NAUTICAL ADVENTURES: EXPLORING THE BEAUTY OF SIDNEY, BRITISH COLUMBIA
By Linda Kissam “Food, Wine & Shopping Diva”
Nestled along the stunning southern coast of Vancouver Island, Sidney, British Columbia, is a beautiful, walkable small seaside town that beckons adventurers and nature lovers alike. Exploring this picturesque town by private boat offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to experience its breathtaking landscapes, shopping, dining, tranquil waters, and vibrant marine life up close.
ON BIG BLEND RADIO: From waterfront walks and cultural gems to bakeries, bookstores, and boating life, discover the charm of Sidney, British Columbia, with travel writer Linda Kissam. Watch here in the YouTube player or download the episode on Podbean.
As you dock at Port Sidney, the charm of Sidney unfolds before you—from the quaint harbor lined with charming shops and eateries to the lush greenery of nearby islands waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, a boat trip to Sidney promises unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to Sidney’s natural beauty. It offers a delightful mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and charming local attractions.
Here are some of the top attractions to visit:
Sidney Spit: Part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, this stunning group of islands is perfect for hiking, kayaking, and wildlife watching. The pristine beaches and diverse ecosystems make it a fantastic spot for nature enthusiasts. This very popular oasis is 20 minutes from the Town of Sidney on a seasonal foot passenger ferry.
Beacon Avenue: This vibrant street is the heart of Sidney, lined with boutique shops, a large supermarket, cafes, and art galleries. Stroll along to enjoy local crafts, delicious meals, and unique finds. You’ll find one of the best bakeries in BC here. The donuts are drool-worthy. Sidney Bakery has been moving its buns and other treats for over 108 years.
Sidney Pier: Take a leisurely walk along the pier to enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby mountains. It’s an excellent spot for people watching, photography, and walking your dog. Buy some fresh fish or enjoy the waterfront café.
The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea: This fascinating aquarium and marine education center showcases the rich marine life of the Salish Sea. Interactive exhibits and informative displays make it a great visit for families and curious minds. Kids love this place.
Sidney’s Book Town: Known for its many bookstores, Sidney is often referred to as “Book Town.” Explore shops offering new and used books, perfect for book lovers looking to find rare titles.
Lochside Regional Trail: This scenic trail runs along the waterfront, offering opportunities for walking, biking, or jogging while enjoying stunning views of the ocean and islands. The Lochside Regional Trail is an 18-mile trail that runs from the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. The trail is a popular route both for commuting and recreation. It is frequented by people walking, running, cycling, skateboarding, and riding horses. The trail was created in 2001. You can easily pick it up in Sidney.
Victoria Distillers: Located near the Marina and town, this craft distillery specializes in artisanal spirits. Schedule a tour or tasting to learn about the distillation process and sample their unique offerings.
One of my favorite things about Sidney is its proximity to Victoria and Butchart Gardens. BC Transit offers bus services from Victoria to Sidney and to the Gardens. The route includes Bus Line 72, which travels approximately 17 miles and takes about 60 minutes to Sidney. The price for a single ride is about CA $4. The cheapest way to get from Sidney to Butchart Gardens is by line 81 bus, which costs about CA $3 and takes 41 minutes. Catch either bus at the top of Beacon Street. Clean, efficient, and a great way to see the towns and scenery surrounding both attractions.
These attractions showcase the charm and beauty of Sidney, making it a wonderful destination for visitors exploring Vancouver Island by private boat. My husband and I generally visit Sidney on our 52’ Ocean Alexander 2-3 times on our summer vacation cruising. Port Sidney has some of the highest docking fees in Canada, but the marina is well maintained, very popular, and walkable to everything. Certainly a “Diva Approved” destination.
Linda Kissam ‘Food, Wine & Shopping Diva’ is a professional travel, food, and wine writer based out of Arizona and the Pacific Northwest, who specializes in easy, breezy destination stories sharing her favorite things about the places she visits. Visit www.AllInGoodTaste.info.
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