San Josef Bay is a hidden gem on Vancouver Island, offering a pristine white sand beach and stunning sea stacks and caves.

It has been listed as one of the best beaches in the world!

The road to Cape Scott Provincial Park is long and rough, but the trail to San Josef Bay is family-friendly and well-maintained. Visitors can camp on the beach and enjoy the peaceful wilderness surroundings, with the chance to spot wildlife like bears and wolves.

The beach is extremely remote and located at the northernmost tip of Vancouver Island - a 7 hour drive from Victoria. 

The road from Port Hardy to Cape Scott is a 70 km, 2 hour drive down a rough logging road. The ride will be easier in a 4x4 vehicle with high clearance but it is not necessary.

There are no services and no cell phone signal when traveling here. So ensure to carry all the necessary safety gear, map out gas stations, download maps/carry paper maps and carry a satellite phone/GPS messenger.

Best times to visit are between May and September. Visit at low tide for the best experience.

AllTrails hike linked here.

This hike is rated as easy/moderate. Length 8.5 km, Elevation 181 m , Route Type out-and-back.