Witty's Lagoon Beach

Contributor Review – Camilla Pickett
Local Expert. Visited 2024

We recently spent a sunny day at Witty's Lagoon Beach, and it turned out to be a wonderful escape from reality. Located about 23 kilometers west of Victoria in Metchosin, this beach is part of Witty's Lagoon Regional Park, a place known for its natural beauty and serene environment. It’s probably the most popular nude beach on Vancouver Island and low-key equivalent of Wreck Beach on the Island (but very quiet in comparison).

Getting to the beach is an adventure in itself. There are two main ways to access it: one is through a scenic trail from the park's main entrance, and the other is more direct, off Witty's Beach Road. We chose the trail, which offered a lovely walk through lush vegetation and brought us down gradually to the beach. The descent is easy, thanks to the long staircase that leads down to the shoreline.

As we reached the beach and turned right, we walked about 300 meters south to find the nude area. It's easy to spot thanks to a log that marks the start of the naturist section, although it has shifted a bit over the years due to waves and weather. The nude section is well established and attracts a friendly crowd, although it's not officially designated as a nude beach. We had some great conversations with regulars here, who were welcoming but not overbearing.

The beach itself is stunning, with golden sands and clear views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The surrounding cliffs and overhanging trees add to the sense of seclusion and tranquility. There were a few textiles around, but most of the people were embracing the nude beach vibes. During our visit, the crowd was mostly younger couples, but everyone is welcome here.

One thing to keep in mind is that getting into the water requires wading through a band of barnacle-covered rocks, so it's essential to bring thick-soled footwear. Once in the water, swimming is quite enjoyable, though the initial entry can be a bit tricky.

We arrived early in the day to make the most of the sunlight, as we had heard that the sun sets behind the cliff around 3-4 PM. This was true, and by mid-afternoon, the area started to cool down as the shadows lengthened. It wasn’t a big issue for us, but it’s something to consider if you’re planning a visit.

The beach doesn’t offer many amenities, so it's a good idea to bring your own food, drinks, and beach essentials. During our visit, we didn’t see any vendors or facilities, which is part of what keeps the beach feeling natural and unspoiled.

Overall, our day at Witty's Lagoon Beach was delightful. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly people, and a relaxed atmosphere made it a perfect naturist spot. Despite the minor inconveniences of rocky water entry and limited afternoon sunlight, we thoroughly enjoyed our time there and would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a peaceful beach experience close to Victoria.