Itinerary: A Full-Day Road Trip to Sombrio Beach (Waterfall Season Edition)

If you’re chasing waterfalls on Vancouver Island, Sombrio Beach is one of those places that rewards a little effort and curiosity. It’s not flashy, it’s not over-marked — and that’s exactly what makes it special. This is a perfect full-day loop trip with epic scenery, quiet stops, and a true sense of adventure.

Our Route (Mid-Island Departure): Leave Duncan → Lake Cowichan (Approx. 30 minutes)

Start your day in Duncan and head toward Lake Cowichan. Forested roads, misty mornings, and that calm “Island time” feeling set the tone for the day.

🔌 EV tip: BC Hydro fast-charge stations are available in Lake Cowichan if you need a top-up before continuing west.

*Alt. Southbound Option Departure: Leave Victoria → Port Renfrew (Approx. 2 hrs). This would change this itinerary!

Travel Tip: Check the tide chart and plan your stops based on low tide so you can check out tide pools.

🔌 EV tip: You may want to charge in Sooke before hitting West Coast Rd. Port Renfrew does have a 50 kW charge station.

Late Morning: Lake Cowichan → Port Renfrew

Drive the Pacific Marine Road (Approx. 1.5 hours)

From Lake Cowichan, continue west toward Port Renfrew via Pacific Marine Road. The road is paved but can be rough in places — slow down and enjoy the views. On a cold, clear day, this stretch is stunning.

Pro tip:✔️ Keep your GPS on✔️ Expect minimal signage✔️ Cell service can be spotty

Stop 1: Harris Creek Spruce 🌲

(Quick & easy roadside stop)

Just off Pacific Marine Road, make a short stop at the Harris Creek Spruce. This massive old-growth Sitka spruce — about 4 metres (13 ft) in diameter and approximately 80 metres (260 ft) tall — is located along the Harris Creek Recreational Trail and is only about a 2-minute walk from the road.

It’s an easy, accessible stop and a great introduction to the scale of the old-growth forest in this area.

Tip: Stay on the designated trail and respect fencing to help protect the root system.

Stop 2: San Juan Spruce 🌲🌲

(Worth the extra drive)

From Harris Creek, continue about 20 minutes by car to reach the San Juan Spruce (see map before you go — signage is limited).

This is the largest Sitka spruce in Canada by volume: 3.71 m (12.2 ft) in diameter and 62.5 m (205 ft) tall.

While the Harris Creek Spruce is massive, the San Juan Spruce is on another level entirely.

Tip: This stop requires a bit more intention, but it’s absolutely worth it if you’re already in the area.

Midday: Arrive at Sombrio Beach 🌊

Welcome to Sombrio Beach — one of Vancouver Island’s most rewarding coastal adventures.

How to Find the Waterfall

Sombrio doesn’t hold your hand — and that’s part of the charm.

• Park in the main parking area

• Walk down to the beach

• Turn left and head south, toward the cliffs

• Walk approximately 0.5 km along the beach

• Look for a stream flowing across the sand

• Follow the stream inland

There’s still no signage, but once you start following the water, a clear trail appears and leads you to the hidden waterfall.

Waterfall season (fall through early spring) is when this spot truly shines.

Afternoon: Beach Time & Exploration

After the waterfall:

• Walk the beach

• Explore tide pools (check tide charts!)

• Sit and listen to the waves

Sombrio is best experienced slowly.

Late Afternoon: Optional Stop

Head to Sooke or Victoria instead of driving back for a sleepover! Or take Hwy 1 back to Duncan (Mid-Island) for an entire loop.

On your way back, stop in Victoria for an early dinner before heading home via Hwy 1.

Final Thought

Sombrio Beach taught me this:The best places on Vancouver Island don’t need directions — you just have to go looking.