Get up and about in beautiful Victoria, BC.
As we approach summer (hopefully) I want to share some helpful tips on what to do around Victoria, BC, so that you can fall in love with it just like I have.
Victoria is one of the nicest cities in Canada, and although I’m a little biased, it’s definitely my favourite. I am sharing the 20 best things to do in and around Victoria, and if you want to read the previous part, please click here.
The 5 Best Outdoor Activities To Do In Victoria BC
1. Beach Walk
Whether you are staying for a long time or on a short visit, your stay in Victoria, BC, is not complete without walking the water's edge in The Garden City. You can start your walk along the breakwater from the Ogden Point Terminal located at Dallas Road. Enjoy the ocean views and cool breeze as you take in the natural beauty of Victoria’s coast and the imposing blue Olympic Mountain range. From here you have a variety of options including walking along the beach or following the trails along the bluffs up to Cloverpoint or Ross Bay. During windy days you might see parachute surfers along the bluffs, or ocean swells crashing against the rocks during a storm. If you are willing to drive there are countless other beaches to explore since Victoria is surrounded by water on three sides. Some close options include Saxe Point, MaCauley Point, Willows Beach and Cadboro Bay. If you’re hungry after exploring the beaches along Dallas rd. you can grab a bite to eat at the Breakwater Bistro and Bar, or choose from a number of options after a quick jaunt downtown.
2. Hiking
Victoria has some of the most scenic hiking destinations in Canada. If you love hiking you can take advantage of the city's natural beauty and explore cherished hiking sites like Mount Doug, Mount Finlayson, East Sooke Park, and Gowland Tod park.
When it comes to hiking in Victoria, different sites provide different experiences. The coast trail in the East Sooke features a combined oceanside and woodland experience. Hike along rocky shores and sandy beaches facing the snow-capped Olympic Mountains as you climb the hillsides for an extraordinary view. Then take a flat woodland trail for a relaxing return to your car and the next adventure.
Mount Doug is somewhat crisscrossed with lots of hiking trails. But, with a good sense of direction, or a detailed map, you will easily find your way to the top of the mountain. Alternatively, walk or drive up the main road for easier access to 360 degree views of the city.
Alternatively, Mount Finlayson hiking trail is a steep, roundtrip hike with considerable elevation. From the top you can see Mount Baker from a distance on a clear day, while enjoying some decent cardio through temperate rainforest in between. Finally, if you have time to explore Gowland Tod Park, these trails take you past old ruins and tall trees as you make it down to the Saanich Inlet facing the Malahat Mountain range. Overall, hiking around Victoria is a must-do activity for anyone who desires a memorable outdoor experience.
3. Rent a Paddle-board
Do you enjoy adventures on the water? What do you think about renting a paddle board and exploring the ocean shores or local lakes? Cadboro Bay Gyro Park is a great place to get out on the water. The park features sandy shores, volleyball courts and a jungle gym filled with a pirate ship, giant sea serpent, whale, and Octopi for your kids to play on. More than this, the Bay offers relatively tranquil waters to test your paddle boarding skills on a calm sunny day. The park also features a boat launch for non-motorized craft, tennis courts, and a seasonal wheelchair-accessible beach camp and picnic areas where you can have fun with family and friends.
4. Rent a Kayak at Canoe bay
Let's go to Saanich to enjoy some ocean kayaking. If you like water sports you will enjoy every bit of the 3-hour tour on the waters, feeling the cool ocean breeze and seeing charming scenes as you paddle between the shore and small islands. At the right time of year you might even encounter baby seal pups being nursed by their mothers. Kayaking in Saanich provides you with a perfect combination of sightseeing and adventure. This is a perspective of Victoria that most visitors and even locals miss.
5. Surfing
Victoria is a surfing destination for surf enthusiasts in Canada and the world. This is not only due to its proximity to the iconic surf town of Tofino BC, but also much closer proximity to other surf destinations like Jordan River and Port Renfrew. If you are a surfing enthusiast visiting Victoria, and you have time for a road trip I highly recommend one of these destinations. For a quick day trip Jordan River is just over an hour away and is regularly visited by local surfers. If you have time for a weekend away I highly recommend a trip to Tofino. Tofino is one of the world-best surfing destinations, being home to Chesterman's Beach, Cox Bay, Long Beach, Florencia Bay, and more. The good news? Since the 70s, the region has been attracting cold-water enthusiasts from everywhere around the world. If you’re willing to travel a bit further Tofino is about 4hrs 25mins away from Victoria.
Stay tuned for Part 3!
I am a Victoria based local realtor with eXp Kiteke. My commitment to honesty, integrity, loyalty and hard work have been important pillars for me because they drive a high standard of excellent service for my clients. Helping you realize your dream is my goal!
I service Vancouver Island, but my focus is on: Victoria, Sooke, Saanich, Malahat, Shawnigan Lake, Cobble Hill, Duncan, and the rest of the Cowichan Valley.
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