Hemmed in by lush coastal rainforest, Sooke is a free-spirited town on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, home to a vibrant arts scene with galleries, workshops and boutiques. Pristine beaches, natural rock pools and scenic hiking trails make Sooke a top destination for discovering the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island.

Things to do

Housed in the visitor centre, the Sooke Region Museum recalls the town's rustic pioneer past with a 19th-century Moss Cottage, one of Vancouver Island's oldest residences. The museum also houses the Triangle Island Lighthouse, a historic cast-iron structure topped by a glass dome and enormous First Order Fresnel Lens.

Nature lovers can head to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, an enchanting slice of Vancouver Island dotted with crystalline rock pools. It's a great place to swim, sunbathe and float down the river in an inflatable tube. Nearby, Juan de Fuca Provincial Park offers incredible beachcombing along the rugged coastline. Watch for otters, sea lions and whales splashing offshore.

If you're craving thrills, chat to the friendly crew at Adrena LINE and sign up for an exhilarating treetop zip-line tour. The company also arranges whale-watching cruises, sea kayaking expeditions and rainforest hikes.

A local institution, Shirley Delicious Café serves up some of Vancouver Island's tastiest brunches, hearty soups and freshly-tossed salads, not to mention fantastic coffee and irresistible home-baked treats. On a sunny day, enjoy your lunch in the picturesque flower-filled garden.

Getting around

Downtown Sooke is easy to get around on foot, while rental cars are best for exploring Vancouver Island. The drive from Sooke to Victoria takes roughly 40 minutes or you can use local buses operated by the Victoria Regional Transit System.