Sidney

Sidney, a quaint seaside town on Vancouver Island’s South Island, delights visitors with its coastal charm just 30 km from Victoria. Known as “Sidney-by-the-Sea,” it features a scenic waterfront along the Haro Strait, with views of the Gulf Islands and Mount Baker on clear days. The Sidney Seawall, lined with bookstores and cafes, offers a relaxing stroll, while the town’s vibrant murals and whale sculptures add artistic flair. A haven for marine enthusiasts, Sidney’s harbor buzzes with ferries and sailboats, reflecting its deep connection to the sea. Whether you’re browsing the weekly Sidney Street Market or soaking in the laid-back vibe, Sidney provides a perfect blend of small-town warmth and coastal beauty, making it an ideal escape near British Columbia’s capital.

Sidney, originally a farming and fishing community settled in the late 1800s, was incorporated in 1952 and named after Sidney Island, visible from its shores. The town sits in the traditional territory of the W̱SÁNEĆ First Nation, who have lived in the area for millennia, harvesting shellfish and fishing in the surrounding waters. Today, Sidney is a gateway to the Gulf Islands, with BC Ferries connecting to destinations like Salt Spring Island from the Swartz Bay Terminal, just 5 km away. The Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea, a popular aquarium, showcases local marine life, including octopuses and wolf eels. Sidney Spit, part of Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, offers sandy beaches and hiking trails, accessible by a short ferry ride. The town’s annual events, like the Sidney Days celebration, and its proximity to the Victoria International Airport add to its appeal as a convenient coastal retreat.

About Sidney

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Nearby Locations

Strait Starlight Crossing

Butchart Gardens

Mount Work and Thetis Lake

Goldstream Provincial Park

Hatley Castle