Destination Get to Know the Sooke Area!
Welcome to the best kept secret on Vancouver Island. Sooke is wild by nature and no matter where you look you're sure to see something absolutely breathtaking. Where the ocean meets the skyline, where the rainforest meets the shore, take a deep breath and take it all in. The wildlife viewing opportunities are priceless. In our region, more than two hundred and twenty bird species are sighted every year. Orcas, otters, seals, bears, and many more wild animals call our coast home.
Hikers from all across Canada come to Vancouver Island for trails they know they can't find anywhere else. We have the world renowned West Coast Trail, a seventy-kilometer trail built back in 1907 to rescue survivors of shipwrecks along the coast. If you're looking for something a little shorter, or less challenging, don't worry! Sooke has many outdoor adventure options for all skill levels and interests.
Wherever your adventures take you, be sure to share your pictures on social media using the hashtags #wildbynature and #PrestigeAdventures
*click on the headings below to learn more
HOW TO GET HERE
Sooke is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, you can get here by ferry, plane, or car. It is a 48 minute drive from Victoria International Airport to Sooke. Driving from the mainland? Check the road conditions at DriveBC, the ferry schedule can be accessed here.
THINGS TO DO
Immerse yourself in the rich island culture and breathtaking environment as we invite you to celebrate with us. Sooke takes great pride in its vibrant festival scene, from the lively Tall Trees Festival to the toe-tapping Bluegrass Festival, not to mention the array of inspiring Art festivals - there's always something to ignite your excitement! Amidst the festivities, we also cherish the value of appreciation. Embrace the true essence of Sooke by venturing out on a kayak or canoe, immersing yourself in the local perspective and experiencing the beauty through the eyes of a true local.
FISHING
With both salt water and fresh water options, Sooke is an angler's paradise. The Juan de Fuca Strait has some of the best saltwater fishing you'll find. Not only is the Salmon plentiful, but there is excellent bottom fishing, and Sooke Harbour is home to many Dungeness crabs! Flyfishers rejoice, the freshwater fishing opportunities are excellent! Many lakes and rivers are easily accessible from town, if you have a four-wheel-drive head up a logging road into the hills for some trout fishing, or check out some plane tours up to glacial lakes.
HIKING
Trek along the beach, lose yourself in the rainforest, reach new heights, or do all three in one hike! Step into the wilderness of the West Coast and feel like you've been transported to another world. Check out the Sooke Potholes, a unique geological formation of deep pools in the river rock. Visit Avatar Grove and witness the majestic giant old-growth red cedar and Douglas fir within the traditional territory of the Pacheedaht First Nation. Get fascinated with the marine flora and fauna at Botanical Beach Provincial Park.
WHALE WATCHING
Have a once-in-a-lifetime experience and head out on the water for a whale-watching tour. See Orcas, Humpback whales, and Pacific grey whales in their natural habitat. We're fortunate at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort Sooke to have a whale-watching company located right next door! Adventures by HIP offers a variety of tours for all ages and is only a short two-minute walk from the resort.
ARTS & CULTURE
The Island attracts all sorts of artists, crafters, makers, and creators. There are many local galleries and studios sprinkled throughout Sooke. The Sooke Fine Arts Show is a showcase for local artists; it is Vancouver Island's longest-running juried fine art show.
FOOD & DRINK
Obviously, our favorite restaurant in town is West Coast Grill located at the Prestige Oceanfront Resort Sooke, but if you've already visited them and want to try out another great local eatery, Sooke has many charming and authentic options.
EVENTS
Find out what's happening in Sooke in one convenient place!
SHOPPING
Witness the flourishing local shopping scene in Sooke as the town expands its offerings to cater to your needs. Should you ever require more options, the vibrant city of Victoria is just a short 48-minute drive away, ready to delight you with its abundant shopping opportunities.
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