Vancouver Island :: Victoria :: China Beach

Sunset over Strait of Juan De Fuca from China Beach

Trip Summary

Multiple Dates, last October 18, 2021

China Beach is short walk sharing same trailhead with south terminus of Juan De Fuca Marine Trail.  It is often hiked together with Mystic Beach; if doing so suggested order is Mystic first, China second .  Sunsets are specially particular - bring tripod.  Camping on the Beach is not permitted, but there is official car accessible China Beach campground few km south.  Car break-ins are frequent at parking lots along Juan De Fuca corridor - leave no visible valuables.

Parking is ~10min north of Jordan River along Hwy 14 - about 40min from Sooke.  Roadwork often slows the flow.  Do not turn into China Beach campground;  continue along Hwy14 for another couple of minutes and watch for exit on the left (south) side.  Below is the junction - right is JDF parking lot, left China beach.  Wide path descends gently through the forest, then narrows to single track reaching wooden platform above the beach and eventually descends on flight of stairs to the surf.  Left (east) side offers plenty of room for exploration and eventually links with trails descending from campground - but there are couple of creeks to cross and you might have to take shoes off.  Return the same way to parking lot.

 

Gallery

Forest Trail Initial Part descending through second growth forest is wheelchair accessible
 
  China Surf Surf on China Beach looking NW across Strait of Juan De Fuca
 
Creek Logjam Freshwater source on the Beach - walk on log, or simply jump over
 
Rocky Surf Rocky Part on the south side, just before sizeable creek that would require taking shoes off if continuing further south
 
China Sunset Wide Sunset Panorama from south part of China Beach

 

 

Abstract

Overall Difficulty D1 Easy walk on wide path, slightly steeper in bottom part
Scenery Fabulous views over Strait of Juan De Fuca. Great spot for Sunsets
Trail/Marking Excellent Well defined trail with official trailhead, wheelchair accessible in upper part.  There is also pit toilet at traihead
Suggested Time 1-2hr Return time allowing plenty of time to explore the beach
Elevation Start: 100m     End: 20m (Beach Top)  Total: ~80m Round Trip: 2 km
Gear Day hikers
Water Couple of creeks on the beach.  Carry 0.5L
Dog Friendly Yes Dogs on leash permitted but not recommended because of potential wildlife conflict