Sandwell - Beach access

Sandwell Provincial Park, with its long sandy beach and views of the Strait of Georgia, is a favourite destination for residents and visitors to Gabriola Island. One of three provincial parks on Gabriola Island, Sandwell offers a short walking trail through the woods leading to a picnic area overlooking the sandy shores of Lock Bay. This is a lovely place to spend a peaceful afternoon relaxing on the beach or taking a refreshing dip in the ocean waters.

At low tide, visitors can walk down the beach to view a prehistoric petroglyph carved into the sandstone rocks, east of the day-use area. This site is only accessible at low tide.

Location
Sandwell Provincial Park is located on Gabriola Island, a 20 minute ferry ride from downtown Nanaimo on south Vancouver Island. The park is located on Strand Road, approximately 10 km from the ferry terminal. Take North Road and turn left on Barrett Road, following park directional signs. Neary communities include Gabriola Island and Nanaimo.