Top 19 Things To Do In Sooke, Canada

Sidharth
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 7 min read
Things to do in Sooke Canada

Situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Sooke is a unique, oceanside village that is a perfect escape from the hustles of city life. As home to scenic regional parks, astonishing coastal drives, and fascinating museums, Sooke attracts visitors both locally and from all over the world. It also helps that the village also features amazing Vrbo vacation rentals as well as Vrbo waterfront rentals to accommodate travellers. The village’s proximity to the wilderness of southern Vancouver and idyllic beaches has increased its popularity as a base to do outdoor activities such as off-roading, backcountry recreation, quad biking, mountain biking, and hiking. Check out this list of the best things to do in Sooke, Canada.

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1. Enjoy the views at the Sooke Basin

Sooke Basin, British Columbia, Canada 03
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michal Klajban used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Sooke Basin is a captivating destination that showcases the best of British Columbia’s coastal beauty. With its rugged coastline, tranquil waters, and lush surroundings, it offers a perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. Whether you’re kayaking on the calm basin, casting a line for salmon, or hiking through the nearby rainforests, Sooke Basin immerses you in breathtaking scenery and wildlife encounters.

Add to that the charm of the nearby town of Sooke and the proximity to Victoria, and you have a truly delightful getaway that combines natural wonders with coastal community charm.

Enjoy the views at the Sooke Basin

Address: 5957 Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0C3, Canada

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

Price: Free

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2. Dine at West Coast Grill

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

When visiting Sooke, a must-try diner is West Coast Grill. This restaurant offers a delightful culinary journey inspired by the flavours of the West Coast. The menu showcases a variety of locally sourced ingredients, including fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and regional specialities. From delectable seafood dishes to succulent steaks and creative vegetarian options, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The cosy and inviting atmosphere, paired with friendly service, creates a memorable dining experience.

Dine at West Coast Grill

Address: 6929 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1, Canada

Website: West Coast Grill

Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)

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3. Have fun at Sooke Whale Watching along the West Coast

Winds are calming down tomorrow - Monday and we still have space on our 10 am departure for our 3 hour whale watching marine Adventure! www.SookeWhaleWatching.com Call (250) 642-2343 to book now!

Posted by Sooke Coastal Explorations on Sunday, 23 June 2019

Get aboard on an ocean wildlife tour along the West Coast with a whale watching eco-friendly company to experience the magic of visiting the gentle giants in their habitats. Species of Orca whales are sighted all through the year, while the season of humpback whales is from March to November with occasional sightings of seals, sea lions, Minke whales, Grey whales and white-sided dolphins. The safe vessel that you will travel on will include a personal floatation suit and all the safety outfits for your adventure.

Sooke Whale Watching

Address: 1581 Dufour Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0T6, Canada

Website: Sooke Whale Watching

Opening hours: 8am - 9pm (daily)

Price: 70 - 90 USD

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4. Hike through a section of the Juan de Fuca Trail

Flat section close to Sombrio Point, Juan de Fuca Trail, Vancouver Island, Canada 13
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Michal Klajban used under CC BY-SA 4.0

With panoramic views of the coastline, the Olympic Mountains and the Juan de Fuca Strait, this wilderness trail runs along the southwestern coast of Vancouver Island stretching from China beach. The trail offers opportunities to soak up the spectacular landscapes, wildlife and the roaring surf along the Pacific coastline. Although the complete hike takes three to four days, there are some easy day hikes from trailhead locations along the trail that are accessible by a vehicle.

Juan de Fuca Trail

Address: Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, British Columbia

Website: Juan de Fuca Trail

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

Price: Free

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5. Stroll across the beautiful stretch of Whiffen Spit Park


Stretching out from the main Sooke road into the mouth of the Sooke harbour, the Whiffen Spit Park is the perfect spot to unwind and spend a relaxing afternoon in the region. As part of Quimper Park, the park is frequented by dog walkers, nature lovers and bird watchers. The stretch for a stroll starts from the end of the parking lot and ends with a light and marine station with many benches and viewpoints along the trail.

Whiffen Spit Park

Address: CAPITAL, SUBD. C, BC V9Z 0T4, Canada

Website: Whiffen Spit Park

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

Price: Free

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6. Gorge onto some local cuisines at Sooke Harbour House


With a menu that changes daily, Sooke Harbour House serves some of the best local, organic and seasonal fare in the region. The upscale restaurant maintains a strong relationship with the foragers, farmers and fishers and prides on serving fresh quality food. The restaurant features a garden, and a sea view and presents the finest dishes prepared by a passionate team of chefs to deliver you the ultimate dining experience in Sooke.

Sooke Harbour House

Address: 1528 Whiffen Spit Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 0T4, Canada

Website: Sooke Harbour House

Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)

Price: 10 - 30 USD

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7. Quench your adrenaline rush at Adrena LINE Zipline Park


This family adventure park features zip line adventures, canopy rides, hiking opportunities, and speed boat rides that provide outdoor adventures for all ages. A visit to the adventure park also offers insight into the flora, the fauna and the history of the natural surroundings of Southern Vancouver. The trained guides of the park ensure that you enjoy a safe, comfortable and thrilling experience that will get your adrenaline flowing.

Adrena LINE Zipline Park

Address: 5128C Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0E2, Canada

Website: Adrena LINE Zipline Park

Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily)

Price: 70 - 85 USD

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8. Bike through the Galloping Goose Trail

Galloping Goose Trail - a restored train station near the Sooke Potholes
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Smably used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Galloping Goose Trail is a 55-km (34 miles) rail trail that forms a part of the Trans-Candian Trail and is popular for recreational activities such as running, cycling, skating and riding horses. Named after the passenger train that ran from Sooke to Victoria, the trail includes biking routes of easy, moderate and adventurous type difficulties. The trail runs through varied landscapes ranging from urban settings to forests, beaches and lakes. You can make your trip to Sooke a nature retreat by choos to stay in one of the best cabin rentals and soaking in the beauty of this harbour town through outdoorsy activities.

Galloping Goose Trail

Address: Galloping Goose Trail, British Columbia

Website: Galloping Goose Trail

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

Price: Free

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9. Wander around the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

things to do in sooke canada | wander around the sooke potholes provincial park
Source: instagram

Situated adjacent to the Sooke Potholes Regional Park, this park stretches along the Sooke river with unique formations of rocks that were formed millions of years ago. The Park comprises of plenty of trails and viewpoints and river areas that showcase the natural splendour of the region. Some of the trails in the park are steep and caution should be exercised before walking on the rocks near the river as they can be slippery.

Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Address: Sooke River Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0Y1, Canada

Website: Sooke Potholes Provincial Park

Opening hours: 6.30am - 10pm (daily)

Price: Free

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10. Explore the heritage of the region at Sooke Region Museum


The Sooke Region Museum houses information on the region’s human and natural history and hosts thousands of visitors each year. The Museum features outdoor exhibits, a lighthouse, a gift shop and several tours. The museum includes archives of documents and photographs that explore the heritage of the region and also hosts the largest juried art show in Vancouver.

Sooke Region Museum

Address: 2070 Phillips Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0Y3, Canada

Website: Sooke Region Museum

Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 9am - 5pm (closed on Mon)

Price: Free

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11. Sunbathe in the majestic Mystic Beach


Mystic Beach is the starting point to the Juan De Fuca trail and offers some of the best ocean scenery that the region has to offer. Mystic Beach features a small waterfall and is the best bet to soak up some rays and unwind in Southwestern coast of Vancouver. Note that the area is bear and cougar country and necessary precautions should be taken while visiting.

Mystic Beach

Address: Mystic Beach, British Columbia

Website: Mystic Beach

Opening hours: 12am - 12pm (daily)

Price: Free

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12. Go rain forest hiking at the East Sooke Regional Park

With one of the best day hikes in Canada, the East Sooke Regional Park and wildernesses is that part of Sooke’s tourism thoroughly enjoyed by those that enjoy hiking. The natural beauty of the park includes windswept rocky coast, hilltops, thick forests, jagged bluffs and sheltered coves. The Park is also a great spot to sight the annual hawk migration and is ideal for picnics with your families and friends.

East Sooke Regional Park

Address: 6807 East Sooke Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 1A7, Canada

Website: East Sooke Regional Park

Price: Free

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13. Treat yourself at the Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery


Tugwell Creek Honey Farm and Meadery is the place to head to in Sooke if you are looking for self-guided tours and tasting mead, the oldest known alcoholic beverage. Mead is handcrafted here from their own wildflower honey that is harvested from carefully tended beehives. A visit to the Tugwell Creek Honey Farm and Meadery will let you understand the art of fermenting the honey wine, Mead, its fascinating history and the secret lives of bees and their hive’s inner workings.

Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery

Address: 8750 West Coast Road Sooke, BC V9Z 1H2

Website: Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery

Opening hours: Wed - Sun: 12am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)

Price: 2 - 10 USD

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14. Shop for gourmet goodies at the Sooke Country Market

Want to go shopping in Sooke? Head to Sooke Country Market houses, the region’s local producers and growers and sell their locally grown vegetables, fruits, jams, crafts, and jewellery. The market is open between May and October and is open all Saturdays between 10 am and 2 pm. The market also features performances of local artists that are approved by the market board.

Sooke Country Market

Address: Sooke, BC V9Z 0H2, Canada

Website: Sooke Country Market

Opening hours: Sat: 10am - 2pm

Price: Free entry

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15. Relish a game of golf at the John Phillips Memorial Golf Course


With scenic open ocean views and a nine-hole course, a game of golf at this course is well worth the drive from Sooke. Named after a games keeper, the John Philips Memorial Golf Course also features a bar and grill spot to share the post-game fun with your friends. The golf course offers easy access to other attractions such as East Sooke Park, China Beach, and the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail.

John Phillips Memorial Golf Course

Address: 2197 Otter Point Road PO Box 369 , Sooke, British Columbia

Website: John Phillips Memorial Golf Course

Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)

Price: 17.50 - 30 USD

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16. Go scuba diving at Race Rocks Ecological Reserve

Established in 1978 as a marine science project, the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, one of the top attractions in Sooke, is designated to protect the Strait of Juan de Fuca region’s natural features, wildlife, and ecosystems. The region is home to diverse colourful marine life owing to the high tidal current area and has excellent visibility for scuba diving. The reserve is also an ideal spot for many migratory birds, cormorants, gulls, and pigeon guillemots.

Race Rocks Ecological Reserve

Address: 3945 Quadra St, ​Victoria, BC V8X 1J5

Website: Race Rocks Ecological Reserve

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17. Go for off-road adventures in Bear Creek and Diversion reservoirs


The passes in the reservoirs of Bear Creek and diversion are well suited for going off-road adventures with your motorbikes, ATVs, and well equipped 4 x 4s. You can also choose to camp near the reservoir in a designated spot that can be used for parking or as a midway point. The drivers are advised against two-wheeler rides due to landslides and washouts that occur in the area.

Bear Creek and Diversion reservoirs

Address: 6971 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1, Canada

Price: 10 - 75 USD

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18. Treat your eyes to a beautiful sunset at Possession Point


Located next to the Ironmine Bay, Possession Point is not only a great dive spot but is also perfectly elevated to offer magnificent views of the sunset. With an up and coming residential area, the spot is where the locals flock to catch breathtaking views of the Vancouver sun setting. The Possession Point can be reached from the Whiffin Spit Park, which is a four-minute walk away, and the Deerlepe Park, which is a five-minute walk away.

Possession Point

Address: Sooke, BC V9Z 0T6, British Columbia, Canada

Price: Free

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19. Embark on a salmon fishing tour

things to do in sooke canada | embark on a salmon fishing tour
Source: www.viator.com

This tour lets you experience world-class sport fishing in Sooke with top of the line fishing equipment. The small group tour comprises a maximum of four participants and runs for five hours, with personalized attention from a knowledgeable guide. You will get to visit salmon fishing grounds off Vancouver Island and get to bring back fresh-catch of the day that is ready to be cooked.

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Experience Sooke

If you find yourself wondering what to do in Sooke, there is no dearth of options - from hiking in regional parks to soaking up stunning views of the sunsets at idyllic beaches. The best part is, that in addition to all the amazing activities, Sooke also offer luxurious Airbnbs with hot tub and other facilities to make your stay even better.

So, take your pick from the above list and explore the wilderness, culture and history of this quaint harbour town.

Frequently asked questions about things to do in Sooke, Canada


  • What are the most popular things to do in Sooke with kids?

    Sooke offers several popular activities for families with kids. One exciting adventure is whale watching along the West Coast. Kids will be thrilled to see whales breaching and dolphins playing in the ocean. Another delightful experience is trying local cuisines at Sooke Harbour House, known for its farm-to-table dining. Exploring the Sooke Potholes Provincial Park is also a must-do activity.

  • What are some free things to do in Sooke?

    There are several free activities to enjoy in Sooke. You can start by embarking on a hike through a portion of the Juan de Fuca Trail. Another free option is to take a stroll across the Whiffen Spit Park, a stunning stretch of land. If you’re an avid cyclist, explore the Galloping Goose Trail, a popular biking route.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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When Sidharth is not traveling or writing, he can be found honing his Spanish, indulging in Netflix binges, reading, swimming in the ocean, or simply daydreaming in a hammock.

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