Sidney Spit British Columbia
A pristine Gulf Island gem offering miles of sandy beaches at low tide, stunning sunsets, and tranquil camping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Ferry service available
Sidney Spit British Columbia
Best Time
Ferry service available

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine Gulf Island gem offering miles of sandy beaches at low tide, stunning sunsets, and tranquil camping.
"It's like being in another country on vacation and only a few minutes away."
⏳ Day Trip Timing
One day is often enough for a family day trip, but consider an overnight for sunsets!
💧 Bring Your Own Water
No services on the island, so pack plenty of fresh water and food.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Long Spit Walk
The Spit
Walk for miles on sandy beaches at low tide, feeling like you're in another country.

West Coast Sunsets
The Spit
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the water, a perfect end to a day or camping trip.

Wildlife Viewing
Lagoon and forested areas
Spot eagles and other coastal wildlife while exploring the diverse ecosystems.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Day Trip vs. Overnight Stay
Pack Essentials: No Services Available
Best Times
Insider Tips
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Sidney Spit visit?
⏳ Day Trip Timing
One day is often enough for a family day trip, but consider an overnight for sunsets!
💧 Bring Your Own Water
No services on the island, so pack plenty of fresh water and food.
Sidney Island Camping
Two night parking in Sidney for camping on Sidney Spit
🛶 Kayak Access
An awesome place for a quick weekend getaway by kayak.
🏕️ Camping Reservations
Reservations are available for the 26 inland camping sites.
Secret gems in Sidney?
Tips
from all over the internet
⏳ Day Trip Timing
One day is often enough for a family day trip, but consider an overnight for sunsets!
💧 Bring Your Own Water
No services on the island, so pack plenty of fresh water and food.
🛶 Kayak Access
An awesome place for a quick weekend getaway by kayak.
🏕️ Camping Reservations
Reservations are available for the 26 inland camping sites.
🏖️ Low Tide Exploration
Low tide reveals sandbars perfect for exploring and long beach walks.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sidney Spit for its natural beauty, especially the expansive sandy beaches revealed at low tide and the breathtaking west coast sunsets. The park is noted as a peaceful escape, ideal for family picnics, quiet walks, and disconnecting from daily life. While services are minimal, the pristine condition and the unique experience of walking the spit are highly valued.
"This was a great time! Very sweet National Park to visit. I took the ferry from Sidney to get there. Only really need one day to tour it all. Awesome spot for a family picnic, a stroll on the beach, or just to disconnect for a little while. There are camping sites for the ones who want to stay overnight. People surprisingly help keep the site nicely clean (pack-in pack-out policy), which is always good to see."
Jessyca Reid
"Such an amazing place to moor your boat or camp and capture epic west coast sunsets! Low tide reveals a ton of sandbars to enjoy. One of our favorite destinations year round."
Jenn Richardson Photo
"Ferry service from Sidney on the weekends in the spring. Daily July and August. Enjoy the beach or walk the spit or walk through the forested areas to the other end of the lagoon and see EAGLE island up close.
Nice picnic tables and 26 camping sites further in land. They even have a couple carts so you can transport you gear in land to the sites. Reservations are available. There are no services on the island so you need to bring fresh water with you."
Neil “Papa Bambam” Bamford
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to Sidney Spit is primarily via a ferry service from Sidney. This service runs on weekends in the spring and daily during July and August. For those with kayaks, it's also an accessible destination for a weekend getaway.
Information regarding specific parking availability and costs near the Sidney ferry terminal is best confirmed closer to your travel date, as it can vary. It's advisable to check local municipal parking regulations or inquire with the ferry operator.
No, vehicles are not permitted on Sidney Spit. The park is accessible by foot via the ferry or by private boat mooring. This ensures a more natural and pedestrian-friendly environment.
The ferry operates on weekends during the spring and daily throughout July and August. It's recommended to check the official ferry schedule for exact timings and any seasonal adjustments before planning your trip.
Yes, adventurous travelers can reach Sidney Spit by kayak, making it a popular spot for quick weekend getaways. Mooring your boat is also an option for those arriving by private vessel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, you will need to purchase tickets for the ferry service to access Sidney Spit. It's wise to book your return trip in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred times.
The cost of visiting Sidney Spit primarily involves the ferry fare. Specific pricing for the ferry can be found on the operator's website. There are no additional park entry fees once you arrive.
Reservations are available and recommended for the 26 camping sites at Sidney Spit, particularly during the summer months. This helps ensure you have a spot for your overnight stay.
Sidney Spit is a natural park and is generally accessible during daylight hours. The ferry service has specific operating times, which are crucial to note for planning your day trip or overnight stay.
While it's best to confirm directly with the ferry operator, it's generally advisable to book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season, to guarantee your spot and preferred return time.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy long walks on the sandy beaches at low tide, explore forested trails, picnic, and observe local wildlife. It's an ideal spot for disconnecting and enjoying nature.
Absolutely! Sidney Spit is a great destination for families. Kids can enjoy exploring the beaches, picnicking, and the relatively easy trails. The unique environment offers a fun day out.
The trails at Sidney Spit are generally easy and not very long. They wind through forested areas and lead to different parts of the spit, offering opportunities to see wildlife and enjoy the natural scenery.
Yes, there are nice picnic tables available at Sidney Spit, making it a perfect spot for a family picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash as part of the park's policy.
While swimming is possible, the waters around Sidney Spit can be cool. The main draw is often the beachcombing and exploring the sandbars exposed at low tide.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food services or restaurants on Sidney Spit. Visitors must bring all their own food and drinks for their visit.
It's essential to pack plenty of fresh water, snacks, and meals for your day trip or camping stay. Consider easy-to-eat items that don't require much preparation.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally best to check park regulations regarding open fires or barbecues. Given the natural environment, it's safer to assume that only portable cooking devices might be permitted, if any. Always practice fire safety.
The nearest place to purchase food and supplies would be in the town of Sidney before you take the ferry to the island. Plan your shopping accordingly.
No, there are no services on the island, which includes the absence of potable water. You must bring all the fresh water you will need for your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The long sandy spit at low tide, dramatic west coast sunsets, and the natural coastal landscape offer incredible photography opportunities. Keep an eye out for local wildlife too.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are spectacular for capturing the beauty of Sidney Spit, especially the sunsets. Low tide also provides unique compositions with the exposed sandbars.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes of the spit and beaches. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light sunset shots.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. However, always be respectful of other visitors' privacy and any posted park regulations.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and park-specific rules. It's essential to check current regulations and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone in the park.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no services available. The ferry ride itself can be an adventure for kids. Consider an overnight camping trip if your family enjoys the outdoors; the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery make for a memorable family experience.
🏕️ Campers and Nature Enthusiasts
Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the diverse ecosystems, from sandy beaches to forested trails, and the abundant wildlife viewing opportunities. The unique tidal environment and the chance to explore the spit at low tide provide a rich natural experience. Kayakers can also easily access the spit for a weekend adventure.
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Spit at Low Tide
This natural phenomenon transforms the area into a photographer's dream, with dramatic lines and textures. It's also a fantastic time for families to explore, as the shallow, calm waters left in the tidal pools can be fun for younger children to splash in. The feeling of being able to walk so far out into what is normally water is a unique aspect of Sidney Spit that many visitors rave about.
Camping and Sunset Views
The real magic of camping at Sidney Spit often lies in witnessing the spectacular west coast sunsets. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky erupts in a symphony of colors, casting a warm glow over the water and surrounding landscape. Many reviews highlight these sunsets as a major draw, making an overnight stay incredibly rewarding. The feeling of being disconnected from the mainland hustle and enjoying nature's spectacle is a significant part of the appeal.
Wildlife Encounters
Respecting the natural habitat is key to enjoying these encounters. Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and avoid feeding them. The presence of these animals adds another layer of richness to the Sidney Spit experience, making it more than just a scenic spot but a vibrant ecosystem.
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