Discover Hidden Gems throughout all of Sooke, BC!
When people think of Sooke, BC, they usually picture crashing waves along Whiffin Spit, the long drive down Highway 14, or maybe a day trip to East Sooke Park. But if you live here, or spend any real time exploring, you know there’s way more to Sooke than meets the eye. This town has a quiet charm, a little wild streak, and a whole bunch of places you’d never find unless a local pointed them out. So consider this your local’s guide, from me to you on the hidden gems of Sooke, BC.
The Secret Beach at Ella Road
Let’s kick things off with one of my personal favourites. If you head down Ella Road (just off Whiffin Spit Road), and follow it all the way to the end, you’ll find a small path tucked between the houses. It doesn’t look like much but follow it. It opens up to a tiny, quiet beach with a gorgeous view of the Olympic Mountains. It’s rarely busy, and it’s the kind of place you can sip your coffee, skip some stones, and just breathe. I take friends here when I want to show them what “real Sooke” looks like.
The Ed Macgregor Park Boardwalk
Right in the heart of Sooke, near the town centre, there’s a beautifully maintained park with gardens, picnic tables, and a wooden boardwalk that takes you down through the trees to the water. Most folks don’t realize it’s there, they drive past the sign without a second thought. But once you’ve walked that trail and seen the view at the end, you’ll never forget it. Bonus: there’s usually a heron or two hanging out on the rocks.
Sooke Heritage Shield Signs
Ever since the 1980s, the Sooke Region Historical Society has been putting up those distinctive heritage shield signs you might spot around town. I’ve always loved how they quietly tell the stories of Sooke’s past but like anything exposed to the elements, some of them have seen better days. The good news is, there’s a plan in the works to update and replace them. These signs were originally inspired by BC’s 1958 Centennial “Stop of Interest” program, you might remember those classic roadside markers that popped up all over the province, sharing bits of history about local people, places, and events. Between 1958 and 2008, over 130 of those were installed.
Sheringham Point Lighthouse
This one’s a bit more well-known, but still underappreciated. The Sheringham Point Lighthouse sits just past Shirley (about 20 minutes west of Sooke), and it’s easily one of the most scenic coastal views on the island. You walk through a short forest trail, and then bam there it is, standing tall over rugged cliffs and endless Pacific blue. The lighthouse has been lovingly restored and maintained, and the area is peaceful, raw, and absolutely worth the detour.
The Sooke Potholes (Beyond the Crowds)
Yes, the Sooke Potholes are well-known, especially in summer. But here’s a tip: don’t stop at the first or second parking lot. Keep going all the way to the end of the park road. Park there and walk just a bit further down the Galloping Goose Trail. You’ll find quieter swimming holes, less foot traffic, and spots where the river feels like your own private retreat. I grew up here and I’m still finding new pockets of beauty along this stretch of the Sooke River.
Abandoned Deertrail Resort
Tucked above the Sooke Potholes, the remains of the old Deertrail Resort are one of those curious hidden spots locals whisper about. It was meant to be a luxury wilderness escape back in the 1980s, but the dream was never finished and now it’s just concrete ruins slowly being reclaimed by the forest. It’s a strange, peaceful place to stumble upon while hiking, and a reminder of how nature always takes back what we leave behind.
A Hidden Gallery on Gillespie Road
There’s a tiny home-turned-art-gallery tucked away along Gillespie Road, run by a local painter and potter. They don’t advertise much, word of mouth is how most people find them. But if you’re ever exploring East Sooke or heading toward the Aylard Farm trailhead, keep your eyes open. You might just find a handmade mug or painting that speaks to you. This is Sooke at its best: local, creative, and off the beaten path.
Secret Surf Spots in Jordan River
Jordan River is technically outside Sooke, but close enough to count. There are a few surfable breaks here, but if you hike in just a little ways from the main point, you’ll find smaller coves and rock shelves where you can sit, watch the waves roll in, and feel like you’re the only person for miles. Even if you don’t surf, bring a blanket and a thermos, this is where I go to reset my brain after a long week.
Otter Point Park and Lookout
Otter Point Park is one of those quiet coastal spots in Sooke that locals love. Tucked just off West Coast Road, it offers rocky shoreline views, a bench, and a lone picnic table that's perfect for a peaceful break. From the point, you can see Sheringham Point Lighthouse in the distance to the west. There’s even a petroglyph here, adding to its sense of mystery and history. The point was named after Commander Henry Otter, who mapped these waters back in the 1800s, though it was originally called Punta de San Antonio by a Spanish explorer in 1790.
The Sooke Region Museum's Outdoor Displays
Most people stop at the lighthouse (which is awesome), but there’s so much more tucked around the grounds of the Sooke Region Museum. Walk around back and you’ll find old fishing boats, a vintage firetruck, logging equipment, and a recreated settler cabin. It’s like a history scavenger hunt, and it’s all outdoors perfect for kids, or anyone who wants to get a sense of how this town came to be.
East Sooke’s Coast Trail (Short Version)
The full Coast Trail in East Sooke Park is a beast, 10 km of rugged shoreline hiking. But here’s the secret: you don’t have to do the whole thing. Park at Aylard Farm, head in about 20–30 minutes, and you’ll still get jaw-dropping coastal views, tidepools, and windswept trees without committing your entire day. It’s one of the most beautiful trails on the South Island, and the short version is ideal for families or those who just want a taste of wild west coast hiking.
Why These Hidden Gems Matter
Sooke isn’t trying to be trendy or flashy. It’s the kind of place where you can still find silence, space, and real connection with the outdoors. The hidden gems listed here, they’re not part of a tourism campaign. They’re just places locals know and love. They’re quiet spots where memories are made, where kids learn to skip stones, and where people fall in love with the Island life.
As someone who lives on Vancouver Island and works in real estate, I’ve come to realize that these little corners of Sooke, the ones you don’t read about in travel guides are what make this place feel like home. And when you’re thinking about buying a home here, it’s not just about square footage or property lines. It’s about being close to these kinds of experiences.
Thinking of Moving to Sooke?
If this list has you curious or maybe already planning a weekend visit, I’d love to help you explore more. Whether you're looking for a cozy cabin, a family home near the forest, or a slice of oceanfront paradise, there's something for everyone here. And once you're settled, you'll have plenty of time to find even more hidden gems. Because trust me, this list is just scratching the surface.
Feel free to reach out any time with questions about real estate in Sooke or just to swap stories about your favourite beaches and trails. That’s what this site is for, helping people find home, and fall in love with the place along the way.