We might not boast the clear waters of the Caribbean or the famous beaches in the Mediterranean, but BC is known for its stunning, rugged coastline, which includes some truly breathtaking beaches. In fact, Vancouver Island’s San Josef Bay was recently named one of the best in North America.
Compiled by the World’s 50 Best Beaches, the list was voted on by over 1,000 travel professionals, judges, and beach ambassadors. It includes picturesque destinations in Hawaii, Mexico, Anguilla, Cuba, California, Florida, and BC – where the white-sand beach of San Josef Bay takes the 26th spot out of 50 incredible beaches.
Situated in the remote Cape Scott Park, San Josef Bay is recognized for its untouched beauty and peaceful surroundings. As the park is a hike-in, there are rarely more than a handful of visitors at time, making it the perfect destination for those looking to unwind in nature.
What’s more, it’s not the first time (or likely the last) that the beach was recognized as one of the greats.
“After a good 45-minute hike, you will reach this amazing coastal wilderness and one of the most incredible unspoiled beaches you will ever see,” reads the 2023 ranking. “Spend hours here exploring sea tracks and caves, take a refreshing swim, and feel the soft white sand under your feet.”
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Here are the top 30 (out of 50) beaches in North America for 2024:
- Trunk Bay – US Virgin Islands
- Meads Bay – Anguilla
- Lanikai Beach – Hawaii
- Balandra Beach – Mexico
- Grace Bay – Turks & Caicos
- Seven Mile Beach – Cayman Islands
- Grote Knip – Curacao
- Horshoe Bay – Bermuda
- Maundays Bay – Anguilla
- Grand Anse – Grenada
- Colombier Beach – St. Barth
- Xpu Ha Beach – Mexico
- Kapalua Beach – Hawaii
- Pipe Creek Sandbar – Bahamas
- Henderson Beach – Florida
- Varadero Beach – Cuba
- Eagle Beach – Aruba
- Mcway Falls – California
- Princess Diana Beach – Antigua & Bermuda
- Shoal Bay East – Anguilla
- Waimanlo Beach – Hawaii
- Klein Curacao – Curacao
- Hidden Beach – Mexico
- The Baths – British Virgin Islands
- Tulum – Mexico
- San Josef Bay – Canada
- Pig Beach – Bahamas
- Playa Pilar – Cuba
- Flamenco Beach – Puerto Rico
- Playa Canto de la Playa – Dominican Republic
Looking for another famed beach in BC to check out this upcoming season? Add Chesterman Beach to your map!
Happy exploring!
San Josef Bay
Where: Cape Scott Park, BC
