Sandcut Beach

Markus posing in front of a branch structure on Sandcut Beach

About Sandcut Beach

Length: .8km
Traffic: Low
Route Type: Out & Back

If you're looking for a scenic coastal adventure on Vancouver Island, Sandcut Beach is a hidden gem worth discovering. Nestled along the southwestern coast of British Columbia, this beach offers a trail with stunning views and a small waterfall at the end for those who venture a bit further. However, it's important to note that Sandcut Beach may not be suitable for everyone due to its terrain and limited accessibility.

Markus cutting through the wooden walkways on the trail towards Sandcut Beach

The trail leading to Sandcut Beach is relatively easy for the most part, making it an enjoyable hike for nature enthusiasts of varying skill levels. The path winds through a forest, providing a pleasant respite from the bustle of everyday life. However, be prepared for some sections that require climbing up stairs, which could pose a challenge for individuals with mobility issues. If you or your companions have difficulty navigating stairs or uneven terrain, it may be best to consider alternative options.

While the trail itself didn't feature many dogs during our visit, we did encounter a few at the end of the trail, where the beach begins. It's important to note that Sandcut Beach is mostly covered in rocks once you emerge onto the beach, which was not ideal for Markus. He struggled to get his footing at this area of the beach, so if you're planning to bring your dog along, keep in mind that they may not find the beach as enjoyable as other more sandy locations. Once you get past the rocks, the beach does become sandier.

Markus doing his best balancing act on the trail towards Sandcut Beach

If you're up for a short additional hike, a hidden treasure awaits just a ten-minute walk to the left of the main beach. A small, charming waterfall cascades off of a rock plateau, creating a serene setting. Unfortunately, we didn't make it to the waterfall ourselves due to the challenging terrain, particularly for Markus, who was struggling to navigate the rocky beach. You could likely walk down past the rocks and onto the beach where it's sandier to make your trek towards the waterfall.

Another factor to consider is parking. The parking lot at Sandcut Beach is relatively small, and during peak times, it can fill up quickly. In our case, we had to park along the road just outside of the designated parking area. If you're planning a visit, it's advisable to arrive early or be prepared to find alternative parking options nearby.

Markus climbing the stairs on the trail towards Sandcut Beach

Despite the challenges we faced, Sandcut Beach offers a unique coastal experience that is worth exploring if you're able. The rugged beauty of the rocks, the soothing sound of crashing waves, and the tranquility of the forest make it a picturesque destination for nature lovers. Just be mindful of the accessibility limitations, both on the trail and the beach itself, and plan accordingly to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Our Recommendation for Reactive Dogs

Sandcut Beach in British Columbia offers a tranquil trail that is ideal for those seeking a quieter hiking experience with their dogs. While the beach itself may not be suitable for dogs due to its rocky terrain, the serene forested trail leading up to it provides a peaceful setting for a leisurely walk with your dog. The trail is mostly easy, with some sections involving stairs, so it's important to assess your dog's mobility before embarking on the hike.

That said, the rocky beach at the end may not be comfortable for dogs to walk on, not because of sharp edges, but because it's not stable to work on. Once you get past the rocks, the beach beyond it is sandier and easier on dogs, which was where we also saw a few dogs running off leash.