There’s no doubt that British Columbia is one of the most peaceful places in Canada – which is why it is consistently one of the top destinations in the world! With ocean views of the beautiful Salish Sea and Pacific Ocean, dense forests, majestic mountains and charming towns and cities, Vancouver Island is a tranquil destination.
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Vancouver Island, located in British Columbia, just across the Strait of Georgia from Vancouver itself, is a dream destination for many in Canada and the nearby Pacific Northwest region of the U.S.A.
With an endless amount of outdoor activities to be enjoyed and plenty of in-town amenities like restaurants, bars, and cafes in Victoria, you won’t lack for things to keep you and your fellow travelers entertained.
While there’s a real variety in activities, just like much of North America, there’s also a big variety in weather based on the season you decide to visit. Lucky for you, and a surprise to many, the winters on Vancouver Island aren’t nearly as snowy and cold as they are on mainland B.C. You’ll still want to bring a warm coat and plenty of cozy clothes but it won’t be quite the tundra you might be expecting. On the same note, you can expect warm summer weather but given the sea breeze, the temperatures aren’t as balmy as they are inland.
With that in mind, we’ll break up our packing list into 4 separate seasonal lists and 1 checklist for things you’ll need year-round, regardless of the season.
Whether you plan your trip to Vancouver Island in the winter, spring, summer, or fall, there are a few things you won’t want to come here without. In winter and spring when rainy days are more likely, you’ll want to pack extra comfy clothes for lounging around your vacation rental home. It’s also a good idea to pack some games and extra things to do for nights in.
Depending on how you’re arriving in town might affect how much or how little you plan to pack. If you’re flying onto Vancouver Island, I suggest going light and packing in a carry on. This will not only save you time at the airport but it also makes it easier to get from point A to point B. If you’re driving to town and will cross over via ferry, your only limitations to packing really depends on the size of your car.
Regardless, using packing cubes will not only save you space but it’ll also help keep your belongings organized once you arrive and begin to unpack.
Luckily, if you’re staying at one of our well-stocked vacation rental homes, you won’t need to worry about packing beach towels, kitchen supplies, or bonus day to day items. Instead, you’ll only need to pack the items you’ll personally use on your Canadian vacation.
These items you’ll want to pack anytime of the year include:
As said before, winter weather is a bit different than mainland Canada, so instead of piles and piles of snow, it’s our rainy season. While some of that will turn to snow, it doesn’t stick around for too long.
Given that it’s the rainy season, it’s also the low season. That means a more peaceful vacation, away from the crowds that storm the island in the summer. If you’re up for some wet weather, winter is a great time to enjoy the sights, sounds, and delights of Vancouver Island with hardly anyone else around.
While it’s not as cold as you might be expecting if you’re traveling to the island from mainland B.C., you’ll still want to wear ample layers. A water-resistant outer layer is definitely the most important as the rain can come and go quite unexpectedly but underneath that you’ll want some comfy layers.
To make your winter trip as comfortable as possible, here’s what you should pack:
All of those rainy winter days really pay off in the spring when the island turns lush and green. Victoria is known as the “Garden City” and particularly in spring it’s easy to know why. Although you can still expect some rainy days in the spring, the weather starts to warm and the sun starts to last for longer periods of time during this season.
Because of this wide range of weather, you’ll want to come prepared for it all in spring. In general, if you’re visiting in March, expect more winter-like weather, whereas in May, you’ll enjoy weather more similar to summer. April is really a mixed bag where one day could be chilly and rainy and the other warm and sunny.
To fully take advantage of your spring trip to Vancouver Island, you should pack:
The summer season is by far the most popular time to visit Vancouver Island. It’s no surprise either, given the exceptional weather that the island enjoys during these months. These months are the sunniest that British Columbia sees all year round and given the nice sea breeze, the temperatures tend to stay lower than on the mainland.
This time of year is ideal for those looking to maximize their time outside. From a plethora of hiking trails and great beaches to patio dining and breweries with outdoor gardens, you’ll have no lack of ways to spend your time. Just know that plenty of others have the same idea as you to spend the long summer days on the island.
Your bag should be significantly lighter in the summer with this Vancouver Island packing list:
Last but certainly not least, here are our packing tips for a fall trip to Vancouver Island. Just like the other seasons of the year, fall is notably less extreme than its mainland counterparts. While you’ll still be rewarded with cool days and fall colors, the weather isn’t usually noticeably cold until the end of the season.
During the fall months (September thru November), you can expect to be able to spend much of your time outside enjoying a hike, hanging out in Victoria, or witnessing the salmon run. There’s a small chance you’ll get your fair share of rain on your trip but these storms are less likely in the fall than they are in the winter and spring.
Get ready for a full fall adventure when you pack:
With these travel tips, you’ll be ready to enjoy your vacation to Vancouver Island no matter the season you choose to visit. Better yet, aim to spend a few days on the island in each season so then you can really see the magic of the island and everything it has to offer.
It may not be known as the City of Love and you might not be able to watch lights twinkle on the Eiffel Tower every night but for many years, Victoria has taken the top spot as Canada’s most romantic city – for good reason! With incredible heritage and modern architecture and breathtaking natural beauty the little capital city on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island is an incredibly romantic city with lots of activities for couples to enjoy. Not only is it aesthetically pleasing but culturally, Victoria is a vibrant place where you can find incredible art, food, music, shopping and so much more. Whether you’re looking to challenge each other, relax together or simply enjoy the peace of one another’s company, you can find all that and more in Victoria!
If you both love nature and being active this is a great date night option – especially if you’re staying downtown Victoria! Fisherman’s Wharf is the colourful houseboat community on the edge of James Bay where you can find casual to-go food, friendly harbour seals, and even friendlier neighbours! From here, you can rent a kayak for the day, paddle around the Inner Harbour, Upper Harbour, explore the Gorge Waterway or follow the shore parallel to the Dallas Road walking trail and get a view of this popular path from a different perspective! When you’re all done exploring the waters around the city, you can have an incredible dinner at one of the best oceanfront restaurants in the city: Aura. Here, you’ll find incredible cocktails, exquisite dishes and one of the best patios to watch a summer sunset.
If you’re the kind of couple that likes to think outside of the box when it comes to date nights, this is the one for you! If you’ve never done an escape room before, you’ll get to jump into the deep end with Horror Escape downtown Victoria! As the highest rated escape room experience in Victoria, this is sure to get the blood pumping and make you work as a team to solve all the puzzles and be released before the time runs out! To celebrate your escape, head over to Little Jumbo – a cool speakeasy in Old Town Victoria with a unique vibe and incredible cocktails! The best part of this whole evening? It’s totally walkable from any EMR property downtown Victoria!
If you’re a couple with an active lifestyle who loves spending time together outdoors, this is a great romantic date option. If you’re looking for a challenge, Mount Douglas and Mount Tolmie are both easy to moderate hikes that take you to the summit where you can enjoy spectacular views of Victoria and the surrounding area. If you’re up for a drive, Gowlland Todd Provincial Park in Saanich is an incredible place to hike through meandering forest paths and if you want to search for waterfalls, Goldstream Provincial Park is a popular place to hike and stay nice a cool in the trees even at the peak of summer. No matter where you go for a hike, be sure to check out one of the incredible local businesses that provide delicious picnic supplies so you can take the guesswork out of picnic planning! Head to the Very Good Butchers for mouth watering, plant based charcuterie ‘meats’, The Farmer’s Daughter picnic boxes are ideal for no-fuss, high quality charcuterie on-the-go and Fol Epi has some truly European-style charcuterie boxes with an incredible selection of meats, cheeses, pickles and organic bread to enjoy with your special someone. wn Victoria!
In the summer, Victoria farmers markets are filled with fresh local produce, meats, cheeses, preserves and more. Not only can you find great food but the lively energy of a farm market is so much fun – a great way to spend a sunny summer day with that special someone. If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of the farm markets in and around Victoria, you can check out our blog post about all our favourites here! When you get home with all your goodies, what better way to end the day than with a chilled bottle of wine and making a meal together with your haul? If you’re not sure what to make, you can check out Taste Magazine online for great recipe ideas, perfect wine pairings and inventive cocktails. If you’re really into upping your date game, book an online cooking class from The London Chef – you can show off your skills and learn new ones!
Known for its beautiful countryside and rich agricultural land, the Saanich Peninsula just north of Victoria is where you’ll find many local farms that supply the restaurants in Victoria and beyond with incredible quality produce, meats, cheese, honey and more. Arguably one of the most beautiful places on the Peninsula, Sea Cider Farmhouse is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, a coveted venue for weddings and special events and where some of the most spectacular cider is made. Taking an afternoon to browse the orchard, sample the ciders, and have a romantic lunch at their beautiful restaurant might be one of the best ways to spend a summer day. If you’re staying at one of the many EMR properties with beautiful outdoor spaces, you can extend your romantic day by purchasing your favourite ciders to sip while you watch the sunset from the patio.
Dallas Road is famous in Victoria. Known for the pristine 7.5 kilometre seaside walking trail, Dallas Road is a popular spot for locals to enjoy all year ‘round. One of the best features of this path is that in Victoria, this is where you find unparalleled sunsets – and what could be more romantic than walking along the edge of the sea while the sun sets behind the waves? Ideal for anyone staying in Victoria this is a great way to spend the last hours of a summer day and if you’re looking for a casual bite to eat or a place to sit and watch the sun disappear, the Breakwater Bistro near Ogden Point has a fabulous patio right on the ocean.
If there’s one thing that Victoria has in abundance, it’s restaurants and if there’s one thing that Victorians love, it’s brunch – so finding wonderful brunch places is pretty easy in this city! No matter what kind of brunch you’re looking for, Victoria has it! Looking for a healthy option that will feed your body and soul? Try Nourish Kitchen & Cafe! Want something hearty and filling? Jam Cafe has southern inspired dishes that will make your tastebuds sing! The Blue Fox is known for their eggs benny and Hey Happy has light, healthy breakfasts and lunches for the casual brunch go-er. When it comes to spas, Victoria has those in spades too! From upscale facilities at Willow Stream Spa, Boathouse Spa and Amatista Spa to holistic experiences at Sapphire Day Spa and casual organic services at Silk Road, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for!
An easy half-hour drive north of Victoria you can get to the Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island’s very own wine country. The Cowichan Valley has a unique Mediterranean-like microclimate that makes it perfect for growing and producing incredible wines. On a sunny summer day, you can take a short road trip and visit one or more of these stunning vineyards, sample some wine and stop for lunch at one of the lovely restaurants attached. For more information you can read all about our favourite wineries here!
If you haven’t been to Victoria, you may not know that day or night, Victoria is a beautiful place! At night, the city lights up with heritage lamps, fairy lights, strings of bulbs over the narrow alleys and warm lights coming from the patios and windows of the restaurants. On a warm summer evening, there is almost nothing better than heading out after dinner, as the sun starts to set, grabbing some ice cream and simply walking around the city, hand in hand. Stop at Oh Gelato or Victoria Ice Cream & Fudge Factory and walk with your tasty treats to the Inner Harbour to watch the buskers perform, the sun go down and watch the lights come on the Parliament Buildings. Check out the long-time local favourite Beacon Drive In where you can get a classic soft serve and take it with you to stroll along Dallas Road and Jackson’s Ice Cream Float right on Fisherman’s Wharf is a great place to get some icy treats to-go and walk through James Bay or just enjoy people watching on the wharf!
These days, it seems like no matter where you travel to, the only places to go dancing are nightclubs filled with obnoxiously loud music, sticky floors and 20 somethings vying for each other’s attention. In Victoria though, there is a place to go dancing with your special someone that has great live music, friendly staff and lively, age-appropriate patrons: Hermann’s Jazz Club! For 40 years, Hermann’s has been the place to go for great live jazz and funky bands perfect for cutting a rug to, every night of the week! Plus, you can find a great cocktail list and excellent food menu so you can really make a night of it!
August in Victoria is one of the hottest months of the entire year. With long days and warm nights, local organizations and businesses make it a priority to fill this month with incredible activities both in and outside, day and night! Here are some of the most highly anticipated events around the city for you to enjoy!
Where: Oak Bay Beach Hotel
When: August 11th & 25th
Join the Oak Bay Beach hotel in welcoming Hester Creek and Phantom Creek Winery for their August sessions of the Winemaker’s Dinner Series! During these incredible nights, guests will be invited to experience Executive Chef Kreg Graham’s incredible dishes made with local, seasonal ingredients perfectly paired with wines from these incredible vineyards. Whether you’re staying nearby in Victoria or if you’re travelling from Sidney, this dinner series is worth it! Book your tickets today to get your seat!
Where: Various Locations
When: August 5th, 12th, 19th & 26th
Every Friday evening for the summer of 2022 in various parks around Colwood, you can find lively music, great food and an incredible crowd of neighbours all getting together to enjoy the summer evenings! Perfect for families enjoying a stay in Langford, Colwood or Metchosin with kids this summer!
Where: Inner Harbour
When: Every Saturday and Sunday 10:45am
When water taxis first came to Victoria the operators were impressed with the extreme manoeuvrability of the little crafts and realized that they could twirl and ‘dance’ on the water. Creating synchronized boat dances quickly became a seasonal tradition in Victoria and this year, it’s back every weekend! Take the short walk to the Inner Harbour from one of the beautiful Downtown Victoria EMR rentals one morning to catch a performance!
Where: The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria
When: until October 16th
Maud Lewis is one of Canada’s most beloved and inventive folk artists whose works show a mastery of colour, vibrant composition variations and communicate cheerful life in Atlantic Canada. Join the AGGV to celebrate this retrospective that showcases 130 works from an illustrious career. When you’re staying at an EMR Victoria rental you won’t want to miss this incredible exhibit!
Where: Parksville Community Beach and Park
When: until August 21st
Known to locals as Beachfest, this five and half week-long competition and festival is the highlight of the summer in Parksville and nearby Qualicum Beach. With sand sculpting, live music, food and events for the entire family, this festival is a must – especially if you’re renting one of the beautiful EMR Parksville properties nearby!
Where: Phillips Backyard – 2010 Government St.
When: Aug 13th & 14th
It’s been three years since Phillips has hosted one of its Backyard events so this year, they’re going all out! In August, Implosion / Explosion will feature St. Paul and the Broken Bones and Charlotte Day Wilson with exciting musical guests plus incredible food and experiences all weekend. If you’re staying in Victoria, you won’t want to miss out on the party of the summer!
Where: Victoria Community Food Hub
When: August 18th
No matter what the season, salsa is always delicious. If you want to up your salsa making game, join chef Karina Gomez to learn how to create a perfectly balanced salsa made with local ingredients grown right here on the Saanich Peninsula. You’ll be able to try your salsa with some rice and bean tostadas and a salad made from local ingredients while you hear about the farmers and farms where all the ingredients came from.
Where: Victoria International Marina
When: until August 5th
If you are looking for an upscale way to spend a summer evening, Music by the Sea at the Victoria International Marina is a great option! With a unique mix of classical and jazz chamber music played by a resident company, you can’t go wrong spending a warm summer evening here! Take the opportunity to have a relaxing evening walk through downtown to the Marina when you’re staying at a rental right downtown Victoria!
Where: Ship Point – 800 Wharf St. Victoria
When: August 25th – 28th
If you’re looking for a foot-stomping good time over this late August weekend, you won’t want to miss the Harbour Blues ‘n Roots Festival right on Wharf St. downtown Victoria. This weekend festival features local, regional and international jazz and blues musicians who are going to light the stage up with incredible performances. With both free and ticketed performances to attend, check the line up to plan your weekend!
Where: The Gardens at HPC
When: August 6th & 7th
For over 25 years, the Gardens at HPC has been the venue for this lovely, summer arts and music festival. With nine acres of demonstration gardens all immaculately tended, the HPC gardens are an idyllic place to host this festival and an easy drive from Sidney and Victoria properties. This year, there are over 50 artists whose works will be displayed and three stages where you can enjoy the talents of our local musicians with the backdrop of a truly stunning garden space.
Where: various locations
When: August 24th – Sept 3rd
For more than three decades, the Fringe Festival has been delighting the public with an eclectic mix of live performances. Over the week of the festival you can find spoken word, drama, musicals, comedy, theatre for kids of all ages and more! With incredible venues across the city, and lively local performers, when you’re staying downtown Victoria the Fringe is a summertime must!
Vancouver Island in the summer is a magical place. The skies are brilliant blue, warm ocean breezes drift through the towns and cities, farmers markets abound, campers come out of hibernation and no matter where you are on this spectacular Island, you’ll find it to be one of the most naturally beautiful places on earth. But summers can also be incredibly hot, with recent summer temperatures reaching record-breaking highs, it’s important to get the inside scoop on all the best ways to beat the summer heat. Whether you want to walk through cool green forest paths, indulge in icy treats, sip colourful cocktails, or prefer to dive into clear cool water – you can find all this and more during your stay on Vancouver Island!
When the weather is warm, what better way to cool off than to go swimming? While there are no outdoor pools on Vancouver Island, there are a plethora of stunning natural swimming spots. The lakes, rivers and oceans on the Island are pristine, where locals love to spend many hot summer days and where visitors can have authentic West Coast experiences! When it comes to the best swimming spots on the Island, you can read all about our favourites here. But if you’re looking for a property to rent where you can have access to natural swimming just steps away, we have just the list for you! Whether you prefer booking an EMR property with a private pool or a stunning waterfront rental, with private or semi-private natural water access just steps from the property, you can take a swim any time of day or night!
Ice cream has come a long way in recent years with many shops selling handmade, small batch ice cream made with locally sourced ingredients. At these little shops you can find imaginative flavours as well as classic standbys to ensure that everyone leaves happy!
Cold Comfort: 1115 N Park St Unit 4, Victoria
Each delicious batch is made with only locally sourced and fair trade, organic ingredients!
Sugar Shack: 4492 Happy Valley Rd, Victoria
Classic ice cream shop with milkshakes and desserts to order.
Quince Cafe: 2527 Beacon Ave #104, Sidney
Find ice cream cones, floats, affogatos and other treats in the heart of Sidney town centre.
Udder Guys: 1765 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay
One of the original small batch ice cream places, you can get a cone, grab a pint to take home or browse their huge retro candy selection.
Deep Fried Ice Cream: 122B S Shore Rd, Lake Cowichan
Local Mom & Pop ice cream shop selling deep fried ice cream, sweet treats, fish and chips, knick knacks and more!
Cold Front Gelato: 60 Commercial St #306, Nanaimo
With unique flavours and delicious plant-based options, these handmade, small batch ice creams are so good!
Shore: 2831 Island Hwy W, Qualicum Beach
Choose a classic dipped cone, a Hawaiian-style Dole whip or a Typhoon mixed with your favourite candy pieces
Summer heat can be glorious but sometimes, it can get overwhelming. When that happens and you want to find an air conditioned escape why not head to a mall? With some great shopping mall options on Vancouver Island, you’re sure to have fun, find some new summer duds and beat the heat!
The Bay Centre: 1150 Douglas St, Victoria
Downtown mall with lots of local stores, global brands and well known department stores to shop in.
Mayfair Mall: 3147 Douglas St, Victoria
Recently renovated shopping centre with an incredible array of well known stores, kiosks, department stores and food court.
Uptown: 3440 Saanich Rd, Victoria
Open air shopping plaza where you can find globally recognized chains, restaurants, coffee shops and a water park for kids.
Woodgrove Mall: 6631 Island Hwy, Nanaimo
The main mall in the Nanaimo area with lots of recognizable stores, great food court and ample parking
After a day at the beach or exploring the city in the sunshine, what better day to unwind than kicking back with a summery cocktail? These two cocktails are summer in a glass and a perfect way to end a sunny day. Plus, you can use a locally distilled spirit and make it a truly west coast cocktail!
Fill a glass with ice add
1 or 2oz of vodka
3 – 5 slices of jalapeño
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice
1/2oz – 1oz of simple syrup
Garnish with fresh mint and enjoy!
Fill a tall glass with ice and add
1 – 2oz of gin
Fill with pineapple juice
A dash of allspice
½ – 1oz of simple syrup or honey
Squeeze of fresh lime juice
Pour into a blender and turn on high until completely blended, pour into a glass, top with soda and garnish with a wheel of lime and pineapple slice, yum!
Hiking in the summer can be arduous but on Vancouver Island, there are many cool forest trails where nearby rivers and rushing waterfalls cool you off, even on the hottest day!
If you’re looking for icy majestic waterfalls and lush, green forest trails near an EMR Victoria Property, Goldstream Provincial Park is where you’ll want to go. With easy to moderate trails and an incredible suspension bridge, this park is the perfect place to get some exercise without overheating!
With 50 kilometres of forest trails from easy walks to difficult climbs, this park at the edge of the Pacific Ocean is a great place to get outside in the height of the summer heat. You can hike and swim all in one place!
If you’re looking for a jaw dropping, spiritual experience and a way to cool off in the outdoors, Cathedral Grove is it. With towering Douglas firs that are almost 1000 years old, a canopy as high as a skyscraper and lush, bright green mossy undergrowth, Cathedral Grove is an incredible and rare place.
If you love spelunking, this is the park for you! With some of the best caves to explore in Canada, Horne Lake offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some natural caves no matter your age or ability! Plus, no matter how hot it is outside, the caves at Horne Lake are always nice and cool – it’s the perfect place to explore on a hot summer day.
While the sun is shining, one of the best things to do in a city like Victoria is walk! While Victoria is a relatively young city, there are quite a few heritage areas and buildings that are a fascinating peek into the past. Many of these sites are located downtown, with a few located just outside the downtown centre. So if you’re staying downtown Victoria, you can step out your door at any time to begin your heritage tour! But no matter where you’re staying, whether you’re on the water in Sooke or Sidney, or enjoying a countryside getaway in the Cowichan Valley, these sites are worth the drive into Victoria!
Located in the beautiful Inner Harbour, the Parliament Buildings might be one of the most recognized landmarks in Victoria since they were built for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897. Built by a young and exuberant architect from England, Francis Rattenbury designed the building to create a sense of importance and provide the burgeoning city with a seat of Parliament as it sought to join Canada. Rattenbury’s impressive building is also a testament to the raw materials found on the island and how new, foreign material can be used to create a building that is as impressive and opulent as the Parliament Buildings. While the exterior is grand and impressive with its domed oxidized copper roofs, a grand facade and stately grounds, the interior is equally magnificent. With each stately room adorned with filigree, gold leaf, murals stained glass, important artifacts, columns throughout and the magnificent rotunda, you can see how this building was and still is, such an important part of Victoria’s identity. You can go on a free guided tour to learn more about building and even watch the action when the legislature is in session!
Not unlike how Haussmann changed the face of Paris under Napoleon, Francis Rattenbury was an instrumental part of defining Victoria architecture and creating the city’s identity. Not long after the construction of the Parliament Buildings was completed, Rattenbury was again commissioned to create a hotel that would be suitable to entice the wealthy Canadians during the gold rush of BC to come from the eastern Provinces of Canada as a part of the Canadian Railway project. In 1908 The Empress Hotel was constructed and today still stands as a functioning hotel and a stunning piece of architectural history. The enormous chateau-style building that sits adjacent to the Parliament Buildings in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, looks out over the water and encompasses an entire city block. Over the years, The Empress has undergone an incredible amount of changes, upgrades and expansions and while one would think that this would detract from the heritage qualities of the building, the most recent renovation has spared no expense in bringing her back to her full beauty while exquisitely maintaining all the features that make The Empress a truly Victorian, heritage landmark.
Just behind The Empress, set back from the hustle and bustle of the Inner Harbour and on the corner of the exquisite Beacon Hill Park you’ll find St. Anne’s Academy. Constructed in 1858, St Anne’s was the first Roman Catholic Church in Victoria at the time and offered a place for the Catholic community of Victoria a place of worship. By 1910, the building was truly completed and was a Catholic Girl’s school until its closure in 1974. At that time it had fallen into total disrepair and had to be condemned and boarded up. However, a municipal restoration project acquired funds to work on repairing the buildings and grounds of St. Anne’s and today, guests can visit these restored heritage sites. The chapel, adorned with stained glass, a beautiful altar and a pipe organ from 1913 is a glimpse into Victoria’s beginnings and on a sunny afternoon, St. Anne’s gardens are lovely to wander through. Spending a peaceful afternoon in the gardens of St. Anne’s is the perfect activity for a sunny day where you can explore the formal garden, the summer house alive with perennials and a lush herb garden.
In 1858, gold was discovered in the Fraser Canyon. Word spread like wildfire and a sudden surge of immigration to BC began. Many of the newcomers were from California, the site of an early gold rush, and approximately one third of these newcomers were Chinese. Within only a year, word about the gold in BC had made it across the Pacific Ocean to China where many decided to leave their country to seek fortune in BC. Not only was it the gold that prompted this emigration but also war, famine and drought in many parts of China made the dangerous journey across the Pacific to a strange, new land an attractive prospect. Victoria’s Chinatown was initially just a collection of crude wooden huts at the edge of a trading post-turned-burgeoning city but it evolved into an area that was densely populated with thriving businesses, theatres, schools, temples and a hospital. Despite this, Chinatown gained a dark reputation mainly because of the opium factories, gambling dens and brothels in the area. In the late 1800s and early 1900s Chinatown grew rapidly until its peak in 1911 when it occupied six city blocks at the north end of downtown. Today, Chinatown occupies the 500 to 600 block of Fisgard St. in downtown Victoria. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors, a National Historic Site and famed for the incredible food, shopping and beautiful Gate of Harmonious Interest. While Chinatown in 2022 is small, there is no quantifiable measure to express the immense impact and importance the Chinese community has had in the growth, success and diversity of Victoria as a city.
Whether you’re familiar with the work of Emily Carr or not, this heritage site is worth a visit! Tucked away in the beautiful neighbourhood of James Bay, on a quiet street, is the childhood home of Emily Carr. Known best for her abstracted paintings of the BC wilderness, Carr spent her life painting, writing about and appreciating her home on the West Coast. With her unique painting style, her appreciation for and affinity with the First Nations people of BC, and straightforward writing style, Emily Carr remains an important artist in Canadian history. For her time, Carr was an anomaly: an unmarried woman who was insistent on living life on her own terms. She spent many years travelling alone to both Europe to learn to paint and meet with other artists and to remote parts of BC to live with different First Nations groups, drawing, painting and writing about what she saw. In addition to the visual arts, Carr was also an author and wrote many books, most notably, her novel Klee Wyck which won the Governor General’s Gold Medal for Literature. While Carr’s work is ubiquitous in the galleries and museums around BC, the Carr house provides something different. It allows visitors to interact with this interpretive display of Carr’s life, work, passions and legacy.
As one of the oldest streets in Victoria, Government Street is a fascinating street to walk down for the history and architecture, but it is also one of the best places to shop and dine as well! While you’re walking up this street, there are a few places that are a must to pop in!
Officially the oldest house in Victoria, Helmcken House looks out of place on the concrete courtyard section of Thunderbird Park outside the Royal BC Museum. Helmcken House is not just the oldest house in Victoria, but was also the home of the famed Doctor Helmcken, a figure who was instrumental in Victoria’s growth. Originally a prominent employee of the Hudson Bay Company, Helmcken was a highly respected medical professional, the founder of the British Columbia Medical Association and one of the three negotiators that manoeuvred BC to becoming an official province of Canada. As a visitor, you can tour the house and see how life for people in 1920 Victoria was as well as getting a glimpse into the medical bag of a 19th century doctor!
Built in 1908 by James Dunsmuir, the son of the incredibly wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, this grand fortress-like building was an enormous undertaking. The stunning gardens weren’t built until 1912 when the Dunsmuirs hired a landscaping company out of Boston to design the entire estate. Their landscape designer created three ‘garden rooms’ – a popular style of the time – the Japanese, Italian and Rose gardens. Today, the grounds stand as a testament to the opulence and order of Edwardian garden design. Hatley Castle was James’ home until his death in 1920 and would stay in the Dunsmuir family until 1937 when James’ wife and daughter died. After that time, it stayed in the care of their caretaker for three years before it was purchased by the government and was a Naval training base. It then became a military college and is now the administrative offices of Royal Roads University. It has been used as the backdrop for many TV shows and movies and is an incredibly popular site for visitors and locals to visit. You can opt for a self guided tour and walk the expansive Edwardian-style gardens and grounds,
Built by local coal baron, Rober Dunsmuir in the 1800s, Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful heritage site nestled in the lovely neighbourhood of Rockland. Built for entertaining and impressing their peers, when the Dunsmuirs lived there, there was seldom a weekend when there wasn’t a gathering of all of Victoria’s wealthiest families. And it is certainly impressive! With endless dark wood and intricate carvings, the spiral staircase to the turret, grand living spaces and beautiful grounds, it is clear that Robert was determined to recreate a European-style castle in Victoria. Today, thousands of people visit each year to marvel at this stunning modern-era castle that boasts 39 beautifully preserved rooms, stately staircases and soaring turrets. Take a wander at your own pace on a self guided tour and be transported to another time.
Built in 1860, the Fisgard Lighthouse, positioned on the entrance of Esquimalt Harbour was originally a beacon to guide the British Royal Navy’s Pacific Squadron as they came into Victoria. In 1929, the beacon was automated but for sixty nine years a lighthouse keeper was stationed at Fisgard Lighthouse to ensure the beacon functioned and kept vessels safe. Today, visitors can see artefacts from the history of the lighthouse including displays detailing the life of a lighthouse keeper, the west coast storms and ships lost at sea. Additionally, this is a stunning location to watch the sunset, get a glimpse of our marine life and watch the sailboats drift through the water on a warm summer evening.
While the sun is shining, one of the best things to do in a city like Victoria is walk! While it is a relatively young city, there are quite a few heritage sites in Victoria BC that offer a fascinating peek into the past. Many of these sites are located downtown, with a few located just outside the downtown centre. So if you’re staying downtown Victoria, you can step out your door at any time to begin your heritage tour! But no matter where you’re staying, whether you’re on the water in Sooke or Sidney, or enjoying a countryside getaway in the Cowichan Valley, these sites are worth the drive into Victoria!
Located in the beautiful Inner Harbour, the Parliament Buildings might be one of the most recognized landmarks in Victoria since they were built for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee in 1897. Built by a young and exuberant architect from England, Francis Rattenbury designed the building to create a sense of importance and provide the burgeoning city with a seat of Parliament as it sought to join Canada. Rattenbury’s impressive building is also a testament to the raw materials found on the island and how new, foreign material can be used to create a building that is as impressive and opulent as the Parliament Buildings. While the exterior is grand and impressive with its domed oxidized copper roofs, a grand facade and stately grounds, the interior is equally magnificent. With each stately room adorned with filigree, gold leaf, murals stained glass, important artifacts, columns throughout and the magnificent rotunda, you can see how this building was and still is, such an important part of Victoria’s identity. You can go on a free guided tour to learn more about building and even watch the action when the legislature is in session!
Not unlike how Haussmann changed the face of Paris under Napoleon, Francis Rattenbury was an instrumental part of defining Victoria architecture and creating the city’s identity. Not long after the construction of the Parliament Buildings was completed, Rattenbury was again commissioned to create a hotel that would be suitable to entice the wealthy Canadians during the gold rush of BC to come from the eastern Provinces of Canada as a part of the Canadian Railway project. In 1908 The Empress Hotel was constructed and today still stands as a functioning hotel and a stunning piece of architectural history. The enormous chateau-style building that sits adjacent to the Parliament Buildings in Victoria’s Inner Harbour, looks out over the water and encompasses an entire city block. Over the years, The Empress has undergone an incredible amount of changes, upgrades and expansions and while one would think that this would detract from the heritage qualities of the building, the most recent renovation has spared no expense in bringing her back to her full beauty while exquisitely maintaining all the features that make The Empress a truly Victorian, heritage landmark.
Just behind The Empress, set back from the hustle and bustle of the Inner Harbour and on the corner of the exquisite Beacon Hill Park you’ll find St. Anne’s Academy. Constructed in 1858, St Anne’s was the first Roman Catholic Church in Victoria at the time and offered a place for the Catholic community of Victoria a place of worship. By 1910, the building was truly completed and was a Catholic Girl’s school until its closure in 1974. At that time it had fallen into total disrepair and had to be condemned and boarded up. However, a municipal restoration project acquired funds to work on repairing the buildings and grounds of St. Anne’s and today, guests can visit these restored heritage sites. The chapel, adorned with stained glass, a beautiful altar and a pipe organ from 1913 is a glimpse into Victoria’s beginnings and on a sunny afternoon, St. Anne’s gardens are lovely to wander through. Spending a peaceful afternoon in the gardens of St. Anne’s is the perfect activity for a sunny day where you can explore the formal garden, the summer house alive with perennials and a lush herb garden.
In 1858, gold was discovered in the Fraser Canyon. Word spread like wildfire and a sudden surge of immigration to BC began. Many of the newcomers were from California, the site of an early gold rush, and approximately one third of these newcomers were Chinese. Within only a year, word about the gold in BC had made it across the Pacific Ocean to China where many decided to leave their country to seek fortune in BC. Not only was it the gold that prompted this emigration but also war, famine and drought in many parts of China made the dangerous journey across the Pacific to a strange, new land an attractive prospect. Victoria’s Chinatown was initially just a collection of crude wooden huts at the edge of a trading post-turned-burgeoning city but it evolved into an area that was densely populated with thriving businesses, theatres, schools, temples and a hospital. Despite this, Chinatown gained a dark reputation mainly because of the opium factories, gambling dens and brothels in the area. In the late 1800s and early 1900s Chinatown grew rapidly until its peak in 1911 when it occupied six city blocks at the north end of downtown. Today, Chinatown occupies the 500 to 600 block of Fisgard St. in downtown Victoria. It’s a popular destination for locals and visitors, a National Historic Site and famed for the incredible food, shopping and beautiful Gate of Harmonious Interest. While Chinatown in 2022 is small, there is no quantifiable measure to express the immense impact and importance the Chinese community has had in the growth, success and diversity of Victoria as a city.
Whether you’re familiar with the work of Emily Carr or not, this heritage site is worth a visit! Tucked away in the beautiful neighbourhood of James Bay, on a quiet street, is the childhood home of Emily Carr. Known best for her abstracted paintings of the BC wilderness, Carr spent her life painting, writing about and appreciating her home on the West Coast. With her unique painting style, her appreciation for and affinity with the First Nations people of BC, and straightforward writing style, Emily Carr remains an important artist in Canadian history. For her time, Carr was an anomaly: an unmarried woman who was insistent on living life on her own terms. She spent many years travelling alone to both Europe to learn to paint and meet with other artists and to remote parts of BC to live with different First Nations groups, drawing, painting and writing about what she saw. In addition to the visual arts, Carr was also an author and wrote many books, most notably, her novel Klee Wyck which won the Governor General’s Gold Medal for Literature. While Carr’s work is ubiquitous in the galleries and museums around BC, the Carr house provides something different. It allows visitors to interact with this interpretive display of Carr’s life, work, passions and legacy.
As one of the oldest streets in Victoria, Government Street is a fascinating street to walk down for the history and architecture, but it is also one of the best places to shop and dine as well! While you’re walking up this street, there are a few places that are a must to pop in!
Officially the oldest house in Victoria, Helmcken House looks out of place on the concrete courtyard section of Thunderbird Park outside the Royal BC Museum. Helmcken House is not just the oldest house in Victoria, but was also the home of the famed Doctor Helmcken, a figure who was instrumental in Victoria’s growth. Originally a prominent employee of the Hudson Bay Company, Helmcken was a highly respected medical professional, the founder of the British Columbia Medical Association and one of the three negotiators that manoeuvred BC to becoming an official province of Canada. As a visitor, you can tour the house and see how life for people in 1920 Victoria was as well as getting a glimpse into the medical bag of a 19th century doctor!
Built in 1908 by James Dunsmuir, the son of the incredibly wealthy coal baron Robert Dunsmuir, this grand fortress-like building was an enormous undertaking. The stunning gardens weren’t built until 1912 when the Dunsmuirs hired a landscaping company out of Boston to design the entire estate. Their landscape designer created three ‘garden rooms’ – a popular style of the time – the Japanese, Italian and Rose gardens. Today, the grounds stand as a testament to the opulence and order of Edwardian garden design. Hatley Castle was James’ home until his death in 1920 and would stay in the Dunsmuir family until 1937 when James’ wife and daughter died. After that time, it stayed in the care of their caretaker for three years before it was purchased by the government and was a Naval training base. It then became a military college and is now the administrative offices of Royal Roads University. It has been used as the backdrop for many TV shows and movies and is an incredibly popular site for visitors and locals to visit. You can opt for a self guided tour and walk the expansive Edwardian-style gardens and grounds,
Built by local coal baron, Rober Dunsmuir in the 1800s, Craigdarroch Castle is a beautiful heritage site nestled in the lovely neighbourhood of Rockland. Built for entertaining and impressing their peers, when the Dunsmuirs lived there, there was seldom a weekend when there wasn’t a gathering of all of Victoria’s wealthiest families. And it is certainly impressive! With endless dark wood and intricate carvings, the spiral staircase to the turret, grand living spaces and beautiful grounds, it is clear that Robert was determined to recreate a European-style castle in Victoria. Today, thousands of people visit each year to marvel at this stunning modern-era castle that boasts 39 beautifully preserved rooms, stately staircases and soaring turrets. Take a wander at your own pace on a self guided tour and be transported to another time.
Built in 1860, the Fisgard Lighthouse, positioned on the entrance of Esquimalt Harbour was originally a beacon to guide the British Royal Navy’s Pacific Squadron as they came into Victoria. In 1929, the beacon was automated but for sixty nine years a lighthouse keeper was stationed at Fisgard Lighthouse to ensure the beacon functioned and kept vessels safe. Today, visitors can see artefacts from the history of the lighthouse including displays detailing the life of a lighthouse keeper, the west coast storms and ships lost at sea. Additionally, this is a stunning location to watch the sunset, get a glimpse of our marine life and watch the sailboats drift through the water on a warm summer evening.
If there is one thing that most locals look forward to in the summer, it’s visiting their favourite Vancouver Island farmers market. Sure the beaches all over Vancouver Island are stunning and yes, there are endless cycling and hiking adventures to be had, but market season is special. It’s the time of year where all the local growers and makers come together to show and sell their wares. It’s where you can find incredible, fresh, high-quality foods and beautiful, unique gifts and support a local while doing it! And if that wasn’t enough, market days have a celebratory vibe to them and they’re a great way to spend a sunny afternoon getting to know the area and the locals a little better. So no matter if you’re just browsing, looking to try some locally grown foods or hoping to grab a special gift, markets are the place to go!
May to October 10am – 2pm, November – April 10am – 1pm every Saturday
Sir James Douglas school grounds, surrounding boulevards and Porter Park
For over three decades, the Moss Street Market has hosted vendors from all over the city and surrounding areas in the heart of Fairfield – and this year is no different. With over fifty vendor tents to peruse you can find an eclectic and delightful gathering of local artists, growers, and producers at this beloved market. With live music and great food, anyone staying in Victoria can wander down, enjoy the music, stock up on the most incredible food and produce, support a local artisan and soak up life in this lively community! For a complete list of the markets around Victoria, check out our blog post about them here!
May 8th to September 25th every Sunday 11am – 3pm
Sidney by the Sea is one of the best kept secrets on Vancouver Island. With its beautiful, walkable downtown core, picturesque seaside trail and marina, and incredible dining scene, it’s the perfect place to be if you’re looking for seaside tranquility and urban amenities. Every Sunday during the summer and early fall, the grounds of the Mary Winspear Theater is transformed into an outdoor pedestrian mall with vendors, music, and delicious smells floating on the fresh ocean breezes. Here, you’ll find row upon row of local farmers, food producers and artisans offering fresh produce, ethically raised meat, gorgeous art, and incredible crafts. Whether you’re a walk, drive or cycle away at one of the beautiful properties in North Saanich you’ll want to visit this incredible market – it’s the perfect way to spend a Sunday!
April 2nd to TBA 9am – 2pm every Saturday and 10am – 2pm fall and winter season
In the square near Duncan City Hall
When you’re staying in the stunning Cowichan Valley, a great way to spend a weekend is to explore the little town centers throughout the valley – especially when it’s market season! One of the best and most long-standing markets is the Duncan Farmers Market. Located in the historic downtown area, the Duncan Farmers Market is an incredible community market. Since its conception, it has grown each year and now, it has over 100 vendors selling an enormous array of produce, prepared foods, handmade goods. Plus, when you’re finished at the market, you still have the quaint downtown center to explore!
May 7th to September 10th every Saturday 10am – 2pm
Pioneer Waterfront Plaza on Front Street Downtown Nanaimo beside the Bastion
If you’re in Nanaimo and looking for a great market, the Nanaimo Farmers Market is a must! From early May to September, right next to the historic Bastion on Front Street you can find a collection of incredible growers and craftspeople offering some of the most incredible fruit, veggies, flowers, handmade homewares, beauty and wellness products, preserves, meat, seafood and so much more. Plus, for the entire season, there are so many events and activities for the entire family! This market really is the make bake or grow center of Nanaimo!
While you’re in the Parksville and Qualicum Beach area, exploring the beaches, enjoying the incredible nature and relaxing, you must visit these two incredible markets!
May to September 10am – 1pm every Saturday
1550 Veterans Rd, Errington, BC V0R 1V0
This is the place for anything made, baked, grown, raised or foraged in the Parksville area! Since the early 1970s, this community market has been serving the Errington, Parksville, Coombs, Hilliers and Whiskey Creek connecting local farmers and producers with local customers. At this incredible little market you can meet friendly locals, ask the vendors questions and get help finding your perfect ingredients for a wonderful dinner, get unique gifts, fresh seafood and meat, eggs and so much more!
Year round 8:30am – 12pm every Saturday
172 Veterans Way #160, Qualicum Beach, BC V9K 1L8
Central Vancouver Island has a wealth of farms, both large and small and attracts artisans from all over the world who seek out the tranquility of Vancouver Island. Every weekend, all year ‘round, the Qualicum Beach Farmers Market gives you access to a small portion of the incredible wealth of the island. From beautiful, handcrafted goods, top quality produce, flowers, and other food items, there is so much to see – and buy – at this lovely local market!
With the return of the sun and warm weather, here on the West Coast, we don’t waste a second before we head back to the beaches! Even if there is a little nip in the air, if the sun is shining, it’s likely that we’re beach bound. We may not be in our bathing suits diving into the waves yet but there are still lots of ways to enjoy the beach before the heat of summer sets in! One of the best ways to experience a West Coast beach in the spring is to make a day of it! Bring some delicious food and your favourite book and just enjoy the warmth of the sun and the fresh ocean breezes. To ensure a super successful beach day at this time of year, you’ve gotta prepare properly – that’s where we come in. We’re going to give you the lowdown on where to go, local eats and how to prepare for a cooler, sunny beach day on Vancouver Island!
No matter where you go on Vancouver Island for your spring beach day, it’s important to be prepared! Here’s our handy checklist of items that are our must haves for a successful day on the beach.
The capital city is surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches in the world. In fact, there are so many to choose from, it can be tough to know where to go to make the most of your beach day. If you’re staying at an EMR Victoria property, these are our top three beaches to enjoy on a sunny spring day in Victoria!
Holland Point Park: This waterfront park is the perfect place to find a little spot on the beach to sit, enjoy the sun, watch colourful kite surfers sail through the sky, sailboats skim over the sparkling ocean and enjoy some food and a good book while the Olympic range shimmers in the distance.
Ross Bay Beach: This popular pebbly beach is filled with driftwood and offers lots of great spots to lay a picnic blanket down to enjoy the ocean views. On the far east side of the beach, there is a small sandy bay with large rocks and tide pools that are great for kids of all ages to explore.
Gonzales Beach: With soft sand and gentle lapping waves, warmer shallows and surrounded by jaw-dropping homes, this little neighbourhood beach is a must visit while you’re in the area!
Eats in the Area
James Bay:
Fairfield:
Cook St.:
This beautiful seaside town is home to one of the prettiest marinas on the South Island, an incredible outdoor art walk, cafes, eateries and boutiques. If you’re staying in, these are the two beaches we like the most on the top of the Peninsula!
Lochside Waterfront Park: At this beautiful beach you can pull up a log or lay down a blanket and watch the boats skim along the water to and from the marina and if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll probably be able to spot the dorsal fin of an orca or see a friendly seal pop up to say hello!
Robert’s Bay: This tranquil migratory bird sanctuary is an excellent spot to have a beach picnic, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that is less populated! Make sure you have your binoculars so you can check out the marine birds as they fly and fish in the bay and keep a lookout for the sweet sea otters that are known to frequent Robert’s Bay.
Eats in the area
The verdant Cowichan Valley is known for being one of the top wine destinations in BC and has some truly incredible vineyards and if you’re looking for a great local beach to enjoy, we got you!
Cherry Point: This beautiful little beach on the edge of the valley is one of the best places for a great beach day. With a long strip of pebble and sand shore to explore, plenty of driftwood to lean against and picnic tables if you prefer, this super sunny spot is a great way to soak up the spring sunshine and listen to the wind rustling through the trees. If you bring binoculars, you can have a look for marine birds and mammals that are known to frequent the area.
Eats in the area
While you’re staying in the Nanaimo area if you’re looking for a great day on the beach, no worries!
Neck Point Park: This stunning park, just north of Naniamo provides visitors with a stunning park and beach to explore and enjoy. Take a walk over the rocky bluffs covered with grasses for an incredible view and when you’re ready for a picnic, head down to the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping the shore.
Eats in the area
The quaint resort towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach have many attractions, both man made and natural. People from all over the Island, BC and beyond flock to these towns in the summer months to soak up the sun and enjoy all the outdoor amenities. If you’re staying in the area and are looking for a great beach picnic spot in the area, we’ve got just the place for you!
Qualicum Beach – East Beach: When it comes to picturesque West Coast beaches, Qualicum Beach might take the cake. With endless soft sandy shores to walk on and gorgeous views of the Coast Mountains on the mainland, Qualicum Beach is a truly spectacular place to spend a spring afternoon.
Eats in the area
With the return of the sun and warm weather, here on the West Coast, we don’t waste a second before we head back to the beaches! Even if there is a little nip in the air, if the sun is shining, it’s likely that we’re beach bound! We may not be in our bathing suits diving into the waves yet but there are still lots of ways to enjoy the beach before the heat of summer sets in! One of the best ways to have a great Vancouver Island picnic on the beach in the spring is to make a day of it! Bring some delicious food and your favourite book and just enjoy the warmth of the sun and the fresh ocean breezes. To ensure a super successful beach day at this time of year, you’ve gotta prepare properly – that’s where we come in. We’re going to give you the lowdown on where to go, local eats and how to prepare for a cooler, sunny beach day on Vancouver Island!
No matter where you go on Vancouver Island for your spring beach day, it’s important to be prepared! Here’s our handy checklist of items that are our must haves for a successful day on the beach.
The capital city is surrounded by some of the most stunning beaches in the world. In fact, there are so many to choose from, it can be tough to know where to go to make the most of your beach day. If you’re staying at an EMR Victoria property, these are our top three beaches to enjoy on a sunny spring day in Victoria!
Holland Point Park: This waterfront park is the perfect place to find a little spot on the beach to sit, enjoy the sun, watch colourful kite surfers sail through the sky, sailboats skim over the sparkling ocean and enjoy some food and a good book while the Olympic range shimmers in the distance.
Ross Bay Beach: This popular pebbly beach is filled with driftwood and offers lots of great spots to lay a picnic blanket down to enjoy the ocean views. On the far east side of the beach, there is a small sandy bay with large rocks and tide pools that are great for kids of all ages to explore.
Gonzales Beach: With soft sand and gentle lapping waves, warmer shallows and surrounded by jaw-dropping homes, this little neighbourhood beach is a must visit while you’re in the area!
Eats in the Area
James Bay:
Fairfield:
Cook St.:
This beautiful seaside town is home to one of the prettiest marinas on the South Island, an incredible outdoor art walk, cafes, eateries and boutiques. If you’re staying in, these are the two beaches we like the most on the top of the Peninsula!
Lochside Waterfront Park: At this beautiful beach you can pull up a log or lay down a blanket and watch the boats skim along the water to and from the marina and if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll probably be able to spot the dorsal fin of an orca or see a friendly seal pop up to say hello!
Robert’s Bay: This tranquil migratory bird sanctuary is an excellent spot to have a beach picnic, especially if you’re looking for somewhere that is less populated! Make sure you have your binoculars so you can check out the marine birds as they fly and fish in the bay and keep a lookout for the sweet sea otters that are known to frequent Robert’s Bay.
Eats in the area
The verdant Cowichan Valley is known for being one of the top wine destinations in BC and has some truly incredible vineyards and if you’re looking for a great local beach to enjoy, we got you!
Cherry Point: This beautiful little beach on the edge of the valley is one of the best places for a great beach day. With a long strip of pebble and sand shore to explore, plenty of driftwood to lean against and picnic tables if you prefer, this super sunny spot is a great way to soak up the spring sunshine and listen to the wind rustling through the trees. If you bring binoculars, you can have a look for marine birds and mammals that are known to frequent the area.
Eats in the area
While you’re staying in the Nanaimo area if you’re looking for a great day on the beach, no worries!
Neck Point Park: This stunning park, just north of Naniamo provides visitors with a stunning park and beach to explore and enjoy. Take a walk over the rocky bluffs covered with grasses for an incredible view and when you’re ready for a picnic, head down to the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves lapping the shore.
Eats in the area
The quaint resort towns of Parksville and Qualicum Beach have many attractions, both man made and natural. People from all over the Island, BC and beyond flock to these towns in the summer months to soak up the sun and enjoy all the outdoor amenities. If you’re staying in the area and are looking for a great beach picnic spot in the area, we’ve got just the place for you!
Qualicum Beach – East Beach: When it comes to picturesque West Coast beaches, Qualicum Beach might take the cake. With endless soft sandy shores to walk on and gorgeous views of the Coast Mountains on the mainland, Qualicum Beach is a truly spectacular place to spend a spring afternoon.
Eats in the area