Whether you are looking for a mother-daughter getaway or want to reminiscence and catch up with some old friends, Sidney is the perfect destination for the ultimate girls’ trip. To inspire you to start planning your getaway, we have compiled the perfect guide for your escape to beautiful Sidney by the Sea.
But First, Brunch!
Get the day off to a good start with a bottomless cup of coffee at one of Sidney’s breakfast joints. From west coast bennies, to sweet waffles, to deluxe breakfast Caesars, there’s a yummy breakfast option for everyone. Did we mention almost all Sidney restaurants are able to accommodate for vegan and gluten free diets?
Retail Therapy
A girls’ getaway is never complete without a bit of retail therapy. With charming boutiques lining downtown Sidney there’s a store for every style. So, whether you are looking for top designer brands, specialty items and gifts, thrift shopping or home décor, Sidney’s shopping district has got you covered!
Start off your shopping adventure on Beacon Avenue, making sure to visit the specialty shops on the side streets. Located just off of Beacon Avenue on Third Street, Dig This and Muffet & Louisa offer delightful home and garden décor to help get your patio in the spring spirit.
If you’re looking for personalized service, check out House of Lily Koi’s personal shopping, style session and makeover services! This upscale consignment store will have you wearing designer labels without the designer price tag.
Explore the Outdoors
Hiking and biking are two great ways to take in the beautiful scenery found on the Peninsula. From hiking alongside the panoramic ocean views of Horth Hill, to biking the seaside Lochside Trail you’re sure to experience the natural beauty the island has to offer. For bike rentals check out Cycle Sidney, they’ll even bring the bikes right to you.
Take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown and get active on the water with Sidney Whale Watching, Pacifica Paddlesports or Blue Dog Kayaking. These fantastic businesses will have you out on the water for the day, whether it be in a kayak, paddleboard, or cruising the Salish Sea searching for Humpback Whales. Serenity meets adventure with an ocean exploration!
Have A Picnic At Hospital Hill
Nothing quite beats getting your girlfriends together, finding a picturesque spot with a comfy blanket and having a picnic! Stock up on fresh sandwiches, salads, and tasty treats from one of Sidney’s cute cafes and make your way to Hospital Hill! Watch the planes as they descend over Patricia Bay for landing. This ocean view spot just a short five-minute drive or 30 minute walk from downtown Sidney.
Soak Up the Sun on the Beach
White sandy beaches are just a short 25-minute scenic ride on-board the Alpine Sidney Spit Ferry (operates seasonally) over to Sidney Spit Marine Park! Dig your toes in the sand as you take in the spectacular views and enjoy the ocean breeze.
Relax & Unwind
Don’t forget to treat yourself and schedule some downtime on your trip! For a full pampered afternoon, head to one of Sidney’s many spas offering luxury massages and treatments. Don’t forget to get your hair done at one of Sidney’s fantastic hair studios.
Discover Your Inner Foodie
When you’re on a girls’ getaway, wine must be on the agenda! The Farmer’s Daughter – Fromagerie & Wine Bar has exquisite cut-to-order wine and cheese flights that you and the girls will be sure to love.
If you’ve read about Sidney, you’ve probably read about the locally distilled Empress 1908 Indigo Gin from Victoria Distillers. Be sure to stop by and see where the magic happens with a tour & tasting at the oceanfront distillery.
Catch A Show
Be sure to check out the Mary Winspear Centre for some entertainment! With a variety of shows, performers and speakers coming through their theatre, you’re sure to find something that sparks your interest!
Enjoy Some Oceanfront Dining
Raise a glass to seaside views and delicious seafood at one of Sidney’s unique restaurants. Take in the ocean breeze from the patio or opt for cozy interior seating, each providing the perfect ambiance to finish off your busy day!
Take the Perfect Selfie
Don’t forget to take time to capture the perfect photograph to remember your trip! Sidney has countless photogenic views, here is a list of places you may not have thought of!
- Overlooking the Salish Sea at the Bevan Fishing Pier
- The grey wall outside of Victoria Distillers
- Catching the sunset at Hospital Hill
- The blue wall outside of the Fish Market
- The hidden garden at Dig This & Muffet & Louisa
- A selfie with the farm animals at Fickle Fig Farm Market
- Walking along the boardwalk near Port Sidney Marina
- Glass Beach
Sidney has so much to offer visitors and locals alike, and has everything you need for your next girls getaway.