'Breathtaking' B.C. beach voted one of the best in North America | Daily Hive

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Summer is just around the corner, and locals who are craving the sand and sunshine can add a visit to one of the top beaches on the entire continent to their schedule.

San Josef Bay, hidden away on the northern tip of Vancouver Island, has just been voted one of the best beaches in North America for 2026.

The distinction comes from the World’s 50 Best Beaches, a list curated through the input of over 1,000 travel professionals, judges, and beach ambassadors.

With a secluded setting, majestic monoliths, and pristine white sand beaches, it’s no surprise that San Josef Bay made the list.

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“Put on your favourite pair of shoes because you won’t want to miss this breathtaking beach in Cape Scott Provincial Park on Vancouver Island,” World’s 50 Best Beaches said online.

“One of the most incredible, unspoiled beaches you will ever see. Spend hours here exploring sea tracks and caves, take a refreshing swim, and feel the soft white sand under your feet. This beach is surrounded by calmness and rugged wilderness, making it a true, unspoiled natural paradise.”

Accessible primarily by a relaxed 45-minute hike, San Josef Bay spans 2.5 km and takes you to one of the most secluded havens of natural beauty, with sea tracks, caves, and an unspoiled sandy shoreline.

The beach sees only a handful of visitors at any given time, offering an ideal escape for those seeking unbridled nature.

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Cape Scott Provincial Park is also home to over 20 km of hiking trails and a rugged Pacific coastline. If you can, visit the lighthouse, but be aware of cougars and bears.

San Josef Bay is number 43 on the list of top 50 North American beaches, and is among good friends in picturesque locales in the Dominican Republic, Mexico, Bahamas and Jamaica.

B.C. destinations have been raking in the accolades recently, including Vancouver being named one of the world’s most walkable cities and a hidden gem bed and breakfast being named the best hotel in the city.

Whistler Blackcomb was also recently named one of the 20 best ski resorts in the world by Travel + Leisure.

The full list of North America’s 50 Best Beaches can be found online.