One of my favourite things to do on the weekend is to spend some time in the beautiful seaside town of Sidney, BC!

 

Sidney is a small town located on the northern end of the Saanich Peninsula and is only a 25-30 minute drive from Downtown Victoria. Sidney is easily accessible by car or bus by taking the exit off of the pat bay highway.

 

Sidney is only a short drive away from Victoria International Airport, Swartz Bay Ferry terminal (BC Ferries), and the Anacortes Ferry. Sidney’s proximity to international travel provides an enjoyable year-round destination for residents, businesses, and visitors.

 

There are also ferries running from Sidney to the San Juan Islands and Anacortes.

 

A popular stop with tourists is the Sidney Street Market. The Sidney Street Market used to take place on Thursday nights, but it has changed to Sunday afternoons.

 

The Sidney Street Market is a great place for visitors to shop for locally grown produce, baked goods, local crafts, delicious food, and meet with local artists!

 

 

Plenty Of Activities 

Sidney is a great place to explore the outdoors! Numerous walking trails along the shoreline of the iconic Fisherman’s Pier, kayaking, whale watching, and a short boat ride to Sidney spit. Nearby is Horth Hill Regional Park, a popular hiking trail for the royals (Prince Harry and Meghan!) when they lived on Vancouver Island.

 

The Lochside Regional trail is popular amongst cyclists. In addition, the Lochside trail passes through Sidney since it connects the Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal to downtown Victoria. 

 

There are also many accessible kayaking locations where you can take off on a day or overnight trip to one of the nearby gulf islands. It is such a great way to explore the gulf islands. If you’re lucky, you may even get to see bald eagles or humpback whales!

 

If you’re looking to explore the neighbourhood on foot instead, you can take advantage of Sidney’s 2.5 km waterfront walkway with access to the iconic fisherman’s Pier and dock.

 

Along the way, you’ll pass the shaw ocean discovery centre, Sidney Pier Hotel, Victoria Distillers, where their signature purple Empress Gin is made, stunning residential oceanfront homes, and beautiful views of mount baker.

 

 

Treats And Eats

The Town of Sidney is home to many delicious bakeries and restaurants. So if you plan to get a coffee and walk down Second Street or Beacon Avenue, I would recommend stopping by Sidney bakery for some flavourful donuts or cinnamon rolls. Sidney bakery has been in business for over 100 years, and the donuts are always worth it.

 

Another great spot is the 10 Acres restaurant at the Pier. They have a beautiful waterfront patio where you can take in the water views while enjoying a refreshing beverage.

 

Another charming spot is The Farmer’s Daughter on Beacon Avenue. They have the most tempting selection of cheeses and a variety of wines that pair well together. If you go in the summer months, be sure to make a reservation on the small courtyard patio.

 

More popular restaurants just off the pedestrian walkway with water views include Beacon Landing, Rumrunner Pub, 10 Acres Sidney, and the Surly Mermaid. 

 

Notable Attractions

The Butchart Gardens is close to Sidney and is open daily. Depending on the time of year that you’re visiting, the Butchart Gardens are always spectacular and, if you’re visiting during the Christmas holidays, make sure to check out the Christmas lights display!

 

If you’re looking for an indoor activity, then the Sidney museum or the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea are both great family-friendly options.

 

There’s plenty to explore when walking in downtown Sidney whether looking at the shops on Beacon Avenue, grabbing coffee or baked goods at one of the many coffee shops, or checking out the haunted bookshop.

 

Schools And Education

If you are looking at homes in Sidney and you have school-aged children, the following public schools are available for Sidney residents. The schools fall under School District 63, and the catchment area includes Sidney Elementary, North Saanich Middle School, and Parkland Secondary School. 

 

 

Sidney, BC Real Estate

The town of Sidney consists of primarily single-family homes. However, there has been a new focus on condo and townhome developments in recent years.

 

There has been a shift to multi-family developments in the last few years as Sidney has become a desirable neighbourhood for younger families and working professionals. 

 

New condo developments, luxury townhomes and single-family homes are more prevalent today in the Sidney real estate market. 

 

Some noteworthy past and future Sidney residential developments include Island Views Condominiums, The Bevan, Cameo Condo Residences, The Beacon on Beacon, and Seahaven on Seventh. 

 

The Cameo Condo Residences will be a great addition to the community, and it will incorporate the history of the Star Cinema. The Star Cinema has been on Third Street for over 20 years and will continue to operate in the commercial space below once the Cameo Condo Residences have been completed.

 

With access to incredible beaches, local farms, trails, seaside walkways, marinas, and restaurants, it’s no wonder many residents are proud to call Sidney home.

 

With new condo developments, plenty of tourists each year, and an idyllic setting, the town of Sidney, BC, has an exciting future ahead!

 

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