Why Golden Hour at Kye Bay on Vancouver Island is So Special


On the coast of the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, Kye Bay is one of those places that feels like it was made for golden hour. With its long sandy shoreline, and breathtaking mountain views, it’s no surprise that this spot has become a favorite for photographers, especially for maternity sessions and lifestyle portraits.


Golden hour at Kye Bay transforms the beach into something almost surreal. As golden hour begins, it casts golden light through the trees and across the beach. The sky turns shades of pink, peach, and orange. It is such an unforgettable backdrop for both quiet reflection and beautiful photography. Golden hour light is incredibly flattering, soft, warm, and perfect for capturing natural beauty. If you’re a photographer in the Comox Valley or planning a maternity photoshoot on Vancouver Island, be sure to keep Kye Bay at the top of your list. It’s one of those rare locations where the light truly does the work for you.

Maternity portrait photography of couple holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Beautiful image photography of bird flying over kye bay beach by ocean during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait photography of couple holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean and mountains Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer

A Stunning Comox Valley Location for Maternity Photography


As a photographer, Kye Bay offers everything you could want for a natural light session, especially during golden hour! The soft sand, mountains in the background, driftwood, and small forest path provide so much variety. You have so many options to choose from in this one location!


This peaceful setting encourages candid moments such as walking barefoot through the water, playing in the waves, or simply sitting together in the warm light. It’s the kind of session where the beauty of nature meets the emotion of the moment.

Maternity portrait of couple holding bump along kye bay beach in red dress by ocean during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity detail bump shot on kye bay beach in red dress by ocean during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of couple holding hands along kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of couple holding hands along kye bay beach with reflection in ocean sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of couple holding hands along kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of couple feet walking through ocean kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of couple holding hands in water kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of woman holding bump along kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of woman holding bump along kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait of woman holding bump along kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photoshoot of woman holding bump along kye bay beach in red dress during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer

Tips for Photographers and Visitors


Know what the tides will be like:

This beach is beautiful during low and higher tides, but for the best reflections (in the small water pools) and for the most beach to play on, check tide charts before your shoot. If you're booking with me, I will make sure to check all of this beforehand!


Know sunrise vs sunset:

For reference, this session was taken during sunset. The sunsets behind the trees (so shadows will be facing the waves). Sunrise is also incredibly stunning here as the sun rises right over the water! The most beautiful of backdrops if you're up for the early mornings!


Bring layers and a maybe a blanket:

Even warm evenings on Vancouver Island can cool quickly after sunset, especially near the water. Blankets are also so much fun to sit and lay down on during your session.


Respect the environment:

As always in the Comox Valley, tread lightly, pack out what you pack in, and leave the beach as beautiful as you found it.

Maternity portrait photography of couple walking along kye bay beach by ocean during golden hour Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Beautiful photography of bird flying over ocean kye bay beach by ocean during sunset Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity portrait photography of couple walking along kye bay beach by ocean during golden hour Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photography of couple holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean with sunset glowing Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photography of woman holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean with sunset glowing Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photography of couple holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean in front of mountains Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photography of couple holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean in front of mountains Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photography of mother holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean in front of mountains Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photoshoot of woman holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean in front of mountains Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer
Maternity photoshoot of couple holding bump at kye bay beach by ocean in front of mountains Comox Valley Vancouver Island photographer