Top Local Beaches on Vancouver Island

Approximately 100 km wide and 460 km long, Vancouver Island is home to an exceptionally beautiful shore line. From its crafty sea side towns and endless natural resources, the island has something to offer for everyone. Much of the coast line is rugged and not easily accessible, however if you talk to a local they will be able to guide in the right direction to experience the best beaches.

Pachena Bay
This unspoiled natural beach can only be reached by travelling along an unpaved gravel logging road making it a desolate location with very few tourists. At Pachena Bay you will find a rustic camp ground run by the local natives. It perfect for a natural weekend getaway as there is running water, but no cell phone service!

Cox Bay
Located just outside the small surf town of Tofino, this long sandy beach is only accessible by a twenty minute foot trail from the main road. The beach is set within the Pacific Rim National Park, so it is fully protected from development with the surrounding coast line being thickly forested in . Locals are mainly attracted to Cox Bay because of the year round swell that rolls in making it a perfect surf spot.

Blueback Beach
Situated in the suburbs of North Nanaimo, this beach is ever changing with the tide. At low tide the beach gives way to miles of smooth sand that is ideal for local skim boarders. When the tide comes back in, all that is left of the beach is a narrow strip of rocky shore line backed up against a steep treed cliff. For most of the North Nanaimo residents this is beach is a great spot for physical activity, with the only access down to the beach being 257 wooden stairs.

Lantzville Beach
During the summer months this beach is one of the busier beaches due to its easy accessibility, and protection from the wind. It is a great spot for swimming as you have the choice to either wade into the water slowly or dive off the rocks into a deep swimming hole. From this beach there is a spectacular view of the Gulf Island and Georgia Strait making it a great place to relax no matter what time of the year. At night it is very common for locals to gather here to make a bon fire, enjoy a few drinks and socialize.

Getting to most of these beaches requires a car, as public transportation on the Island is very limited. When you do get the chance to visit any of these beach the local Islanders will be very happy to have you, however one thing to keep in mind is there attitude towards preserving the environment. They do not tolerate any garbage or destructive behavior of their beach so be respectful to the nature and you will always be welcome!

Author's Bio: Stacey Juss is a Canadian student from Vancouver Island, British Columbia, currently interning for the marketing team at Wimdu International in Berlin. In April 2013 Stacey will be completing a triple major in international business, human resources and management from Vancouver Island University. In her free time she enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, skiing, and skim boarding.