A 5 km stretch of deep pools created from the glacial action during the ice age serve as ideal swimming spots. The large boulders that were trapped in the canyon 15,000 years ago caused the rushing water to swirl and form deep "potholes" in the river. The water here is clean, clear and aqua-green in color and perfect for enjoying in the summer. There are smaller, shallower pools closer to the parking lot that may be more appealing to families with children. Small beaches are scattered along the river bank and large, flat rocks provide extra lounging space. The river may be fast moving at times and use of caution is recommended.
The section of the Sooke River known as the Sooke Potholes is considered sacred by the T'Sou'ke First Nation and can be an excellent site to view the salmon run in the fall. It is an important river for both Coho and Chinook salmon spawning. The Sooke River is a significant corridor for wildlife in the area and fragile plant species, therefore visitors to the Sooke Potholes are asked to remain on designated paths and trails and to carry out any litter.
Keep your distance from other people.
Practicing social distancing is essential right now. Follow the advice of the health experts. If your community has asked that you remain indoors and away from others, do so. Heading to the beach should only be considered an option if social distancing practices can be followed. Spending a day in any crowded place is the worst thing we can do for our most vulnerable right now and will counter the efforts to curb the virus’ spread.
For more information, please visit the World Health Organization public resource on COVID-19.
- Passed water quality tests at least 95% of the time
Historical Status
Keep your distance from other people.
Practicing social distancing is essential right now. Follow the advice of the health experts. If your community has asked that you remain indoors and away from others, do so. Heading to the beach should only be considered an option if social distancing practices can be followed. Spending a day in any crowded place is the worst thing we can do for our most vulnerable right now and will counter the efforts to curb the virus’ spread.
For more information, please visit the World Health Organization public resource on COVID-19.
- Passed water quality tests at least 95% of the time
- Historical Status
A 5 km stretch of deep pools created from the glacial action during the ice age serve as ideal swimming spots. The large boulders that were trapped in the canyon 15,000 years ago caused the rushing water to swirl and form deep "potholes" in the river. The water here is clean, clear and aqua-green in color and perfect for enjoying in the summer. There are smaller, shallower pools closer to the parking lot that may be more appealing to families with children. Small beaches are scattered along the river bank and large, flat rocks provide extra lounging space. The river may be fast moving at times and use of caution is recommended.
The section of the Sooke River known as the Sooke Potholes is considered sacred by the T'Sou'ke First Nation and can be an excellent site to view the salmon run in the fall. It is an important river for both Coho and Chinook salmon spawning. The Sooke River is a significant corridor for wildlife in the area and fragile plant species, therefore visitors to the Sooke Potholes are asked to remain on designated paths and trails and to carry out any litter.
| Beach | Location | Water Quality | Water Quality | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sooke, British Columbia | Sooke, British Columbia | Historical Status | ||||
| Sooke, British Columbia | Sooke, British Columbia | Current Status | ||||
| Sooke, British Columbia | Sooke, British Columbia | Special Status | ||||
| Sooke, British Columbia | Sooke, British Columbia | Current Status | ||||
