However, tourism is presently the major factor in the local economy. Sooke publishes one weekly newspaper, and boasts a full range of retail shops, restaurants, and businesses. There are many bed and breakfasts, marinas, and fishing charters in Sooke as well. As a part of a temperate rainforest, Sooke has one of the most mild climates in Canada. Typically warm and dry in the summer, the weather is very pleasant.
Winters also are also mild with a good amount of rainfall and a rare snowfall.
This pleasant climate can be enjoyed while hiking, biking, or horseback riding the some of the local trails, or kayaking or sailing in the local waters of Sooke Basin and beyond. The region encompasses East Sooke and Sooke, two communities which are joined across the Sooke Harbour. Sooke supports quite a wealth of interests, such as music, drama, arts and crafts, photography, gardening, and team sports, through community organizations. The Sooke Region Museum holds a major annual juried art exhibition, the Fine Arts Show. Sooke's diversity offers something for everyone.