FAQs

1. What are the Potholes?

Answer: The potholes are deep rounded holes carved in the bedrock of the river by the scouring action of gravel being spun in the rivers current. Historically, the portion of the Sooke River which has these formations was called "The Devil's Potholes".

2. Where is the Rainforest?

Answer: This whole area is the Temperate Rainforest. If you would like to see big trees there are a number of them on the trails to China Beach and to 2nd Beach (off the China Beach campground). The Harris Creek Spruce is one of the largest you'll ever see. It's 25 - 27 km out of Port Renfrew (towards Lake Cowichan) along the Pacific Marine Circle Route.

3. What are the yellow flowers along the side of the road?

Answer: In the spring the Scotch Broom blooms profusely along the roadsides. It was introduced to the Sooke region by Captain Walter C. Grant, Sooke's first independent white settler.

4. Where can we go crabbing?

The Rotary Pier is a great place to catch crab and enjoy Sooke Harbour. If you need a crab trap, check at Eagle Eye next to Home Hardware.

5. Where can we buy seafood or fresh crab?

The Crab Shack at Jock's Dock is the best local source for fresh crab and seafood. They are located on West Coast Road, just west of the Sooke centre.

6. How do you pronounce the name of your town?

Answer: Sooke rhymes with duke or toque. (I know, we're Canadian, eh.)

7. What if I meet a bear?

Answer: You are in Bear country. While it can be exciting to see a bear when you're out hiking, the best practice is to try and make your presence known before you encounter the bear in the first place. Talk, sing, clap your hands or wear a bear bell. Be alert, look for signs of bear activity such as droppings or tracks. Keep children close and within sight. Dogs can cause a bear to attack and an unleashed dog could lead a bear back to you. Respect all bears. Do not try to feed it. If you see a bear along the side of the road keep your windows closed and DO NOT get out of your vehicle!

In the Loop
Routehighway 14Deals
  • Stone Pipe Grill

    A cozy, warm restaurant in the heart of downtown Sooke, with friendly staff & a great, varied menu. On our dinner menu you can enjoy from great burgers and fish & chips to New York steaks, curries, pork tenderloin and seafood dishes.
    »Stone Pipe Grill

  • Orveas Bay Resort

    You will find your private Oceanfront Cottages and Beach House nestled among towering cedar trees with panoramic views across the Juan de Fuca Strait framed by the Majestic Olympic Mountains.
    »Orveas Bay Resort

  • Prestige Oceanfront Resort

    With a passion for excellence and an uncompromising commitment to superior service, Prestige Hotels & Resorts invite visitors to experience beautiful British Columbia complemented by our unique brand of hospitality.
    » Prestige Oceanfront Resort

  • Sooke Harbour Marina & Resort

    Sooke Harbour Resort & Marina is the perfect year-round, seaside getaway. Set in the secluded village of Sooke amidst the diverse natural beauty of British Columbia's Vancouver Island, this is a special place that leaves a lasting impression.
    » Sooke Harbour Resort & Marina

  • Sooke Habour House

    We are pleased to have been awarded a place among Canada's best hotels, destination resorts, boutique hotels, and luxury accommodations not only in Victoria or Vancouver Island but around world.
    » Sooke Harbour House Hotel

  • Sooke Mountain Cycle

    Sooke Mountain Cycle Ltd is ALL ABOUT BIKES – if it’s got two wheels and uses human power too, we’re all over it. From run bikes to downhill mountain bikes, from road racing bikes to beach cruisers, from comfort bikes to freeride bikes, we stock bikes the whole family can get into.
    » Sooke Mountain Cycle

  • Salty Towers Ocean Front Retreat

    Waterfront cottages near Whiffin Spit, ideal for a romantic getaway, fishing adventures or a relaxing holiday. Private wharf; Private hot tubs; Private hot tubs; quiet; beautifully landscsaped setting overlooking Sooke Harbour & the Olympic Mountains, well away from highway traffic.
    » Rising Star Vacation Homes

  • Amazing Vacation Homes

    Southwest Vancouver Island is a beautiful destination at any time of year. From scuba diving, storm watching and surfing in the winter to fishing, whale watching and kayaking in the summer, Sooke and the surrounding area is perfect for people who love the outdoors.
    »Amazing Vacation Homes

  • Williwaw Corner

    The perfect vacation home to relax and enjoy beautiful Vancouver Island with all the family. This lovely home is situated on Otter Point, just minutes from the village of Sooke and overlooking both the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains.
    » Williwaw Corner

  • Port Renfrew Resorts

    Strategically located, it represents the jumping off place for more than 75 miles of marine trails and marine parks which surround the town of Port Renfrew and the Bay of Port San Juan.
    »Starting at $190/Night

  • Mountain Springs Retreat

    This new secluded vacation home with Hot tub/Spa and Fireplace rests beside a private spring-fed lake. The property is adjacent to East Sooke Park's 3500 acres of beaches and famous hiking trails on the west coast of the southern tip of Vancouver Island.
    »Mountain Springs Retreat

Province Of BC