Guide to Sooke, BC

aerial view of the sooke basin and Whiffin Spit

If you’re looking for a place to experience pristine West Coast wilderness on Southern Vancouver Island, you’ll want to book your stay in Sooke, British Columbia, Canada. Just forty-five minutes west of Victoria and the home of the T’sou-ke Nation, Sooke offers guests some of the most stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains in Washington State, endless seascapes of the open Pacific Ocean, incredible outdoor recreation, cultural sights and some unmissable dining experiences! A holiday in the Sooke area is one of the best ways to experience the wild West Coast in all its glory! 

How to get to Sooke

From the Mainland: 

Tsawwassen (South of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (North Saanich): If you’re taking the passenger and vehicle ferry from Tsawassen south of Vancouver, you’ll arrive in North Saanich near the seaside town of Sidney. From the ferry simply take Highway 17 to Highway 1 just north of Victoria and Highway 14 all the way to Sooke (map) – the drive takes just over an hour. 

Horseshoe Bay (North Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo): When you arrive in Nanaimo, you can hop right onto Highway 1 which will take you through Nanaimo and the beautiful Cowichan Valley into Greater Victoria. From here, you’ll merge onto Highway 14 all the way into central Sooke (map). 

From Victoria International Airport (YYJ):

Victoria International Airport (YYJ), located just a few minutes south of Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal on the Saanich Peninsula offers car rentals where you can easily follow this map to get to central Sooke. 

From Victoria: 

If you’re staying in Victoria and want to visit Sooke for a day trip, getting there is easy! The trip takes approximately 45 minutes which means that you can visit a few times during your stay! 

On Two Wheels:

If you’re staying at a Victoria EMR property and want to do some biking on the west coast, a cycle out to Sooke is a great way to spend a sunny day and get some exercise! The Galloping Goose Regional Trail dedicated, multi-use trail that runs all the way from Victoria to Sooke and will take you through downtown Victoria, Langford and Metchosin all the way to Sooke central! Whether your starting point is right downtown Victoria or in Langford, you can find multiple access points to this trail all the way along! 

Outdoor Recreation in Sooke 

Sooke is known for its incredible natural beauty and so it’s no wonder that some of the very best outdoor recreation can be found in the area! Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, endless forested hiking trails or epic ocean adventures, Sooke has it all! 

Beaches

Jordan River

Located halfway between Sooke and Port Renfrew. Jordan River is known for its stunning ocean views and epic surfing. While this tiny logging community might not offer much in the way of amenities, it is by far one of the most incredible, wild places to visit on the west coast. If you’re planning to surf here, be sure to research before you go! The waves are known to be unpredictable and locals are notoriously protective over this beloved surfing spot. 

French Beach

If you’re looking for a great family beach to visit during your stay in Sooke, French Beach is a great option! With a great playground, grassy areas with picnic tables, lots of flat trails near the pebbly beach and lots of driftwood to climb on, kids of all ages will love a day out at French Beach! 

Botanical Beach

Right near Port Renfrew and a part of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, Botanical Beach is a stunning beach to spend a day exploring the rich tide pools and beachside trails. With incredible marine life to see and fascinating geological features, this is a perfect beach for marine science enthusiasts! 

China Beach

This stunning sandy beach, not far from central Sooke offers visitors a stunning place to spend a day in the sun. Enjoy relaxing on the sand, exploring the craggy rock formations and basking in the breathtaking view of the Olympic Peninsula in the distance!

Mystic Beach

Just north of China Beach, this beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles and has some of the most incredible forested trails to explore! Great for families, Mystic Beach has rocky outcrops and beach caves to explore, tons of smooth pebbles to skip and stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain Range! 

Hiking

Sooke Potholes Regional Park 

While this may be one of the best natural swimming spots to cool off in the summer heat, Sooke Potholes Regional Park is also a great place to spend the day hiking year-round! For an easy hike, follow the Riverside Trail along the Sooke River as it meanders through the trees and offers incredible views of the river as it rushes toward the Sooke Basin. 

East Sooke Regional Park

With 50 kilometers of trails through pristine West Coast wilderness you can ramble along rocky, windswept coastal trails to find hidden beaches or trek through dense forested trails, up hilltops and find breathtaking views of the ocean. 

West Coast Trail

This incredible, 75 kilometre trail that starts in Port Renfrew and terminates in remote Bamfield, offers a once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience with stunning views and challenging adventures! If you’re an avid hiker and looking for a real adventure, you’ll want to plan your attack of the rugged West Coast Trail. 

Juan de Fuca Trail

Similar in intensity to the West Coast Trail, the Juan de Fuca trail that starts near Jordan River and terminates in Port Renfrew offers hikers a rugged and challenging 47 kilometre trail and typically takes 12 hours to complete. 

Cycling

Galloping Goose Regional Trail

This extensive trail runs from Sooke all the way to downtown Victoria, is paved and fairly flat for most of the way. It’s an ideal way to cycle with the family or if you’re looking for a relaxed, well maintained cycling path to explore. 

Mountain Biking in Sooke

There are tons of  mountain biking opportunities in Sooke as well! You can find trails using this map and if you’re looking for bike rentals, check here!  

Kayaking

One of the best ways to explore the waters of the Sooke Basin and the shore of beautiful Whiffin Spit for an afternoon is in a kayak! Whether you’re ready to go kayaking solo or you want to book a tour, Sooke has tons of incredible options! Check out our favourites here! 

Charters & More 

Whale Watching

For a truly unique, west coast experience, book a whale watching tour! From April to October, you can find mink, grey, Orcas and sometimes Humpback whales as they migrate through the waters of the Strait. Even if you don’t get to see whales, there is so much marine life to see, you won’t be disappointed! Take a look at our favourite whale watching companies in Sooke, here! 

Fishing

If you’re an avid angler, you’re going to want to book a fishing charter during your stay in Sooke! While there are lots of places on the shore where you can cast a line, booking one of our favourite companies is going to guarantee that you have an incredible time and learn some new skills! 

Zip Lining

5128C Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0E2

At AdrenaLINE, your zipline experience begins with an eight minute off-road adventure to an incredible location in the wilderness. When you arrive, you’ll find eight different zipline routes spanning across 100 acres of pristine coastal rainforest! Buckle up for the ride of your life!  

Arts and Culture

Sooke Region Museum

2070 Phillips Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0Y3

This small museum focuses on highlighting the region’s history and culture from momentous events to daily life in one of the Province’s oldest, independent settlements. With exhibits of First Nations artefacts, historic photographs as well as the Triangle Island Lighthouse interpretive centre and Moss Cottage – visit for deeper appreciation of this area’s historical importance!

South Shore Gallery

2046 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 0P7

Located in the heart of Sooke, this gallery features a collection of original, local artwork from paintings, ceramics, glass and metal works to jewellery, wearables, and fibre art. Plus, you can find one-of-a-kind gifts and art cards! 

Food and Drink 

Sheringham Distillery

6731 West Coast Road #252, Sooke, BC V9Z 0S9

Since 2015, Sheringham has produced award-winning spirits with locally-sourced, high quality ingredients and impeccable distillation techniques. Plus, this lovely distillery prioritizes sustainability practices at every level of production. Pop into the tasting room to try some truly unique spirits that are sure to raise your spirits! 

Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery

8750 West Coast Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 1H2

Mead isn’t something you find every day but at Tugwell you can find many different types of the ancient potable made from fermented honey, yeast and water. With carefully tended beehives and lots of local wildflowers, Tugwell produces some of the best honey and subsequently, some of the best mead! If you are searching for a unique imbibing experience, Tugwell Farms is worth the trip! 

West Coast Grill

6929 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1

This beautiful, oceanfront restaurant, located right near the Sooke Harbour Marina offers elegant west coast dining with a stunning view. In warm weather, guests can enjoy fresh, elevated seafood dishes on the terrace and look out over the waves.   

Book your Vacation in Sooke with EMR Today!

Guide to Sooke BC

vancouver island, sooke bc, driftwood-1806853.jpg

If you’re looking for a place to experience pristine West Coast wilderness on Southern Vancouver Island British Columbia, you’ll want to book your stay in Sooke BC, Canada. Just forty-five minutes west of Victoria and the home of the T’sou-ke Nation, Sooke offers guests some of the most stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountains in Washington State, endless seascapes of the open Pacific Ocean, incredible outdoor recreation, cultural sights and some unmissable dining experiences! A holiday in the Sooke area is one of the best ways to experience the wild West Coast in all its glory! 

How to get to Sooke

From the Mainland: 

Tsawwassen (South of Vancouver) to Swartz Bay (North Saanich): If you’re taking the passenger and vehicle ferry from Tsawassen south of Vancouver, you’ll arrive in North Saanich near the seaside town of Sidney. From the ferry simply take Highway 17 to Highway 1 just north of Victoria and Highway 14 all the way to Sooke (map) – the drive takes just over an hour. 

Horseshoe Bay (North Vancouver) to Departure Bay (Nanaimo): When you arrive in Nanaimo, you can hop right onto Highway 1 which will take you through Nanaimo and the beautiful Cowichan Valley into Greater Victoria. From here, you’ll merge onto Highway 14 all the way into central Sooke (map). 

From Victoria International Airport (YYJ):

Victoria International Airport (YYJ), located just a few minutes south of Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal on the Saanich Peninsula offers car rentals where you can easily follow this map to get to central Sooke. 

From Victoria: 

If you’re staying in Victoria and want to visit Sooke for a day trip, getting there is easy! The trip takes approximately 45 minutes which means that you can visit a few times during your stay! 

On Two Wheels:

If you’re staying at a Victoria EMR property and want to do some biking on the west coast, a cycle out to Sooke is a great way to spend a sunny day and get some exercise! The Galloping Goose Regional Trail dedicated, multi-use trail that runs all the way from Victoria to Sooke and will take you through downtown Victoria, Langford and Metchosin all the way to Sooke central! Whether your starting point is right downtown Victoria or in Langford, you can find multiple access points to this trail all the way along! 

Outdoor Recreation in Sooke 

Sooke is known for its incredible natural beauty and so it’s no wonder that some of the very best outdoor recreation can be found in the area! Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, endless forested hiking trails or epic ocean adventures, Sooke has it all! 

Beaches

Jordan River

Located halfway between Sooke and Port Renfrew. Jordan River is known for its stunning ocean views and epic surfing. While this tiny logging community might not offer much in the way of amenities, it is by far one of the most incredible, wild places to visit on the west coast. If you’re planning to surf here, be sure to research before you go! The waves are known to be unpredictable and locals are notoriously protective over this beloved surfing spot. 

French Beach

If you’re looking for a great family beach to visit during your stay in Sooke, French Beach is a great option! With a great playground, grassy areas with picnic tables, lots of flat trails near the pebbly beach and lots of driftwood to climb on, kids of all ages will love a day out at French Beach! 

Botanical Beach

Right near Port Renfrew and a part of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail, Botanical Beach is a stunning beach to spend a day exploring the rich tide pools and beachside trails. With incredible marine life to see and fascinating geological features, this is a perfect beach for marine science enthusiasts! 

China Beach

This stunning sandy beach, not far from central Sooke offers visitors a stunning place to spend a day in the sun. Enjoy relaxing on the sand, exploring the craggy rock formations and basking in the breathtaking view of the Olympic Peninsula in the distance!

Mystic Beach

Just north of China Beach, this beach is a mixture of sand and pebbles and has some of the most incredible forested trails to explore! Great for families, Mystic Beach has rocky outcrops and beach caves to explore, tons of smooth pebbles to skip and stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Mountain Range! 

Hiking

Sooke Potholes Regional Park 

While this may be one of the best natural swimming spots to cool off in the summer heat, Sooke Potholes Regional Park is also a great place to spend the day hiking year-round! For an easy hike, follow the Riverside Trail along the Sooke River as it meanders through the trees and offers incredible views of the river as it rushes toward the Sooke Basin. 

East Sooke Regional Park

With 50 kilometers of trails through pristine West Coast wilderness you can ramble along rocky, windswept coastal trails to find hidden beaches or trek through dense forested trails, up hilltops and find breathtaking views of the ocean. 

West Coast Trail

This incredible, 75 kilometre trail that starts in Port Renfrew and terminates in remote Bamfield, offers a once-in-a-lifetime hiking experience with stunning views and challenging adventures! If you’re an avid hiker and looking for a real adventure, you’ll want to plan your attack of the rugged West Coast Trail. 

Juan de Fuca Trail

Similar in intensity to the West Coast Trail, the Juan de Fuca trail that starts near Jordan River and terminates in Port Renfrew offers hikers a rugged and challenging 47 kilometre trail and typically takes 12 hours to complete. 

Cycling

Galloping Goose Regional Trail

This extensive trail runs from Sooke all the way to downtown Victoria, is paved and fairly flat for most of the way. It’s an ideal way to cycle with the family or if you’re looking for a relaxed, well maintained cycling path to explore. 

Mountain Biking in Sooke

There are tons of  mountain biking opportunities in Sooke as well! You can find trails using this map and if you’re looking for bike rentals, check here!  

Kayaking

One of the best ways to explore the waters of the Sooke Basin and the shore of beautiful Whiffin Spit for an afternoon is in a kayak! Whether you’re ready to go kayaking solo or you want to book a tour, Sooke has tons of incredible options! Check out our favourites here! 

Charters & More 

Whale Watching

For a truly unique, west coast experience, book a whale watching tour! From April to October, you can find mink, grey, Orcas and sometimes Humpback whales as they migrate through the waters of the Strait. Even if you don’t get to see whales, there is so much marine life to see, you won’t be disappointed! Take a look at our favourite whale watching companies in Sooke, here! 

Fishing

If you’re an avid angler, you’re going to want to book a fishing charter during your stay in Sooke! While there are lots of places on the shore where you can cast a line, booking one of our favourite companies is going to guarantee that you have an incredible time and learn some new skills! 

Zip Lining

5128C Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0E2

At AdrenaLINE, your zipline experience begins with an eight minute off-road adventure to an incredible location in the wilderness. When you arrive, you’ll find eight different zipline routes spanning across 100 acres of pristine coastal rainforest! Buckle up for the ride of your life!  

Arts and Culture

Sooke Region Museum

2070 Phillips Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0Y3

This small museum focuses on highlighting the region’s history and culture from momentous events to daily life in one of the Province’s oldest, independent settlements. With exhibits of First Nations artefacts, historic photographs as well as the Triangle Island Lighthouse interpretive centre and Moss Cottage – visit for deeper appreciation of this area’s historical importance!

South Shore Gallery

2046 Otter Point Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 0P7

Located in the heart of Sooke, this gallery features a collection of original, local artwork from paintings, ceramics, glass and metal works to jewellery, wearables, and fibre art. Plus, you can find one-of-a-kind gifts and art cards! 

Food and Drink 

Sheringham Distillery

6731 West Coast Road #252, Sooke, BC V9Z 0S9

Since 2015, Sheringham has produced award-winning spirits with locally-sourced, high quality ingredients and impeccable distillation techniques. Plus, this lovely distillery prioritizes sustainability practices at every level of production. Pop into the tasting room to try some truly unique spirits that are sure to raise your spirits! 

Tugwell Creek Honey Farm & Meadery

8750 West Coast Road, Sooke, BC V9Z 1H2

Mead isn’t something you find every day but at Tugwell you can find many different types of the ancient potable made from fermented honey, yeast and water. With carefully tended beehives and lots of local wildflowers, Tugwell produces some of the best honey and subsequently, some of the best mead! If you are searching for a unique imbibing experience, Tugwell Farms is worth the trip! 

West Coast Grill

6929 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1

This beautiful, oceanfront restaurant, located right near the Sooke Harbour Marina offers elegant west coast dining with a stunning view. In warm weather, guests can enjoy fresh, elevated seafood dishes on the terrace and look out over the waves.   

Book your Vacation in Sooke with EMR Today!

Langford BC: A Visitor’s Guide

green trees around a lake and blue sky - Langford Lake

As one of the fastest growing areas in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, Langford has so much to offer! Just north of Victoria, the City of Langford or Westshore as it is also called, is a hot-spot on Vancouver Island for recreation, dining, shopping and so much more! Langford offers a great quality of life with numerous job and real estate opportunities with new neighbourhoods, new homes and townhouses being developed annually making Langford a great option for anyone looking to relocate to south Vancouver Island! Plus, EMR provides guests with short and long-term, furnished rentals so you can enjoy life on south Vancouver Island and house-hunt in comfort! 

Westshore Town Centre

2945 Jacklin Rd, Langford, BC V9B 5E3

In Westshore town centre, guests will find many amenities, restaurants, shopping and entertainment including a large Cineplex Odeon movie theatre! 

Bear Mountain Resort 

1999 Country Club Way, Victoria, BC V9B 6R3

If you’re an avid golfer, Langford is the place for you! At Bear Mountain Resort, you’ll find not one, but two Nicklaus designed golf courses: the Valley Course and the Mountain Course. Whether you’re taking on one course or making an epic day of it on both, golfing at Bear Mountain is always an incredible experience and offers some of the best facilities and service on the South Island. Plus, you can find a five-star spa, tennis courts and gym with state-of-the-art equipment if golfing isn’t your thing!  

Goldstream Provincial Park

Parking lot off Malahat Dr

As one of the most popular parks for camping and hiking on the South Island, Goldstream is a must when you’re exploring Langford! Whether you want to spend a day trekking through this old-growth temperate rain forest looking for waterfalls, camp amongst the trees or take kids on an easier path to the Visitor Center and see all the incredible displays, Goldstream has it all! If you’re in the area between October and December, you can watch the annual salmon run where the water is teeming with spawning salmon as they race upstream to lay their eggs. 

Mount Finlayson

Trailhead off Malahat Dr.

In Goldstream, you can find the trailhead to Mount Finlayson, one of the steepest hikes in Greater Victoria that offers scenic views from the summit. This trail is very popular and busy on the weekends so aim for mid-week and be sure to bring plenty of water – this is a strenuous hike but the views from the top are worth it! 

Langford Lake

3018 Trillium Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 4G3

Located in the heart of the City of Langford, Langford Lake is a favourite place for locals and visitors to go swimming, boating, and fishing. It’s the largest of the three lakes in the Langford area and offers numerous boardwalks, a public beach, playground, and boat launch as well as many other access points to launch a vessel. 

City Centre Park

1089 Langford Pkwy, Langford, BC V9B 0A5

Right near the community of Westhills, you’ll find City Center Park, Langford’s top family entertainment and recreation destination. Here, you can go bowling, skating, or play a round of mini-golf and if you need to let the kids go wild, the PlayZone is an incredible indoor play place! Plus, it’s here that you can watch the local soccer and football teams play in Starlight Stadium and treat the family to some great food at City Center Grille! 

Galloping Goose Trail

Trail map – multiple access points

The Galloping Goose is an incredible 55 kilometre, multi-use trail that runs all the way from downtown Victoria to Sooke! Because the trail meanders through the municipalities of Colwood, View Royal, Esquimalt and Metchosin on the way to Sooke, it’s an incredibly popular cycling trail for commuters but it is also a great place to go for a jog, walk or even ride a horse through no matter where you’re staying! There are multiple access points to the trail from beginning to end so if you want to see where you can access it, take a look at the map linked above! 

Downtown Victoria

Map 

With its seamless blend of old-world charm and stunning natural beauty with modern architecture and forward-thinking urban development, it’s no wonder why downtown Victoria is one of the reasons that Victoria is consistently rated as one of the best destinations in Canada. In downtown, you can walk through historic sites and buildings, find incredible shopping and dining all while admiring the glittering ocean and beautiful greenery!    

Florence Lake

Map

Florence Lake is one of the smaller lakes in Langford, but it offers so much, especially if you’re looking for a great spot to fish! With two boardwalks where you can easily drop a line and enjoy a beautiful day on the water plus a trail around the lake for walking or jogging, a boat launch and public beach area, Florence Lake is a great place to go if you’re looking for a calm spot in nature. 

Millstream Village

2401 Millstream Rd, Victoria, BC V9B 3R5

Located in the centre of Langford, Millstream Village is where you can find great shopping and dining all in one convenient location! Here, you can find the Market on Millstream, one of the best grocery stores in the area, several dining options, and large chain stores. For a complete list of businesses and information on events, check the link above!

First Timer’s Guide to The Butchart Gardens

butchart gardens entrance sign - victoria bc

Of all the things to see and do on Vancouver Island, British Columbia one of the most well-known Canadian attractions is The Butchart Gardens. Just north of the capital city of Victoria in the beautiful community of Brentwood Bay on the Saanich Peninsula, this National Historic Site of Canada has been delighting and inspiring both locals and visitors from around the world for over 100 years. With five distinct, themed gardens and over 50 acres of garden to explore, whether you’re holidaying on the Island or travelling to Victoria for a sightseeing day trip from Seattle, be sure to put a trip to the Butchart Gardens at the top of your list! 

History of Butchart Gardens 

When Robert and Jennie Butchart first came to Vancouver Island from Ontario in 1904, their plan was to build a cement plant on the rich limestone quarry that had been found on the Tod Inlet. In only 2 short years however, the cement production had begun to exhaust the limestone deposits. Jennie, who had always been fond of gardening, began to plan the transformation of the quarry into a marvellous garden. With horse-drawn wagons filled with soil, and Jennie’s careful landscaping, the quarry was slowly transformed into a verdant paradise today known as the Sunken Garden. With the success of this garden, Jennie decided to expand her vision and between 1912, when the Sunken Garden had been completed and 1929, Jennie had created a masterpiece. In the land by the sea, she created the Japanese Garden, on the former tennis courts, the Italian Garden, the Mediterranean Garden thrived in the temperate, west coast climate and the Rose garden quickly overflowed with fragrant blossoms of all varieties. In 1939, Jennie and Robert gifted the gardens to their grandson, Ian Ross who saw great potential for tourism and transformed them into the world-renowned attraction that stands today.  

What You’ll Find at The Butchart Gardens

A visit to the Butchart Gardens is so much more than just a wander through beautiful gardens – it’s a meditative experience that has dazzled visitors for years on end. With meandering paths perfectly placed to provide visitors with the best views and access to over 900 plant varieties, jaw-dropping night illuminations of fireworks and the annual Magic of Christmas plus two restaurants, a coffee shop and gelateria, Butchart is a year-round attraction that is worth the trip.

During the summertime, guests can enjoy the full blooms of the Rose Garden and watch the flower beds in the Mediterranean Garden thrive. Finish your visit with high tea in The Dining Room, let the kids ride on the rose carousel or cool down with a scoop of delicious gelato! 

In the autumn, the Japanese garden glows with the bright red leaves of the Japanese maples, rose hips pop out in the rose garden and the autumnal blossoms shine. After your tour, you can get cozy in the Blue Poppy Restaurant and enjoy some casual comfort food. 

In the winter, the evergreens take centre stage and the gardens are filled with twinkle lights, festive displays and carollers during the Magic of Christmas. Go ice skating on a traditional outdoor rink and warm up with a hot cocoa from the coffee shop!

In the spring, the gardens shine with spring showers and new growth. In the late spring especially, flowerbeds overflow with tulips and dahlias, roses begin to bloom, trees fill with leaves and the garden explodes with new life.  

If you need more information about the gardens, have a look at these sample itineraries so you can plan your visit without missing out! 

How to Get to The Butchart Gardens

From Downtown Victoria 

If you’re staying in one of the convenient EMR locations downtown Victoria, it’s easy to get to Butchart Gardens! Whether you’re driving, taking public transit, or cycling simply click this link and you can plan your route on Google maps. 

From Sooke

Whether you’re staying in beautiful Sooke or Metchosin, the Butchart Gardens is an easy attraction to get to! Have a look at the link to plan your route! 

From Sidney

Sidney is conveniently located right near the Butchart Gardens so if you’re staying at a rental property near Sidney on the Saanich Peninsula, Butchart is a must!  

From the Cowichan Valley

Butchart Gardens might be a bit more of a trek from one of the EMR Cowichan Valley rentals, but it is a day trip worth taking! 

From Other Greater Victoria Locations via Public Transportation

If you’re planning to visit via public transportation from anywhere in Greater Victoria, check the BC Transit site and simply enter your starting point and destination and the handy site will give you detailed instructions.

Book an EMR rental and visit the Butchart Gardens!

The Best Pizza in Greater Victoria

neon sign shaped like a slice of pizza

No matter where you’re from, no matter where you go, everyone likes pizza. The classic Italian staple is ubiquitous in Greater Victoria – from large chain restaurants to small, locally owned pizza joints, there are many, many pizza places to choose from! But when you’re visiting the capital city, it can be hard to know where to go for a great slice. If you’re looking for the best pizza in Greater Victoria, we’ve got the list for you! 

Pizzeria Prima Strada

230 Cook St, Victoria

Looking for authentic Neapolitan pizza and in-house made gelato and dairy-free sorbetto? You can’t go wrong with an order from Pizzeria Prima Strada! Located in the heart of the quaint Cook Street Village in Victoria, this little pizza place is  committed to creating thin crust, wood-fired pizzas using traditional methods and simple, fresh, local ingredients. Dine-in and enjoy the wood-fired oven in the heart of the casual dining room or order online at pizzeriaprimastrada.com for incredible take-out pizza to enjoy in the comfort of your rental! Whether you’re staying right downtown Victoria or at a rental in a nearby neighbourhood, Prima Strada is always a great choice for some of the best pizza in Greater Victoria! 

Note: Guests at one of the gorgeous Cowichan Valley rentals can check out their Cobble Hill location nearby for a great pie in the Valley! 

Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria

560 Johnson St # 128, Victoria

Just a short walk away from the EMR rentals in downtown Victoria, Famoso offers traditional Neapolitain style pizza, pasta, sandwiches and delicious tapas! With authentic ingredients (like tomatoes imported from Campania, hand milled into sauce) and time-honoured methods, the wood-fired pizzas at Famoso will make you feel like you are right in the heart of Napoli! With a European dining room, lively atmosphere and a large menu that is sure to have something for every taste, Famoso is a great spot for a casual lunch or dinner in town! 

The Joint Pizzeria

1219 Wharf St, Victoria

One of the most beloved pizza joints in Victoria is undoubtedly The Joint. From casual business lunches to tourists looking for a quick bite while they’re exploring downtown to loyal, local customers to the late-night bar crowd, this pizza spot right on the water caters to everyone. With gluten-free and vegan options, unique pizzas like the Thai Peanut and classics like pepperoni and margherita all made with fresh ingredients, you’re sure to find the perfect slice (or two) for you! Plus, you can also find salads, calzones, wings and so much more!

Virtuous Pie

530 Pandora Ave, Victoria

This cool, forward-thinking pizzeria is taking healthy food to a whole new level! With a goal to create incredible food that is great for your body and the planet, founder Rob Milne and his sons, Ben and Alex, offer a menu that is filled with delicious and nutritious dishes. Try one of their pizzas made with hand-stretched dough, plant based cheese and fresh ingredients. If you’re in the mood to make it a full meal, start with one of their mac and cheese skittles and finish with one of the many dessert options, including creamy, small-batch ice cream! Pair it with a glass of locally brewed kombucha, local wine or craft beer and you’ll be in food heaven! Plus, Virtuous Pie dedicates a portion of all their revenue to charity so you can enjoy a fantastic meal and help support local charities at the same time! It’s a delicious win-win!

Brickyard Pizza

784 Yates St, Victoria

Since 1992, Brickyard Pizza has been home to some of the best pizza in Greater Victoria, serving up some incredible slices from their casual location in downtown Victoria. With a recently updated interior and fresh, in-house made pizza and calzones, whether you’re looking to grab a slice after a movie or ordering take out for a cozy evening in, Brickyard is the place to go! Not only do they have great pizzas but at Brickyard, you’ll find monthly specials, happy hour and great cocktails, craft beer and wine to pair perfectly with your pie! 

Standard Pizza

1515 Cook St, Victoria

This hip, minimalist pizza joint is the place where you’ll find incredible Neapolitan style pizza with no frills. Locally owned and operated, Standard Pizza offers customers a straightforward menu with specialty and classic pizzas. Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for? As long as they have the ingredients on hand, you can make your own special pizza, just the way you like it! Be sure to check their Facebook and Instagram for daily specials and dig in! 

Willows Pizza

2571 Cadboro Bay Rd, Victoria

If you’re looking for great pizza in Oak Bay, you won’t find anything better than the long-standing neighbourhood favourite: Willows Pizza. Here, you’ll find incredible pizzas made with fresh ingredients, locally sourced meats with dairy-free and gluten free options. These pizzas are loaded with toppings and always tasty – it’s no wonder the community loves them! 

My-Chosen Pizza

4492 Happy Valley Rd, Victoria

Not Far from rentals in Sooke and right around the corner from the EMR Metchosin properties, is the beloved My-Chosen Pizza. With great pizza made from handmade tomato sauce, artisan dough and quality ingredients, many found right on Southern Vancouver Island, My-Chosen Pizza has been a community staple since 2007. Originally, the next-door, My-Chosen Cafe began making pizzas that were in such high demand, My-Chosen Pizza had to open to cater to the many pizza-loving locals! With both keto options and baked pastas offered as well, you’re sure to find something for everyone from this little pizza place in the countryside! 

Mariner Pizza

2321 James White Blvd, Sidney

If you’re looking for a great pizza place near one of the gorgeous rentals on the top of the Saanich Peninsula, this is it! Located in the heart of Sidney-by-the-Sea, Mariner has been offering customers delicious, quality pizza for twenty years. With pizza dough made fresh daily, homemade sauce, great toppings and flavour combos, it’s no wonder why this pizza spot has such a loyal customer base! So come and try one of their specialty pizzas or make your own but be sure to order the cinnamon sticks for dessert! 

900º Wood-Fired Pizzeria

2401 Millstream Rd, Unit 101-B, Victoria

Tucked away in one of the shopping areas, not far from EMR’s Langford rentals, you’ll find authentic Italian wood-fired pizza. Made with only organic ingredients and cooked in a traditional wood oven using only sustainably sourced wood, always at a perfect 900º – not only can you enjoy incredible pizza but you’ll feel great about ordering from here! With friendly service, passionate pizza chefs, delicious pizzas and a great restaurant for dine-in customers, 900º is the best pizza in Langford! 

Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market

2908 Tieulie Pl, Shirley

If you get a craving for some top-quality pizza, while basking in the beauty of the Sooke rental, no problem! Just a short drive along the West Coast Road (Highway 14) in the little community of Shirley, you’ll find Stoked Wood Fired Pizzeria & Market. With a distinctly laid-back, West Coast atmosphere, this little pizzeria on the ocean serves up incredible wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and yummy desserts – perfect for enjoying in the restaurant with a cold craft beer or cider, on the beach or taking back to the comfort of your holiday rental. Plus, with a small market filled with books, local, handmade products and artwork, you can browse while you wait for you food, find great gifts and enjoy incredible pizza!  Belissima! 

Top 10 Things to Do on Vancouver Island

orca breaching - whale watching

Wild, rugged, and endlessly enchanting, Vancouver Island is a must-visit destination for travellers craving natural beauty, rich culture, and unforgettable adventures! From European-inspired cities and coastal cafes to ancient rainforests and windswept beaches, this West Coast gem in British Columbia has something for everyone! Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family friendly road trip, or a solo journey through BC, this guide will help you make the most of your visit.

Looking for the perfect home base? EMR Vacation Rentals offers beautiful, vacation rentals across Vancouver Island.

Book Your Vancouver Island Vacation Rental Now!

Let’s dive into the top ten things to do on Vancouver Island!

Quick Look: Top 10 Things to Do on Vancouver Island

  1. Go Whale Watching
  2. Visit Tofino & Ucluelet
  3. Kayak the Coast
  4. Hike the Trails
  5. Explore Downtown Victoria
  6. Discover the Butchart Gardens
  7. Visit the Gosts on Roof in Coombs!
  8. Learn About First Nations Culture
  9. Relax on Beautiful Beaches
  10. Take a Ferry to the Gulf Islands

Top 10 Things to Do on Vancouver Island

1. Go Whale Watching

Orca breaching the surface off the coast of BC Whale watching tours are one of the most exciting outdoor activities you can do in British Columbia! Between May and October, the waters around Vancouver Island are alive with orcas, humpbacks, and grey whales. Add in sea lions, eagles, and playful sea otters and you’ve got yourself a day you’ll never forget! Best spots to see whales: Telegraph Cove (North Island), Victoria Harbour, Campbell River Tours to try: Eagle Wing Wildlife Tours (Victoria), Ocean Ecoventures Whale Watching (Cowichan Valley & Parksville), Vancouver Island Whale Watch (Nanaimo), Eagle Eye Adventures (Campbell River), Mackay Whale Watching (Telegraph Cove) Tips: Book in advance during peak season, wear warm layers, and bring binoculars so you can see all the amazing animals that call our oceans home!

2. Visit Tofino & Ucluelet

aerial view of the Pacific Rim - Tofino - Long Beach on a sunny day These twin towns in Pacific Rim National Park are where surfers, foodies, and nature lovers collide! With dramatic beaches and lush forests, Tofino and Ucluelet are bursting with charm. Don’t miss: Long Beach, Cox Bay, the Wild Pacific Trail, Chesterman Beach Food & drink: Wolf in the Fog, Tacofino, Tofino Brewing Co., Ucluelet Brewing Co. Things to do: Surfing, storm watching, kayaking, whale watching, spa days, art galleries, breweries. Tips: This area books up fast in summer! Pack layers and prepare for awesome land and seascapes!

3. Go Kayaking

Love wildlife? Looking for a peaceful paddle? Kayaking is one of the best outdoor activities onkayakers in the distance on the water on a sunny day Vancouver Island! With tons of options for all levels, it’s perfect for couples, groups, or families! Top spots: Broken Group Islands, Cowichan Bay, Nanoose Bay, Victoria Inner Harbour Tours & rentals: Adventuress Sea Kayaking (Parksville & Qualicum Beach), Hello Nature Adventure Tours (North & West Island), Kelp Reef Adventures (Victoria) Tips: Dress for getting a little wet, pack a waterproof camera, and always check tide charts!

4. Hike the Trails

With hiking trails that wind through lush forests, alongside waterfalls, and up to stunning viewpoints, the Island is a hiker’s dream destination! Whether you’re exploring the mellow trails of a Provincial Park or hiking over a rugged coastal reserve, there’s a trail for everyone!

Top trails:

women hiking in a forested trail West Coast Trail (Pacific Rim): Legendary, challenging 75-km trek Cathedral Grove – MacMillan Park (Central Island): Towering Douglas firs in a Canadian old-growth forest Elk Falls Park (Campbell River): A must-see waterfall and suspension bridge combo Wild Pacific Trail (Ucluelet): Family friendly and full of ocean views Little Qualicum Falls Park (Qualicum Beach): Picturesque falls and lush forest trails Horne Lake Caves (Parksville): Go underground for a thrilling cave adventure! Tips: Many trails are shaded and damp—good boots and layers go a long way

5. Explore Downtown Victoria

Victoria’s charming downtown is packed with things to do, delicious cafes, and gorgeous waterfront views. You’ll find Canadian history, vibrant shops, and top-notch eats all within walking distance.the empress hotel in Downtown Victoria on a sunny day - chateau style hotel with ivy on the facade Highlights: Royal BC Museum, Inner Harbour, Parliament Buildings, Empress Hotel Cafes & shops: Murchie’s Tea, Habit Coffee, Munro’s Books, Fan Tan Alley Activities: Afternoon tea at the Empress, carriage rides, harbour ferry tours Tips: Bring your walking shoes and your camera—this area is full of postcard moments!

6. Visit the Butchart Gardens

bright orange leaves on Japanese Maple trees and lots of lush greenery in the Japanese Garden at Butchart GardensThe Butchart Gardens is a year-round showstopper and one of British Columbia’s most iconic attractions! Expect vibrant blooms, peaceful paths, and special surprises no matter what season you visit!  Gardens to explore: Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Mediterranean Garden, Japanese Garden, Italian Garden Seasonal highlights: Twelve Days of Christmas display, summer concerts, spring tulips Tips: It’s a great day trip from Victoria. Don’t forget your camera and comfy shoes!

7. See the Goats on Roof in Coombs

white goat with a brown head standing on a grassy roof on a sunny dayYes, there are real goats on the roof! This beloved roadside stop is quirky, fun, and full of great shopping and snacks—perfect for a family friendly stop on a Vancouver Island road trip. Things to do: Browse the Old Country Market, visit Butterfly World, stop by Hamilton Hobby Farm Eat here: Cuckoo Trattoria, Billy Gruff Creamery, and the market bakery Tips: Get there early in the summer to beat the crowds—and don’t forget to snap a selfie with the goats!
close up of a first nations totem pole - blue, red and black paint on the wood carving

8. Explore First Nations Culture

Vancouver Island is rich in First Nations heritage. From ancient totem poles to world-renowned art, this is an unforgettable part of your travel guide you won’t want to miss.

Top spots:

Duncan: Walk the Totem Trail and learn from interpretive signs Alert Bay: Visit the U’mista Cultural Centre and the Big House Victoria: See Totem Hall at the Royal BC Museum and explore Thunderbird Park Tips: Take your time, read the stories, and approach with respect and curiosity

9. Relax on Vancouver Island Beaches

Pack a picnic or your surfboard—Vancouver Island beaches are stunning and diverse. Some are great for tidepooling, others for sunbathing or storm watching. Enjoy the outdoor living with beach front access.

Top beaches:

Botanical Beach (Port Renfrew): Tidepools galore! Qualicum Beach: Family friendly and gentle for swimmers Long Beach (Tofino): Surfer’s paradise with dramatic views Tips: Always check tide times, wear water shoes for rocky areas, and leave no trace

10. Explore the Gulf Islands

Each island is its own adventure! Perfect for a peaceful day trip or an overnight getaway, the Gulf Islands are filled with art, nature, and laid-back charm. Catch the ferries from: Swartz Bay, Crofton, Nanaimo, Chemainus

Islands to visit:

Salt Spring: Great for browsing farmers markets and sipping local coffee Galiano: Gorgeous Provincial Park hiking and biking routes Gabriola: Beaches, galleries, and relaxed island vibes Pender: Ideal for kayaking, coastal strolls, and local breweries Tips: Walk-on passengers are welcome—rent bikes or scooters to explore with ease!

Bonus Tips for Visiting Vancouver Island

Make your visit even better with these quick local tips: Book in advance: Popular tours and accommodations fill quickly, especially in summer. Bring layers and prepare for anything! Weather can change throughout the day, particularly near the coast. Be sure to bring layers, sunglasses, sunscreen, warm accessories and appropriate footwear. Ask locals for suggestions! It’s the best way to discover hidden gems, favourite cafes, and secret viewpoints.

Where to Stay on Vancouver Island

Large cabin with peaked roof, large deck and lots of windows located in Sooke BC

Whether you’re exploring the beaches of Parksville, hiking near the Comox Valley, or discovering the hidden gems of Sooke, EMR Vacation Rentals has you covered! Our homes offer fully equipped kitchens, cozy living spaces, restful bedrooms and amenities like hot tubs, fireplaces, and unbeatable access to everything the Island has to offer! Browse our vacation rentals on Vancouver Island here and find your perfect getaway today!
Book Your Vancouver Island Vacation Rental Today!

Ready to Discover Vancouver Island?

From Indigenous art to ice cream at Butchart Gardens, storm watching in Ucluelet to biking the backroads of the Gulf Islands, Vancouver Island is calling. Book your stay with EMR Vacation Rentals and explore it all at your own pace!

Living in Victoria, BC

Located at the very southern tip of Vancouver Island, British Columbia and surrounded by the ocean, the capital city of Victoria BC is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Canada with beautiful heritage buildings, distinctly British charm, and stunning natural beauty. Every year, people from around the globe come to Victoria to enjoy heritage downtown, the great dining scene, take an eco-adventure and bask in the tranquillity of the West Coast. 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! 

The Pros of Living in Victoria 

The Natural Beauty  

Living in the city of Victoria means that no matter where in the city you live, you’ll only be a short drive away from beaches, gorgeous hiking trails, extensive dedicated biking paths and surrounded by wildlife. Plus, because the city is on the edge of the temperate rainforest zone, the summers are warm and winters are mild so you can enjoy the natural beauty year-round. If you’re itching to get out of the concrete jungle or away from mountains of snow for the majority of the year, Victoria is a dream come true. 

If you’re looking into settling downtown Victoria, you’ll find that you’ll be surrounded by heritage buildings instead of towering skyscrapers and only a walk away from Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman’s Wharf, the Inner Harbour, the Parliament Buildings and the Dallas Road seaside path where you can walk for 7 kilometres and enjoy the sparkling ocean and distant Olympic Mountains. But you don’t have to live right in the downtown core to be able to access beaches and parks, most neighbourhoods in Greater Victoria you’ll find that you’re a walk or a short drive away from incredible public parks, gardens and of course, beaches. 

One of the best things about living in Victoria is that you can explore more of Vancouver Island’s breathtaking nature! Bike along the Galloping Goose from Victoria to Sooke or take the Lochside Trail up to Sidney, visit Tofino and experience the wild coastline, hike one of the many mountains in and around the city, take a trip north to Mount Washington for alpine adventures and explore the hidden lake and river parks in the Cowichan Valley. 

When it comes to wildlife, Victoria has an abundance of animals that call the parks, gardens and waters around the city home. You can say “Hi” to the friendly harbour seals in Fisherman’s Wharf, bald eagles and hawks are common sights in the skies, see enormous herons that fish in the shallows and if you look carefully and often, you’re sure to spot a pod of orcas off the coast. Songbirds, hummingbirds, rabbits, and deer love to frequent the gardens and parks in Victoria and you can often find peacocks, who live in Beacon Hill just roaming around southern Victoria and along Dallas Road leaving their jewelled feathers on the pavement. 

The Restaurants 

While there are more restaurants in Victoria per capita than any other city, if you’re used to the dining scene in Toronto or Vancouver, Victoria can seem a little low-key. However, what Victoria lacks in quantity of restaurants, it more than makes up for in quality! The philosophy for Victoria restaurants is that the best food is made with local, seasonal ingredients – a philosophy shared with top chefs all over the world. But Victoria takes this even further – from fine dining to casual food trucks, the ingredients used by Victoria restaurants is often of the highest quality which means it’s more likely to be healthier and tastier! Not only is the quality top-notch but Victoria has a wide range of restaurants to suit whatever you’re craving. Here, you can find some of the best sushi outside of Japan, amazing seafood, juicy burgers, avante-garde fine dining, elevated and hearty Italian food and so, so much more. 

Victoria is also a hub for craft breweries, cideries and distilleries that produce award-winning libations that you can enjoy at home or on site and there are few places other than the UK where you can find such traditional English and Irish pubs! 

The Weather

This might be one of the best things about living in this beautiful city – get all the benefits of living in Canada without having to battle bitter winters and scorching summers! Victoria has a temperate climate with the temperatures reaching a peak of around 25ºC (77ºF) in the summer months and lows of -2ºC (28ºF) in the winter. Typically though, summer temperatures hover in the low-mid twenties and winter temperatures in the high single digits (8º-10º) – a far cry from the -30ºC and lower in many parts of Canada! Plus, unlike other parts of Canada who deal with snow and plummeting temperatures for 6 months or more in Victoria, spring usually begins in February with buds beginning to form on trees, summer starts in mid-June, fall arrives mid-late October and winter in late November – February. Winters rarely have much snow, there are usually a few days where the city will be blanketed but with the rains and shifting weather from the ocean, snow rarely stays very long. If you want a real snowy experience, you’ll have to head up to Mount Washington.  

The Ferries

BC Ferries offers services to the Lower Mainland and Gulf Islands that allow you to explore the waters and areas around Vancouver Island with ease. Many of the ferries are drive-on so you can take your car to explore and get home easily. All ferries on the Southern Island leave from Swartz Bay at the top of the Saanich Peninsula and if you’re going to the Lower Mainland, the ferry arrives in Tsawwassen meaning that if you’re going from downtown Victoria to downtown Vancouver, you will spend a fair amount of time driving or on public transport. Despite this, the ferry ride itself is a beautiful trip as you weave around the Gulf Islands. If you’re going to a Gulf Island, the trip is often far more straightforward as the Gulf Islands are much smaller and require less driving time. In both cases, it’s important to check the schedules and book your travel ahead of time because BC Ferries is the primary mode of transportation for Islanders and popular routes get busy quickly which can mean long waits or having to reschedule for another sailing. 

The Victoria Clipper which leaves from downtown Victoria and arrives downtown Seattle through the Strait of Juan de Fuca is a scenic way to travel to the US! This 2 hour and 45 minute journey is a comfortable one with plush seats and an on-board cafe where you can purchase snacks and beverages. This ferry is walk-on only though so if you’re hoping to spend some time exploring Seattle, you’ll have to make rental car arrangements or rely on public transport while you’re there. 

It’s important to note that living on an Island can have its challenges but the ferries have a certain charm to them – so long as you’re not in a rush! 

The Standard of Living

Living in Victoria offers a high standard of living: it’s a safe place to live with a stable government and economy, employment opportunities, growing industries and incredible publicly funded healthcare and education. While in recent years, Victoria has battled with a rising homelessness spurred by the lack of affordable housing, Victoria is a safe place to live compared to many major North American cities. 

The government in Victoria is stable with regularly held elections and adherence to Federal and Provincial laws. The politics in Canada is not nearly as entertaining as the politics south of the border and we like it that way. In 2008, when the crash happened and millions of Americans’ lives were turned upside-down, Canadians felt only a few ripple effects of the market downturn. Generally speaking, the Bank of Canada and its financial industries are cautious to a fault and while that can create issues, as we’re seeing now with skyrocketing interest rates, Canada has maintained a relatively stable economy over the years.  

In Victoria, there are many job opportunities especially if you’re interested in a position in the Provincial Government, tourism, healthcare, construction or retail and the tech sector has been booming in Victoria for the last few years. 

Canada has public healthcare so if you need to go to the hospital, you won’t be given a bill at the end of your visit and there are doctors, walk-in clinics and pharmacies all over the city. If you’re moving with kids, the public and private schools in Victoria are excellent with dedicated teachers and administrators to ensure that every child gets a quality education. For kids graduating out of high school and for adults looking to expand their skill or knowledge base, the University of Victoria is an excellent institution.

The Cons of Living in Victoria

It is Remote

When you look at Victoria on a map, you’ll see that you really are on the farthest west coast in North America. It can be a little strange feeling so cut off from the rest of the world especially because to get off the Island, your only options are ferries, seaplanes and airplanes. While that seems like a lot of options, the ferries are often full and require pre-planning, sometimes weeks ahead for holidays, and they’re slow. Vancouver is only 115 kilometres from Victoria but the journey takes 4 – 5 hours with the ferry system. Seaplanes are an incredible way to get from downtown Victoria to downtown Vancouver quickly but you’ll have to pack light because there is a weight limit on the small pontoon planes and the journey can be very expensive. Plus, if you travel for work or if you want to do more frequent international travel, you’ll find that there are limited direct flights from Victoria International Airport. This can make international flights more expensive and take longer than leaving from a major city on the mainland of Canada. 

The Cost of Living 

While Victoria is cheaper than living in other Canadian cities like Toronto or Metro Vancouver, it is not a cheap city to live in. While there might be many different types of Victoria homes, real estate prices and rentals have soared in recent years making housing a big issue for anyone living in Victoria. In many cases, you’ll have to make a tough decision and weigh up the costs of buying vs. renting in the city. Food prices are also high in Victoria, as are utilities, car prices, insurance and cell phone services. The cost of attractions and activities are on par with the rest of Canada but it is important to weigh up the benefits of living in Victoria with the actual costs. 

It is on the Juan de Fuca Plate

Much of Southern Vancouver Island is on the Cascadia Subduction Zone with Victoria sitting right over the fault line. Victorians all know that if there were a large earthquake, there is a possibility that Victoria could experience significant destruction of the city or worse, be submerged. While this has been talked about for years and casually known, most Victorians do have earthquake bags ready to go to last 72 hours if there was a major earthquake. While this sounds terrifying, small earthquakes have been happening around Vancouver Island for years with no significant events. 

Ultimately, Victoria is an incredible place to live where you can easily have a healthy, active lifestyle filled with high quality food, incredible fresh air, and a laid-back lifestyle. If you want to see what it’s like to live in Victoria, have a look at the selection of long term rentals EMR offers in Greater Victoria and immerse yourself in life in Victoria! 

Book a rental and start living in Victoria today!

Moving to Vancouver Island

Everyone who visits Vancouver Island, is wowed by the beauty of the Island. With charming towns and gorgeous cities, stunning forests, wildlife, culture and adventure, Vancouver Island is a special place. It’s so special, that between 2014 and 2021, over 89,000 people decided to permanently call Vancouver Island home! There’s a lot to consider when thinking about moving but if a relocation to Vancouver Island has been on your mind, we’re here to give you a better idea if the move is right for you! Whether you’re thinking about just trying out the Vancouver Island lifestyle or you need a rental before moving to your permanent Vancouver Island address, EMR is the best place to start! Not only does EMR offer short term and long term rentals, but you can find an incredible selection of family homes, downtown condos, waterfront properties and more to choose from all over Vancouver Island. With EMR you’re sure to find exactly the kind of property you need to make your relocation easy and fun! 

About Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is a large Island at approximately 31,000 km² with a population of almost 800,000 people off the coast of British Columbia. There are around 500 communities all across the Island that vary greatly in size, amenities, and location so it’s important to decide what kind of Island lifestyle you’re looking for. No matter where you live on the Island one thing is for sure: with the mildest climate in all of Canada, Vancouver Islanders enjoy warm summers and mild winters – which means incredible outdoor activities year-round! Here, you really can ski, golf and surf all in the same day! For more in depth information about moving to and living on the wild West Coast, check out these resources! 

A Government of BC website that provides helpful information for anyone looking to relocate to B.C., including an excellent page exclusively for information about working on Vancouver Island.

A registered non-government, non-profit society that promotes regional economic development through collaborative partnerships with members. This website provides detailed maps and regional information about the various communities on Vancouver Island. 

Is Vancouver Island Affordable?

This is an important question when you’re considering a move. Generally speaking, the cost of living on Vancouver Island is high compared to cities in Alberta and Manitoba but people coming from the Lower Mainland BC or Ontario especially Metro Vancouver and Toronto will find that the cost of living on the Island is relatively similar. It also depends on where on the Island you choose to live – are you hoping to live in the heart of Victoria, in the countryside of the Cowichan Valley or are you looking for an oasis on one of the stunning Gulf Islands? This cost of living calculator is an incredibly helpful tool to make an informed decision about how much it’ll cost to live in various regions on the Island. 

Vancouver Island Housing Options and Resources

There are many types of housing options on Vancouver Island from large family homes to chic condos and everything in between but the housing available will vary largely by the area you’re in. In the cities you’re more likely to find a wide variety of housing and in the country and near small towns, you may have a harder time finding condos and townhouses. The first step is to figure out where you want to live on Vancouver Island and what type of housing you’ll need to create a search with your criteria. The one thing that is important to note is that housing on Vancouver Island can be very expensive, especially in Greater Victoria and Nanaimo. For more information about renting, check the Find a Place to Live page or download the Newcomer’s Guide on the Welcome BC website and check the links below! If you’re looking for real estate on Vancouver Island, there’s no getting around it: it can take time! You have to be willing to go to showings and open houses and be prepared to put in offers that don’t always pan out. It’s an adventure and can be stressful but there’s a silver lining! EMR has lovely short term and long term homes of every type all over Vancouver Island so you can settle in and start living the Island lifestyle right away while you look! Below, there are some incredible resources linked that will help you find your new home on Vancouver Island! 

Vancouver Island Real Estate Resources:

Vancouver Island Real Estate Listings – Search for real estate listings across Vancouver Island.

More Vancouver Island Real Estate Listings – Search for real estate listings across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Rental Listings – Search for rental listings across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Real Estate Board – Search for real estate listings across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Open Houses – Search for open houses across Vancouver Island.

Vancouver Island Rental Resources:

Rent BC

Craigslist 

Used.ca

Kijiji Home Rentals

Sublet.com

Job Opportunities on Vancouver Island

Whether you’re moving to Vancouver Island for a current job or looking for a new position, you’re sure to find lots of opportunities on Vancouver Island. In fact, a 2021 Labour Market Outlook predicted that between 2021 and 2031 there would be over 160,000 job openings in the Vancouver Island/Coastal region alone! While this report indicates that the opportunities on Vancouver Island will be mainly in healthcare, social assistance, retail and construction, there are also two unique industries on Vancouver Island that attract job seekers from every professional stratum: Provincial Government and tourism. There are 30,000 employees in the Provincial Government who live and work in the capital region around Victoria. This industry attracts professionals with a variety of skills and is a great jumping off point for anyone looking to relocate to the Victoria area. Similarly, the tourism industry on Vancouver Island is massive, bringing in billions in revenue with close to 100,000 employees who serve the millions of international and domestic tourists who flock to Vancouver Island yearly. To kick off your job search on Vancouver Island check out these employment resources on the Work BC website and get one step closer to a life on the Island! 

Vancouver Island Lifestyle

So, what’s it really like living on Vancouver Island? That really depends on where you choose to live but generally, Vancouver Island, even in the cities, is a very laid-back place to call home. While you can find people dressed up for a night out or professionally for work, Vancouver Islanders are known for their casual, comfortable style and it’s not uncommon for some offices to have a very laid-back dress code. Vancouver Island is also known for its outdoor recreation. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, kayaking, paddleboarding, skiing, snowboarding, boating or  more, you’ll find pristine, natural beauty to enjoy it in and if you’re looking for people to join you, you’ll have no problem finding Vancouver Islanders who are passionate about getting outside! There is an abundance of arts and culture on the Island as well – you can find galleries, workshops, theatres, museums and many Coast Salish ancestral sites. For kids, the public and private schools are safe and provide children with important academic and social education by highly trained dedicated teachers and administrators. You can also find excellent universities and colleges in Victoria, the Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Courtenay and Campbell River where older kids can start their post-secondary education and adults can grow their professional skills. There are hospitals, fire stations and police that service each community and no matter how remote your community of choice might be, there is an abundance of high-quality grocery stores, pharmacies, and other important amenities all over the Island. No matter where you choose to live on Vancouver Island, you can be sure that you’ll have all the comforts required to thrive! 

Ultimately the decision to move is a big one with many factors to consider carefully before taking the leap but if you’re determined to relocate somewhere in Canada, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better place than Vancouver Island! 

Book a rental on Vancouver Island!

How to Get from Seattle to Victoria by Ferry

ferry from victoria to seattle

The Pacific Northwest is a special place. With wild coastlines, dense forests and soaring mountains, there is no end to the natural beauty here. Nestled in this incredible wilderness, on the edge of the Puget Sound in the USA you’ll find the beautiful city of Seattle – the largest city in North America’s Pacific Northwest and one of the biggest tourist destinations in this part of the world. Whether you’re from the area or are just visiting, one of the most unique experiences you can have is taking the ferry from Seattle to Victoria BC, Canada. Because the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island dips below the mainland border between the US and Canada, the Canadian capital city of Victoria is geographically very close to Seattle making it easily accessible via ferry! Victoria provides visitors with a laid-back vibe – a perfect break from the hustle and bustle of a metropolis. So when you’re creating your Seattle itinerary, be sure to make time to visit Victoria!  

Victoria Clipper: Seattle, Washington to Victoria, British Columbia 

Once a day, one of the passenger-only, high-speed FRS Clipper catamarans, the Victoria Clipper V departs from the ferry terminal at Seattle’s Pier 69 in downtown Seattle to Victoria BC’s Belleville Terminal in downtown Victoria’s Inner Harbour. The ferry ride takes only 2 hours and 45 minutes during which you’ll have unprecedented views of the Puget Sound, San Juan Islands and Strait of Juan de Fuca. During the journey, you can do some whale watching and be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the porpoises, sea lions and eagles that frequent these waters! As the only direct fast ferry service between Seattle and Victoria, the Clipper provides passengers with a stunning, affordable and fast way to travel between the US and Canada, year-round!  

Victoria Clipper Fares and Seating

There are three main classes of service that you can choose from on the Victoria Clipper ferry: Economy, Vista and Comfort with further upgrade options within each ticket class. No matter what ticket level you purchase, all guests can purchase locally sourced food, spirits and beverages from the onboard café! 

Economy: Offers guests comfortable main cabin seating with optional table or group seating if available. 

Economy Panoramic: Guests will be able to sit in a window seat in the main cabin area. Table or group seating is available in select areas. 

Vista: Vista ticket holders can enjoy the ride in deluxe leather seats with panoramic views and a unique skylight feature from the main upper deck area. Table and group seating is available in some sections. 

Vista Panoramic: Choose a spacious leather window seat and don’t miss a moment of the scenery from the upper deck. Table and group seating is available in some sections. 

Comfort: Comfort class ticket holders will be able to relax in the peace and quiet of a private cabin at the bow of the ship. With spacious leather seats and complimentary coffee, tea, soft drinks, fruit and snacks, you can ride to and from Victoria in style!

Comfort VIP: In the private cabin, VIP ticket holders can enjoy panoramic views from front or side window seats in spacious leather seats. Complimentary snacks, coffee, tea and soft drinks are offered to VIP ticket holders. 

Victoria Clipper Day Trips 

Explore Downtown Victoria

Because the crossing from Seattle to Victoria takes less than 3 hours, it is absolutely possible to visit Victoria BC for a day trip! You won’t have to worry about needing a vehicle as the ferry conveniently departs from downtown Seattle and arrives downtown Victoria in the beautiful Inner Harbour. From here, you can explore historic Victoria, starting with the stunning Parliament Buildings and Fairmont Empress right in the Inner Harbour, take pictures in one of North America’s oldest Chinatowns and sample some delicious food, local beverages and spirits! At the end of the day, you simply meet back at Belleville Terminal to enjoy the beautiful crossing back to Seattle.

Visit the Butchart Gardens 

If you want to do more during your day trip to Victoria, consider the Butchart Garden package offered by Clipper vacations! Known as one of the most beautiful gardens in the world and rated as one of the top attractions on Vancouver Island, Butchart Gardens is a must-see! With over a thousand different blooms and five distinct gardens to enjoy, Butchart offers guests a beautiful and peaceful walk just north of Victoria. With Clipper vacations, it’s easier than ever to see Butchart Gardens from Seattle! Book the Butchart Garden package with Clipper and you’ll have a round-trip from Seattle to Victoria on the ferry plus a coach seat from Victoria to Butchart and access to the garden!

Overnight Trips

If you prefer to spend more time in the Garden City, you can! Simply book your return ticket for a different day and find a great downtown Victoria rental property! With an efficient public transportation system and easy walking access to the entire city, you won’t need a vehicle to make your trip to Victoria an incredible one! 

Victoria has more restaurants per-capita than any other Canadian city and it is really known for its incredible food scene. Most restaurants use locally sourced, seasonable and sustainable ingredients which means that everything you order is incredibly fresh and consciously made – for our favourite restaurants in the city, click here! Victoria also has incredible heritage sites to explore, amazing shopping, fun water taxis, gorgeous city walks, paddleboarding, whale watching and so much more! 

Port Angeles, Washington to Victoria, British Columbia

When you’re considering visiting Victoria from Washington State, another option is to take the MV Coho ferry operated by Black Ball Ferry Line from Port Angeles to Victoria. Port Angeles is a beautiful coastal town on the edge of Olympic National Park, a 2 hour and 45 minute drive away from Seattle. If you’re already planning on visiting Olympic National Park and Port Angeles, you should consider taking the 90 minute ferry for an overnight visit to Victoria! For more information on fees and schedules, check the website!  

Book the Perfect Victoria Rental Today!

Welcome to the Garden City! Everything you Need to Know about Visiting Downtown Victoria BC

Perched on the edge of the ocean at the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is surrounded by the sparkling sea, rolling hills and majestic forests. For years, Victoria has been one of the top rated cities in the world to visit, not only because it has the mildest climate in all of Canada, but because this stunning city is the perfect balance of forward-thinking urban spaces, graceful heritage buildings and breathtaking natural beauty. Plus, from as early as February and as late as October the city is filled with blooming flowers, trees and every public and private garden is alive with colour – it’s no wonder Victoria is known as The Garden City. Downtown Victoria also has more restaurants per-capita than any other Canadian city, an incredible shopping district filled with unique, high-end, local and sustainable items, stunning heritage sites, and urban trails that meander along the coastline. One of the best parts about Victoria is that as a relatively small city, the downtown core is completely accessible on foot and each area of downtown is as beautiful as the next! So when you’re planning your next holiday, choose one of the incredible EMR Vacation Rentals downtown Victoria and explore everything the Garden City has to offer! 

Victoria’s History

While Vancouver Island was first explored by European settlers in the late 1770s, it wasn’t until the early 1800s that the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the southern tip of Vancouver Island, where the city of Victoria is now located, was discovered by Europeans. For thousands of years before that time, the area now called Victoria was home to the Coast Salish First Nations who lived in harmony with the environment. The ocean provided plentiful fishing, the forests, ample hunting and the natural resources such as cedar bark were used to build canoes, weave baskets, hats and so much more. When James Douglas came to the area in 1841, it was to establish a fur trading post that would coincide with the 1846 signing of the Oregon Treaty. This post became such a profitable trading centre that it officially became the capital of a newly-founded British crown colony that would later officially become a part of Canada as the province of British Columbia. During the gold rush of 1858, Fort Victoria, as it was called, grew into an established city that drew people from all over Canada and the world to seek their fortune in the west. By the early 1900s, Victoria was home to the stunning Empress Hotel and Parliament Buildings, and many wealthy Canadians called this city home creating vast wealth from the Island’s natural resources and building stately private residences around the city – which you can go visit today! 

Victoria Heritage Sites

While there are certainly many incredible heritage sites to see all over Greater Victoria, the ones downtown are some of the most impressive and important! For more heritage tourist attractions outside the downtown core to check out including the world famous Butchart Gardens click here!  

The Fairmont Empress Hotel

721 Government St, Victoria

Built in 1908 by Sir Francis Rattenbury, The Empress Hotel is a stunning piece of Victorian architectural history. When you visit the Inner Harbour you cannot help but marvel and the Empress’ soaring spires and majestic chateau-style architecture that overlooks the water and encompasses an entire city block. 

The Parliament Buildings

501 Belleville St, Victoria

Built by the same architect as the Empress, Sir Francis Rattenbury, this stately, turquoise-domed building, also known as the BC Legislature located in the Victoria Inner Harbour, has been one of Victoria’s landmarks since 1897 when it was completed for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Take a free guided tour to marvel at the structure, learn about the building, see historical pictures and artifacts and you can even watch when the Legislative Assembly is in session! At night, thousands of lights strung all over the exterior light up creating an air of whimsy and majesty to the Inner Harbour. 

Helmcken House

638 Douglas St, Victoria

Right outside the doors of the Royal BC museum, in Thunderbird Park sits the small, unassuming, Helmcken House. While it may not look like much, this structure was the home of Dr. John Helmcken, an incredibly important figure in Canadian history, and is officially the oldest house still standing in Victoria! It has been preserved in its entirety and stands on the site that it was originally built. As a visitor, you can tour the house and see how people in 1920 Victoria lived as well as getting a glimpse into the medical bag of a 19th century doctor! 

Book your stay at the Landmark Executive Sub Penthouse to be right near these stunning sites and the Inner Harbour! 

Chinatown

500 Fisgard St, Victoria

Victoria’s Chinatown, which initially was just a collection of crude wooden huts at the edge of a trading post-turned-burgeoning city during the gold rush of the mid 1800s, soon evolved into an area that was densely populated with thriving businesses, theatres, schools, temples and a hospital. You can still find North America’s second oldest Chinatown at the north end of Government Street, downtown Victoria but unlike 1911, today’s Chinatown only occupies the 500 to 600 block of Fisgard St. Both locals and visitors love visiting this National Historic Site famed for the incredible history, food, shopping and beautiful Gate of Harmonious Interest. 

Looking for a rental near Chinatown? Book your stay in Victoria at The Corazon and be right near all the action! 

Emily Carr House

207 Government St, Victoria

Right in the heart of the beautiful downtown neighbourhood of James Bay, sits the childhood home of the famous Canadian painter and author, Emily Carr. Known best for her abstract painting of the wilderness and First Nations totems and villages of BC, Emily Carr provides an invaluable voice to an era of Canadian history. While there is seemingly no end to the Emily Carr paintings at galleries and museums in BC, the Carr house provides something different – an intimate, interpretive look at the life, work, passions and legacy of this beloved artist. 

Have a look at these James Bay properties to find your perfect rental! 

Coffee in Victoria

If you’re wandering around Victoria downtown, you’ll quickly see how important great coffee is to this little capital city. With tons of locally owned and operated coffee shops, and incredible, locally roasted coffee you’re spoiled for choice when looking for great coffee in the city! Here are a few of our favourites that’ll get you feeling ready for a day out downtown Victoria!

Habit Coffee

552 Pandora Ave & 808 Yates St, Victoria

For years, Habit Coffee has been a local favourite coffee spot. With gorgeous, flavourful coffee and a dedicated carbon neutral business model, Habit is a must when you’re visiting downtown Victoria. 

Union Pacific

537 Herald St, Victoria

This warm, friendly coffee shop in a gorgeously refurbished heritage warehouse offers incredible coffee as well as a large breakfast and lunch menu, plus freshly baked, local goodies, yum!

Hey Happy

560 Johnson St #122, Victoria

This funky coffee shop right in the heart of the shopping district is a relatively new coffee shop but already has a dedicated following! With great coffee and scrumptious, healthy snacks and small bites, Hey Happy is a great place to check out! 

Farmhouse

10 Bastion Square, Victoria

Located right in Bastion Square, Farmhouse is the place locals go to get big cappuccinos and even bigger burgers! The perfect place to enjoy the sun and your coffee in Bastion Square and people watch! 

Discovery Coffee

1001 Blanshard St & 281 Menzies St, Victoria

For decades, Discovery Coffee has been serving incredible, ethically sourced, locally roasted coffee! If you’re looking for a reliable and well established local coffee place, this is it! 

Restaurants in Victoria

Finding incredible food in Victoria couldn’t be easier! Choosing which restaurant you want to go to – now that can be a challenge! We’ve rounded up our favourite downtown Victoria spots to make your decision a little easier! 

Nubo Kitchen and Bar

490 Pandora Ave, Victoria 

Located in a renovated heritage building on the edge of the water, Nubo offers guests elegant cocktails and stunning dishes inspired by global cooking techniques and seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. 

Pagliacci’s

1011 Broad St, Victoria

For years, Pagliacci’s has been a local staple for incredible, filling Italian food and friendly, European style service.

Il Terrazzo

555 Johnson St, Victoria, BC

For over 30 years, this lovely, fine-dining Italian restaurant has been the place to go for a delicious, upscale meal with an impeccable atmosphere, right in the heart of Old Town. 

Ferris’

536 Yates St, Victoria, BC V8W 1K8

While Ferris’ has been around for ages and delighting locals and visitors with scrumptious and healthy burgers, salads, soups and more, today, there’s so much more to Ferris’. Ferris’ Grill & Garden Patio is perfect when you’re in the mood for casual dining or a fun happy hour spot, there’s Ferris’ Upstairs Seafood & Oyster Bar for upscale and intimate dining and Perro Negro for a dash of Spain in the hear of Victoria! 

Breweries in Victoria 

If there’s one thing that Victorians love almost as much as food and coffee, it’s beer. For years, Victoria has had a passion for the microbreweries in the city, flocking to breweries to try a flight and buying locally made and produced beer to take home. If you’re in the city and want to go on your own walking tour to see what all the fuss is about, these are the breweries to check out downtown!

Whistle Buoy Brewing

Market Square, Lower Courtyard, #63, 560 Johnson St, Victoria, BC 

This tiny brewery has only 600sqft of space to create their beers, brews only 800L batches at a time! Because of their small capacity, their focus is on brewing incredible, small batch experimental beers with the highest quality ingredients. 

Drake Eatery

517 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC

Known as Victoria’s craft beer parlour, this is the ultimate place to find an incredible selection of local and imported craft beer sourced solely from independently owned breweries.

Swan’s Pub

1601 Store St, Victoria, BC

As one of the most well-established breweries and one of the most beloved pubs in Victoria, Swan’s has a spot in every local’s heart. 

Herald St. Brew Works

506 Herald St, Victoria, BC

This brewery is the newest on the Victoria beer scene and while they had som stiff competition in town, they’ve quickly become a local favourite and a must-visit for visiting beer lovers!

Phillips Tasting Room

2000 Government St, Victoria, BC

With a scrappy history, a lot of dedication, passion and time, Phillips has become one of the most well-known and beloved beers in Victoria.

Have Fun in Victoria! 

Shopping

When you’re travelling, doing a little shopping is a must! Whether you’re looking for gifts to bring back with you or you’re ready to splurge on yourself, downtown Victoria has incredible shopping! Check out Government Street for boutiques and some of the oldest stores in the city, head to Pacific Centre for a classic mall experience and if you’re looking for more unique items, go straight to Lower Johnson – or LoJo as locals call it – where you’ll find high-end boutiques, curated vintage, unique housewares, children’s toys and so much more! 

Water Taxis

These tiny little boats skim across the ocean taking passengers all over the Inner and Upper Harbour in Victoria. If you’re looking for a fun way to explore more of Victoria’s downtown without breaking a sweat, this is a great way to do it! 

Walking in Victoria

One of the best ways to explore this incredible city is by walking! Victoria is an incredibly walkable city and has gorgeous urban hiking trails all over the city! Here are our top walking trails in downtown Victoria:

  • Dallas Road: Starting at Fisherman’s Wharf just past the Inner Harbour, you can walk along the seaside looping around the neighbourhood of James Bay. On this walk, you’ll see where the cruise ships come in at Ogden Point, have spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains across the Salish Sea/Strait of Juan de Fuca and can go all the way to Beacon Hill Park! 
  • Songhees Walkway: Starting at the Johnson Street bridge at the bottom of Johnson Street, you can cross using the pedestrian pathway and continue walking along the oceanside path all the way to the West Bay Marina. This walk gives you unique and stunning views of the Inner harbour and downtown Victoria.
  • Beacon Hill Park: While this park isn’t technically in the downtown core, it’s a must-see when you’re in Victoria, especially if you’re looking for a beautiful place to stretch your legs. Here you can find cultivated and wild natural spaces, gnarly Garry oaks, graceful bridges and waterways and the second tallest totem pole in the world! 

Get Out on the Water around Victoria! 

If there’s one thing that you have to do when you’re visiting Victoria is take advantage of the incredible ocean access all around the downtown area! You can whale watch or kayak and get up close and personal with the abundant marine life just off the shore of the capital city! Whether you want to catch a glimpse of the orcas, grey and humpback whales that pass through these waters on their migratory journey or if you’re happy to see some harbour seals, cormorants and starfish, it couldn’t be easier to get out there from downtown Victoria! 

Whale Watching Tours:

Eagle Wing Whale & Wildlife Tours – 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria (Fisherman’s Wharf)

Orca Spirit Adventures – 950 Wharf St, Victoria (near Harbour Air Seaplane office)

Springtide Whale Watching – 1119 Wharf St, Victoria

BC Whale Tours – 1234 Wharf St, Victoria

Kayaking:

Kelp Reef Adventures – 1 Dallas Rd, Victoria (Fisherman’s Wharf)

Victoria Kayak Tours & Rentals – 1006 Wharf St, Victoria

Ocean River – 450 Swift St, Victoria

Book a Victoria Rental Today!