Mount Doug Beach
This rocky stretch of coastline known to locals as Mount Doug Beach offers sweeping views of Mount Baker and diverse marine life to explore. It is part of Mount Douglas Park located at the edge of Gordon Head and Cordova Bay, a short 25 minute drive from downtown Victoria.
Getting There
Mount Douglas Beach parking lot is located on Cordova Bay Road 40m north of the Cedar Hill Road and Ash Road junction. There is ample parking and 2 EV charging stations. The beach is also accessible by bus on route 39 from UVic or by bike. Bike racks are located at the washrooms and main building facility.
Beach access is a short walk from the parking lot. The trail off the parking lot is a relatively wide 20m stretch through the forest. There is a steep section and few stairs at the end (that have seen better days) but the trail is accessible for all skill levels. If you want experience the full beach be sure to visit at low tide. You can check the tide table here.
Trail down to Mount Douglas Beach from the parking lot
If you are hoping to enjoy more of the lush forest canopy with glimpses of Douglas Creek meandering through you can opt to start at the main Mount Doug Parking lot and follow the marked trails down to the beach. A free GSP trail map can be downloaded to your phone from Saanich’s website. Note the main parking lot fills up quick evenings and weekends.
Stairs at the end of trail for beach access
Playground & Picnic Area
Playground at Mount Doug Beach with parking
From the beach parking lot there is a large open field with fenced backstop, playground and picnic areas to enjoy. If you are planning to visit with a large group the areas can be pre-reserved through Saanich’s website and park permit application found here. Otherwise, park amenities are on a a first-come first-serve basis.
Picnic area #1 near beach trail overlooking ocean
Picnic area #2 near open play field
Open field with backstop
Are Dogs Allowed at Mount Doug Beach?
Dogs are allowed on Mount Doug Beach from the beginning of September to the end of April.
No Dogs are allowed on the beach, playground, or picnic area from May 1 to August 31. It is best to take your furry friends into the park trails during the spring and summer months away from the sensitive creek ecosystem.
