If you're planning a trip to Victoria this summer then you're in for a treat, because the oceanside city is a gateway to the beauty of Vancouver Island.
After moving from Ontario to B.C. eight years ago I can now call myself a Victoria local, and dish on all of the best local attractions, hidden gems, and must-see spots near the city.
Summer in Victoria is the perfect time to plan a trip because the island is magical at this time of year with all the blooming flowers, the beautiful beaches along the crisp blue ocean, and all the fun activities available to you.
From visiting the Butchart Gardens to driving to Mystic Beach and Tofino, there is no shortage of places you should make time for on your B.C. trip.
Here are 14 of the best things to see and do in Victoria and on the island when you're here.
Take in the sites in downtown Victoria
The Inner Harbour in Victoria, BC.
Asymina Kantorowicz | Narcity
This one may seem obvious, but I can't stress enough that taking a walk around downtown Victoria is a must while you're here.
The city centre along the water is bustling during the summer months with locals and tourists.
During your visit make sure you walk to the B.C. legislature where you'll want to take photos and even go for a tour inside if you have the time.
Downtown is where you'll also find the Fairmont Empress Hotel. This iconic B.C. building is across from the Inner Harbour which is filled with boats, whale-watching vessels and seaplanes.
There are also charming boutiques and cute cafes along Government Street where you can shop and grab a coffee.
Fish & chips at Fisherman's Wharf
The ocean surrounds Victoria, meaning the fish is as fresh as you can get it. There are several places along the water where you can stop for fish and chips or fish tacos.
My recommendation is to go to Fisherman's Wharf, which is around the corner from the downtown area. That's where you'll find unique shops, colourful float homes and delicious fish and chips. You'll also typically see seals swimming nearby as well.
Walk along the Ogden Point Breakwater
Since you're already on the south island and need to walk off that delicious fish and chips lunch you had, I recommend heading to the Ogden Point Breakwater where you can walk out towards the Juan de Fuca Strait towards a lighthouse.
This is a beautiful spot to take in the views of the water, sailboats, float planes and cruise ships.
If you want more of a walk, you can continue along Dallas Road and take a break at one of the many benches along the way.
Visit some of Victoria's beautiful parks
B.C.'s capital city has over 100 parks so make sure you include a few of those on your travel itinerary.
Beacon Hill Park in Victoria is one spot that won't disappoint. The park is so beautiful with its colourful flower beds, trees, and footpaths.
It's one of the first parks I ever went to when I first moved to the city and it's also where I saw peacocks for the first tine. The birds roam around the area freely and you'll often hear them before you see them.
Visit Mystic Beach
There is no shortage of magical beaches in Victoria but if you want a true islander experience, drive to Vancouver Island's west coast where you'll find Mystic Beach, Sombrio Beach and China Beach.
My personal favourite is Mystic Beach along the Strait of the Juan de Fuca because you get to do an easy hike (approx. 30-45 minutes) in the forest before you get to the incredible beach.
Once you get to the water you'll be amazed by what you see. It's the perfect spot to relax and listen to the waves crashing along the shore and have a picnic. Don't forget to check out the beautiful waterfall that cascades down a cliff.
If you're short on time and the hike is too much, go to the beach next to Mystic Beach called China Beach. It has the same great beach views minus the long hike.
See all the blooms at the Butchart Gardens
Victoria, B.C. is known as Canada's garden city so visiting the most iconic garden on the island is a must-see attraction.
The Butchart Gardens was recently ranked as the most beautiful garden in Canada and among the most beautiful in the world, in case you need more convincing.
The gardens are filled with lush trees, colourful flowers and sections inspired by different countries like Japan, Italy and the Mediterranean.
It's a floral paradise that should be on every Canadian's bucket list!
Take a road trip to Tofino
You can't visit Vancouver Island without taking a road trip to the town of Tofino. There are several beautiful beaches in Tofino, including Long Beach and Chesterman Beach.
There are also hikes you can do while you're there, like in Pacific Rim National Park.
If you have the time, you can even rent a surfboard and test out the waves for yourself!
While you're in the area, don't forget to stop by the original Tacofino truck for fish tacos or a burrito.
Stop at Cathedral Grove
If you're driving to Tofino, there are at least a couple of stops along the way that I would recommend to any visitor.
One of those is Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Park which has towering Douglas fir trees, some of which are more than 800 years old.
It's an incredible sight to see!
Visit the goats on the roof in Coombs
The second stop on the way to Tofino that I would suggest is in the small town of Coombs. That's where you'll find Old Country Market which is famous for the adorable goats on the roof.
Aside from the goats, the market is also fully stocked with a lot of great snacks for the rest of your road trip.
Rent a kayak
Asymina in a kayak in Victoria, BC.
Asymina Kantorowicz | Narcity
Considering Victoria is surrounded by the ocean, getting on the water is a nice activity that allows you to take in the beautiful West Coast views from a different angle.
There are several places you can rent a kayak depending on where you are in the city. If you're lucky you may see some wildlife while you're out there!
Sip on local wine at the wineries
Asymina holding a bottle of Church and State wine.
Asymina Kantorowicz | Narcity
Vancouver Island isn't all about fresh seafood, it also has many local wineries that produce some of the best wine I've ever had.
From Church and State Wines in Brentwood Bay to Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Unsworth Winery in Cowichan, there are a lot of choices depending on your travel routes.
Along with sipping on vino, many of them offer beautiful views of the water and mountains.
If wine isn't your thing, there are also several breweries and spots where you can try local cider.
Have lunch or dinner on a waterfront patio
One of the best activities to do in Victoria on a nice summer day is go to one of the waterfront restaurants and sit on the patio. Many of these spots have remarkable views of the water.
I used to live in Ontario and I can truthfully say patio season hits different on the West Coast.
Take a dip at the Sooke potholes
While the ocean and lakes are popular places to go for a swim during the summer, another beloved spot for the locals is Sooke Potholes.
The potholes are deep pools in the Sooke River rock and it's a spectacular spot to cool off after a hike in the park.
Explore Hatley Castle
If you love visiting castles during your travels then you'll want to check out Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University.
It's a beautiful backdrop for photos and it's often used in movies. You know that iconic shot of Deadpool lying in front of a castle in Deadpool 2? That was shot right here!
Happy travels!
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
