When the time comes to cool off, there is one way to beat the summer heat no matter where you are staying on Vancouver Island: ice cream! And not your run-of-the-mill, chain restaurant ice cream. No, here on Vancouver Island, we have some incredible, locally owned and operated ice cream shops that are churning out incredible, unique and delicious flavours of our favourite icy confection.
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There’s a lot to see and do on Vancouver Island but if you’re an avid angler, there’s only one way to spend one of our many sunny days–and that’s out fishing! There are tons of fishing opportunities all over the Island and you’ll find some of the best fishing in the world off the coast of British Columbia, Canada! Whether you decide to spend a slow, peaceful day casting a line from one of the great fishing spots on the shore or you book a charter to head out on the pacific ocean, you’ll have an incredible day followed by an incredible dinner! With so many types of fish to catch from Dolly Varden trout to pacific salmon, cod and even halibut, Vancouver Island fishing is a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Just make sure you have a valid stamp and fishing licence! Both freshwater and saltwater fishing licences are conveniently available to purchase online or at most sporting shops.
One of the earliest independent settlements in the Province, Sooke is a peaceful, historic town nestled amongst wild West Coast landscape. If you’re lucky enough to stay right in Sooke or in the beautiful neighbouring village of Metchosin, you’ll know how quickly you can fall in love with the beauty and tranquillity of this area. Sooke is the perfect spot for all outdoor adventures, especially fishing.
Just a twenty minute hike from the parking lot will take you to the bluffs where the ocean drops off sharply. Here the water runs deep and you can easily fish for chinook, sockeye, pink and coho salmon. If cod and rockfish are more to your liking, a short 5 minute walk will take you to a plethora of sites that are perfect for bottom fishing. In these sites you can cast a line for rockfish and delicious ling cod. A day here is always well spent. If you need equipment, or advice from lines to lures the Crab Shack Store and the Sooke Marine Center are great options to make sure you have all the gear to have a successful day out!
As the weather gets warmer, Victoria becomes abuzz with activity! There might be many ways to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of BC’s capital city but fishing is the only one that has a (potential) edible reward at the end of it! Whether you’re staying right in the heart of downtown Victoria or a little farther away in Sidney, there are lots of great fishing areas nearby to do some shore fishing.
In the late summer months, Ten Mile Point is a great spot to try your luck! The rocky outcrops provide the perfect place to set up for the day. With strong currents and an ocean floor that drops away for hundreds of feet, Ten Mile Point provides an ideal spot to fish for chinook. If you hit those tides perfectly, you can even catch some bottom fish like feisty lingcods.
Right in the bustling neighbourhood of James Bay, you’ll find the popular Ogden Point Breakwater. The huge, concrete walkway is a great place to catch salmon, cod, geenling, flounder, perch and more! If you’re looking for a peaceful angling spot, it’s best to go here on cloudy days and during the week as it’s a very popular walking path that attracts lots of people!
If you’re looking for some freshwater fishing, Langford Lake, right in the heart of Langford is stocked full of rainbow trout and smallmouth bass that you can easily catch from the fishing dock found along the Ed Nixon Trail just off Leigh Road.
Sidney is a stunning, walkable seaside town that lives life at a slower pace. One of the most popular features of this little town is the beautiful waterfront trail that offers incredible views, beach access and access to the popular Sidney pier!
This popular lake is a great local option to find excellent shore fishing. There are several rest stops around the lake where you can find spots to cast a line to catch rainbow and coastal cutthroat trout, smallmouth and largemouth bass, common carp or yellow perch.
In the heart of Sidney’s town centre you can find beautiful gardens, a stunning seashore, outdoor gallery and the famous Sidney Fishing Pier. This enormous pier that juts out above the water, makes a great platform for crabbing and fishing. Here you can catch pacific salmon, cod, sole, flounder, and so much more!
If you’re looking for the very best freshwater fishing on Vancouver Island, you’ve found it! Known for the incredible sizes and species of trout in this river, no matter where you choose to cast a line, you’re sure to get a photo-worthy catch! While the Cowichan River is open to fly fishing, and freshwater river fishing, the rules and regulations for this river change from time to time and they can be tricky to navigate. If you’d like to fish in the Cowichan River, you’ll want to do you research or hiring a guide to make sure you’re doing everything by the book so you can focus on just having an incredible time!
If you’re looking for great shore fishing in the heart of Nanaimo, this is the spot for you! While there are fish here during the winter, the main run will show up as early as April and peak in later summer, you can grab your gear and head down to the picturesque walkway and drop a line to catch pacific salmon, bull head, dog fish, Dungeness crab, perch, herring, cod and so so much more! For a full list and all the information check here!
While this fishing spot is one of the best for river fishing near Nanaimo, there are some strict rules about where you can and more importantly–where you can’t fish in Englishman River. There is no fishing below the lower falls all the way to Top Bridge and crossing at the end of Allsbrook Road from December to the end of May. But don’t let those restrictions stop you! You can still fish for most months of the year in this gorgeous river and you can start catching steelhead trout as early as January, cutthroat trout arrive in spring and stay to feed on the salmon hatchery in the fall which brings spawning pink, chinook, coho and chum salmon in good numbers, making Englishman River a teeming fishery for many months of the year! For more information about this location, click here!
This stocked lake is a great place if you’ve got kids you want to take fishing with tons of rainbow trout ready to bite! The fishing platform in Westwood Lake Park can get busy on the weekends so if you’re heading here, you might want to plan on showing up early, when the weather is cloudy or on a weekday and avoid other anglers!
If you’re looking for the best spot for fly fishing on Vancouver Island, you’ll want to pack up your gear and head up to Campbell River! This river offers year-round fly fishing opportunities and there are even some areas of the river that have been set aside for fly fishers only! Cast your line in the spring for rainbow trout, summer for pink salmon and steelhead or into the beaches and estuaries for feisty cutthroat! There’s no end to the incredible fly fishing experience you can have here – just make sure you keep your eyes peeled for hungry bears who also fish in this incredible river!
If you’re looking for the premier spot in Campbell River to cast a line from the shore, this is it! With incredible amenities like rod holders along the pier’s length, fishing chairs and even dip nets, this pier is one of the best fishing spots on Vancouver Island! This pier is Canada’s first saltwater fishing pier and it extends along Discovery Passage right near Fisherman’s Wharf in Campbell River. Just make sure that you bring or rent heavy duty gear – the currents are strong and the fish here can be huge! Even if you’re not planning to cast a line, this is a must see when you’re in the area as you can get incredible views of the Passage, spot breaching whales, sea lions and watch the boats navigate the rushing currents while you enjoy food and ice cream from the nearby stand.
Ok this pool is not exactly shore fishing but it needs an honourable mention for its popularity! There’s nowhere else you can find the perfect combination of modern sportfishing and classic fishing like Tyee Pool. Reserved for non-motorized boats only, this elite tidal fishery is great for challenging salmon fishing and can bring you close to enormous salmon (think 30+ lb) and you can spend hours with aspiring Tyee Club members trying to boat massive fish with heavy tackle and traditional lures. While the fishing here is not for the faint of heart, it is one of the most rewarding experiences for the avid angler!
Perched on the edge of beautiful Quadra Island, this scenic lighthouse looks out onto some of the area’s most popular – and populated – fishing grounds! Known for what the locals call “The Hump” this fishing spot has an underwater fish magnet making it a safe bet for finding salmon and even the occasional halibut!
Shore fishing is great, but if you want a serious crack at Vancouver Island fishing and you’re up for an adventure, you’re going to want to book a charter to take you out on the water! The waterways around Vancouver Island hold hotspots for incredible fishing whether you’re looking for salmon, deep water fish like halibut, crabs or even prawns! There are so many fishing charters to choose from so we’ve rounded up our favourites to make your choice easier!
6947 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC | 778-966-1436
Book salmon or halibut fishing charters as well as tours through Sooke’s pristine waterways to find steelhead and salmon!
1581 Dufour Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-704-9653
Owner and operator, Roy Carver has made a name for himself as a fun, experienced fishing guide and chef. Every guest is sent home with a few of Roy’s favourite recipes to help make your catch into a fabulous meal!
7062 Richview Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-532-9284
Tory Howe, owner, operator and fishing guide extraordinaire knows all the nooks and crannies of the ocean floor and is ready to help you catch a big one!
6971 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-208-9879
If you’re looking for creature comforts while out on the ocean, look no further. Their boats are outfitted with heated cabins and kitchenettes and offer experienced guides for a deluxe fishing experience.
4901 East Sooke Road, Victoria, BC | 250-883-9252
Looking for a laid-back, fun loving guide who knows the waters around East Sooke like the back of his hand? Good Time Dave’s is the charter you!
6947 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC | 250-642-4410
Whether you’re new to fishing or an avid angler, a small group or large, 30 year fishing veteran Elden Smith is ready to make sure you have a great time and catch some amazing fish!
475 Head St Unit 2, Victoria, BC | 250-658-1848
Located right in the Inner Harbour, this team of experienced fishermen offer guests 20 years of experience fishing off southern Vancouver Island and have everything they need to have a great day out!
453 Head St, Victoria, BC | 250-244-1821
No matter the season, Salmon Eye is ready for guests! With heated cabins and seats for five people under cover, experienced guides and top-of-the line equipment, booking with this charter is a great idea.
12 Erie St, Victoria, BC | 250-514-4070
No matter if you’re hoping to go deep water fishing for halibut, coasting in the ocean for salmon or exploring one of the island’s gorgeous rivers for steelhead, this fun, inclusive company makes fishing fun for every age and ability!
812 Wharf St, Victoria, BC | 250-370-2326
Specializing in salmon and halibut charters, this company has high performance vessels ready to take guests from Sooke to Oak Bay in search of the perfect catch!
1327 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC | 250-507-5500
Boasting one of the biggest, top performing charter vessels in the Victoria charter fleet, King Size adventures takes guests onto the Strait from Oak Bay to fish for halibut, salmon, lingcod, rockfish and Dungeness crab.
1104 Wharf St, Victoria, BC | 250-888-2277
With a reputation built on outstanding salmon and halibut fishing charters, owner and operator, Lewis Freeman offers guests memorable fishing trips off the coast of Victoria.
10441 Resthaven Dr, Sidney, BC | 250-920-6531
For something a little different than your average fishing charter, consider Sea King’s ‘Deadliest Catch’ fishing tour that includes prawning, crabbing and fishing for salmon and halibut all in an amazing 6-7 hour adventure!
9835 Seaport Pl, Sidney, BC | 604-306-2619
If you’re looking for a charter that offers flexible tours and year-round fishing in Sidney’s calm waters, Bon Chovy is a great charter option!
No matter where you stay or what your speed is, there is always lots of excellent fishing to be found all across the southern end of Vancouver Island!
5650 West Riverbottom Rd, Duncan, BC | 250-748-4776
If you want a full fishing experience in the Cowichan Valley, this is the place to go! Stay in a gorgeous fishing lodge on the banks of the Cowichan River, and let expert guides show you everything you need to know about fly fishing or spin fishing on the river as well as take you to local lakes for still water fishing!
7469 Hudgrove Rd, Lake Cowichan, BC | 250-701-3670
Whether you’re an expert who knows exactly what kind of fishing you’re looking for or a total novice who is looking for a fun, relaxing and educational day out, Kenzie’s customizable charters are the perfect place to start!
1956 Zorkin Rd, Nanaimo, BC | 250-667-6950
With over 2 decades of experience on the waters around Nanaimo, Captain Andrew Turkstra offers incredible and affordable tours and friendly, encouraging expertise–which is why he has so many happy customers!
1000 Stewart Ave, Nanaimo, BC | 250-667-8272
If you’re looking for a great easy to spend an afternoon in Nanaimo, you’ll want to book a fishing trip with Captain Michael Hill! With lots of experience and a friendly demeanour, he’ll take you out to all the great fishing spots and even clean your catch for you to take home!
1374 Island Highway, C Dock #19A, Campbell River, BC | 250-702-4515
Originally from Australia, Captain Dean Parsonage has fished all over the world – so when he says that Campbell River is the fishing capital of the world, he means it! Come and see what makes this area an angler’s heaven!
1374 Island Hwy, Campbell River, BC | 250-895-3165
With decades of sportfishing experience, Captain Dan is ready to welcome you and your family aboard for a day of fun, sun and fishing!
One of the top reasons for visiting Victoria, British Columbia is that for a relatively young Canadian city, there are an enormous amount of historical sites to visit and explore! From the majesty of The Empress Hotel to the craggy gravestones and winding paths of one of Canada’s oldest graveyards Ross Bay Cemetery, Victoria BC, the capital city on the southernmost tip of Vancouver Island, is rich with history. One of the most resplendent and highly visited areas in downtown however, is Chinatown. As Canada’s oldest Chinatown and the second oldest in North America, so much history is encapsulated in one block of BC’s beautiful capital city so it’s no wonder that during Lunar New Year in Victoria BC, downtown comes alive! The Lunar New Year, also called Chinese New Year is as important a holiday in Asia as Christmas is for Western cultures. No matter where you’re staying in Greater Victoria, it’s wonderful to make the trip into town to enjoy the festivities and engage with the local Chinese and Asian communities that celebrate this important holiday!
The Lunar New Year is celebrated in East and Southeast Asia based on the traditional lunisolar calendar and typically represents the Chinese zodiac. While Lunar New Year is celebrated on the same day by many different Asian countries, the celebrations, interpretations and even zodiacs are unique to each country. In China, the New Year is called Chūn Jié, in Vietnam, Tet, Korean New Year is called Seollal, and in Tibet it is known as Losar.
The Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival and begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends on the first full moon of the lunar calendar, 15 days later. Because the lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, the dates of the holiday vary from year to year. This year, 2024 is the Year of the Dragon and the Lunar New Year will be celebrated on February 18th on Western calendars.
Before the beginning of the new lunar year, it is customary to thoroughly clean the house to remove any bad luck and prepare for a fruitful and fortuitous year. It is also customary to spend New Year’s eve and New Year’s day with family members, performing religious ceremonies and honouring ancestors. On New Year’s day, family members receive red envelopes called lai see with small amounts of money inside that are meant to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. During the holiday, there are frequent dances and fireworks displays, culminating in the Lantern Festival, celebrated on the last day of the New Year’s celebrations. On this night, colourful lanterns light up the houses, and traditional foods are served to mark the anticipation of the return of spring and symbolising the reunion of family.
This year, the traditional festivities that mark the Lunar New Year are going to be amazing! Whether you’re going to attend the Lunar New Year parade on February 18th or celebrate in other ways, we’re here to help! Below are some great ways to celebrate Lunar New Year in Victoria!
Sunday, February 18th 2024 | 11:30AM – 3:30PM.
Celebrate Lunar New Year in Victoria by attending the annual parade! Presented by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association, this year you can celebrate the year of the Dragon in Canada’s oldest Chinatown!
The main events start at the Gates of Harmonious Interest, featuring a lion dancers performance by the Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club, and dragon dance by the Victoria Chinese Public School, as well as traditional Chinese dances and kung fu demonstrations!
Lions and dragons will parade from the 500 block of Fisgard Street, to the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association/ Chinese Public School at 636 Fisgard Street.
After the parade, two lion teams from the Wong Sheung Kung Fu Club will then visit merchants that hang offerings of lettuce and red envelopes of money for the lions. The lion will then bless the business by performing a routine to scare away evil spirits and to bring them good luck, prosperity, and good health for the New Year!
Whether you’re staying right downtown Victoria or if you have to make the drive from Sidney or Sooke, a day of shopping in Chinatown is a wonderful way to spend Lunar New Year in Victoria!
550 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC V8W 1R4
This packed store has been a staple of Victoria’s Chinatown for many years. If you’re looking for authentic Asian snacks and a great selection of ingredients for pho, stir fry, sushi or any of your favourite dishes, this is the place to go. They also have a large selection of cookware, flatware and odds and ends to make sure you’re prepared, no matter what culinary task you’re taking on.
1628 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1Z3
On the corner of Chinatown right next to the Gate of Harmonious Interest is Quonley’s, a staple of the community and so much more than just a corner store. While the bulk of the business is a convenience store, you can find beautiful teapots, cup sets, paper umbrellas and silk slippers.
532 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC V8W 1R4
If you’re looking to get ready for the Lunar New Year, this is the place to go for everything you need to get ready for the celebration. From lanterns and decorations to red envelopes and traditional crockery, Dragon Village is the place to go for New Year prep!
Taking a walk over to Chinatown to enjoy some of the incredible, authentic food is a fabulous way to get into the spirit of Lunar New Year in Victoria BC!
556A Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N7
Tarn and Toom, the owners of this incredible dumpling house have taken their family’s traditional dumpling recipes and methods and brought them to you! Order a bag of frozen dumplings to cook at home or get them fresh fried and enjoy on the spot!
560 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC V8W 1R4
This unassuming restaurant in Chinatown is a favourite locals spot to find incredible food at decent prices. Everyone in Victoria knows that this is the place in Victoria to get the best BBQ duck and perfect Chinese buns.
If you’re staying at a property outside of Victoria, you don’t have to make the trip into town to get into the Lunar New Year celebrations! These chef-worthy kitchens are perfect for trying your hand at some traditional recipes served during the holidays!
Steamed fish is one of the most popular dishes served on Lunar New Year, especially in China. In Chinese the word for ‘fish’ sounds similar to the word for ‘surplus’, thus making it an auspicious dish thought to help bring a year or prosperity to the family. This recipe is easy to follow and will help you create an auspicious fish dish yourself!
Traditional dumplings are notoriously difficult to make. The dough and filling must be the perfect thickness and consistency, and the pinching technique is an art form in and of itself. If you want to tackle the task of making these traditional New Year treats, this recipe is the best and easiest one I’ve tried, but in all honesty, for this Lunar New Year, I think I’ll just order from the Dumpling Drop!
Traditionally served at the Lantern Festival in China, these rice balls symbolise family unity as family members gather to celebrate this important holiday. Sweet and gooey, once you know how to make these incredible delicacies, you’ll want to pull them out as a showstopper at every gathering. These can be made ahead of time and frozen so you can make a large batch and pop them on to boil when you need to
There are lots of fun and easy ways to prepare your space for the Lunar New Year! Put couplets on the door, hang Chinese knots, keep blooming flowers indoors and hang red lanterns. These decorations are temporary, mobile, easy to hang and come in all shapes and sizes so you can easily decorate your EMR rental!
Couplets as they are seen today originated from the Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 256 BCE) tradition of Taofu, inscriptions on boards made from peach trees and hung across door frames to ward off evil spirits. During the Song Dynasty (960 – 1279 CE), the peach wood boards were replaced by red paper, covered in bright wishes for the future. Today, you can find couplets to purchase from Dragon Village or create your own!
There is some speculation that people may have originally made Chinese knots to record information and convey messages before the invention of writing but what is known however, is that during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE) these knots were popularised as both artistic decoration and to symbolise various good fortunes and wishes. Chinese knots are tied and woven from a single length of cord or rope into a variety of shapes of varying complexity, each with its own symbolic meaning. You can purchase these knots of various sizes in most shops in Chinatown and if you want to try to make your own, you can find a great tutorial for a daily simple luck knot here.
Lanterns are used in many different celebrations in China and the colour of the lantern dictates both its meaning and use. Red lanterns used during the closing of the Lunar New Year at the Lantern Festival are to symbolise wealth, fame, success and prosperity in the hopes that these attributes will follow into the new year. If you’re looking for more elaborate lanterns, you can purchase red lanterns of many sizes and styles in Dragon Village and many other stores in Chinatown or you can DIY simple ones of your own to hang!
What better way to spread good wishes during the Lunar New Year in Victoria than learning how to say “Happy New Year”? Below are all the ways you can acknowledge the Lunar New Year!
Gong Xi Fa Cai: Wish you happiness and prosperity!
Gong Hay Fat Choi: May prosperity be with you!
Sae Hae Bok Mani Baduseyo: I wish you good blessings for the New Year!
Chúc Mừng Năm Mới: Happy New Year!
Vạn Sự Như Ý: Everything is as one wishes! Or Everything you want will come true!
Tashi Delek: Blessings and good luck!
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!
One of the top reasons for visiting Victoria is that for a relatively young city, there are an enormous amount of historical sites to visit and explore. From the majesty of The Empress Hotel to the craggy gravestones and winding paths of Ross Bay Cemetery, one of Canada’s oldest graveyards, Victoria is rich with history. One of the most resplendent and highly visited areas in downtown is Chinatown. As the oldest Chinatown in Canada and second oldest in North America, so much history is encapsulated in one block of BC’s beautiful capital city! It’s no wonder that it draws crowds from around the globe and during the Lunar New Year, there is nowhere better to be than Victoria’s Chinatown enjoying the festivities and engaging with the local Chinese and Asian communities that celebrate this important holiday.
The Lunar New Year is celebrated in East and Southeast Asia based on the traditional lunisolar Chinese calendar. While Lunar New Year is celebrated on the same day by many different Asian countries, the celebrations, interpretations and even zodiacs are unique to each country. In China, the New Year is called Chūn Jié, in Vietnam, Tet, Korean New Year is called Seollal, and in Tibet it is known as Losar. The Lunar New Year is also known as the Spring Festival and begins with the first new moon of the lunar calendar and ends on the first full moon of the lunar calendar, 15 days later. Because the lunar calendar is based on the cycles of the moon, the dates of the holiday vary from year to year. In 2021, Lunar New Year was celebrated on February 12th on Western calendars and in 2022, Lunar New Year begins on February 1st. Before the beginning of the new lunar year, it is customary to thoroughly clean the house to remove any bad luck and prepare for a fruitful and fortuitous year. It is also customary to spend New Year’s eve and New Year’s day with family members, performing religious ceremonies and honouring ancestors. On New Year’s day, family members receive red envelopes called lai see with small amounts of money inside that are meant to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. During the holiday, there are frequent dances and fireworks displays, culminating in the Lantern Festival, celebrated on the last day of the New Year’s celebrations. On this night, colourful lanterns light up the houses, and traditional foods are served to mark the anticipation of the return of spring and symbolising the reunion of family.
This year, the traditional festivities that mark the Lunar New Year may be postponed but that doesn’t mean that you can’t still celebrate the Year of the Tiger! Below are five ways to celebrate Lunar New Year in Victoria, even if the traditional festivals are cancelled!
Whether you’re staying right downtown Victoria or if you have to make the drive from Sidney or Sooke, a day shopping in Chinatown around Lunar New Year is a wonderful way to spend a festive afternoon!
This packed store has been a staple of Victoria’s Chinatown for many years. If you’re looking for authentic Asian snacks and a great selection of ingredients for pho, stir fry, sushi or any of your favourite dishes, this is the place to go. They also have a large selection of cookware, flatware and odds and ends to make sure you’re prepared, no matter what culinary task you’re taking on.
On the corner of Chinatown right next to the Gate of Harmonious Interest is Quonley’s, a staple of the community and so much more than just a corner store. While the bulk of the business is a convenience store, you can find beautiful teapots, cup sets, paper umbrellas and silk slippers.
If you’re looking to get ready for the Lunar New Year, this is the place to go for everything you need to get ready for the celebration. From lanterns and decorations to red envelopes and traditional crockery, Dragon Village is the place to go for New Year prep!
Taking a walk over to Chinatown to enjoy some of the incredible, authentic food is a fabulous way to get into the spirit!
Tarn and Toom, the owners of this incredible dumpling house have taken their family’s traditional dumpling recipes and methods and brought them to you! Order a bag of frozen dumplings to cook at home or get them fresh fried and enjoy on the spot!
Wah Lai Yuen Bakery + Restaurant 華麗園
This unassuming restaurant in Chinatown is a favourite locals spot to find incredible food at decent prices. Everyone in Victoria knows that this is the place in Victoria to get the best BBQ duck and perfect Chinese buns.
If you’re staying at a property outside of Victoria, you don’t have to make the trip into town to get into the Lunar New Year celebrations! These chef-worthy kitchens are perfect for trying your hand at some traditional recipes served during the holidays!
Steamed fish is one of the most popular dishes served on Lunar New Year, especially in China. In Chinese the word for ‘fish’ sounds similar to the word for ‘surplus’, thus making it an auspicious dish thought to help bring a year or prosperity to the family. This recipe is easy to follow and will help you create an auspicious fish dish yourself!
Traditional dumplings are notoriously difficult to make. The dough and filling must be the perfect thickness and consistency, and the pinching technique is an art form in and of itself. If you want to tackle the task of making these traditional New Year treats, this recipe is the best and easiest one I’ve tried, but in all honesty, for this Lunar New Year, I think I’ll just order from the Dumpling Drop!
Traditionally served at the Lantern Festival in China, these rice balls symbolise family unity as family members gather to celebrate this important holiday. Sweet and gooey, once you know how to make these incredible delicacies, you’ll want to pull them out as a showstopper at every gathering. These can be made ahead of time and frozen so you can make a large batch and pop them on to boil when you need to
There are lots of fun and easy ways to prepare your space for the Lunar New Year! Put couplets on the door, hang Chinese knots, keep blooming flowers indoors and hang red lanterns. These decorations are temporary, mobile, easy to hang and come in all shapes and sizes so you can easily decorate your EMR rental!
Couplets as they are seen today originated from the Zhou Dynasty (1046 – 256 BCE) tradition of Taofu, inscriptions on boards made from peach trees and hung across door frames to ward off evil spirits. During the Song Dynasty (960 – 1279 CE), the peach wood boards were replaced by red paper, covered in bright wishes for the future. Today, you can find couplets to purchase from Dragon Village or create your own!
There is some speculation that people may have originally made Chinese knots to record information and convey messages before the invention of writing but what is known however, is that during the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 CE) these knots were popularised as both artistic decoration and to symbolise various good fortunes and wishes. Chinese knots are tied and woven from a single length of cord or rope into a variety of shapes of varying complexity, each with its own symbolic meaning. You can purchase these knots of various sizes in most shops in Chinatown and if you want to try to make your own, you can find a great tutorial for a daily simple luck knot here.
Lanterns are used in many different celebrations in China and the colour of the lantern dictates both its meaning and use. Red lanterns used during the closing of the Lunar New Year at the Lantern Festival are to symbolise wealth, fame, success and prosperity in the hopes that these attributes will follow into the new year. If you’re looking for more elaborate lanterns, you can purchase red lanterns of many sizes and styles in Dragon Village and many other stores in Chinatown or you can DIY simple ones of your own to hang!
What better way to spread good wishes during the Lunar New Year than learning how to say “Happy New Year”? Below are all the ways you can acknowledge the Lunar New Year!
Mandarin:
Gong Xi Fa Cai: Wish you happiness and prosperity!
Cantonese:
Gong Hay Fat Choi: May prosperity be with you!
Korean:
Sae Hae Bok Mani Baduseyo: I wish you good blessings for the New Year!
Vietnamese:
Chúc Mừng Năm Mới: Happy New Year!
Vạn Sự Như Ý: Everything is as one wishes! Or Everything you want will come true!
Tibetan:
Tashi Delek: Blessings and good luck!
The holidays are right around the corner and while it can be so wonderful to shop for the people you love, it can also be stressful, especially if you’re shopping in a new town! That’s where we come in! To help make your shopping experience fun, easy and local, we’ve made a list of our very favourite local shops so that you can find incredible gifts that have a distinctly West Coast feel for everyone on your list! If you’re staying in Victoria, this list will have you checking off your list in no time! From clothes and shoes to outdoor equipment and toys, we’ve got you covered no matter what you’re looking for!
530 Chatham St, Victoria, BC V8W 3W6
From its humble beginnings as a scrap business in the early 30’s, Capital Iron has grown into one of the most popular stores in Victoria for hardware, electrical, paints, clothing, housewares, fishing, marine, camping, barbecues, lawn and outdoor. With the feel of a traditional general store, friendly, helpful staff and convenient downtown and Langford locations, this is one of those, one-stop-shops where you can find everything you’re looking for and more!
1307 Broad St, Victoria, BC V8W 2A8
For over 90 years, Robinson’s has been a valued part of Victoria’s outdoor community, providing the highest quality brands, knowledgeable staff right in the heart of downtown Victoria. At Robinson’s, they know that planning an adventure is as exciting as it is daunting and having the right equipment and clothing can make all the difference between a magical experience and a disaster. With custom fittings and incredible customer service, you’ll get exactly what you need no matter what you’re planning!
390 Moss St, Victoria, BC V8V 4N1
If there’s a cyclist on your holiday shopping list, then there’s no doubt that the people at Fairfield Bicycle Shop are the ones to go see! With gear for every member of the family, a large selection of bikes and a huge array of accessories, Fairfield Bicycle Shop is a must for everything cycling related!
581 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8W 1M2
For high-quality mens and women’s clothing, Flavour is a must. You can find edgy basics and clean staples that can elevate a wardrobe or fun, funky items to give anyone’s style a little flare. This is a great shop to visit for anyone on your list and if you can’t decide, get a gift card! With free shipping over $100 to all over the US and Canada, this store is a must for the millennial fashion junky on your list
1328 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1Y8
The art of First Nations Peoples of the West Coast is stunning, high-quality and completely unique. At Cowichan Trading on the corner of Johnson St. and Government St. you can find authentic Indigenous-made jewelry, clothing, gifts and souvenirs that will wow anyone on your list this holiday. It’s the perfect place to add some authentic West Coast style to your trip down the LoJo shopping district.
1541 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8S 1Z7
If you want to be environmentally conscientious this holiday, buying immaculate, high-quality consignment clothing is a great way to go. At Pocket Clothing, you can find brand name, current and vintage items for an incredible price.
1437 Store St, Victoria, BC V8W 3J6
If you’re looking for an eclectic selection of fun, unique and stylish homeware and decor, head to Paboom. This amazing, open-plan store is so pleasingly organized, it’s easy to spend hours looking at everything they have. Perfect for both little gifts and larger items, you’re sure to walk out with some incredible finds that don’t break the bank.
Vanity Fair Vintage Retro & Antiques
1044 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8V 3K4
With shelves packed with vintage treasures from 50 different vendors, Vanity Fair Vintage Retro & Antiques is an antique lover’s paradise. If you’re looking for fine vintage silver, jewelry, china, militaria, curios or vintage toys, check out this incredible shop in Antique Row on Fort Street.
This little, local, online shop offers a carefully curated selection of sustainable homewares, fashion accessories and children’s clothing. With their impeccable taste and fashion-forward, monochromal catalogue, this is the perfect place to source beautiful pieces for the environmentally conscious interior designer on your list. With local delivery available and beautiful packaging, every purchase from Femme Seventy is sure to be convenient and stylish.
1701 Douglas St #6, Victoria, BC V8W 0C1
This incredible, bustling, indoor public market is everything you could want in a local market. From fresh pies and incredible coffee to the best (and healthiest) alternative meat options and bean to bar chocolate, this is your one stop shop if you need to create a thoughtful gift basket or to impress the foodie in your life.
1624 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1Z3
If you have a tea lover on your list, you absolutely must head over to Silk Road Tea. They have an incredible array of teas, accessories, bath and body products and high-quality skincare. With friendly, knowledgeable staff and all the tea you could ever need, Silk Road is a great place for gifts!
913 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1X5
In the late 1880’s Charles Rogers moved to Victoria and opened a green-grocer in the very same spot as the store stands today. Soon after opening however, he noticed that the chocolates that he had for sale were incredibly popular. Capitalizing on this popularity, he quickly pivoted and changed his grocery store to a chocolate shop and made the chocolates right there on-site. If you want to give someone a real taste of Victoria, you can’t go wrong with Rogers’ Chocolates!
653 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8
If you’re looking for a really impressive gift for the wine lover or mixologist in the family, head on over to Vintage Spirits. Here you’ll find the most extensive selection of cocktail tools, syrups, bitters and spirits as well as an astounding, expertly curated selection of new and old world wines and entire sections dedicated to vegan, sustainable and natural wines.
560 Johnson St #104A, Victoria, BC V8W 3C6
If you’re looking for something a little extra special, Violette Boutique is a great place to start. With an incredible selection of delicate, unique and timeless jewelry, incredible skin care, heavenly candles and beautiful purses, a visit to this lovely store is a treat unto itself.
1002 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1X7
For real West Coast statement pieces, you’ll want to head to Artina’s Jewelry on Government St. With an amazing array of handcrafted and hand-carved Canadian jewelry, you’re sure to find an exquisite piece for someone special.
580 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8W 1M3
Since 1969, Baggin’s Shoes has been a staple in the Victoria footwear scene and today, they carry the largest selection of Converse and Vans sneakers in the world as well as offering in-house custom printing for any pair of shoes in the store.
1023 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8V 3K5
For a fantastic selection of exquisite, unique men’s and women’s shoes, Heart and Sole is the place to go. Here, you’ll be able to find obscure brands and incredible designs and be helped by incredibly knowledgeable staff.
734 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8W 1H2
When it comes to gift giving, sometimes choosing the wrapping paper is as fun as choosing the actual gift! If this is true for you, The Papery is a place you’ll have to go in Victoria. Here, you’ll find out-of-this-world wrapping paper, unique stationary and notebooks plus lots of beautiful writing implements and fun knick-knacks perfect for stockings or souvenirs.
560 Johnson St #101, Victoria, BC V8W, Canada
If you’re looking for something fun, colourful and a little bit wacky, Oscar & Libby’s is the place to go! From their extensive hot sauce collection to the wall of funky socks, this colourful store will brighten your mood and help you check a few gifts off your list!
2213 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8S 4T5
There are lots of places to find toys for kids, but why spend your time and money in a big box store when you can find the perfect gift among a thoughtfully curated selection of high-quality toys? This lovely, independent, family run store is dedicated to offering a wide variety of toys from around the world that will stimulate kids, physically, mentally or both! When it comes to little ones, why settle for anything less?
1410 Broad St, Victoria, BC V8W 2B1
This fun “Mom and Pop” operation is the perfect place for anyone on your list who love action figures, collectables or comics. With an enormous selection of toys and figures from mint condition to well-loved, this super welcoming store is perfect if you have no idea where to start. They can help you choose something no matter if you’re looking to gift something to a serious collector or just looking for something to make the little one on your list who loves action figures smile.
There are lots of fall days in Victoria that are dry and colourful, perfect for getting out in the city or in nature and soak up the fresh ocean air and fall sunshine. Then, there are the days in the fall that are cold, dark and rainy that have you running for cover and craving cozy nights indoors. For these days, when your book and the couch isn’t tempting you, and your binge-worthy series doesn’t hit the spot, there are some really cool events happening around the South Island that will get you out, or in, and about!
until January 2022
Have you ever wanted to learn more about orcas? Now you can! Visit the Royal BC Museum, and learn more about these sophisticated, apex predators as you deep dive into the science and the stories about them. Find out about current ecological activism, ancient Indigenous beliefs and the popular culture that shapes our different understanding of these magnificent mammals.
until July 2022
The works of Emily Carr are a reflection of her love for Vancouver Island and her admiration of the First Nations people of the area, their villages and customs. What makes Carr’s paintings so timeless is her unique and captivating ability to not only paint what she saw, but also her ability to capture how she felt about the place she called home. This exhibit, at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, is split into two halves. One half dedicated to the paintings of Carr and the other, to her legacy, how her works and her interpretations of this Island have impacted artists and historians of varying backgrounds over the years and how, even today, her works continue to be of great importance.
until December 2021
Marking the 10th anniversary celebration of the Visiting Artist Program hosted by the Department of Anthropology at the University of Victoria, this exhibition at the University of Victoria Legacy Gallery features new works by twelve artists and their collaborators from Salish nations on Vancouver Island. These artists have participated in the Visiting Artist Program since 2010 and will exhibit their arts including knitting, wool and cedar weaving, carving, drawing, and painting.
until December 2021
Ungasittuq – Something that is Far Away, is an exploration of distance, space, acceptance and pushing boundaries. The University of Victoria Legacy Art Galleries exhibition will showcase recent photographs by Barry Pottle that present a counterpoint and complement to sculpture, drawings, prints by Inuit artists to give a broader understanding of contemporary realities and experience. The exhibition aims to build a foundation for contemporary urban Inuit art photography within the broader, popular understanding of contemporary Inuit art.
November 6th, 13th & 20th 3pm-6pm
What a perfect way to spend a rainy day! Head to Merridale Cidery for some great food, delicious cider and great music!
November 12th – 14th
For this entire weekend, the McPherson Playhouse will be filled with the sounds of great jazz. With live music performances and one free-to-attend morning workshop by critically-acclaimed jazz artists, this is a must for jazz fans. Featured artists include: Marc Atkinson Trio and Michael Kaeshammer, Alex Cuba Band plus Miguelito Valdes, Diamond Cafe, and Halie Loren. This is the perfect event for anyone staying downtown Victoria as the playhouse is only a few minutes walk away!
November 26th 7:30pm
For over 25 years, the Victoria Chamber Orchestra has been bringing the breadth and magic of string orchestra repertoire to Victoria. This fall, the Victoria Chamber Orchestra, directed by Yariv Aloni is pleased to present a Baroque concert at First Metropolitan Church, which will include pieces from Albinoni, Vivaldi and Corelli.
November 6th & 7th 10am-4pm
They’re back for a third year! Come out to Spectrum High School to get a jumpstart on Christmas shopping, souvenirs or just treat yourself to some local artisanal wares! Just make sure to enter the raffle and donate a few shekels, all the money raised goes directly to the Spectrum Music Program!
November 7th 10am-3pm
Take a trip down to the Fernwood Community Association on the Lekwungen speaking Traditional Territory and support local Indigenous artists! Here you’ll find Indigenous art and beadwork, silverwork, cedar bark weaving, herbal botanicals, bannock, gemstone candles, artwork, stickers and prints, jewelry, herbal medicines and more!
November 27th 9am-2pm
One of the most popular markets in Victoria is back! Head over to the Cook Street Village Activity Center and discover one of the best places to do your holiday shopping! By supporting local vendors, you can cut down on waste and give gifts that are made with love, right here in Victoria.
November 27th 11am, 3pm and 7pm options
The long awaited return of the Cheese and Meat Festival is finally here! And it’s a perfect event for foodies in Victoria! Essentially, it’s a one-stop-shop (or taste) to allow attendees the opportunity to taste a large variety of local meats, cheeses, beverages and more! If you’d expect it on a charcuterie board, you’ll find it at this festival! “Our goal is to introduce guests to new products and exciting pairings that delight their taste buds.” – David Bain, Festival Founder
various events November 14th-20th
Have you ever wanted to learn more about wine in a fun, interactive setting? Then the Victoria International Wine Festival is for you. Featuring wines from all over the globe and showcasing different wine making techniques, you’ll have access to tastings, seminars, dinners and more! This is the perfect event for anyone staying downtown Victoria who can walk (carefully!) back afterward – simply purchase your tickets on the website and get ready for an evening to remember!
It’s officially October and with it comes longer nights, cooler temperatures and spooky season! It’s the perfect time to fill your calendar with fall events and scary celebrations to get out and about! With ghost walks, cocktail parties, Parisian songbirds and Frankenstein in Craigdarroch, Victoria has events to make your October fun and memorable!
Sun, Oct 17th, 2:00pm
While you’re enjoying all the stunning hiking and beach access you have during your stay near Sidney why not treat yourself to an evening with the moving music of Edith Piaf performed by the incomparable Edie Dapointe at the Mary Winspear theater? Prepare to be transported to the city of love during the roaring 20s with a live band and songs from Edith Piaf and the unique and glamorous Marlene Dietrich. Edie seamlessly transitions from songbird to storyteller to comedienne with incredible costumes, drama and humour.
call (250) 477-5713
If you are looking for a great way to spend a fall day, Galey Farms is a local favourite in Victoria! With an extensive corn maze, pumpkin patch, miniature train, hay rides, petting farm and farm market this hard working farm is a winner for kids of all ages!
Sat, Oct 23rd, 10:00am – 12:00pm
The weather is getting chilly and with the drop in temperature comes the dreaded flu season. In this event, you’ll learn how to take common kitchen ingredients and medicinal plants to treat and prevent common seasonal illnesses. You’ll leave with a handmade, herbal cough syrup, recipes that you can make yourself to try to keep your immune system strong all winter long.
sales end Oct 16th, event on Nov 27th
Right on the edge of the Upper Harbour in heritage downtown Victoria, this event showcases both international and local artisanal cheese, meats, liquor and so much more. If you love a good charcuterie board and are staying downtown Victoria, this event is just a walk away for you!
Sat, Oct 30th, 6:00pm – 8:30pm
One of the most anticipated events in Victoria is Art of the Cocktail, the annual fundraiser for the Victoria Film Festival. On this evening, guests don their very best, pop culture themed, cocktail wear to attend an evening to remember! Come and try unique cocktails made by the city’s best mixologists using the very best local and international liquor. During the evening you can try your hand at making your own cocktail, purchase some of your favourite spirits and nibble on the delightful hors d’oeuvres from local restaurants across the city.
all month 7:30pm departure
Victoria is a stunning city full of gardens, beautiful architecture and awe inspiring vistas but just beneath the polished surface lurks a history that is full of shocking stories and ghoulish characters. This hour-long walk is worth the trip whether you are staying in the Cowichan Valley, Sooke or right downtown Victoria and will take you to all the places that are said to be haunted in Victoria’s historic downtown. As you walk, your guide will tell you spooky stories that are all researched by local historians and it’s sure to give you some goosebumps!
Oct 16th – 17th and 21st – 31st, 6pm – 10pm
By day Galey Farms is an idyllic fall destination for family friendly fun, by night in October, this innocent farm becomes a creepy scene complete with cornfield of horror, ghost train and fortune teller. While this won’t satisfy those looking for a truly frightening experience, it’s a hoot and a half if you’re looking for something fun for the spooky season.
Sat, Oct 16th, 23rd & 30th, 6pm – 7pm or 8pm – 9pm
For a high class eerie event, you can’t go wrong with a live, one-man performance of Mary Shelly’s Frankenstein performed by the talented Jason Stevens. If Stevens’ wildly popular, one-man performance of A Christmas Carol is a litmus test, Frankenstein is going to be a show that you won’t want to miss!
Sat, Oct 30th, 12pm – 5pm
Book lovers beware! The quirky Avalon Books and Treasures in Market Square is hosting a spook-tacular Halloween sale on the 30th! Come on down to peruse the great book selection as well as an eclectic array of homeware, jewelry and gifts and stay for a tarot card or palmistry reading or you can even have a medium connect with the ghosts of your past!
Friday, Oct 8th – Sunday Oct 31st, 11pm
Calling all spooks, ghouls and thrill seekers! Wander through the dark labyrinthian hallways where props and actors charge out of the shadows to scare you silly! This truly terrifying haunted house at the University Heights theater is not for the faint of heart!
If you’re planning a trip to Victoria, British Columbia Canada, you’ve got to experience the abundance of outdoor activities available in this breathtaking city! With year-round opportunities for cycling, hiking, jogging, whale watching, kayaking, and more, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had. However, one water sport in particular has surged in popularity thanks to its ease of learning and versatility: paddle boarding! Paddle boarding in Victoria is a great way to spend a sunny day, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner. Thanks to a variety of excellent rental companies, idyllic weather, and calm, clear waters, Victoria’s shores offer an unbeatable paddle boarding experience.
Paddle boarding is when you stand on a large board called a stand up paddle board or SUP and propel yourself across the water’s surface using one oar, much like a canoe. SUPs can be inflatable, or hard fibreglass/epoxy with a long oar to allow you to reach the water while standing. As far as versatility goes, standing is the typical way to use and propel a paddle board, but you can comfortably sit or kneel on the board as well if standing seems like a dubious option. You’ll see a lot of families put kids on the SUP and take them for a little paddle, dogs are often spotted on these incredibly popular pleasure crafts and when you need to take a break, you can jump off your board for a quick dip, hop back on and relax in the sun until you’re ready to paddle again.
When you’re heading out for a day of summer paddle boarding, you’ll want to prepare with appropriate clothing. While our summers are rarely scorching, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun. A swimsuit layered under shorts and a t-shirt is recommended and if you have any UV protective, lightweight clothing that can be a good option. A wide brimmed hat and sunglasses are a must and make sure to lather up and bring along sport sunscreen of 30 spf or higher.
Because Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada, you can often spot some dedicated paddle boarders heading onto the water even as the temperatures drop. If this is something you want to try, you’ll have to be properly equipped! It is important to wear a wetsuit or drysuit, gloves, and hood to stay warm in case you fall in the water. Additionally, you should wear appropriate footwear that will keep your feet warm and provide good traction on the board. If you need some help finding the right equipment, go to MEC or Ocean River Sports and ask the helpful staff to kit you out.
No matter what time of year it is, you’ll want to make sure you bring a life jacket and take the extra step to check the conditions and forecast – local water recreation enthusiasts swear by Big Wave Dave.
There are lots of options for your next paddle boarding adventure. Whether it’s your first time out and you’re looking for lessons and a tour or if you’re already comfortable and are just looking for paddle board rentals for a solo adventure, these companies are our go-to for all of your paddle boarding needs!
2940 Jutland Rd #115, Victoria, BC V8T 5K6
Multiple locations
285 Kerwood St, Victoria, BC V9B 1A2
1327 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC V8S 2N4
Docks, 450 Swift St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S2
273 Richmond Ave, Victoria, BC V8S 3X9
6971 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1
If you’ve decided to set out on your own, there are lots of great places around Victoria for a day on your board. With both lakes and ocean to choose from, you really have so many option for a perfect paddle boarding adventure.
Gorge Waterway: Known simply as “The Gorge” to Victoria locals, this waterway is a narrow tidal inlet that connects Victoria Harbour to Portage Inlet and a walkable paddle boarding location for guests staying at an EMR property downtown Victoria. Here you can paddle past waterfront neighbourhoods, historic bridges, eelgrass meadows and massive kelp beds below the surface.
Inner Harbour: Located right downtown Victoria, this is a great place to adventure, but it’s important to make sure that the water traffic is low otherwise it can get a bit hairy! On slower days, paddling past all the downtown attractions provides a beautiful, new perspective on this heritage city.
Gonzales Bay: This beach is one of the most popular downtown beaches! Known for its soft white sand and warm shallows, this is also an incredible place to put in your paddle board. This sheltered cove offers incredibly calm waters and absolutely stunning ocean front homes set on the backdrop of Victoria’s signature ocean and mountain views.
Willows Beach: In one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Victoria is Willows Beach, a long sandy beach perfect to paddle board the length of if you’re a beginner and a great place to set off for an adventure if you want to venture a little farther.
Esquimalt Lagoon: With miles of stunning beachfront and a beautiful view of the Strait and the Olympic Mountains across the water, Esquimalt Lagoon is stunning. It’s also a great option for guests staying in Langford or those looking to avoid the often-crowded summer beaches in the downtown core
Tod Inlet: This historic, peaceful park is a beautiful place to explore by land or water and right on the shores of the Saanich Inlet. Gowlland Tod Park is gorgeous and densely forested, so this is a completely different paddling experience than the other urban sites listed.
Brentwood Bay: The sheltered waters of the bay offer calm conditions perfect for beginners to learn or for experienced paddle boarders to enjoy a leisurely paddle. The beautiful scenery of the bay and surrounding mountains make for a picturesque backdrop while exploring the bay’s many hidden coves and inlets.
Thetis Lake: One of the most popular lakes in the Victoria area, Thetis is a wonderful place to explore by paddle board when you’re staying in Victoria! Paddle boarding also gives you the advantage of a spot to swim from without having to compete for a highly coveted spot on the beach!
Langford Lake: The calm, warm waters of Langford Lake make it a great place for a paddle boarding adventure. The water is cool but isn’t as cold as the ocean and there are lots of shorefronts to explore as you paddle around.
Elk Lake & Beaver Lake: These lakes are uniquely joined with a narrow way between the two offering paddle boarders a uniquely large area to explore. This lake has numerous beaches and picnic areas, you’ll be able to paddle up for a bite and head back out for more exploring!
Matheson Lake: This stunning lake in Metchosin is a perfect place to go for a dip in a small lake, beat the summer heat and enjoy an easy-going day out paddling.
If you’re planning a trip to Victoria, British Columbia Canada, you’ve got to experience the abundance of outdoor activities available in this breathtaking city. With year-round opportunities for cycling, hiking, jogging, whale watching, kayaking, and more, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had. However, one water sport in particular has surged in popularity thanks to its ease of learning and versatility: paddleboarding. Victoria BC stands out as the top city for paddleboarding, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a complete beginner. Thanks to a variety of excellent rental companies, idyllic weather, and calm, clear waters, Victoria’s shores offer an unbeatable paddleboarding experience.
Paddleboarding is when you stand on a large board called a stand up paddleboard or SUP and propel yourself across the water’s surface using one oar, much like a canoe. SUPs can be inflatable, or hard fibreglass/epoxy with a long oar to allow you to reach the water while standing. As far as versatility goes, standing is the typical way to use and propel a paddleboard, but you can comfortably sit or kneel on the board as well if standing seems like a dubious option. You’ll see a lot of families put kids on the SUP and take them for a little paddle, dogs are often spotted on these incredibly popular pleasure crafts and when you need to take a break, you can jump off your board for a quick dip, hop back on and relax in the sun until you’re ready to paddle again.
Summer:
When you’re heading out for a day of summer paddleboarding, you’ll want to prepare with appropriate clothing. While our summers are rarely scorching, it’s important to protect yourself from the sun. A swimsuit layered under shorts and a t-shirt is recommended and if you have any UV protective, lightweight clothing that can be a good option. A wide brimmed hat and sunglasses are a must and make sure to lather up and bring along sport sunscreen of 30 spf or higher.
Winter:
Because Victoria has the mildest climate in Canada, you can often spot some dedicated paddleboarders heading onto the water even as the temperatures drop. If this is something you want to try, you’ll have to be properly equipped! It is important to wear a wetsuit or drysuit, gloves, and hood to stay warm in case you fall in the water. Additionally, you should wear appropriate footwear that will keep your feet warm and provide good traction on the board. If you need some help finding the right equipment, go to MEC or Ocean River Sports and ask the helpful staff to kit you out.
No matter what time of year it is, you’ll want to make sure you bring a life jacket and take the extra step to check the conditions and forecast – local water recreation enthusiasts swear by Big Wave Dave.
There are lots of options for your next paddleboarding adventure. Whether it’s your first time out and you’re looking for lessons and a tour or if you’re already comfortable and are just looking for paddleboard rentals for a solo adventure, these companies are our go-to for all of your paddleboarding needs!
Fairway Gorge Paddling Club: 2940 Jutland Rd #115, Victoria, BC V8T 5K6
Palli Palli: Multiple locations
Paddle ‘n’ Go: 285 Kerwood St, Victoria, BC V9B 1A2
Oak Bay Marina : 1327 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC V8S 2N4
Ocean River Sports: Docks, 450 Swift St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S2
South Island SUP: 273 Richmond Ave, Victoria, BC V8S 3X9
West Coast Outdoor Adventure: 6971 W Coast Rd, Sooke, BC V9Z 0V1
If you’ve decided to set out on your own, there are lots of great places around Victoria for a day on your board. With both lakes and ocean to choose from, you really have so many option for a perfect paddleboarding adventure.
Ocean:
Gorge Waterway: Known simply as “The Gorge” to Victoria locals, this waterway is a narrow tidal inlet that connects Victoria Harbour to Portage Inlet and a walkable paddleboarding location for guests staying at an EMR property downtown Victoria. Here you can paddle past waterfront neighbourhoods, historic bridges, eelgrass meadows and massive kelp beds below the surface.
Inner Harbour: Located right downtown Victoria, this is a great place to adventure, but it’s important to make sure that the water traffic is low otherwise it can get a bit hairy! On slower days, paddling past all the downtown attractions provides a beautiful, new perspective on this heritage city.
Gonzales Bay: This beach is one of the most popular downtown beaches! Known for its soft white sand and warm shallows, this is also an incredible place to put in your paddleboard. This sheltered cove offers incredibly calm waters and absolutely stunning ocean front homes set on the backdrop of Victoria’s signature ocean and mountain views.
Willows Beach: In one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in Victoria is Willows Beach, a long sandy beach perfect to paddleboard the length of if you’re a beginner and a great place to set off for an adventure if you want to venture a little farther.
Esquimalt Lagoon: With miles of stunning beachfront and a beautiful view of the Strait and the Olympic Mountains across the water, Esquimalt Lagoon is stunning. It’s also a great option for guests staying in Langford or those looking to avoid the often-crowded summer beaches in the downtown core
Tod Inlet: This historic, peaceful park is a beautiful place to explore by land or water and right on the shores of the Saanich Inlet. Gowlland Tod Park is gorgeous and densely forested, so this is a completely different paddling experience than the other urban sites listed.
Brentwood Bay: The sheltered waters of the bay offer calm conditions perfect for beginners to learn or for experienced paddleboarders to enjoy a leisurely paddle. The beautiful scenery of the bay and surrounding mountains make for a picturesque backdrop while exploring the bay’s many hidden coves and inlets.
Lakes:
Thetis Lake: One of the most popular lakes in the Victoria area, Thetis is a wonderful place to explore by paddleboard when you’re staying in Victoria! Paddleboarding also gives you the advantage of a spot to swim from without having to compete for a highly coveted spot on the beach!
Langford Lake: The calm, warm waters of Langford Lake make it a great place for a paddleboarding adventure. The water is cool but isn’t as cold as the ocean and there are lots of shorefronts to explore as you paddle around.
Elk Lake & Beaver Lake: These lakes are uniquely joined with a narrow way between the two offering paddleboarders a uniquely large area to explore. This lake has numerous beaches and picnic areas, you’ll be able to paddle up for a bite and head back out for more exploring!
Matheson Lake: This stunning lake in Metchosin is a perfect place to go for a dip in a small lake, beat the summer heat and enjoy an easy-going day out paddling.
