Looking for the best beaches on Salt Spring Island? Here’s a quick guide to the top 7 beaches loved by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re into swimming, exploring tidal pools, or enjoying stunning sunsets, these beaches offer something for everyone. Here’s a snapshot:
- Beddis Beach: White crushed-shell shoreline, tidal pools, and serene sunsets.
- Vesuvius Bay Beach: Warm waters, picnic spots, and the best sunset views.
- Fernwood Point Beach: Red wharf, sand-dollar beds, and marine life exploration.
- Churchill Road Beach: Quiet spot for sunrise views and morning walks.
- Jack Foster Beach: A hiker’s retreat with low-tide sandbars and wildlife sightings.
- Blackburn Lake: Freshwater swimming and birdwatching in a nature reserve.
- Mariner’s Loft: Convenient base for exploring beaches and local attractions.
Each beach has its own unique features, from calm swimming waters to rich ecosystems. Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, Salt Spring Island’s beaches promise relaxation and natural beauty. Keep reading for detailed highlights and tips for visiting these stunning spots.
Best Beaches on Salt Spring Island
1. Beddis Beach
Located at the end of Beddis Road, this beach is a favorite on Salt Spring Island, known for its stunning white crushed-shell shoreline. Both locals and visitors are drawn to its peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
Highlights:
- A shoreline of white crushed-shell sand, perfect for relaxing walks
- Shallow waters, great for swimming with kids or just wading in
- Tidal pools that appear during low tide, offering a chance to spot marine life
- Tranquil sunsets with soft pink and blue tones
Whether you’re looking to relax, explore, or take in the views, Beddis Beach offers plenty to enjoy throughout the day.
When to Go: Mornings are perfect for soaking up the sun, while evenings provide a serene backdrop for watching the sunset.
Tips for Visitors: Check out the tidal pools on the right side of the beach during low tide – they’re perfect for discovering the intertidal zone.
Getting There: Drive to the end of Beddis Road, where a small sign marks the beach access. While there’s no longer parking within the park, roadside parking is available nearby.
Beddis Beach is a shining example of what makes Salt Spring Island’s coastline so special. Its mix of natural beauty and calm waters makes it a cherished spot for both locals and visitors alike.
2. Vesuvius Bay Beach
Found near the Vesuvius ferry terminal, Vesuvius Bay Beach is known for its warmer waters, making it a great spot for swimming. Here’s what you can expect when visiting.
Beach Highlights:
- Community tables and chairs for gatherings
- Large driftwood benches perfect for enjoying sunsets
- Eye-catching rock formations
- Soft, light-colored sand
- A wide, spacious shoreline
Amenities & Nearby Services: The beach is equipped with picnic tables and a snack stand. In the nearby village of Vesuvius, you’ll find Seaside Grill, Salt Spring Wild Cider, Vesuvius Pizza, a small grocery store, and a local pub. Just a short 10-15 minute drive northwest of Ganges, additional services are also within easy reach.
Things to Know: Access to the beach is via stairs from the street level, and parking is limited. With mild temperatures ranging from 42°F to 50°F, it’s a comfortable spot to visit year-round. Many consider this beach the top destination for watching sunsets on Salt Spring Island.
3. Fernwood Point Beach
Fernwood Point Beach, located on Salt Spring Island’s northern coast, is known for its 400-foot bright red wharf.
What Makes It Special:
- A striking red wharf ideal for photos and breathtaking views
- Sandy and muddy flats revealed during low tide
- Unique sand-dollar beds
- Tidal pools teeming with marine life
- Excellent spot for birdwatching
- Perfect for beachcombing and marine exploration
The beach isn’t just about its scenic charm – it’s a hub for marine life. Wander along the rocky shores and tidal pools to discover sea anemones, chitons, and crabs .
When to Go: Summer low tides are the best time to visit, offering the chance to fully explore the beach’s natural features.
Nearby Stops: Need a break? The Hen and Hound brasserie, just across from Fernwood Dock, is a great place for a meal or drink after your beach day.
Wildlife Highlights: From shorebirds to marine creatures, the area’s rich ecosystem provides plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography.
This northern treasure blends stunning views with opportunities for exploration, making it a must-visit on Salt Spring Island.
4. Churchill Road Beach
Churchill Road Beach, also called Sea Star Point Beach, is a quiet getaway tucked at the end of Churchill Road. It’s a favorite among locals, especially those who enjoy peaceful mornings and stunning sunrises.
Features & Access
- Found at the end of Churchill Road
- Just a short walk from Hastings House
- Offers stunning sunrise views
- Calm and perfect for morning strolls
Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for a serene sunrise experience.
Pro Tip: Pick up a coffee from Hastings House to enjoy while soaking in the calm atmosphere.
This spot combines easy access with natural beauty, making it the perfect start to a day on Salt Spring Island.
5. Jack Foster Beach
If you’re up for an adventure, Jack Foster Beach offers a scenic hike leading to a peaceful coastal escape.
This spot treats visitors to sweeping views of the coastline and a chance to experience the island’s natural beauty.
Location & Access
Start your journey at the trailhead on Sunset Drive and Southey Point Road. The hike takes about 45 minutes through a forest trail and concludes with a steep staircase leading down to the beach.
Beach Features
From the beach, you’ll enjoy views of the Trincomali Channel and Wallace Island. Keep an eye out for whales, seals, and seabirds. During low tide, sandy areas, seashells, and sandbars emerge, adding to the charm.
Best Times to Visit
- Low Tide: Perfect for exploring the sandbar, swimming, or paddling.
- Late Afternoon: Offers soft, golden lighting along the coast.
Important Tips
- Watch the Tides: Check local tide charts before heading out, as the beach is accessible only during low tide.
- Alternate Route: For a different path, head southeast along the beach and turn right at the trail’s end to find a route to North End Road.
Jack Foster Beach is perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and photographers looking for a peaceful retreat with incredible views.
6. Blackburn Lake
Blackburn Lake offers a peaceful inland getaway, far from the ocean’s edge. This 3-4 hectare freshwater lake is surrounded by an 18.4-hectare nature reserve, making it a haven for wildlife and nature enthusiasts.
Swimming Access & Facilities
You can access the public swimming area off Fulford-Ganges Road, just north of Horel Road. A wooden dock serves as the main spot for swimming, often buzzing with activity on warm days.
Highlights of the Nature Reserve
The reserve is packed with features that make it worth exploring:
- Wildlife Viewing: Spot over 100 bird species, including waterfowl, herons, and ground-nesting birds.
- Walking Trails: Enjoy mowed paths with benches where you can take a break and soak in the scenery.
- Educational Center: Operated by the Salt Spring Island Conservancy, this center hosts public education events and meetings.
Best Times to Visit
Spring is a standout season here, with daisies carpeting the meadows. If you’re into bird watching or prefer a quieter swim, aim for early mornings before the dock fills up.
Handy Tips
- Bring Binoculars: Perfect for bird watching.
- Leave Dogs at Home: Dogs are not allowed in the nature reserve.
- Watershed Note: Blackburn Lake supplies over 70% of Cusheon Lake’s water flow.
A Lesser-Known Spot
At the southern end of the reserve, you’ll find the Salt Spring Yoga Center. A wooded trail leads to the Pond Dome and a peaceful meditation garden. This quiet corner is ideal for anyone looking to unwind and reflect.
7. Mariner’s Loft: Beach Access Base
Mariner’s Loft is your go-to spot for easy access to Salt Spring Island’s beaches and local attractions. Nestled in the heart of Ganges and overlooking Ganges Harbour, this rental puts you within walking distance of beaches, parks, restaurants, and shops. Its central location means less time spent traveling and more time enjoying the island.
The property features seven 2- and 3-bedroom condos, perfect for groups or families of up to six. Each condo is designed for comfort and convenience, offering:
- Spacious living areas with fully equipped kitchens
- Private balconies or patios for relaxation
- In-suite washer/dryer units
- Plenty of storage space
Additional perks include rainwater showers, soaker tubs, on-site parking for your water sports gear, and pet-friendly options (for $35 per pet, per night).
Stay here to make the most of your beach adventures and explore everything Salt Spring Island has to offer.
Conclusion
Salt Spring Island’s beaches offer a mix of sandy shores and rocky tidal pools filled with marine life. To fully enjoy and help preserve these special spots, keep a few key tips in mind. Before heading out, check for parking availability and beach access, as some areas can be limited. Also, consult tide schedules and swimming advisories to plan your visit safely and effectively.
Stick to the "Pack In, Pack Out" rule – bring a trash bag to carry out all your waste. Opt for reusable or aluminum containers instead of glass, and always observe marine life from a safe distance. A good motto to remember: "Leave only bubbles!".
To protect these fragile ecosystems, use reef-safe sunscreen and stay on sandy areas to avoid harming coral and sea grass beds. Be extra careful when exploring tidal pools, especially around delicate creatures like sand dollars.
If you’re planning an overnight stay, book accommodations well in advance, especially during busy seasons. Campsites and rental properties can fill up quickly. For those arriving by ferry, reservations are a must, particularly on weekends.
Salt Spring Island’s beaches are more than just beautiful – they’re essential habitats and cherished community spaces. By respecting local guidelines and caring for the environment, you can help keep these coastal gems thriving for future generations. In return, you’ll enjoy unforgettable adventures, peaceful relaxation, and the island’s stunning natural beauty.