Discover the 1.0-km loop trail nestled in Saxe Point Park near Esquimalt, British Columbia. This charming path, perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating hike, typically takes just 12 minutes to complete. Despite its popularity, you can still find moments of tranquility, especially during quieter times of the day. The trail is best enjoyed from January through August.
Saxe Point Park offers a serene journey along the shoreline, providing breathtaking ocean vistas. As you walk, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and the majestic Olympic Mountains. This hidden gem in Esquimalt features an off-leash area for dogs, making it ideal for family outings, casual strolls, explorations, and picnics.
Designated as parkland in 1934, Saxe Point has a rich history. During World War II, much of its 7.5 hectares was cleared for a searchlight installation as part of the Department of National Defence’s shoreline defenses. Today, the park boasts spectacular views, well-maintained perennial and shrub borders, and expansive lawns overlooking the water. Mature Douglas fir and Grand fir trees line the forested trails and beach accesses, inviting exploration.
Wander the scenic trails, uncover hidden beaches, or simply soak in the views from the numerous benches and picnic tables. Saxe Point Park is easily accessible at the end of Fraser Street, with pathways leading from Munro and Bewdley streets. Enhance your visit with a self-guided walking tour to learn more about this beautiful area.
For the more adventurous, Saxe Point Park is a prime spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. The park's beach, hiking trails, and facilities make it a perfect destination for a full day of fun. Pack a picnic and a couple of scuba tanks, and dive into the clear waters of the Juan de Fuca Strait. From Victoria, head west over the Johnson Street Bridge onto Esquimalt Road, then turn left on Fraser Street after 3.1 km to reach this...
Read more7/19 What a day. We left our motorhome at Gig Harbor RV Resort and drove two hours in the early morning up to Port Angeles to catch a ferry to Victoria British Columbia. We arrived and hour 1/2 ahead of departure for the Black Ball Ferry line. Boarded and got breakfast, good and great coffee. Arrived on BC after 2 hrs on the ship. Calm and beautiful ride. We came into Saxe Point and offload. Spent the whole day on walking to different sites and architecture. We toured the Royal BC Museum, lots of artifacts, tea sets and things from the area. Interesting places were Saxe Point Park and the James Bay Memorial Park. All within walking distance from downtown, where we had lunch overlooking street vendors. So back to the boat, and to Port Angeles. We got back and had dinner at Down-riggers on the Water next to our pier. Food was excellent and affordable. 2 more hours back...
Read moreThis hidden gem offers stunning views and diverse wildlife, making it a perfect destination for photographers and nature lovers.
The park is open from dawn to dusk, giving you plenty of time to explore. Ample parking is available nearby, making it easy to access the trails.
I recommend wearing comfortable hiking shoes and layers when visiting, as the weather can change quickly near the water. Bring your camera gear, of course! The best time to view wildlife is early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the animals are most active.
I’ve spotted everything from seals basking on the rocks to birds flitting through the trees. Each visit brings something new, and I always leave with incredible shots. Saxe Point Park is a must-visit if you want to immerse yourself in nature and capture stunning...
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