Sooke Harbour House  

On southern Vancouver Island overlooking the Pacific and the Olympic Mountains, set right on Sooke Harbour with direct beach access to Whiffin Spit. Steps from Quimper Park and Possession Point, this beachfront resort hotel sits where whale-watching and seaside walks are part of the stay.

An intimate property with 28 individually styled rooms — nearly all with ocean views and wood-burning fireplaces; the roomy family accommodation looks over the garden. Many rooms feature spa tubs and steam showers, and a 2016 refresh added luxury linens and flat-screen TVs. Think cozy, seasonal romance or a low-key family getaway.

Spa services, a massage room and sauna, plus a yoga area and a small library set a relaxed, restorative tone. Direct beach access and nearby whale-watching walks bring the sea to you — wake up to sea-breeze mornings and salt-air evenings. Onsite free self-parking and complimentary Wi‑Fi keep things easy.

Meeting facilities, a banquet hall and wedding services make it a solid pick for events and small conferences. Practical touches include a 24-hour front desk, multilingual staff and a front-desk safe deposit box, plus onsite Wi‑Fi for staying connected.

Home to an internationally awarded fine-dining restaurant serving organic, seasonal Canadian cuisine with an emphasis on wild seafood, mushrooms, herbs and produce from the resort’s gardens. For a more casual vibe, the Copper Room pours Island craft beers, local wines and hearty fare daily; continental breakfast is available each morning.