FORE! Great Golf Courses on South Vancouver Island

Summers on Vancouver Island are something special. While we may not have soaring summertime temperatures, the beautiful blue skies and moderate weather of an Island summer allows you to enjoy the outdoors in comfort and creates the most stunning conditions for a perfect round of golf. If you’re an avid golfer, you know that a long day on the course in blistering heat can make the back nine even harder than it already is, which is why there really is no better place to enjoy a great summer day than on one of the beautiful courses on South Vancouver Island.  

Highland Pacific Golf

450 Creed Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 6C9

Just minutes from downtown Victoria, is Highland Pacific Golf, the perfect course for players looking for something that is both scenic and challenging. This championship golf course is playable all year round but really comes alive in the summer. This stunning course overlooks the beautiful Thetis Lake Park and has views that encompass the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the shadowy Olympic Mountains in the distance. Don’t have it in you to take on a round? Have a great afternoon in the driving range and take a break at the Range Cafe for lunch. They also have lessons for anyone looking to start golfing or improve their game. 

Cordova Bay Golf Course

5333 Cordova Bay Rd, Victoria, BC V8Y 2L3

In the beautiful neighbourhood of Cordova Bay, perfect for guests staying at one of the EMR vacation properties near Sidney, you’ll find Cordova Bay Golf Course. With its forward-thinking design elements and a constant adherence to best practices, this impressive and suitably challenging course is perfect for scratch players and beginners alike! At this fun-loving course with it’s self-described irreverent philosophy, you can feel good about enjoying yourself, taking it easy and hitting a few great shots. There’s no doubt, the summertime is the perfect season to get a round in on this thoughtfully designed course – after all, golf is a great excuse to get in a good walk! 

Cedar Hill Golf Course

1400 Derby Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 1T1

Travelling with a non golfer? The Cedar Hill Golf Course might be your next favourite course! Just north of downtown Victoria, this beautiful and challenging 18 hole course not only has everything you need for a great game but non-golfers have access to the charming, licenced clubhouse and a lovely wooded 3.5km chip trail around the perimeter which is perfect for a easy walk or light jog.

Henderson Park Golf Course

2291 Cedar Hill Cross Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 5H9

Nestled amongst beautiful trees, in the lovely burrough of Oak Bay you’ll find Henderson Park Golf Course. This little neighbourhood course is perfect for beginners or those who are in a group with mixed ability levels. Advanced players will find the course a fun way to practice their short game and beginners can enjoy learning the beautiful sport in a relaxing environment. At this lovely course you’ll find reasonable fees and tee times to ensure you get the most out of your game! 

Bear Mountain Golf & Country Club

1999 Country Club Way, Victoria, BC V9B 6R3

Are you an avid golfer looking for a real challenge? Something unique, out-of-the-ordinary, something to write home about? Then you had better book an EMR rental in Langford, just minutes away from the luxurious Bear Mountain Golf & Country Club. Just outside Victoria in Vancouver Island’s new, award winning resort community is the awe-inspiring, 36 hole, Nicklaus designed, double course. You can choose between the rugged and challenging Mountain Course, the more serene Valley Course, or for the brave of heart, you can book all 36 holes, both courses for one epic day on the green. This club offers all their guests gold-standard service and ensures that a day here will be one of the best golf days of your life.   

Olympic View Golf Club

643 Latoria Rd, Victoria, BC V9C 3A3

If you’re staying in Metchosin, you’re in luck because the award winning Olympic View Golf Club is just a 15 minute drive away! No matter where you are staying though, this course is worth the trip. It has ranked in the top 50 Golf Courses in Canada by both the Golf Course Ranking and SCOREGolf Magazine as well as being rated amongst the Top 10 Best Public Golf Facilities in BC by SCOREGolf Magazine. It’s no wonder this course has picked up so many accolades as it boasts over 12 acres of pristine land stretching an impressive 330 yards with sweeping views of the Olympic Mountains. Plus, with extensive grass tee decks, five target greens and three versatile short game areas, no matter what your skill level is, you’ll have a great day at Olympic View. Looking for a great way to unwind after a round? The newly restored Table Nineteen is a spectacular location to sip a cocktail and enjoy some fresh, local dishes. 

Arbutus Ridge Golf Club

3515 Telegraph Rd, Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L4

Located in the beautiful seaside community of Cobble Hill in the Cowichan Valley is the popular and highly celebrated Arbutus Ridge Golf Club. This Bill Robinson designed, 18 hole course has hosted both provincial and national championships, has been given a prestigious four star rating by Golf Digest, named Best Destination Golf course in British Columbia by Golf Nerve Magazine and One of Canada’s Ten Best Courses for Your Money by WestJet Magazine, as well as achieving a Sustainability Award from Tourism Vancouver Island. This truly stunning course is situated amongst the unique serpentine Arbutus trees and offers breathtaking views of the waters of the Satellite Channel Ecological Reserve. Travel companion not interested in a round? No problem! Arbutus Ridge has a state-of-the-art, covered tennis facility that you can enjoy! With excellent instructors available if necessary, luxury locker rooms and extensive hours, everyone can enjoy a day at the club. Whether it’s after a great round or if you’re popping by for a special evening, the Satellite Bar & Grille offers a sensational ocean and mountain views and elevated casual cuisine inspired by locally sourced ingredients.  

Need a Hand Golfing on Southern Vancouver Island?

If you’re planning on making your way to more than one of these courses during your stay, Golf Central is a great way to make the most of your trip. Their dedicated team will provide you with preferred tee times, arrange green fees and transportation to and from your choses courses all in one easy payment. Included in their gold-star service are arrangements for power carts or rental clubs and tours of the clubhouse and facilities. Additionally, they confirm all reservations made so you don’t have to worry about anything but having a great time! 

No matter where you are staying on southern Vancouver Island, there is the perfect golf experience waiting for you!

Have a Reel Good Time! Fishing on South Vancouver Island

There’s a lot to do on south Vancouver Island during the spring but one of the best ways to spend a sunny day is fishing! Whether you decide to spend a slow, peaceful day fishing from the shore on one of the many spots in and around Southern Vancouver Island to drop a line or you can book a charter to head out on the ocean to do some deep fishing, get ready to have an amazing day followed by an amazing dinner! Just make sure you have a valid fishing licence! Both freshwater and saltwater licences are conveniently available to purchase online or at most sporting shops.   

Shore Fishing 

Sooke

One of the earliest independent settlements in the Province, Sooke is a peaceful, historic town nestled amongst wild West Coast landscape. If you’re lucky enough to stay right in Sooke or in the beautiful neighbouring village of Metchosin, you’ll know how quickly you can fall in love with the beauty and tranquillity of this area. Sooke is the perfect spot for all outdoor adventures, especially fishing. 

East Sooke Park

Just a twenty minute hike from the parking lot will take you to the bluffs where the ocean drops off sharply. Here the water runs deep and you can easily fish for Chinook Salmon, Coho, Sockeye and Pink Salmon. If cod and rockfish are more to your liking, a short 5 minute walk will take you to a plethora of sites that are perfect for bottom fishing. In these sites you can cast a line for rockfish and delicious ling cod. A day here is always well spent. If you need equipment, Crab Shack Store and the Sooke Marine Center are great options to make sure you have all the gear to have a successful day out! 

Victoria

As the weather gets warmer, Victoria becomes abuzz with activity. There are so many ways to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of BC’s capital city but fishing is the only one that has a (potential) edible reward at the end of it! Whether you’re staying right in the heart of downtown Victoria or a little farther away in Sidney, there are lots of great spots nearby to do some shore fishing. 

Ten Mile Point

In the summer months, Ten Mile Point is a great spot to try your luck! The rocky outcrops provide the perfect place to set up for the day. With strong currents and an ocean floor that drops away for hundreds of feet, Ten Mile Point provides an ideal spot to fish for Chinook. If you hit those tides perfectly, you can even catch some bottom fish like feisty lingcods. 

Ogden Point Breakwater

Right in bustling neighbourhood of James Bay, you’ll find Ogden Point Breakwater. The huge, concrete walkway is a great place to catch salmon, cod, geenling, flounder, perch and more! 

Cormorant Point

A secret local spot for excellent salmon fishing in Gordon Head, from mid August to late October around 4pm, you can see the water swarming with salmon ready to be caught! 

Langford Lake

If you’re looking for some freshwater fishing, Langford Lake, right in the heart of Langford is stocked full of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass that you can easily catch from the fishing dock found along the Ed Nixon Trail just off Leigh Road. 

Sidney & the Saanich Peninsula 

Sidney is a stunning, walkable seaside town that lives life at a slower pace. One of the most incredible draws is the portion of the Lochside trail that hugs Sidney’s waterfront. 

Elk Lake

This popular lake is a great local option to find excellent shore fishing. There are several rest stops around the lake where you can find spots to cast a line to catch rainbow and coastal cutthroat trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, common carp or yellow perch. 

Sidney Fishing Pier

Here you will find beautiful gardens, a stunning seashore, outdoor gallery and the famous Sidney Fishing Pier. This enormous pier that juts out above the water, makes a great platform for crabbing and fishing. Here you can catch salmon, cod, sole, flounder, and so much more!  

Fishing Charters

Shore fishing is great, but if you don’t have access to gear and you’re up for an adventure, you’re going to want to book a charter to take you out on the water. Out on the waterways around the southern end of the island you can find tons of great salmon fishing, deep water fishing for larger fish like halibut, crabbing and even prawning. There are so many fishing charters to choose from so we’ve rounded up our favourites to make your choice easier! 

Sooke

Bluefin Fishing Adventures 

Book salmon or halibut fishing charters as well as tours through Sooke’s pristine waterways to find steelhead and salmon! 

Blue Wolf Charters

Owner and operator, Roy Carver has made a name for himself as a fun, experienced fishing guide and chef. Every guest is sent home with a few of Roy’s favourite recipes to help make your catch into a fabulous meal!

Goin’ Coastal Fishing Charters 

Tory Howe, owner, operator and fishing guide extraordinaire knows all the nooks and crannies of the ocean floor and is ready to help you catch a big one! 

Warrior Fishing Charters 

If you’re looking for creature comforts while out on the ocean, look no further. Their boats are outfitted with heated cabins and kitchenettes and offer experienced guides for a deluxe fishing experience. 

Good Time Dave’s Fishing Charters

Looking for a laid-back, fun loving guide who knows the waters around East Sooke like the back of his hand? Good Time Dave’s is the charter you!

Crab Shack Sport Fishing 

Whether you’re new to fishing or an avid angler, a small group or large, 30 year fishing veteran Elden Smith is ready to make sure you have a great time and catch some amazing fish!

Victoria

Foghorn Fishing Charters

Located right in the Inner Harbour, this team of experienced fishermen offer guests 20 years of experience fishing off southern Vancouver Island and have everything they need to have a great day out! 

Salmon Eye Fishing Charters 

No matter the season, Salmon Eye is ready for guests! With heated cabins and seats for five people under cover, experienced guides and top-of-the line equipment, booking with this charter is a great idea.

Beasley’s Fishing Charters

No matter if you’re hoping to go deep water fishing for halibut, coasting in the ocean for salmon or exploring one of the island’s gorgeous rivers for steelhead, this fun, inclusive company makes fishing fun for every age and ability!

Adam’s Fishing Charters 

Specializing in salmon and halibut charters, this company has high performance vessels ready to take guests from Sooke to Oak Bay in search of the perfect catch!

King Size Adventures

Boasting one of the biggest, top performing charter vessels in the Victoria charter fleet, King Size adventures takes guests onto the Strait from Oak Bay to fish for halibut, salmon, lingcod, rockfish and Dungeness crab.

No LImit Fishing Charters

With a reputation built on outstanding salmon and halibut fishing charters, owner and operator, Lewis Freeman offers guests memorable fishing trips off the coast of Victoria. 

Sidney

Sea King Adventures

For something a little different than your average fishing charter, consider Sea King’s ‘Deadliest Catch’ fishing tour that includes prawning, crabbing and fishing for salmon and halibut all in an amazing 6-7 hour adventure!

Bon Chovy Fishing Charters

If you’re looking for a charter that offers flexible tours and year-round fishing in Sidney’s calm waters, Bon Chovy is a great charter option!

No matter where you stay or what your speed is, there is always lots of excellent fishing to be found all across the southern end of Vancouver Island! 

Book your EMR Fishing Vacation Today!

Calling all Culture Vultures! Our Favourite Art Galleries and Cultural Centres around Victoria

June in Greater Victoria is a beautiful time of year. Summer is in the air, spring showers are few and far between and the rush of summer visitors hasn’t yet hit and the city is thrumming away at its regular, easy rhythm. However, this month of all the others can be temperamental. One day you have gorgeous glistening skies and soaring temperatures, the next, it’s overcast and windy. For those sunny days, the city is your oyster! Hike, cycle, shop, explore to your heart’s content but for those intermittent cooler days, we’ve got a list of amazing galleries, museums and cultural centres that are just the thing to make your day sunnier! 

Victoria 

Art Galleries 

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

1040 Moss St, Victoria, BC V8V 4P1

If you’re in Victoria, one of the best places to soak up some art is at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria or AGGV. This gallery was founded in 1951 and exhibited its first collections in the mansion that is now directly adjacent to the seven modern galleries. Here, visitors can see the largest public collection in BC and support an organization that has a vital role in Victoria’s art community. 

The Avenue Gallery 

2184 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1G3

Located in picturesque Oak Bay, The Avenue Gallery is one of the premiere boutique galleries on Vancouver Island and home to an impressive array of modern art, paintings, sculpture, glass and wearable art. This gallery is a wonderful place to view the ever-changing exhibits of fine art for people new to the contemporary art scene as well as knowledgeable collectors. 

Alcheringa Gallery

621 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 3V2

Right in the heart of downtown Victoria, you’ll find the Alcheringa Gallery, one of the leading Indigenous galleries in the world that specializes in contemporary art from the Northwest Coast. For over 35 years, the Alcheringa Gallery has been proud to represent leading First Nations artists. Visitors to this amazing gallery will be both exposed and have access to some of the most forward thinking contemporary First Nations art in the world!

Museums and Cultural Centres

Royal BC Museum

675 Belleville St., Victoria, BC V8W 9W2

While you’re in Victoria, your first stop should be the Royal BC Museum. The beloved RBCM has something for everyone with dozens of rooms and floors to explore, perfect for guests staying right downtown Victoria!

Craigdarroch Castle

1050 Joan Crescent, Victoria, BC V8S 3L5

This stunning castle, built by coal baron Robert Dunsmuir at the turn of the century is where you can learn about what life was like for the upper class in Victoria at that time.

Carr House

207 Government St, Victoria, BC V8V 2K8

If you’re a fan of Emily Carr’s work then a visit to Carr House is definitely in order! The birthplace of the fiercely independent artist has been perfectly preserved and converted into a cultural centre with a program series that is inspired by the themes in Carr’s life. 

Sooke

South Shore Gallery

2046 Otter Point Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0P7

If you’re staying in Sooke or picturesque Metchosin, the South Shore Gallery in the heart of Sooke is your place to go for an eclectic collection of original artwork that include paintings, ceramics, glass, metal works, jewellery, wearables and fibre art all done by the talented British Columbians. In addition to art, this gallery also has top-of-the-line art supplies for professionals and amateurs alike. This amazingly robust gallery also offers outdoor workshops that are perfect for those without any experience, you couldn’t ask for a better location to be inspired!

Sooke Region Museum

2070 Phillips Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0Y3

The Sooke Region Museum is a small but informative museum that focuses on highlighting the region’s history and culture. Both momentous events as well as the day-to-day life in one of the Province’s oldest, independent settlements are celebrated and explored through the exhibits of First Nations artefacts, historic photographs and more. Come and see the Triangle Island Lighthouse interpretive centre and Moss Cottage for more immersive experiences and get a deeper appreciation of this area’s historical importance!

Sidney 

Art Galleries 

Red Art Gallery

10204 Surfside Pl, Sidney, BC V8L 3R5

Just north of Sidney centre, you’ll find the Red Art Gallery. A lively, quirky gallery that showcases work by the local owner/artist Marion Evamy. Get a fun, personalized experience while you wander through the colourful exhibit at this oceanfront spot!

Peninsula Gallery

2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney, BC V8L 1Y2

Right in the heart of Sidney you’ll find the elegant Peninsula Gallery. Established in 1986, this gallery is home to a large collection of Canadian artists and has become one of Canada’s most well renowned galleries. The Peninsula Gallery is the place where emerging artists are given showing opportunities, nationally acclaimed Canadian artists exhibit and sell original paintings and local artists can take beginner, intermediate and advanced art classes. 

Museums and Cultural Centres

Sidney Museum

2423 Beacon Ave L-3, Sidney, BC V8L 1X5

Opened in the early 1970s with the purpose to collect, preserve and show the historical and archival material of the area, today, this successful local museum houses nearly 10,000 artefacts! With permanent exhibits of these local treasures always available to the public and  monthly featured exhibits that reflect the diversity of the area, this is a museum is a must for guests in Sidney! 

Shaw Center for the Salish Sea

9811 Seaport Pl, Sidney, BC V8L 4X3

The Shaw Center for the Salish Sea is an important not for profit community organization that showcases the importance and diversity of the Salish Sea. Here, visitors can see 35 separate aquarium habitats, a fully intact Orca skeleton, Coast Salish art, plus public programming and self guided tours . This incredible centre connects visitors to the bio-region of the Salish Sea through the interactive and informative exhibits. 

No matter where you are staying on southern Vancouver Island, there are plenty of incredible cultural experiences to indulge in on cloudier days!

Book your Victoria Vacation with EMR Today!

A Picnic in the Park – Our Favourite Places to Eat Alfresco

Vancouver Island, British Columbia is one of the most incredible places on Earth – especially as the weather gets warmer! In Victoria, BC one of the best and most relaxing ways to spend a day is by finding a great park to have a picnic and soak up the sun! While Greater Victoria has and abundance of pretty picnic spots, if you are looking for something a little special, we’ve got the inside scoop on how to make the most of your alfresco adventures!

Sooke

East Sooke Regional Park & Aylard Farm 

There’s no doubt that when you are staying in gorgeous Sooke, your best bet for stunning Canadian natural beauty is in East Sooke Park. But with over 3,500 acres of land and 50 kilometres of trails, finding the perfect picnic spot can be a challenge. The beautiful Aylard Farm right at the end of Becher Bay Road is a lovely part of the park with a trail that meanders through grassy meadows leading right to the ocean. Here you’ll find a peaceful little cove with soft white sand that looks straight across the bay to Mechosin. If you’re looking to spice up your picnic, you can grab your lunch from the Smokin’ Tuna Cafe before you head to the beach – their calamari is to-die-for!

Langford

Goldstream Provincial Park 

This incredible park might be one of the most popular places for hiking, camping and picnicking in Victoria! Known for its stunning trails, lookouts, waterfalls and the annual salmon run, it’s a great place to come for a picnic to fuel a hike or just to sit among 600 year-old trees near a rushing stream. There are picnic tables and fire pits that are perfect for a cookout on those chilly days or you can stop at 900 Degrees Wood-Fired Pizza before you go and feast on delicious hand-crafted pizza while listening to the sounds of nature.  

Saanich Peninsula

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

The remarkable Gowlland Tod Provincial Park is a favourite with hikers and is the perfect place near Sidney to immerse yourself in nature. It has 25 kilometres of hiking trails, wildflowers, lookouts and pristine shoreline. While this isn’t the place to go for a quick picnic, it is a perfect place for anyone who is looking to earn a fabulous picnic by hiking up to one of the lookouts where you can have unobstructed views of the Saanich Inlet. Before you set out, a quick stop at The Market on Millstream is a great idea. At this locally owned, organic grocery store you can find an amazing assortment of both prepared foods and organic groceries to throw in your pack for a gourmet picnic on the peak. 

Coles Bay Regional Park

If you are looking for a great spot for a beach picnic on the Peninsula, look no farther than Coles Bay Regional Park. Nestled in a small cove, this little beach is a beloved warm-weather spot for locals and a great place for a seaside picnic. It is rocky so it’s best to bring folding chairs for comfort and if not, there are many driftwood logs to use as seating while you visit. Need to add a little oomph to your picnic? Stop by the Fickle Fig on your way for an impressive selection of in-house made sandwiches and baked goods!

Tulista Park

The spectacularly beautiful Lochside Trail in Sidney is a must! In total, the trail stretches all the way from Swartz Bay to downtown Victoria and winds its way along Sidney’s oceanfront. This section of the trail is a very popular walk because it is flat, paved and well maintained and leads from Beacon Avenue to Tulista Park – an incredible picnic spot for bird watching! Tulista has a large grassy area perfect for laying out a blanket in the sunshine and watching the bald eagles soar. If you want to make a change from the traditional picnic fare, head to Fish on Fifth where you’ll find exquisite fish and chips as well as burgers, salads and plenty of vegan menu items.

Cadboro-Gyro Park

Cadboro-Gyro Park, just south of Sidney is an ideal spot for a picnic. The park boasts a beautiful sandy beach where you can relax and soak up the sun. Kids will love the playground with its swings, slides, and climbing structures, while adults can enjoy a picnic nearby. For adventure seekers, the park is perfect to launch kayaks and paddleboards and enjoy paddling in the calm bay waters. If you want to grab some delicious food to take with you, pop into Olive Olio’s Bistro & Espresso for coffee or tea, fresh baked goods, sandwiches, wraps and salads! 

Victoria

Finlayson Point

Dallas Road has a spectacular seaside trail that is the perfect way to spend a sunny spring day. Along this urban trail you can enjoy the gorgeous views of the Salish Sea and the Olympic Mountains in the distance, stop at Clover Point and watch the windsurfers soar and skate over the water and find lots of green spaces and little beaches all perfect for a spring picnic! Our favourite spot to enjoy a little alfresco dining is Finlayson Point where you can choose to picnic on the beach, atop a smooth tidepool studded boulder or perched on a grassy outcrop and watch the sun sparkle on the ocean. If you don’t want to pack a picnic, you can stroll down Cook Street Village and stop in at Bubby Rose’s to stock up on something delicious to enjoy in the sun. If you’re coming from James Bay, the Breakwater Cafe at Ogden point is the perfect place to find something yummy to-go.

Beacon Hill Park

With the stunning Beacon Hill Park, located on the edge of downtown Victoria, its no wonder why Victoria is known as the “City of Gardens”! This park is filled with scenic pathways, vibrant gardens, expansive green spaces and diverse picnic areas that provide a picturesque setting for a picnic. Here you can go and see the second largest, free-standing totem in the world, find red barked arbutus trees, wild Garry oak groves, playgrounds, washrooms and even a petting zoo for the kids! If you prefer to not pack a picnic, you’ll want to order lunch from the iconic Beacon Drive In Restaurant, offering mouthwatering burgers, gourmet hot dogs, and delightful soft-serve ice cream that’ll make you feel like a kid again! 

Willows Beach

To the east of downtown Victoria is the beautiful, heritage neighbourhood of Oak Bay that boasts some of the most picturesque streets and beautiful homes in Victoria. It’s in this prestigious and peaceful neighbourhood that you’ll find Willows Beach, a lovely greenspace park and beach with soft sand and calm surf. On a sunny day, this neighbourhood treasure is a wonderful place to picnic, especially if you’ve stopped at either Willows Galley for some good old fashioned fish and chips, served in the traditional newspaper wrapping or Ottavio for some exquisite imported charcuterie. 

Fisherman’s Wharf Park

Fisherman’s Wharf Park is a fantastic picnic area when you’re staying in downtown Victoria! With its lively waterfront setting, colorful fishing boats, and charming floating homes, it captures the essence of coastal living. Whether you choose a picnic table or spread out a blanket on the grassy areas, Fisherman’s Wharf Park offers a picturesque view of the bustling harbor. One of the best things about this area is that it is a great place to visit year-round! In warmer months you can bask in the sun while watching boats sail by and during cooler months, enjoy the cozy charm and savor some of the fresh seafood dishes from the nearby floating eateries! 

No matter where you decide to picnic around Victoria, you’re sure to be impressed with the natural beauty and incredible food choices! Bon Appetit!

Book your EMR Vacation Today!

Eat Your Greens! The Best Farm Markets to Visit this Summer

There are so many wonderful things about summertime in Victoria. Days are long and the  weather is perfect for cycling, hiking, kayaking, fishing, shopping, dining…the list is endless in this city. But there’s one thing that you won’t want to miss during your summer stay; the farmer’s markets. With beach days and BBQ’s ahead, you’re going to need to stock up on the freshest local ingredients and we’ve got just the places for you! 

Moss Street Market

Every Saturday, right in the heart of beautiful Fairfield, near downtown Victoria you’ll find the long standing, bustling Moss Street Market. Every year, this market has grown and today, you can find over 50 farm vendors, artisans and food producers at this little community market. This year, the Moss St Market is celebrating its 30th year so if you’re staying nearby, wander down, enjoy the music, stock up on the most incredible food and produce, support a local artisan and soak up life in this lively community! 

May – October 10am – 2pm, November – April 10am – 1pm every Saturday

 James Bay Community Market 

In James Bay you’ll find gorgeous streets, sunny beaches, great eateries and every Saturday until 3pm, the small but very cool James Bay Community Market. In this laid back village market, you can get local produce and ethically raised meat, lots of incredible locally made prepared food and artisanal goods. Plus, if you are staying downtown Victoria you can walk to the market in less than 10 minutes! In a hurry but still want to shop local? No problem! You can order online and choose delivery or pickup at check out! Easy peasy lemon squeezy! 

May 1st – October 2nd every Saturday 9am – 3pm

Esquimalt Farmers Market   

Established only six years ago, the Esquimalt Farmers Market (EFM) is the new kid on the scene. But don’t let that fool you! The EFM is also one of the fastest growing and well planned markets in the Victoria area. With a focus on local suppliers, which includes backyard farmers, this innovative market has been a game-changer for solidifying, growing and supporting the Esquimalt community. No matter where you are coming from, this cool new market is worth supporting! 

April 1st – September 16th every Thursday 4:30pm – 7:30pm

The Peninsula Country Market

Just outside of downtown Victoria you’ll find the lively Peninsula Country Market. This community staple has been running since 1991 and is a large scale market with over 50 vendors participating each year. It’s the perfect way to get a taste of Saanich country living and familiarize yourself with all the amazing local farmers and producers we have! This market is a great way to get out of the city for a sunny afternoon.

June 5th – October 9th every Saturday 9am – 1pm  

The North Saanich Farm Market

If you are staying near Sidney, this little market is only a short drive away. While it may not have the clout of the Peninsula Country Market or the draw of the Moss Street Market, what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in the carefully curated selection of vendors. Here you can find colourful displays of the most amazing fresh produce from the north Peninsula as well as some of the most delicious, highly coveted, local breads. It’s the perfect pre-beach pit stop to load up on fresh goodies! 

June 5th – October 9th every Saturday 9am – 1pm

The Sidney Street Market

Sidney is an incredible, quiet little town but in the summer with the Sidney Street Market, it becomes a lively bustling town. Row upon row of local farmers, food producers and artisans will converge on the Mary Winspear Center in May and it’s here that you can find incredible food, fresh produce, ethically raised meat and gorgeous art and incredible crafts. It’s the perfect way to spend a day and if you’re staying nearby, you can skip the parking headache, hop on your bike and take the easy cycle to this wonderful market. 

May 9th – October 10th every Sunday 11am – 3pm

Book an EMR Rental and Explore Victoria!

Put the Spring Back in Your Step! Stunning Spring Hikes on Vancouver Island

On Vancouver Island, there may not be a more beautiful season than spring – especially if you’re a hiker. Whether you prefer easy hikes through the woods or challenging yourself with a climb, the spring provides the perfect mix of warm weather, wildflowers, budding trees and spring breezes. To celebrate the spring, we’ve rounded up our favourite hikes from Sooke to Courtney! So pack your camera, water and favourite field guide and come see why Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places on Earth! We want to acknowledge that these magnificent hikes are located on the unceded territory of the Scia’new, T’Sou-ke, Tsartlip, Tseycum,Tsawout, Lake Cowichan, Malahat, Cowichan Tribes, Snaw-naw-as and K’omoks (respectively) and we are honoured that we get to live and play on this land.  

Sooke

East Sooke Regional Park

Sooke is a magical little town on the edge of the Pacific and home to East Sooke Regional Park. Here, you can experience 50 kilometres of trails through pristine West Coast wilderness as you ramble along the rocky, windswept coast, through dense forest, up hilltops and find private sheltered coves along the shoreline. 

Galloping Goose

One of the most popular multi-use trails in the lower Island is the Galloping Goose that runs from Sooke all the way to downtown Victoria. This 60 kilometre stretch of trail has many access points and is a perfect way to enjoy semi-wilderness hiking through rural and urban settings. 

Victoria

Dallas Road

While you may have hiked a few miles through downtown Victoria seeing the sights, Dallas Road offers one of the most stunning urban nature trails on the West Coast. This easy 5.9 kilometre walk will take you all the way from Fisherman’s Wharf in James Bay to the end of Ross Bay Beach in Fairfield. 

Mount Douglas Park

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, Mount Douglas Park is the most popular moderate hike in the Victoria area. While there are lots of trails all throughout the park, the climb from the beach to the peak is one of the most satisfying with 360 degree views of the inlet, peninsula and Victoria below. 

Saanich Peninsula

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

There are few better places to find exceptional hiking on the Peninsula than Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and if you’re lucky enough to stay nearby, this park is just a short drive away. Gowlland Tod is known for the carpet of spring wildflowers and moss covered rocky outcrops. With over 25 kilometres of hiking trails at varying degrees of difficulty, this is the perfect park for every skill level.

Lochside Trail

The Lochside Trail is the perfect place to head for a sunny walk while staying in Sidney. It runs from Swartz Bay ferry terminal all the way to Victoria where it intersects with the Galloping Goose. This immense, multi-use trail is flat, well maintained and the perfect way to explore the Saanich Peninsula.   

Cowichan Valley

Cowichan Valley Trail

If you’re looking for a great hike the Cowichan Valley Trail is an easy and extensive stretch of The Great Trail that meanders through the scenic Cowichan Valley. It’s here that you can see and walk over the historic Kinsol Trestle, one of the only free- standing timber trestles in the world. At an impressive 44 metres high and 187 metres long, this is something you won’t want to miss!  

Cobble Hill Mountain

If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, Cobble Hill Mountain is a local favourite. There are easier hikes around the perimeter but the scale to the top of the mountain is as exhilarating as it is exhausting with varying ecosystems throughout and panoramic views at the summit.  

Nanaimo

Linley Valley Park

The gorgeous Linley Valley Park is a calm, densely forested 145 acre park just north of Nanaimo. It’s a great park to spot wildlife as you hike either easy or moderate trails that take you through valleys, open fields and over wooden bridges.

Parksville

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

The stunning waterfalls set amid an old growth forest are worth a visit whether you are staying nearby or farther away. Walk across the bridge and watch as the water cascades down into the canyon, marvel at the awe-inspiring old growth Douglas fir, cedar, hemlock and maple. 

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park 

This park offers visitors with an easy 3 kilometer loop around the provincial park and at low tide, Rathtrevor Beach becomes an enormous, spectacular swath of soft sand to walk along for hours exploring the sandy tide pools, dip toes in the water and enjoy the peace of the beach in spring. This is also the perfect place for amateur ornithologists to watch seabirds congregate for the annual herring spawn and migrating Brant geese. 

Courtney

Nymph Falls

This easy 3 kilometre loop on the north side of the Puntledge River is one of the most beautiful places for a hike in the area! The falls cascade over fish ladders that were blasted out to help spawning salmon swim upstream and are now a popular hiking and picnicking spot. People with mobility issues can access the falls via the well maintained trail and enjoy one of the most popular spots in the valley.

Seal Bay Nature Park

On the east side of Seal Bay Nature Park, visitors can walk through a beautiful second growth forest and explore deep ravines, see a seasonal waterfall and hike down a steep path to a rocky beach where seals bob out of the water and sunbathe on the rocky off-shore. The west side of Seal Bay offers fairly flat, meandering multi-use trails. The Forest Loop is a fantastic and easy 7 kilometre loop through the forest. 

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The Best Spring Hiking on Vancouver Island

peering through evergreen trees over a cliff to a hidden beach on a hiking trail on Vancouver Island

On Vancouver Island, there may not be a more beautiful season than spring – especially if you’re a hiker! Whether you prefer easy hikes through the woods or challenging yourself with a climb, the spring provides the perfect mix of warm weather, wildflowers, budding trees and spring breezes. To celebrate the spring, we’ve rounded up our favourite hikes from Sooke to Courtney! So pack your camera, water and favourite field guide and come see why Vancouver Island is one of the most beautiful places on Earth! We want to acknowledge that these magnificent hikes are located on the unceded territory of the Scia’new, T’Sou-ke, Tsartlip, Tseycum,Tsawout, Lake Cowichan, Malahat, Cowichan Tribes, Snaw-naw-as and K’omoks (respectively) and we are honoured that we get to live and play on this land.  

Sooke

East Sooke Regional Park

Sooke is a magical little town on the edge of the Pacific and home to East Sooke Regional Park. Here, you can experience 50 kilometres of trails through pristine West Coast wilderness as you ramble along the rocky, windswept coast, through dense forest, up hilltops and find private sheltered coves along the shoreline. 

Galloping Goose

One of the most popular multi-use trails in the lower Island is the Galloping Goose that runs from Sooke all the way to downtown Victoria. This 60 kilometre stretch of trail has many access points and is a perfect way to enjoy semi-wilderness hiking through rural and urban settings. 

Victoria

Dallas Road

While you may have hiked a few miles through downtown Victoria seeing the sights, Dallas Road offers one of the most stunning urban nature trails on the West Coast. This easy 5.9 kilometre walk will take you all the way from Fisherman’s Wharf in James Bay to the end of Ross Bay Beach in Fairfield. 

Mount Douglas Park

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike, Mount Douglas Park is the most popular moderate hike in the Victoria area. While there are lots of trails all throughout the park, the climb from the beach to the peak is one of the most satisfying with 360 degree views of the inlet, peninsula and Victoria below. 

Saanich Peninsula

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

There are few better places to find exceptional hiking on the Peninsula than Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and if you’re lucky enough to stay nearby, this park is just a short drive away. Gowlland Tod is known for the carpet of spring wildflowers and moss covered rocky outcrops. With over 25 kilometres of hiking trails at varying degrees of difficulty, this is the perfect park for every skill level.

Lochside Trail

The Lochside Trail is the perfect place to head for a sunny walk while staying in Sidney. It runs from Swartz Bay ferry terminal all the way to Victoria where it intersects with the Galloping Goose. This immense, multi-use trail is flat, well maintained and the perfect way to explore the Saanich Peninsula.   

Cowichan Valley

Cowichan Valley Trail

If you’re looking for a great hike the Cowichan Valley Trail is an easy and extensive stretch of The Great Trail that meanders through the scenic Cowichan Valley. It’s here that you can see and walk over the historic Kinsol Trestle, one of the only free- standing timber trestles in the world. At an impressive 44 metres high and 187 metres long, this is something you won’t want to miss!  

Cobble Hill Mountain

If you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge, Cobble Hill Mountain is a local favourite. There are easier hikes around the perimeter but the scale to the top of the mountain is as exhilarating as it is exhausting with varying ecosystems throughout and panoramic views at the summit.  

Nanaimo

Linley Valley Park

The gorgeous Linley Valley Park is a calm, densely forested 145 acre park just north of Nanaimo. It’s a great park to spot wildlife as you hike either easy or moderate trails that take you through valleys, open fields and over wooden bridges.

Parksville

Englishman River Falls Provincial Park

The stunning waterfalls set amid an old growth forest are worth a visit whether you are staying nearby or farther away. Walk across the bridge and watch as the water cascades down into the canyon, marvel at the awe-inspiring old growth Douglas fir, cedar, hemlock and maple. 

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park 

This park offers visitors with an easy 3 kilometer loop around the provincial park and at low tide, Rathtrevor Beach becomes an enormous, spectacular swath of soft sand to walk along for hours exploring the sandy tide pools, dip toes in the water and enjoy the peace of the beach in spring. This is also the perfect place for amateur ornithologists to watch seabirds congregate for the annual herring spawn and migrating Brant geese. 

Courtney

Nymph Falls

This easy 3 kilometre loop on the north side of the Puntledge River is one of the most beautiful places for a hike in the area! The falls cascade over fish ladders that were blasted out to help spawning salmon swim upstream and are now a popular hiking and picnicking spot. People with mobility issues can access the falls via the well maintained trail and enjoy one of the most popular spots in the valley.

Seal Bay Nature Park

On the east side of Seal Bay Nature Park, visitors can walk through a beautiful second growth forest and explore deep ravines, see a seasonal waterfall and hike down a steep path to a rocky beach where seals bob out of the water and sunbathe on the rocky off-shore. The west side of Seal Bay offers fairly flat, meandering multi-use trails. The Forest Loop is a fantastic and easy 7 kilometre loop through the forest. 

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Making the Most of Spring is Sidney BC

Spring has arrived and with it, the sunshine, flowers and longer days! In the beautiful town of Sidney by the Sea, when spring arrives, the entire town becomes a visual interpretation of Vivaldi’s La Primavera. Cloud-like cherry blossoms abound, the sea glitters, birds sing and gardens everywhere erupt in technicolour blooms. It’s the time of year where you can begin to take full advantage of the diverse outdoor spaces this incredible little town has to offer. 

Walking

Waterfront Walkway

The Waterfront Walkway in the heart of Sidney is a 2.5 kilometer, flat, barrier free trail where you can take an easy stroll and enjoy the view or speed it up for a relaxed jog. The walkway is a great way to explore more of Sidney as it passes the Port Sidney Marina, Beacon Park, Beacon Wharf, Diver’s Point, Bevan Fish Pier and Eastview Park. This walk has a stunning view of Sidney Island and Mount Baker and is dotted with benches, picnic tables and gardens so you can stop and soak up some sun. 

Reay Creek Park

Just south of downtown Sidney is Reay Creek Park, an excellent bird watching spot and a beautiful trail through an environmentally sensitive area. It’s the perfect hike for families or anyone looking for an easy walk through nature. 

Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk

The Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk is a perfect amble for anyone interested in mixing culture with the outdoors. This open air gallery was unveiled in 2012 and has been a local favourite and a popular tourist hotspot ever since. Each of the pieces interacts with the majestic backdrop of the Salish Sea and Mount Baker and encompasses the beauty, movement and whimsy of Sidney itself.

Hiking

John Dean Provincial Park

With 14 great hiking trails that range from easy ambles through the trees to steep climbs that reward hikers with stunning panoramic views of the Saanich Inlet and the Salish Sea this is a must for anyone looking for easy to moderate hiking. 

Horth Hill Regional Park 

This 36 hectare park has numerous trails where you can walk through native plants and springtime wildflowers. Choose one of the easier perimeter loops for a calm forest walk or if you’re looking to get your heart rate up, you can climb to the summit of Horth Hill and enjoy the view of Satellite Channel, the Saanich Inlet and the Salish Sea. 

Mount Work

Just to the south of Sidney, Mount Work is the dominant hill on the horizon for most of Saanich and Victoria. If you’re looking for a more challenging hike on the Peninsula, this is it!

Picnic Spots

Coles Bay Regional Park.

Beach picnics are a great way to celebrate spring and when you’re in Sidney, there’s no better place for a peaceful, secluded little picnic than Coles Bay Regional Park. This little pebble beach is tucked away in a cove and accessed via a short winding pathway. There is a parking lot with trail access to make it easy to bring everything you need for an afternoon of rest.

Lochside Waterfront Park

Sidney’s Lochside Waterfront Park that runs all along Lochside Dr in Sidney offers tons of great picnic spots with lots of benches, tables, beaches, stunning gardens and views. Pack your own favourite charcuterie or grab a bite to-go from one of the local cafes and enjoy it alfresco!

Tulista Park

Families with little ones will love a springtime picnic at this local park! With a great playground for kids of all ages and a large grassy area to kick or throw a ball, fly kites or play tag. It’s the perfect spot to lay out a blanket and enjoy a sunny afternoon.

Cycling

Lochside Regional Trail

Sidney is the perfect destination for avid cyclists and casual cruisers! This picturesque trail is an extensive multi-use trail that winds through urban centres, agricultural land, wetlands, country lanes and suburban backyards and is one of the best ways to explore all of the Saanich Peninsula! 

Flight Path

The Flight Path is an almost 10 kilometer trail that loops around Victoria International Airport. Perfect for an easy cycle with the whole family, jogging or walking, this whimsical trail is filled with intriguing pit stops and signage that tells the history of the airport and the importance of the surrounding land.

Kayaking

Blue Dog Kayaking

Right on the water near downtown Sidney you’ll find Blue Dog Kayaking, the perfect place to take your interest in kayaking to the next level. With day tours and lessons, the experienced staff are ready to make sure that you are a pro when it comes to ocean kayaking. 

A Paddle in the Park

If you’re a confident kayaker and looking to get out there for some solo exploring, this amazing company offers guests rentals as well as tours so you can get out for a quick spin or spend the whole day on the water. 

Pacifica Paddlesports 

With the largest array of rental options, you can choose between single or double kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle boards (SUP) or even a mega SUP suitable for six people! 

Whale Watching

Sidney Whale Watching

The spring is one of the best times of year to spot whales as they migrate to their seasonal feeding and breeding grounds. It’s at this time of year that humpbacks, orcas, minke and grey whales can be seen in the Salish Sea and there is no better company to go with while you’re staying in Sidney than Sidney Whale Watching. This locally owned and operated company has been in business for 20 years and is passionate about the marine wildlife that calls this beautiful area home.

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Flights of Fancy – Get a Taste of Victoria’s Incredible Brewery Scene

flight of beer sitting on a wooden bar

Ahhh…beer. It conjures up images of backyard barbecues, capricious dixie cups filled with a frothy refreshment at a game, discomfiting St. Patrick’s Day memories and unwinding on the couch with a great sipper. It’s both pizza’s and burgers’ loyal companion, second to none when it comes to thirst quenching abilities and so much more. Beer’s importance in our daily life is no accident – it is one of the most popular libations in human history. In fact, some of the earliest known writings from ancient Babylon and Mesopotamia refer to the production and distribution of the sudsy potable. Beer has evolved over the centuries and today, you’d be hard pressed to find a city that isn’t jumping on the brewing bandwagon – and here in Victoria, it’s no different! Victoria brewing is all about being accessible, understandable, fun and of course, delicious. 

Sooke

We’re kicking off our brewery tour in the beautiful city of Sooke on the southwest coast of Vancouver Island. This little city on the edge of the Pacific is small, stunning and a hidden gem for local craftsmanship. 

Sooke Oceanside Brewery 

5871-A Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0C7

Sooke Oceanfront Brewery or S.O.B as the cheeky crew call it, is the brainchild of owner Ryan Orr, who was dedicated to bringing his passion for great craft beer to the little city of Sooke. Home to award winning brews, fun staff and is a great place to visit if you’re a fellow enthusiast or happen to be staying close by!

Downtown Victoria

Victoria is BC’s beautiful capital city perched at the southernmost point of Vancouver Island. Victoria has struck the perfect balance of history and modernity and it’s here that you can find colourful historical buildings and sites interspersed with forward thinking fashion, culture and food. It’s no wonder that Victoria is the epicentre for craft brewing on Vancouver Island and the breweries here are always pushing the envelope. So if you’re lucky enough to be staying downtown Victoria these incredible downtown breweries are a walk away!

Canoe Brew Pub 

450 Swift St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S3

If you’re looking for an incredible meal, a great patio and friendly staff all overlooking a waterway then your best bet is Canoe Brew Pub on famous Wharf St. right at the bottom of Chinatown in Victoria. Not only does Canoe have incredible menus all day and seating for every occasion but they also happen to have been brewing craft beers for Victorians for over twenty years! Don’t let the elegantly modern dining rooms fool you, Canoe is a hardworking brewery and if you’re in the area it’s the perfect place to sample some local craft beer staples. 

Phillips Brewing

2010 Government St, Victoria, BC V8T 4P1

We all need a little whimsy in our lives and when it’s paired with great beer, it’s an all around win. Phillips Brewing is the place to go for those who are young at heart and passionate about beer. From humble beginnings, a few self-styled beer nerds teamed up to create beers that are now staples in craft beer all across BC.

Vancouver Island Brewery

2330 Government St, Victoria, BC V8T 5G5

For nearly 40 years, Vancouver Island Brewery has been producing and distributing amazing craft beers on Vancouver Island. This long-standing brewery helped pioneer the craft beer culture on Vancouver Island and is still making waves with their innovation and commitment to the environment. 

Hoyne Brewing Co.

101-2740 Bridge St, Victoria, BC V8T 5C5

There are a lot of amazing breweries but what makes Hoyne Brewing Co. a little different is their commitment to their Values First approach to their brewery. Hoyne not only makes excellent craft beer but they are dedicated to serving their community. Every month, Hoyne showcases an important charity in the community and a portion of all growler sales go to the charity. If you needed a reason to drink delicious beer, now you have one!

île Sauvage

2960 Bridge St, Victoria, BC V8T 4T3

If you’re a true connoisseur and looking for something different and exciting, île Sauvage is the place to go. Specializing in Belgian style wild ale and sour beers, a process that uses wild yeast or bacteria for fermentation and secondary fruit fermentation, this little brewery is turning out some really surprising and delicious libations. 

Sidney & the Saanich Peninsula

Whether you’re ready to explore more breweries outside of downtown or just want to stop by while you’re out on an adventure these breweries are worth the trip.

Driftwood Brewery

836 Viewfield Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 4V1

Driftwood’s story only began in 2008 and today, they are arguably one of the most ubiquitous brands of beer in BC. But don’t let their popularity fool you! They are dedicated to creating stunning suds whether it’s their core beers you can find all year ‘round or the ever changing line-up of seasonal brews, Driftwood beer is always refreshing, complex, high quality and of course, delicious. 

Twa Dogs Brewery

761 Enterprise Crescent, Victoria, BC V8Z 6P7

For a taste of Scotland right here in BC, you have to visit Twa Dogs Brewery. This unique brewery is actually a part of Macaloney’s Caledonian Distillery which produces some incredible whiskey made using traditional techniques by Scots – you can’t get much more authentic unless you actually are in Scotland! At Twa Dogs, the traditional methods continue by combining the focus on quality and craftsmanship of West Coast craft beer and the rich, unfiltered session beers of Scotland to create truly unique, flavourful craft beer. 

Howl Brewery

1780 Mills Rd, North Saanich, BC V8L 5S9

Up at the top of the beautiful Saanich Peninsula you’ll find the tiny or pico Howl Brewery. This unique little brewery is focused on producing high quality, small batch brews, experimenting with obsolete beer styles, connecting with local farms and passionately educating their visitors about their processes. So whether you are staying at an EMR Sidney property or if you’re just touring the top of the peninsula for the day, this sweet little brewery is worth stopping for.  

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Sports Scene – Where to Find the Action in Victoria

Whether you prefer the chilly air of an arena or the smell of fresh cut grass on a sunny field, we can all agree that sports are awesome. It’s where kids make lifelong friends while having fun, cities cheer for the hometown team and families and friends celebrate wins or lament losses together. It really is the glue of any community and here in Victoria, it’s no different. From hockey and baseball to lacrosse and soccer, we’ve got it all. So while you’re visiting, be a part of the action and come support one of the local teams!

Hockey

Victoria Grizzlies

The Victoria Grizzlies is a junior A hockey club that recruits the best players from all over North America to play in showcase-style league competitions. It’s here that WHL and NCAA scouts search for talent and recruit players to these elite organizations

Victoria Royals

The Victoria Royals is a Western Hockey League (WHL) junior hockey team whose games you can go watch at Victoria’s impressive Save On Foods Memorial Centre downtown Victoria.

Since its inception in 1966, the WHL has been considered one of the best player development leagues in the world and continues to be a reliable supplier of talent to University teams, all levels of Canada’s National teams and the NHL!  No matter where you’re staying on Southern Vancouver Island, these two local teams are fun to watch and great to support! So grab yourself some tickets to one of their games, join Victoria in cheering them on and see if you can spot the next NHL superstar! 

Soccer

Victoria Highlanders 

The Victoria Highlanders is an elite team who play in the Vancouver Island Soccer League (VISL) and offer a full-time, two year residency for talented players. With European-style player development principles and extensive connections with the Bundesliga, every player on the Victoria Highlanders is on a path towards either national or international collegiate opportunities or professional level soccer careers in Germany! For all you footie fans wanting to catch a match and support a local team, then you’ll want to get yourself tickets to a Victoria Highlanders match! Centennial Stadium on the UVic campus is their home pitch making it easy to get to no matter where on Southern Vancouver Island you’re staying!

Baseball

Victoria HarbourCats

The HarbourCats play in the West Coast League (WCL) which includes teams from Oregon, Washington and of course, BC. Not only does the WCL feature MLB prospects and top talent from college programs all over North America but no other college summer league has had as many drafted players – in 2013 alone, 57 WCL players were called up to the big leagues! When you think about summer and sports, you think baseball. When the warm weather hits, you can be sure to find our ‘boys of summer’, the Victoria HarbourCats hard at work. With alumni all over the MLB rosters, the HarbourCats are our hometown pride and for Victorians who love baseball, the HarbourCats games are one of the best summer entertainment events, hands down. With their home field at Royal Athletic Park it’s easy for anyone staying downtown Victoria to get to! 

Lacrosse

Victoria Shamrocks

Founded in 1950, the Victoria Shamrocks is one of the best box lacrosse teams in North America. The Shamrocks play in the Western Lacrosse Association (WLA) a senior A men’s league along with six other British Columbian teams. The WLA calibre of lacrosse is very high so it’s no wonder that some of the greatest lacrosse players in the world – Jack Bionda and both Paul and Gary Gait for example – have come straight from the Victoria Shamrocks. With 9 Mann Cups and 20 Provincial Championships under their belt, the Victoria Shamrocks are a daunting opponent and an incredibly exciting team to watch! Get your tickets here and see some world-class lacrosse! 

Football

Westhills Rebels

This Canadian Junior Football League (CJFL) team offers exceptional post-high school players an opportunity to participate in highly competitive junior football in the hopes of grabbing the attention of college or CFL scouts. The mighty Westhills Rebels home field is in Westhills, just outside of downtown Victoria in the City of Langford so it’s easy to catch a game when you’re staying nearby! Off the field, the Rebels are actively involved in the community and committed to the development of amateur football on the Island. So come out for a day in the sun, watch some great football, support our local team and the community!    

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