Sidney BC Travel Guide: Wildlife, Ocean Views, and a Hidden Gem Near Victoria
View From Mount Douglas
Located just north of Victoria on a scenic peninsula, Sidney, British Columbia is a small seaside town that makes for a perfect nature escape. Often overlooked by travelers rushing to bigger parks or surf towns, this area surprised me in the best way possible—with wildlife encounters, peaceful viewpoints, and easy access to nature that feels worlds away from the city.
During my short time in Sidney, I saw otters playing in the harbour and even spotted orcas just offshore, which absolutely blew my mind. You don’t expect that kind of wildlife just outside a city, but here, nature is never far away.
Mount Douglas: A Must-See Sunset Spot Near Victoria
My favorite part of the Sidney area was without a doubt Mount Douglas, also known as PKOLS in the local Saanich First Nation language. What makes it unique is that you can actually drive all the way to the summit, which makes it incredibly accessible for both sunrise and sunset photography.
I parked at the top and ended up hanging out there most of the day, watching the light change and enjoying the peaceful views over Victoria and the ocean beyond. The summit is surrounded by forest, with panoramic views stretching out in every direction. Sunset was spectacular, but I’d recommend trying sunrise here too, especially if you want softer light and fewer people. Just note that the gates open a little later in the morning, so hiking up before sunrise is your best bet if you’re an early riser.
Best Camping Near Sidney: Parks Canada Campground
When it comes to camping near Victoria or Sidney, the best option in this area is the Parks Canada campground at Gulf Islands National Park Reserve. It’s tucked away among towering maples and red cedars, and despite being close to the city, it feels incredibly quiet and remote.
The campground is well-kept and peaceful—perfect for tent campers, vanlifers, or anyone doing a Vancouver Island road trip who wants to experience nature without straying too far from amenities. It was so quiet and forested that I forgot I was just a short drive from downtown Victoria.
Why Visit Sidney, BC
Sidney might be small, but it’s full of surprises. From coastal wildlife to forest trails and mountaintop viewpoints, it’s a great place to pause and enjoy the natural beauty of southern Vancouver Island. Whether you’re traveling from Victoria or heading to the Swartz Bay ferry terminal, spending a night or two in this area is well worth it.
Pro tip: Bring binoculars or a long lens if you’re into wildlife photography. Orcas and otters are often spotted from the shoreline.
Final Thoughts
If you’re building a Vancouver Island itinerary, don’t skip over Sidney just because it’s near the city. It offers everything from quiet camping and epic viewpoints to unforgettable wildlife sightings. Whether you’re into photography, car camping, or just want to catch a peaceful sunset, Mount Douglas and the Sidney area are the perfect places to slow down and take it all in.
