A microcosm of the ocean’s creatures, the tide pools at Botanical Beach are a sight to behold. Located just south of Port Renfrew, this iconic Vancouver Island beach is must-visit for an adventure on the west coast.
Tucked in along the Juan de Fuca, Botanical Beach has all the qualities of the ideal island escape. For those looking to explore the rare beauties of the ocean, the numerous pools that fill as the tide recedes here are incredible.
When planning your visit, be sure to check out the tide charts before to ensure you arrive when the tide is at its lowest. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to observe the geological sandstone formations along the coast, as well as the creatures in each pool.
Getting down to the beach, you’ll walk through the lush, coastal rainforest – which will make the first sights of the water all the most spectacular. In each tide pool, you’ll be sure to find sea anemones, sea snails, urchins, starfish and maybe even some tiny fish caught by the tides.
Be careful where you step while exploring the beach because the rocks are slippy when wet. This is a really special place so be sure to leave it better than you found it!