The most practical way to reach China Beach from Victoria is by car or taxi along Highway 14, the West Coast Road. The beach is part of Juan de Fuca Provincial Park, about 35 km west of Sooke and 36 km east of Port Renfrew. Public transit is a poor fit for this trip, so plan around a vehicle.
Highway 14 past Sooke
From Victoria you head west to Sooke and then keep going on Highway 14. The park lies beyond Sooke, between the communities of Jordan River and Port Renfrew, and the campground sits right beside the highway. Fuel up and use the washroom in Sooke, since the stretch beyond it is quiet. Phone signal can be patchy out there, so download your map before you leave town.
Where to park for the beach
The China Beach day use area has its own parking lot, about 1 km east of the campground. A large viewing deck looks out over the water, and a trail through mature forest leads down to the beach. Give yourself time for the walk down and the climb back up. Check the BC Parks page for Juan de Fuca Park before you go for current notices, closures and any fees.
Booking a taxi from Victoria
A taxi suits a day trip when nobody wants to drive, though the distance is long enough that you should agree on the fare and the return plan in advance. The Victoria taxi page covers local service, and the taxi fare estimator gives a rough fare for the distance. Ask the driver whether a pickup from the beach can be arranged for a set time, because there are few places nearby to wait or to call a ride on short notice.
What about BC Transit?
BC Transit serves Victoria and Sooke, but do not assume a bus reaches the beach itself. Look at the BC Transit trip planner for the latest routes and the last return departure. If a bus only takes you part of the way, you will need another ride for the rest.
The coast here changes with the weather, so pack a jacket and sturdy shoes even if Victoria is sunny.