Outlook Park
Outlook Park was constructed in 2003 and is halfway between Petersburg and the Sandy Beach Picnic Area on Sandy Beach Road. This small park offers public beach access, benches, and picturesque coastal range views, somewhat often whales. You can find interpretative panels filled with information on Orca and humpback whales and other marine wildlife that frequent the Frederick Sound.
The park’s covered timber-framed shelter was built by a local shipwright and is reminiscent of Steve Churcher or the Norwegian longboats (depending on who you talk to). Outlook Park also features telescopes and binoculars that are available to scan and admire Frederick Sound for icebergs and marine wildlife, to view the Devil’s Thumb, and to gaze at the beautiful snow-covered peaks of the Coast Mountains. Fun Fact: Many couples have chosen this beautiful, scenic, and unique spot to exchange their wedding vows.
This park is considered a marine wildlife observatory; with help from one of the three fixed binoculars, you can spot the different marine life available on Frederick Sound, like orcas, humpback whales, sea lions, scoters, harlequin ducks, pigeon guillemots, and more. Outlook Park is one of the best shore-based places in town to look for humpback and killer whales.
June through September is the best time to search for humpback whales, with viewing chances a little higher in July and mid-August. The likelihood of spotting killer whales is less predictable and more opportunistic.
Besides the Interpretative Signs available throughout the park, you can also find picnic facilities with restrooms, and it is also wheelchair accessible.