Goose Spit Park

Imagine a narrow sandy arc extending two kilometers into the ocean waters. This is Goose Spit Park—a unique natural area located in Comox, Canada. This regional park is a long spit formed by sand and pebbles that serves as a natural shield for the local harbor and the Puntledge estuary.

One of the park's main features is its protected lagoon, which has become home to rare plant species and a sanctuary for migratory waterfowl. Here, you will find yourself in the heart of a fragile coastal ecosystem that has been under the careful management of the regional district for over half a century. From the shore, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains, the vast Salish Sea, and the majestic Comox Glacier.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is interesting for its historical neighbors. The middle part of the spit is used as the HMCS Quadra Sea Cadet Training Centre, while the tip of the spit is the territory of the K’ómoks First Nations reserve. This combination of natural wilderness and cultural heritage makes this place truly special for every traveler.

For more information on park rules or to book a fire pit, you can use the official communication channels of the regional district.

At Goose Spit Park, everyone will find something to enjoy, regardless of the season. In summer, it turns into an ideal family beach: you can swim in the calm waters of the lagoon, sunbathe, or enjoy cozy gatherings by one of the ten specially equipped fire pits. Active travelers will appreciate the opportunities for paddleboarding and kayaking when the harbor waters become mirror-smooth.

For those who enjoy physical activity, climbing the 165 steps to the top of the hill is a must. Your efforts will be rewarded with fantastic views of the Comox Glacier and Mount Washington. This is the perfect spot to take panoramic photos or simply watch the sunset as the sky turns delicate colors over the ocean.

In autumn and winter, the park attracts thrill-seekers—strong winds from the Strait of Georgia create excellent conditions for kiteboarding. At any time of year, it is pleasant to simply walk along the shore, exploring the whimsical piles of driftwood and watching the seabirds. If you're lucky, you might spot whales swimming by or majestic cruise ships on the horizon.

Getting to this picturesque spot is easy. Goose Spit Park is located at 60 Hawkins Rd. If you are driving from downtown Comox, follow Balmoral Road — the trip will take only about 10-15 minutes. There are three parking areas for visitors, making the trip as convenient as possible even on weekends.

For those who prefer public transport, Comox Valley Transit buses stop within walking distance of the park entrance. You can also use a local taxi; the ride from Comox Valley Airport takes very little time.

Outdoor enthusiasts can reach the park on foot or by bicycle using the network of trails that connect it to neighboring green spaces, such as Mack Laing Nature Park. The path along the shore will give you extra minutes to enjoy the sea breeze.

The land where Goose Spit Park is located has deep historical significance. Long before the arrival of European explorers, this sandy spit was used by the K’ómoks and Pentlatch First Nations. For them, this place was not only a salmon and shellfish harvesting area but also a sacred territory, containing the burial sites of prominent chiefs.

From the mid-19th century, the strategic position of the spit caught the attention of the British Royal Navy. Sailors used the area for training and to replenish fresh water supplies. In 1896, a permanent base was established here, marking the beginning of a long naval presence on this part of the coast.

During the years of the Second World War, the HMCS Naden (III) training center was deployed on the park's territory. Later, these lands were leased to HMCS Quadra, a Canadian Sea Cadet Summer Training Centre. Even today, during the summer months, you can see young cadets undergoing training, which gives the park a unique, disciplined atmosphere.

Goose Spit officially received its status as a regional park in 1971, when the land was leased to the Comox Valley Regional District for recreational purposes. It is important to note that the spit has remained stable for over a century due to strict conservation rules, including a ban on removing driftwood, which serves as a natural barrier against erosion.

To explore Goose Spit Park at a leisurely pace, you will typically need 2 to 4 hours. This is enough time to walk along the shoreline, climb to the viewpoint, and have a small picnic by the ocean.

If your plans include climbing the famous 165 steps up the hill for a photo session or watching kiteboarders on a windy day, it's worth scheduling a bit more time. For those planning a full day of relaxation with a barbecue by the fire pits, the park can easily become a half-day destination.

Goose Spit Park is accessible daily, allowing guests to enjoy sunrises and evening twilights. The park is open from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM throughout the week, Monday through Sunday.

This schedule makes it an ideal spot for both early morning runs and evening relaxation by the fire under the starlit sky.

Exploring the surroundings of Goose Spit Park will help you fully experience the atmosphere of Vancouver Island. After a walk in the fresh air, it is nice to stop by local establishments or visit the town's historical sites.