Sidney by the Sea, as the town of Sidney is frequently referred to by locals, is located on the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island, approximately 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) north of Victoria. Incorporated as a village in 1952, and then as a town in 1967, Sidney has a growing population in excess of 11,000 people. Just minutes away from the Butchart Gardens, Sidney offers numerous activities including boating, kayaking, canoeing, scuba diving, golfing, biking, tennis and boat charters.