Things to do
There are so many things to do at Sandy Feet Retreat Port Renfrew that you will never be bored! If you love nature, the fresh air and are an outdoor enthusiast, this is the place for you. From hiking in the walking trails and visiting the big trees in the ancient forest of Avatar Grove, to relaxing and watching the waves of the ocean with your coffee in the morning from your oceanfront deck.
If you love beaches, you have endless options including Botanical beach, Sombrio beach, Sandcut beach, Pacheedaht beach, China beach, French beach, and Jordan River. Go surfing, fishing, whale watching or kayaking and pick up some seashells or driftwood to take home and enjoy. Or search for the hidden waterfalls or ocean creatures!
Close by lakes include Fairy lake with the infamous Bonsai tree growing on a rock in the middle of the lake, as well as Lizard lake, one of the most serene and peaceful lakes you will ever see. Or go see Lonely Doug, the infamous tree left standing from loggers refusing to chop down such an incredibly grand Douglas fir.
Port Renfrew is arguably one of the most interesting places on Vancouver Island and this is a destination you don't want to miss! And if you don't already know, it is the starting point of the infamous West Coast Trail.
Below we have listed some of our favourite things to do.
Juan De Fuca Marine Trail
The Juan De Fuca Marine Trail is a rugged 47-kilometre wilderness hiking trail. With its many spectacular views of ocean, mountains, waterfalls, rivers and streams, to its many animals that call this area home, there is much to do and see along the Juan De Fuca Trail.
You can start this trail at Botanical Beach and head south, or start at China Beach and head north. Either way you choose to go, it presents itself with its own unique adventures, views and quite often some great wild life encounters.
This trail takes anywhere from 3-4 days to complete. It is always a safe bet to have a vehicle at the start and end of the trail or organize a pick up and drop off if you choose not to drive. Its always the smart thing to tell a few people of your hike and leave them with a map (you can print from google maps) where you are planning to stop to sleep so they have good markers of where you are.
Its always recommended that you hike with some protection, its always a good idea to bring bear spray and a stocked first aid kit, and some snacks in case you get lost.
Some of the most breath taking views on the island along the Juan De Fuca Trail
Pacheedaht Beach
This is an incredible beach just minutes from the cottage with huge fallen trees all along the beach., and outstanding views of the bay, ocean and mountains. Great for watching the waves and building sand castles, surfing, picnics, fishing and just handing out and enjoying the day!
To get here you just drive across the bridge, and park in the Pacheedaht parking and walk to the beach.
This is one of our favourites just having a low- key day!
Botanical Beach
Definitely one of the favourites for kids and adults alike! Just a 5 minute drive away.
This is a longer hike, so be prepared, but its worth every step once you get to the beach. You can hang out closer to the beach, or make your way to the craters closer to the ocean that get covered by the waves during high tide. During low tide, these craters get filled with ocean creatures that get 'trapped' here until high tide again. Perfect for viewing and learning.
This is also the best place for whale watching! Humpbacks are often seen here diving and swimming in the ocean. An incredible experience for sure!
Just a note to make sure to go at low tide in order to see the craters filled with sea creatures in their natural element (if you are lucky enough you can even see an octopus!)
Sombrio Beach
Sombrio beach is about a 20 minute drive away but definitely worth exploring. This beach is more rocky, but does have sandy parts as well. A beautiful (relatively short) hike is also necessary.
Make sure to head 'east' on the trail to get to the hidden waterfall. Once the trail ends, you will walk along the beach (almost to the end), where you will see a stream entering the ocean. Walk up the stream and you will see a magnificent waterfall in a cave element with green algae all over the walls. Truly stunning!
Note to wear waterproof shoes if you want to walk to the waterfall, since your feet will get wet :)
China Beach
China beach is about a 40 minute drive but it is one of our favourites!
An easier, beautiful hike to the beach, where you will find seashells galore! Bring a bag if you have kids, because your hands will be filled with incredible fully intact seashells. This is also a very sandy beach with amazing views that is extremely peaceful watching the waves!
Once you get to the beach, if you turn right and head to the end, you will see a 'trickling wall'. A beautiful algae covered wall with water trickling down. And if you are feeling even more adventurous, if you hop along the rocks toward the fallen tree, there is an incredible hidden waterfall behind the fallen tree. Incredibly stunning!
Avatar Grove
This is where you will find Canada's Gnarliest Tree! About a 15 minute drive away.
This is an incredible hike and a must do! This hike displays some of Canada's oldest and largest trees! Complete with walking across a stream and hiding in big trees, this hike has it all. It is a shorter hike but it is uphill, so be prepared to get a work out while you view the incredible beauty of the nature surrounding you.
Also note that this road is not very well maintained, so drive slowly and cautiously.
