Cy Hampson Park

If you are looking for a peaceful spot with stunning ocean views, Cy Hampson Park is an ideal choice. This municipal park, nestled along the coastline in the town of Sidney, covers approximately 6 hectares and offers visitors a harmonious blend of manicured green lawns and the wild coastal nature of Canada.

Cy Hampson Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park is divided by Lochside Drive into two functional zones. One part is an open grassy space perfect for active walks, while the other side leads directly to Bazan Bay. A key feature of the park is its accessibility: convenient paths allow for comfortable movement even with strollers, leading guests to the pebble beach and seating terraces.

This place is significant not only for its beauty but also for its role in the local ecosystem as part of the Salish Sea coastline. Here, you can feel the true spirit of British Columbia island life, enjoying the silence, the sea breeze, and panoramic water views from a specially equipped viewing platform.

For those planning to visit this picturesque corner of British Columbia, it is helpful to have the exact coordinates of the location.

Everyone will find something to enjoy in this park. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the 700-meter gravel trail in the western part of the park, which loops around a scenic grassy hill. This area is particularly popular with pet owners, as off-leash dog walking is permitted here, making the park a lively meeting place for locals and their pets.

On the eastern side facing the sea, there is a paved path leading to cozy picnic areas and benches. By taking the southern staircase down to the shore, you can walk along the pebble beach, collecting beautiful shells or simply listening to the sound of the surf. For those cycling the famous Lochside Trail, the park serves as an excellent rest stop with a view of the bay.

Special attention should be given to the viewing platform. It is an ideal location for morning meditation or evening contemplation of sunsets over Bazan Bay. The park's open spaces and proximity to the water create perfect conditions for relaxation, reading outdoors, or a family lunch at the picnic tables right by the water's edge.

The most convenient way to reach the park is by car via the Pat Bay Highway. You will need to turn right onto Amity Drive (marked by a pedestrian crossing) and then turn left onto Lochside Drive. There are two parking areas available for visitors: a small gravel lot on the left side and a larger paved parking lot on the right.

If you prefer an active lifestyle, the park is an excellent stop along the Lochside Regional Trail. Cyclists often stop here to take a break while admiring the bay. It is worth noting that parking directly on the shoulder of the road is not recommended; it is better to use the designated parking spots.

For a trip from the center of Sidney, you can use a taxi or local bus routes that pass through the North Saanich area. However, it is advisable to check the current public transport schedule in advance, as the park is somewhat removed from the main urban blocks.

The history of this site dates back to the late 19th century. The land where the park stands today was originally part of the eastern sector of the Dominion Experimental Station. This network of farms was established by the government in 1886 to test new agricultural methods and modernize farming across Canada.

The park opened as a public space in 1976 under the name Bazan Bay Park. For decades, it served as a recreation spot for local residents, symbolizing the community's commitment to preserving Saanich's natural landscapes for future generations and maintaining public access to the water.

The location received its current name — Cy Hampson Park — in 1998. Dr. Cyril (Cy) G. Hampson was an outstanding naturalist, wildlife expert, and educational filmmaker. He lived in North Saanich for over thirty years and owned the neighboring property, dedicating his life to studying and popularizing local flora and fauna.

To leisurely explore both parts of the park, head down to the pebble beach, and take memorable photos at the viewing platform, 1–2 hours is usually sufficient. This time is enough for both a short walk and a brief rest by the water.

If you plan to have a full family picnic or are a dog owner whose pet needs to run around in the open space, you could easily spend half a day in the park. The peaceful atmosphere and bay views are perfect for long, contemplative relaxation.

The park is welcoming to visitors every day. On weekdays (Monday–Friday), you can stroll here from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM. On weekends — Saturday and Sunday — access hours are significantly extended from 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

As the operating schedule may change depending on the season or municipal events, visitors are encouraged to check for the latest information on the official District of North Saanich website before their trip.

Exploring the park's surroundings will allow you to delve deeper into the charm of this region. After a walk along the waterfront, you can head to cozy establishments in Sidney or visit interesting educational centers located just a few minutes' drive away.