by Jesse Holth –
Island View Beach is the perfect place to soak up those last precious days of summer sun. One of the best sandy beaches around Victoria, you might feel like you’ve gone on holiday to a tropical locale. It can get quite hot, and you’ll often see people with beach umbrellas or little tents to provide some shade. But there’s also a wonderfully cool ocean breeze, and on ideal days, this puts the temperature right in the “goldilocks zone” – not too hot, not too cold.
One of the greatest features of this beach is its size: Island View stretches far down the coastline. This means that even during peak hours, people are quite spread out. You’ll be able to find a little spot for yourself regardless of the time of day – it might just mean walking a bit further down the beach.
Island View is a typical, iconic West Coast beach, with large pieces of driftwood and a mountain view on clear days. When the weather cooperates, you will have the stunning sight of Mount Baker and its snowy cap. Sometimes, you can even see the Olympic mountain range to the south, and Mount Rainier. Island View gets its name from the large island just across the water, called James Island. It is privately owned and beautiful to look at, adding to the picturesque scene. Any artists out there? You may wish to bring an easel or sketchbook, as it can be quite an inspiring panorama.
There is also a long walking trail right next to the beach. If you’re keen to get some exercise but find walking on the sandy or rocky beach too challenging, give this path a try. It is a very flat, gravel trail and you’ll still have that beautiful beach view. Many people like to bring their dogs here, so you will be in good company if you have a furry friend by your side.
Island View is a designated regional park, and there are facilities such as washrooms and garbage cans. There is also a boat launch for those looking to get out on the water.
Try spotting some marine life – seals, herons, and even whales have been spotted in Haro Strait. Island View is particularly special when the migratory birds rest here, during the fall and the spring.
If you have a camper or RV, you can even spend the weekend at Island View campground. Who wouldn’t want to sleep on the beach for a few nights, listening to the ocean waves crash and the breeze rustling through the shrubs? There are fire pits at the campground too, so you can roast hot dogs or marshmallows in the evening under the starry sky.
Enjoying a “beach day” at Island View might be just what you need before the season changes.
Don’t forget to pack a picnic lunch in your cooler, wear sunglasses, and bring the beach towels! Your mini-vacation is about to start.
For more information, visit the CRD website (www.crd.bc.ca).
