The town of Sidney-by-the-sea is ideally situated on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, hugging the shores of the Strait of Georgia and beautiful Particia Bay. Almost everyone who visits Victoria will pass through this picturesque town, as it is the location of both the Victoria International Airport and Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, which welcomes all vessels from the Gulf Islands and Vancouver region. Sidney and its neighbouring community of North Saanich make up the North Saanich Peninsula, an area renowned for its fresh produce, quiet country roads and stunning beaches. The Sidney Whale Museum contains models, murals and exhibits tracing the evolution of whales and other marine life. The famous Butchart Gardens, located a short drive west of town features an impressive 22 hectares (55 acres) of gardens and floral displays. Every Thursday evening from June until September, Beacon Avenue fills with pedestrians, artisans and shopkeepers, all participating in the Sidney Summer Market.