Things To Do
Tofino
Tofino is a world-famous surf town with long sandy beaches, charming small businesses, and plenty of surf shacks renting boards and wetsuits. Many summers, Anitia and her friends head here for surf trips. It’s about a 4-hour drive from the Sooke Prestige Hotel and 4.5 hours from downtown Victoria. If you want a surf beach location, Cox Beach is Anitia's personal favorite.
Sombrio Beach Trailhead
Sombrio Beach is a rugged, scenic coastline famous with hikers and surfers, part of the Juan de Fuca Trail. A hidden gem here is a waterfall tucked inside a rock crevasse, perfect for adventurous explorers. About 1.5 hours from the Sooke Prestige Hotel and 2 hours from downtown Victoria, it’s a nature escape not far from the city. This is Anitia's favorite west coast beach on the island (definitely because of the waterfall)!!
Sooke Potholes Provincial Park
The Sooke Potholes are a series of deep, crystal-clear swimming pools carved into the river’s rock formed from rushing waters when the glaciers melt in the summer. It is ideal for a summer dip!! Surrounded by walking trails and picnic spots, it’s a refreshing way to enjoy nature. Just 15 minutes from the Sooke Prestige Hotel and 45 minutes from downtown Victoria, it’s easy to fit into a day trip. This is one of Anitia's favorite swimming holes on the island (ask her for tips on the best spots)!!
Cathedral Grove
Cathedral Grove is a breathtaking old-growth forest on Vancouver Island, home to towering Douglas firs and red cedars that are hundreds of years old. Walk among giant trees along easy trails and immerse yourself in this serene natural wonder. It’s about 2.5 hours from the Sooke Prestige Hotel and 3 hours from downtown Victoria. This is the best pit stop to see if you are headed into the tofino/port alberni area!!
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park
Little Qualicum Falls Provincial Park features cascading waterfalls, walking trails, and tranquil forest settings perfect for a day outdoors. Hike along the boardwalks and enjoy the sound of rushing water amid lush greenery. It’s roughly 2.5 hours from the Sooke Prestige Hotel and 3 hours from downtown Victoria. If you want to see how powerful water can be when you're in a rainforest you have to see this!!
Inner-Harbour Pathway
Victoria’s Inner Harbour is the heart of the city, full of iconic sights like Fisherman’s Wharf, the Fairmont Empress Hotel, and the BC Parliament Buildings. You can stroll along the waterfront, rent a horse-drawn carriage for a scenic tour, or explore the colorful boats at the wharf. About 15 minutes from downtown Victoria and 45 minutes from the Sooke Prestige Hotel, it’s the perfect mix of history, charm, and activity. Stop by the Royal BC museum or rent a water taxi to get a tour of the harbour during the day, or stop by at night when the parliament buildings are lit up!!
Orca Spirit Adventures Zodiac Whale Watching
Hop on a whale watching tour from Victoria and experience the incredible marine life of the Pacific Northwest, including orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales. Many tours depart from the Inner Harbour, offering knowledgeable guides and stunning coastal views. It’s roughly 15 minutes from downtown Victoria and 45 minutes from the Sooke Prestige Hotel—an unforgettable adventure on the water.
Sidney
Sidney, BC is Anitia’s hometown, a charming seaside community with a vibrant mix of shops, cafés, and local favorites like Sidney Bakery donuts. Explore the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, stroll along the waterfront, or visit the local galleries and boutique shops. About 40 minutes from downtown Victoria and 1 hour from the Sooke Prestige Hotel, Sidney is a perfect blend of small-town charm and coastal attractions. Every thursday night during hte summer there a small-business market straight down beacon avenue!!
The Butchart Gardens
Butchart Gardens is world-renowned and often considered one of the most beautiful gardens in the world, featuring breathtaking themed gardens, walking paths, and seasonal blooms. In the summer they host spectacular fireworks shows (typically Saturday nights around 10:15 pm, with some additional Friday shows on select weeks), so plan to arrive early. Bring a picnic blanket and spend a few hours wandering the gardens before the show begins. About 30 minutes from downtown Victoria and roughly 1 hour from the Sooke Prestige Hotel, it’s one of Vancouver Island’s must-see attractions.
Malahat Skywalk
Malahat SkyWalk offers breathtaking 360° views over the Saanich Inlet, Gulf Islands, and Mount Baker from its stunning spiral tower walkway. Guests can stroll the elevated boardwalk through the forest before slowly winding up to the panoramic lookout — and if they’re feeling adventurous, ride the giant slide back down! It’s about 35 minutes from downtown Victoria and roughly 50 minutes from the Sooke Prestige Hotel, making it an easy and unforgettable scenic stop.
Honorable Mentions
There’s honestly so much to do on Vancouver Island that we could list activities for days! A few more ideas to look up include Botanical Beach, Strathcona Provincial Park, winery tours in the Cowichan Valley, cidery tours in Central Saanich, and trying a few great local restaurants around Victoria and Sooke. In the summer, Cowichan River tubing is a huge local favorite, and if you’re up for an adventure you can also explore the Horne Lake Caves. Feel free to reach out to the bride! She has spent most of her life on the island and has tried just about everything there is to do, and she’d be happy to give you ideas for your perfect day!