Each Gulf Island has a different ‘personality’ with distinct communities, geography, accessibility, and population size, but collectively they have a unique Mediterranean climate and are intrinsically a part of the Canadian West Coast identity.
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One of the advantages of being perched at the tip of an Island and surrounded by water is that no matter what time of year it is, there is always an abundance of incredible, fresh seafood. Whether you’re looking for casual eats, classic fish and chips or a high end seafood experience Victoria has it all!
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Victoria, British Columbia has more restaurants per-capita than any other Canadian city and it’s no wonder why – we have access to some of the best ingredients in the world! Whether you’re staying in a Victoria vacation rental or if you’re enjoying a rental property in Sidney and North Saanich, you’ll want to spend some of your stay exploring the incredible cuisine on South Vancouver Island! From French fine dining and casual Italian bistros to Japanese tapas and cool West Coast eateries, Victoria restaurants have it all and more! It’s often said that one of the best ways to learn about a new city is through the food and visiting restaurants that locals love. So come and learn about this beautiful capital city in Canada’s Pacific Northwest the best way possible – through our food!
1006 Wharf St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-298-6877
When it comes to fun, flavourful dishes and fresh Ocean wise seafood, you’ll be hard pressed to find anything better than the menu at Red Fish Blue Fish! This long-time local favourite food stand, tucked away in the Inner Harbour is one of the best places to find a huge variety of casual classic and Mexican-inspired seafood dishes from fish and chip combos like fresh halibut and wild salmon to comforting chowder and deliciously messy fish tacos, tostadas and sandwiches. It’s really the perfect place to grab a bite while you’re exploring Victoria!
1715 Government St, Victoria, BC
If you’re looking for the perfect place for French fine dining in the heart of Victoria, you can’t go wrong booking a table at Brasserie L’ecole, located on Government St right near Victoria’s Chinatown. With decadent French-country inspired dishes made from locally sourced, seasonal, local ingredients the menu at Brasserie is both elevated and approachable. From menu items like pâté and salmon rillettes to decadently juicy steak frites, burgers and ratatouille, the Brasserie takes French comfort food flavours to a whole new level.
1011 Broad St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-386-1662
If you love Italian food as much as we do, you’ll want to make sure that you make sure to visit one of Victoria’s favourite restaurants: Pagliacci’s. Set in one of Victoria’s many heritage buildings, this lovely bistro offers guests a dinner menu filled with flavourful handmade meat and veggie pasta dishes, perfectly prepared steaks, surf and turf with jumbo prawns and crispy salads. Here, you can also find one of the best brunch spots and if you’re looking for a great happy hour, Pag’s has it! Plus, Pagliacci’s also offers easy takeout options with individual sized cocktails, wine and beer options as well as their full menu! Buon appetito!
555 Johnson St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-361-0028
Right in the heart of Old Town, tucked away down a little alley is one of the loveliest, fine-dining, Italian restaurants in downtown Victoria. For nearly 30 years, this restaurant has been known for its incredible ambience, service and menus. If you’re looking for the best restaurant for an intimate dining experience that will make you feel like you’re in the heart of the Mediterranean, this is it!
536 Yates St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-360-1824
Once upon a time, there was a funky little restaurant named Ferris’ that opened right near the water in heritage downtown Victoria. It quickly became a popular restaurant for local foodies and its popularity has never wavered. Now Ferris’ is so much more – there’s Ferris’ Grill & Garden Patio when you’re in the mood for casual dining or a fun happy hour spot, Ferris’ Upstairs Seafood & Oyster Bar where diners can come for something more upscale and intimate and Perro Negro for absurdly delightful cocktails and Spanish tapas and other small plates.
Down the Hall, 506 Fort St #102, Victoria, BC | 1-778-433-5535
Looking for a funky speakeasy vibe with incredible craft cocktails and a delicious menu? Little Jumbo has you covered! For nearly a decade now, this incredibly cool spot located in heritage downtown Victoria has been drawing crowds with imaginative craft cocktails and delicious, fresh, ever-changing dishes. With edgy decor like the bare Edison bulbs hanging from the ceiling, never-ending great music, knowledgeable service this permanently busy restaurant is a must when you’re dining in Victoria!
721 Government St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-384-8111
Standing pride of place in the beautiful Inner Harbour stands The Empress Hotel. As a well-known heritage site, this hotel is not just a place where visitors book their stay in Victoria, it also has a world-class spa, beautiful gardens, small shopping area and some of the best restaurants in the city.
Lobby Lounge: Since 1908, The Empress has been offering a formal, British afternoon tea service complete with classic tea blends, tiered trays laden with finger sandwiches, fresh scones, cream and preserves. Today you can still experience one of the most cherished Victorian traditions in this sophisticated room!
Q Bar: If you’re looking for a pre-dinner cocktail, this is one of the top places in the city to go for exceptional hand-crafted cocktails, local beer on tap and an impressive wine selection.
Q at the Empress: For years, Q has been rated as one of the best places to find Pacific Northwest Coast inspired cuisine in an elegantly modern dining room.
The Verandah: For one of the best patios in the city, this is where you can find comfortable fireside seating, warm drinks, festive treats and watch the world go by.
944 Fort St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-383-0009
With an unassuming facade, this lovely restaurant on Fort St. in Victoria has long been serving Italian-inspired, rustic, West Coast cuisine to the discerning foodie crowd in Victoria. With a focus on sourcing the highest quality, local ingredients, and offering incredible in-house made pasta, impeccable service and gorgeous wine bar, Café Brio is sure to impress!
680 Montreal St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-414-6739
AURA Waterfront Restaurant, on the edge of James Bay is by far one of the best restaurants to find incredible food, an extensive wine list and waterfront views. Best known for their brunches and fun happy hour offerings, AURA focuses on sourcing fresh, local ingredients for their global-inspired dishes. For larger parties, you can book a table and have access to the Chef’s Group tasting menu – a set menu featuring all the very best AURA has to offer!
2 Paul Kane Pl, Victoria, BC | 1-250-940-5850
Nestled in the Victoria International Marina, this upscale restaurant offers a sophisticated dining experience with stunning waterfront views! Boom+Batten combines modern, elegant decor with a vibrant atmosphere and offers a menu featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients that showcase creative West Coast cuisine and highlights fresh seafood and prime cuts of meat! Whether for a leisurely brunch, an intimate dinner, or cocktails at sunset, Boom+Batten promises an incredible experience by the water!
739 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC | 490 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC
1-778-265-9909 | 1-778-440-0490
When it comes to Japanese food, Nubo has taken Victoria by storm, opening two very different but equally delicious Japanese restaurants in downtown Victoria. Nubo Japanese Tapas is a small, modern restaurant perfect for grabbing a casual bite and one of the best takeout sushi restaurants in the city. While Nubo Tapas is perfect for a casual bite, Nubo Kitchen and Grill is a high-end dining experience right in historic Victoria. Both locations are inspired by the casual Japanese tapas style dining called Izakaya, at both locations, you’ll find carefully created dishes like crispy tempura, silky ramen and cool maki, perfect for sharing. Using both traditional Japanese flavours as well as globally inspired flavour combinations, the food at Nubo is sure to impress!
No matter what kind of dining experience you’re looking for, from upscale Pacific Northwest dining to casual fare you eat on the dock in the Inner Harbour, Victoria has a plethora of restaurant options that are absolutely delicious! Bon appetit!
Vancouver Island, known for its stunning landscapes and vibrant communities, also hides a glittering secret beneath its picturesque surface—gold! Gold panning on Vancouver Island offers a unique adventure, blending outdoor adventures with a touch of history and a dash of excitement. Whether you’ve had experience prospecting before or you’re curious about trying something new and unique, panning for gold in this part of British Columbia, Canada promises an unforgettable experience!
Vancouver Island’s diverse landscapes and rich history make it an ideal destination for gold panning. The island offers a unique blend of adventure, natural beauty, and history that is hard to find elsewhere! Whether you’re in the Cowichan Valley, exploring the rivers near Nanaimo, or venturing to the remote Gold River, the experience of panning for gold on Vancouver Island is sure to be a memorable one!
Whether you’re out there on a gold panning adventure or hoping to spend a sunny day relaxing on the banks of a pristine river, consider booking a home on Vancouver Island with EMR Vacation Rentals! Our properties in Sooke, Nanaimo, and the Cowichan Valley provide the perfect home base for your adventures! Each of our homes are in prime locations and offer easy access to incredible gold panning spots, so you can maximize your time exploring the rivers and streams. From pet friendly rentals and large family homes in the country to cozy oceanfront cottages, EMR Vacation Rentals has the ideal accommodation to suit your needs! Enjoy the comfort and amenities of our vacation homes while discovering the rich history and natural beauty of Vancouver Island.
The history of gold mining in BC dates back to the mid-19th century with the discovery of gold deposits in the Cariboo region and the rivers and streams of Vancouver Island at the time sparking a gold rush that drew prospectors from across Canada and around the world! While the rush may be over, the allure of finding those elusive golden nuggets remains strong and there are still many places where you can try your luck! Today, there are many enthusiasts and adventurers who continue to explore the island’s waterways, hoping to strike it rich or simply enjoy the thrill of the hunt.
Location: Near the city of Nanaimo
What to Expect: This area is known for its gold-bearing gravel and placer mining opportunities making it one of the most popular spots for gold panning on Vancouver Island. Its accessible location and rich history make it a favorite among both locals and visitors and offers various points where panning can yield promising results, especially during the warmer months! Plus, it is a beautiful river ideal for a family day panning, swimming and sunbathing!
Location: West coast of Vancouver Island, near Strathcona Provincial Park
What to Expect: True to its name, Gold River is an excellent destination if you’re looking for a spot to pan for gold. Famous for its rich gold-bearing waters and active mining claims, the town of Gold River also provides amenities and guidance for anyone new to panning and the river’s scenic beauty and historical significance make it a must-visit!
Location: South Vancouver Island, near Sooke
What to Expect: Leech River which flows into the Sooke River, played a significant role during the gold rush, with many people finding success panning for gold. While it is notable for its historic placer mining activity and the presence of Canadian prospectors during that time, the river’s remote location does not provide any good spots to pan for gold anymore. Although Leech River is no longer a viable option today, there are some ameteur placer miners who have found success panning in the adjoining Sooke River! This is a serene setting for an adventurous day of gold panning and enjoying the beauty of Vancouver Island!
Location: Cowichan Valley
What to Expect: Known for its natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and is a hub for summer fun, the Cowichan River is also a great spot for gold panning! The river’s various bends, gravel bars and historical gold deposits, it’s no wonder that this river remains a popular spot for placer mining offering plenty of prime spots to try your luck!
Location: Near Tofino and Ucluelet, along the Kennedy River
What to Expect: The Kennedy River Gold Panning Reserve is an excellent spot for beginners and seasoned panners alike! Designated specifically for recreational gold panning, this reserve offers a unique opportunity to explore the gold-bearing gravels of the Kennedy River in a designated, protected area. The scenic surroundings add to the overall experience, making it a fantastic place to visit!
Research and Preparation: Before heading out, research the best spots and familiarize yourself with hand panning techniques. Resources like Pan and Prosper are a great place to find valuable insights and tips. You’ll also want to see where there are existing placer and mineral claims so you can avoid these areas. If you would like to pan in those areas, you’ll need permission from the claim holders.
Tours and Guides: Not ready to go out hand panning on your own? No problem! You can find gold prospecting tours and educational programs around Vancouver Island that will take you out on a day you won’t forget! Also check out the Victoria Lapidary Society and the Vancouver Island Placer Miners Association (VIPMA) for more information!
Equipment: Basic gold panning equipment includes a pan, a small shovel, and a classifier. Some additional tools like tweezers, snuffer bottles and magnifying glasses can help search through your pan to find tiny pieces of gold.
Permits: Ensure you have the necessary permits to pan for gold in your chosen location. Regulations may vary, so check local guidelines to avoid any legal issues, especially regarding gold claims and private property.
Safety: Always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate clothing, sunscreen in the summer, be aware of your surroundings, and never pan alone in remote areas.
Environmental Respect: Practice responsible panning by respecting the environment which includes avoiding disturbing wildlife and always packing out what you bring in. It’s important to remember that you’re on First Nations land and showing respect for their ancestral home and communities is essential.
Panning for gold on Vancouver Island is more than just an activity; it’s a journey into the island’s storied past and a chance to connect with its natural wonders! As you swirl the water and sediment in your pan, you’re not just searching for gold—you’re embracing the spirit of adventure that defines this beautiful part of British Columbia. So grab your pan and get ready to let the adventurous spirit of Vancouver Island capture your imagination! Whether you find gold flakes, full nuggets or just enjoy a day exploring the shores of a beautiful river, the experience will be worth it!
Nestled on the picturesque southern tip of Vancouver Island Canada, Victoria BC is a charming, vibrant city. As the capital city of British Columbia, Victoria boasts a unique blend of historic elegance and modern amenities, making it one of the best places to experience Canadian hospitality. When it comes to dining, whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Victoria or curious about exploring new hidden gems, this city has something for everyone!
The city is known for using local, seasonal, sustainable ingredients in every dish making it a perfect place to find diverse and delicious vegan and plant-based food. With so many options in Victoria, from incredible brunches to upscale dinners to incredible takeout, it can be tough to find the right place! That’s where we come in – we’ve got a list of our favourite places to find incredible vegetarian and vegan food in the Garden City!
There’s no doubt that Victoria and Southern Vancouver Island is one of the best places on Earth for a Canadian vacation! When you’re ready to book your holiday, you’ll want to take a look at the properties offered by EMR Vacation Rentals for the very best rental options in the Capital Region! Whether you’re looking for the ideal pet-friendly rental, need a comfortable house rental for a family vacation or ready to book a romantic retreat, you can find it with EMR!
Whether you’re seeking gluten-free options or a cozy brunch spot, you’ll find plenty of delicious choices around Victoria!
1019 Blanshard St, Victoria, BC | 1-778-433-7181
Why We Love It: Be Love’s commitment to sustainability and health is evident in every dish, making it a standout choice for conscious eaters.
A go-to for gluten-free vegetarian cuisine, Be Love offers a menu full of creative, nutritious dishes that will delight! The modern dining room with its natural wood features and soft lighting, creating a serene atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal.
50 Bastion Square, Victoria, BC | 1-250-361-9223
Why We Love It: A long-standing, local favourite with a central location, relaxed vibe and great food.
Located in the heart of downtown Victoria, Rebar Modern Food is renowned for its vibrant vegetarian dishes and welcoming atmosphere. The eclectic dining space, adorned with colourful artwork and cozy seating, invites diners to unwind and enjoy a delightful, healthy, plant-forward meal.
225 Quebec St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-590-3426
Why We Love It: The enchanting garden patio at Nourish Kitchen offers a tranquil escape, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely brunch.
If you’re looking for an incredible brunch spot in Victoria, you’ll want to check out Nourish Kitchen! Nestled in a quaint heritage house in James Bay, this restaurant is open daily for brunch and features a cozy, rustic dining area with a beautiful garden patio for al fresco dining. Their commitment to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients shines through in dishes like the Pulled Mushroom Benny, a delicious twist on the classic eggs benedict.
4440 W Saanich Rd #108, Victoria, BC | 1-778-432-4800
Why We Love It: A dedication to raw, plant-based cuisine offers a refreshing and healthful dining option!
This Langford gem is dedicated to raw, vegan, and gluten-free dishes, providing a unique dining experience for health-conscious eaters. The bright, airy dining space is complemented by a friendly and knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their offerings. The Raw Pad Thai, made with spiralized vegetables and a tangy almond sauce, is a standout dish that keeps customers coming back.
While these spots are not strictly vegetarian eateries, they do offer an array of vegan and vegetarian-friendly dishes so you can be sure to find something you love on each of these menus. From Thai delicacies to Italian classics, these restaurants are brimming with fantastic vegetarian food!
893 Fort St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-383-9945
Why We Love It: Sookjai Thai’s dedication to authentic flavours and a broad range of veggie dishes makes it a standout spot for Thai food lovers!
If you’re looking for some incredible vegetarian Thai food, this is a great option! Whether you’re dining-in and enjoying the restaurant’s cozy ambiance and friendly staff or looking forward to digging into some incredible takeout, this is a must-try!
Langford: 2401Millstream Rd, Unit 101-B, Victoria, BC | 1-250-590-4493
Sidney: 2360 Beacon Ave #103, Sidney, BC | 1-778-426-7059
Why We Love It: The authentic wood-fired pizzas and charming Italian ambiance make 900 Degrees a favourite for vegetarian Italian cuisine.
Whether you’re heading to 900 Degrees in Langford or Sidney these restaurants offer a delightful Italian dining experience with plenty of vegetarian options! With wood-fired ovens and tons of vegetarian options, like the Veggie Delight pizza, topped with fresh seasonal vegetables and a perfectly crisp crust, 900 Degrees is a great place to go for delicious, Italian food!
9812 Fifth St, Sidney, BC | 1-250-656-4022
Why We Love It: A classic fish and chip shop with a variety of vegan and veggie options!
Fish on Fifth is known for its fresh seafood, classic British-style fish and chips and extensive selection of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes! The relaxed, beach-themed restaurant and cheerful service make it a great spot to grab some delicious food and head to the beach!
1435 Store St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-590-2177
Why We Love It: With a vibrant ambiance and flavorful veggie tacos Fuego is a must-visit for brunch lovers!
Fuego Old Town Eatery is the go-to spot for delicious tacos and hearty brunch options in the heart of old downtown Victoria! The lively atmosphere and colourful decor make a perfect backdrop to enjoy the Mango Mama Pancakes or Veggie Tacos, filled with roasted vegetables and topped with fresh salsa!
When it comes to vegan restaurants, these are perfect for offering a range of dishes that showcase the flavours and creativity of vegan cooking!
560 Johnson Street #5 At Market Square’s Courtyard, Victoria, BC | 1-250-385-1809
Why We Love It: This incredible vegan and vegetarian restaurant makes most of their food in-house so you can be sure it’s of the highest quality!
Green Cuisine is a staple in Victoria’s vegan scene, known for its extensive buffet featuring a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The cozy, welcoming dining room is perfect for enjoying their diverse offerings, from hearty stews to fresh salads. Don’t miss their famous vegan lemon cheesecake, a delightful end to any meal!
530 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC | 1-250-590-2992
Why We Love It: The combination of innovative vegan pizzas and decadent ice cream makes Virtuous Pie a perfect spot for some seriously delicious comfort food!
Virtuous Pie is renowned for its vegan comfort food, offering a menu full of delectable pizzas and mouth-watering ice cream. The modern, vibrant eatery is a great place to relax and indulge in creative dishes like the Stranger Wings pizza!
797 Hillside Ave, Victoria, BC | 1-250-704-2900
Why We Love It: Fun and funky party vibe with a menu filled with plant based comfort food!
It’s rare for a restaurant to dedicate such a large menu to plant-based dishes but at MeeT, that’s exactly what you’ll find! They serve up hearty vegan dishes with a twist, offering unique creations like the Nashville Hunny Glazed mac n cheez donuts and numerous vegan poutine options!
1115 North Park St, Victoria, BC | 1-250-590-3376
Why We Love It: Vegan breakfast treats and baked goods make Fern Cafe and Bakery a favourite!
Fern Cafe and Bakery is beloved for its vegan breakfast options, including scrumptious cinnamon buns and luscious lattes! The fun, bright, charming cafe is ideal for a relaxed morning and the order window means you can grab your favourite on the go!
A haven for plant-based dining, offering an impressive array of vegan and vegetarian restaurants, Victoria caters to all tastes and preferences! From cozy cafes to bustling downtown eateries, you’ll find a wealth of delicious, creative dishes that make plant-based dining an absolute pleasure. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, you’ll want to explore these fantastic restaurants and savour the magic of food that brings people together, fosters connections, and celebrates the joy of eating well!
Bioluminescence, the mesmerizing natural phenomenon where organisms produce light, offers a spectacular display in the waters off Vancouver Island on the west coast of British Columbia, Canada. Witnessing the glow-in-the-dark sparkles of bioluminescence is a bucket-list experience that is truly a magical experience for anyone lucky enough to see it! In this updated guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to witness this awe-inspiring event, from understanding the science to finding the best spots and the best ways to experience it.
Don’t miss the show by driving home too early. Stay just minutes from these glowing beaches.
Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by living organisms. This phenomenon occurs through a chemical reaction that involves the enzyme luciferase acting on the molecule luciferin, often in the presence of oxygen. While many marine creatures, including jellyfish and fish, can produce bioluminescence, in the waters around Vancouver Island, bioluminescent dinoflagellates are the main contributors to this natural light show. When disturbed by movement in the water, these microscopic organisms emit a bright blue-green glow, creating an enchanting visual effect that captivates observers.
Bioluminescence is best observed during the summer months, but can also be found during the warmer months of late spring to early fall, when the water temperature and nutrient levels are ideal for dinoflagellate blooms. While you can find these sparkles from May through September, the optimal period for bioluminescence around Vancouver Island is at the height of summer in July and August.
2026 Forecast & Current Conditions:
For the 2026 season, local guides suggest paying close attention to extended periods of warm weather, which encourage the plankton blooms. Remember that the glow becomes visible after sunset, with the darkest hours of the night offering the most spectacular displays. Dark nights around the new moon provide the best visibility, so check lunar calendars to avoid a full moon on your bioluminescence hunt!
To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a quick reference guide to the island’s top glowing hot spots:
| Location | Best Beach/Area | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|
| Nanaimo / Ladysmith | Stuart Channel | Easy (Marina/Public Beach) |
| Parksville | Rathtrevor Beach | Easy (Provincial Park) |
| Tofino | Tonquin Beach | Moderate (Trail walk) |
| Victoria Area | Gowlland Tod Park | Moderate (Paddle access) |
| North Island | Telegraph Cove | Easy (Dock/Marina) |
Stuart Channel: Located between Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, Stuart Channel is renowned for its bioluminescent waters. Head to the shores near Ladysmith or Chemainus for the best views. Ample parking is available near the marinas and public beach access points.
Rathtrevor Beach: Perfect for guests staying in Parksville and Qualicum Beach, Rathtrevor Beach is a stunning location known for its long sandy shores and beautiful bioluminescent displays. The best spots to witness bioluminescence are along the beach, particularly in shallow waters during low tide.
Tonquin Beach, Tofino: While all of Tofino’s beaches are famous for their beauty, Tonquin Beach is a must if you’re looking for bioluminescence. Walk along the beach and wade into the shallow waters after dark to see the glow. There is a parking lot at the Tonquin Trailhead, with a short walk down to the beach.
Telegraph Cove: A historic fishing village, Telegraph Cove offers both charm and bioluminescent displays. Visit the dock and marina area, where the movement of boats often stirs up the glowing plankton. There is a designated parking area for visitors near the Telegraph Cove Resort.
Gowlland Tod Provincial Park: Easy to get to from any of our greater Victoria rentals, this park offers serene settings and sparkling waters at night. Kayak or paddleboard in Brentwood Bay for a magical experience.
Once you are at the beach, how should you interact with the water? Here are the most popular methods:
To ensure your glowing adventure is safe and respectful, keep these tips in mind:
What to Wear: Even in summer, the Pacific Ocean can be chilly at night. If you plan on wading or swimming, we recommend a wetsuit or at least water shoes to protect your feet from rocks in the dark.
Safety First: Always prioritize safety, especially when engaging in water activities at night. Wear appropriate gear (like PFDs for paddlers) and inform someone of your plans. Just be sure to swim in safe, designated areas and be mindful of local wildlife.
Be Gentle: Bioluminescent organisms are delicate. Minimize disturbance to their habitat by avoiding excessive splashing and not capturing them.
Exploring bioluminescence off the coast of Vancouver Island is an incredible experience that connects you with the wonder of nature – whether you’re paddling through sparkling waters or wading along a glowing shoreline, this natural light show is sure to leave a lasting impression!
Find your perfect home base for island adventures.
Victoria, British Columbia may be known for its charming gardens and serene waterfront views, but there’s also an abundance of unique and unusual activities to explore. From walking the stunning Dallas Road, exploring hidden alleyways, visiting quirky museums, and visiting heritage sites in Greater Victoria, here are some of the most unusual things to do in Victoria BC
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Having a holiday here is one thing, but what is it actually like to live in Victoria? There are pros and cons of living in Victoria so if you’re considering a move here, this is a great place to start!
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Recently, the Province of British Columbia has implemented new short-term rental regulations to address the housing shortage that took effect on May 1, 2024.
Since the law has gone into effect, here’s what you need to know:
There are two main exemption categories that most properties will fall under:
Existing Strata Hotels and Motels:
New Strata Hotels and Motels:
OR
At least one strata lot must be unusable as a principal residence due to:
Accessory dwelling unit
Fractional ownership
Home exchange or house swapping
Outdoor Recreational Activity
Q: What happens if my property doesn’t meet exemption criteria?
Your property must comply with the provincial, regional and municipal requirements for short-term rentals. Please check this link for a full list of exemptions to see if your home or property qualifies!
Q: Can new properties qualify for exemptions?
Yes! But they must meet all service and legal-use requirements as outlined. For a full list of exemptions to see if your property or home qualifies, click here!
Q: How will these changes impact tourism?
Key tourist areas like Parksville and Predator Ridge have received exemptions to maintain tourism accommodation availability. However there are many areas that will be heavily impacted by this legislation and will undoubtedly have an adverse affect on tourism. How severe the impact will be and how communities will cope with the changes are yet to be seen.
Q: What if I booked a vacation rental before May 1st? Will my booking be honoured?
If you have booked a short term rental before May 1st it is up to the host and platform that you booked with to ensure that your booking follows the new guidelines. Guests will not face fines for staying in a short term rental that does not comply with the rules because the responsibility lies with the host and platform. While many operators are already operating in compliance with the new laws, you might want to do due diligence and ask what the legal status of the property is to ensure you don’t run into any issues.
Q: How do I know which communities are exempt from Short-Term Rental regulations in B.C.?
A full list of communities where the new requirements do apply is available on the provincial principal residence requirement page.
For further details, property owners and guests are encouraged to review the full criteria and ensure the property you’re staying at is in compliance with BC’s new Provincial and Local Regulations.
From lush dairy farms to sprawling vineyards and picturesque fruit orchards, Vancouver Island farms offer a bounty of local food and farm experiences for visitors to enjoy! If you’re curious about what this Canadian island’s farmers have to offer, want to learn more about sustainability, the farm to table movement on Vancouver Island and what kind of fresh, local food you can find on this incredible island, you’re in the right place!
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