I’ve been going to San Jo since I was four years old. Back then, the trail was single track with sketchy boardwalks, lots of mud, and roots. Now, the trail is accessible to all and very well maintained. People are now able to bring a wagon for supplies.
The first time you step onto that soft, untouched sand, surrounded by sea stacks and mist drifting off the Pacific, it feels like you’ve stumbled into another world.
San Josef Bay is the most accessible part of the park — but it still holds that remote, untouched beauty that the North Island is famous for. It’s the perfect mix of wild and welcoming: rainforest trails, sculpted rock formations, tidal pools, and a beach that stretches farther than your eyes can see.
The Trail
The hike is short and unforgettable — a 2.5 km (each way) trail that winds through lush rainforest on a well-maintained gravel path and boardwalks. The trailhead starts at the Cape Scott parking lot, about 2 hours west of Port Hardy, and takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour at an easy pace.
The walk itself is part of the magic: moss-draped trees, soft light filtering through the canopy, and the hum of nature all around.
When you get close to the end, the ocean gets loud, the forest suddenly opens up — and there it is: San Josef Bay, a wide crescent of golden sand framed by towering sea stacks and crashing surf.
Camping at San Josef Bay
Camping here feels like a dream. You can pitch your tent right on the sand or at the edge of the tree line, where you’ll fall asleep to the sound of waves and wake up to the call of eagles overhead. There are some areas in the tree line to pitch a tent if the wind starts blowing.
Type: Backcountry (walk-in)
Distance: 2.5 km from the trailhead
Facilities: Pit toilets, food caches, fire rings
Fees: Standard BC Parks backcountry camping fee
Tips: Fires are only permitted below the high tide line, and everything you pack in must be packed out.
There are no services, no cell signal, and no crowds — just pure connection to nature.
Things to Do
Beachcombing: Wander for hours discovering driftwood, shells, and smooth ocean stones.
Photography: The sea stacks at low tide are stunning — especially in the soft morning fog.
Tide Pools: Full of starfish, anemones, and crabs — a must-see for families or nature lovers.
Kayaking & Paddleboarding: Launch from the calm side of the bay on a still day.
Camping & Stargazing: When the sky clears, the Milky Way feels close enough to touch.
Getting There
From Port Hardy, drive roughly 65 km west along gravel logging roads toward Holberg (about 2–2.5 hours). Continue past Holberg on San Josef Main to the Cape Scott trailhead parking lot.
The road is an active logging route during the week, so drive with headlights on, yield to trucks, and plan extra time for rough conditions.
If you’re camping, Western Forest Products Recreation Site near the trailhead is a great overnight stop.
Wildlife & Safety
This is remote wilderness — home to black bears, wolves, cougars, and eagles, as well as sea otters and whales offshore. Keep food stored securely, never leave garbage behind, and respect the land and its wildlife.
Weather can shift fast — fog, rain, and wind are common even in summer, so come prepared with waterproof gear and layers.
San Josef Bay is the kind of place that slows you down and fills you up at the same time. It’s peaceful, humbling, and incredibly grounding. Whether you’re walking barefoot on the sand, watching the sunset paint the cliffs gold, or listening to the surf in the dark, you’ll feel connected to something bigger than yourself.
It’s not about getting away from life — it’s about returning to it.
