Pender Island, BC V0N 2M1
First up on our Gulf Island cideries list is the artisanal Twin Island Cider on Pender Island. With varieties of apples and pear harvested from hundred-year-old trees, these avid and conscientious farmers are making excellent craft cider and perry that’ll delight your taste buds and make the trip to the Island worth it!
151 Sharp Rd, Salt Spring Island, BC V8K 2P6 | 250-931-5554
Hopping over to Salt Spring Island, you’ll find a quaint, rustic cider house run by a stone sculptor and a philosopher. This little cidery makes its popular libation as close to the traditional English version as possible from a combination of apples from the heritage apples from their orchard, local organic orchards, and wild apple trees in the area.
1240 Coats Dr, Gabriola, BC V0R 1X4 | 250-325-1111
This unique orchard is a popular u-pick site as well as a cidery and with over a thousand trees and over 25 varieties, Ravenskill has produced some exceptional, traditional, dry cider. For guests enjoying one of the lovely EMR rentals in Nanaimo, Parksville & Qualicum Beach or the Comox Valley it’s a short drive to Departure Bay where you can take a BC Ferry to Gabriola Island.
Winter in BC can feel very long but with so many cideries to visit, even the winter months can be full of new experiences. Just make sure to pick up a few bottles on your visit, local hand-crafted cider makes a great present and can be an excellent pairing to your favourite home-cooked meal – an excellent way to see it through the winter months!
