Location and Journey
Sombrio Beach, located on South Vancouver Island about an hour's drive past Sooke, is a haven for surfers and nature enthusiasts. The drive to the beach itself is an experience, offering winding roads with scenic ocean views for the majority of the journey. A word of advice: map out your route and download music beforehand, as cell service is limited beyond Sooke.
Arriving at Sombrio Beach
Parking and Access: Once you arrive at the Sombrio Beach parking lot, a forest trail leads you to the beach. This walk takes about 5-10 minutes.
Rocky Beach: The trail opens up to a rocky beach, a popular spot for camping. If you're visiting for the day, the walk along the rocky shore is manageable.
Finding the Waterfall
Beach Walk: Upon exiting the trail, turn left and walk along the beach for about 15 minutes. The initial part of the beach is quite rocky, so watch your step.
Transition to Sand: After about 10 minutes, the rocks give way to finer sand.
Creek Marker: Look for a small creek flowing into the ocean. This is your cue that you're close to the waterfall.
Locating the Cave: Follow the creek upstream into the trees to discover a large cave hiding the waterfall.
The Cave and Waterfall Experience
Inside the Cave: The cave is cool and echoey, adorned with bright green moss. The waterfall within offers a refreshing, albeit chilly, shower.
Footwear Tip: You might need to remove your shoes to enter the cave, especially if they're not waterproof.
Enjoying Sombrio Beach
Beach Fires: Sombrio Beach permits fires, so post-waterfall, setting up a fire on the beach is a great way to relax and warm up.
Beach Time: Spending the rest of your stay by the fire is highly recommended, as it arguably offers the best experience at Sombrio Beach.
Visiting Sombrio Beach and its hidden waterfall provides a blend of adventure and relaxation. The journey to the beach, the exploration of the rocky shores, and the discovery of the secluded waterfall all make for an unforgettable experience. Whether you're there for surfing, a day trip, or a camping adventure, Sombrio Beach's unique charm is sure to captivate.
Comments