French Beach Provincial Park has become one of our family’s favorite camping destinations, especially for my girls. Located on the rugged southwest coast of Vancouver Island, about halfway between Sooke and Port Renfrew, this BC Parks gem offers the perfect blend of forested privacy, oceanfront views, and family-friendly amenities.
The campsites at French Beach are known for being spacious and private, surrounded by tall evergreens that make you feel as though you are tucked deep into the woods. Even when the campground is busy, the layout of the sites creates a sense of seclusion that is rare in popular provincial parks. It’s the ideal setting for families who want to enjoy the outdoors without feeling crowded.
For my kids, though, the highlight is always the playground. French Beach has a beautiful, well-maintained play area that sits within view of the Pacific Ocean. Few campgrounds can offer the unique experience of children laughing and playing while waves crash in the background. The short walk from the playground to the beach makes it easy for families to spend a day exploring tide pools, building driftwood forts, or simply relaxing on the shoreline.
The beach itself is classic West Coast: a long stretch of pebbles, driftwood, and rugged scenery, with opportunities to spot whales, sea lions, and bald eagles. At sunset, the sky lights up over the Juan de Fuca Strait, creating a breathtaking view that keeps campers coming back year after year.
Day Use at French Beach
You don’t have to camp overnight to enjoy everything French Beach has to offer. The park features a well-developed day-use area with picnic tables, grassy lawns, and easy access to the beach. Families often bring lunch, spend the afternoon at the playground, and then head down to the shoreline to watch the waves. It’s an excellent option for anyone living on southern Vancouver Island or visiting from Victoria who wants a quick getaway without committing to a full camping trip. The day-use area also has restrooms and parking, making it convenient for all visitors.
How to Get There
French Beach Provincial Park is easy to reach from Victoria, with a drive of about one hour along Highway 14. The road winds through small coastal communities and offers occasional ocean views as you make your way toward Sooke and beyond. From Sooke, it’s just a 20-minute drive to the park entrance.
For travelers coming from Nanaimo, the trip takes roughly three hours. Drive south on Highway 1 toward Victoria, then connect to Highway 14 at Langford and continue west along the coast until you reach French Beach. The route is straightforward and well-marked, with plenty of scenic spots to stop along the way.
Why French Beach Belongs on Your Vancouver Island Itinerary
- Spacious, private campsites tucked into the forest
- A family-friendly playground with an ocean view
- Day-use area with picnic tables and beach access
- Easy access to the beach for tide pooling, driftwood forts, and whale watching
- Perfectly located between Sooke and Port Renfrew along the West Coast of Vancouver Island
- A peaceful atmosphere that feels secluded, even in peak season
Camping at French Beach Provincial Park is more than just a weekend trip—it’s a chance to experience the natural beauty of Vancouver Island’s coastline while giving families space to relax, play, and reconnect. For those just visiting for the day, the park’s facilities make it easy to enjoy a taste of the West Coast without packing overnight gear.
