The BC Ferries terminal at Swartz Bay in North Saanich is one of the busiest on the coast, welcoming millions of passengers and cargo annually. Located just north of Sidney and Victoria International Airport at the northern tip of Vancouver Island, the area offers a unique retail landscape with lower density compared to Greater Victoria’s southern districts.
Whether you’re visiting from Vancouver, exploring local spots in Mission or Maple Ridge before crossing over, or simply passing through North Saanich, finding specific retail items can sometimes require a little extra navigation. Whether you’re a visitor fresh off the ferry or an employee finishing a long shift onboard, this guide will help you discover some of the best retail, dining options or a local cannabis shop near the terminal.
Food Near the Ferries
Looking for a bite on your way from the ferries? Here’s a collection of take-out and dine-in options located in Sidney and North Saanich:
Sabhai Thai
Sabhai Thai has been serving authentic Thai cuisine in Victoria since 2006. Their location at 2493 Beacon Avenue is just minutes from the ferry terminal and is an excellent choice for those looking for vegetarian-friendly meals.
The Sidney location is open for lunch from 11:30 am to 2 pm, Tuesday through Friday. For dinner, they are open Tuesday through Thursday and Sundays from 4 pm to 8 pm, plus Fridays and Saturdays until 8:30 pm. Closed Mondays.
Biju’s Indian Cuisine
Photo credit to Biju’s
A newer addition to Sidney’s dining scene, Biju’s serves authentic Indian dishes featuring flavorful biryanis, butter chicken, and extensive vegetarian specialties.
Located at 10153 Resthaven Drive in Sidney with a lovely outdoor patio, open daily from 11 am to 9 pm.
Jacks on the Water
If you’re looking for a more elevated dining experience, Jacks on the Water offers panoramic ocean views alongside a menu featuring seafood, pizza, sushi, and craft cocktails.
Located at 9881 Seaport Place in Sidney (off Beacon Avenue), they are open Sunday through Wednesday from 11 am to 10 pm, and Thursday through Saturday until 11 pm.
Fryguy’s Bistro
Fryguy’s is a beloved local spot known for homemade burgers and delicious fried food, including some of the best fish and chips on the island.
Located at 2373 Beacon Avenue, it operates until 8 pm daily (except Wednesdays), with extended hours during the summer season.
Firehouse Subs
For a quick, reliable lunch, Firehouse Subs offers classic counter-service sandwiches in the new Sandown Shopping Centre on McDonald Park Road.
Address: 10326 McDonald Park Road. Open daily until 8:30 pm.
Pubs Near the Ferries
Stonehouse Pub
Photo credit to Stonehouse Pub
The Stonehouse Pub is a cozy spot just minutes from the terminal, featuring a peaceful outdoor patio and a menu of comfort food classics like pizza, soups, and burgers.
Located at 2215 Canoe Cove Road in Canoe Cove Marina. Open Sunday through Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm, and Fridays/Saturdays until 9 pm. Happy hour runs daily from 3–5 pm.
Dickens Public House
A classic Sidney hangout located right off the highway, easily accessible for those leaving or arriving via Swartz Bay. Dickens Public House features daily specials and a late-night menu, staying open until 1 am on weekends.
Open daily except Mondays. Happy hour runs 3–5 pm.
Cafés Near the Ferries
Looking for a quick bite, a sweet treat or a fresh coffee?
Fox and Monocle Café
A versatile bakery by day and restaurant by evening, known for handcrafted cakes, cinnamon buns, and all-day sandwiches.
Located at 2300 Canoe Cove Road (#3), right next to the ferry terminal. Bakery open 8 am–4 pm; dinner service begins at 4 pm until 9 pm. Closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Harbourside Café
A waterfront favourite in Sidney offering excellent breakfast sandwiches and homemade sweet treats.
Located at 2235 Harbour Road.
Open weekdays from 8 am to 2 pm (closed weekends).
3rd Street Café
A cozy downtown diner serving coffee, hearty breakfasts, and takeaway lunches for years.
Found at 2466 Beacon Avenue (corner of 3rd Street). Open daily from 8 am to 3 pm.
Markets Near the Ferries
If you’re on the hunt for groceries and fresh produce, here are some excellent local options near the Swartz Bay terminal:
Red Barn Market
A Greater Victoria staple known for deli wraps, fresh produce, bakery items, and pantry essentials.
The North Saanich location is at 10330 McDonald Park Road in Sandown Shopping Centre.
Open weekdays 6:30 am–8 pm; weekends 8 am–8 pm.
Fickle Fig
Photo credit to Fickle Fig
A beloved farm market and bistro focusing on seasonal, organic produce grown right on-site. Don’t miss their fresh-baked goods and artisan gelato!
Located at 1780 Mills Road in North Saanich. Open daily from 7 am to 5 pm.
Cannabis Shop Near the Ferries
Looking for some premium local, high-quality cannabis after a long shift or crossing across the water? Look no further:
Cheeky’s Cannabis
Cheeky’s Cannabis is the only cannabis shop in North Saanich, making us the closest option to the ferry terminal for high-quality flower, pre-rolls, edibles, topicals, concentrates, and accessories.
On a mission to demystify cannabis culture across BC, our North Saanich location offers a welcoming, stigma-free shopping environment second to none. You can even shop for cannabis online!
Prefer to browse online? You can explore our full catalog and place orders for herb-side pickup using our online cannabis store.
Address: 10330 McDonald Park Road, Sandown Centre, North Saanich
Hours: Open daily 9 am – 11 pm
Liquor Store Near the Ferries
Cold beer, wine, spirits and ready-to-drink cocktails can be found here:
Sandown Liquor Store
A new addition to Sandown Shopping Centre is the Sandown Liquor Store from Springs Group. A fully stocked liquor store featuring popular local brands like Phillips, Driftwood and Victoria Distillers, to classic imports.
Monthly promotions, a VIP member program, and regular contest giveaways make this a must-visit for beverage enthusiasts. Located at 10330 McDonald Park Road. Visit daily from 9 am to 11 pm and start earning cash back on your purchases.
If you’re embarking on the ferry for the mainland, Springs Group has you covered with some of the best liquor stores, pubs and cannabis shops from to North Van to Maple Ridge and Mission. Find a location near you!