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Cadboro Gyro Park: One of the World's Most Unique Playgrounds

We always knew that Cadboro Gyro Park was an extraordinary place. This 6-hectare oceanfront park is located just past Cadboro Bay village and is breathtaking in so many ways.

Cadborosaurus at Cadboro Gyro Park

Locally known as Gyro Park or the “octopus park”, it has always been the perfect place to let the kids and their imagination run wild. In November 2018 the secret was let out when Fodor’s Travel named it #10 on its 11 Unique Playgrounds Around the World list. We’re very proud to have made the list and invite you to come experience it for yourself.

This beloved destination offers a serene retreat for locals and tourists alike, boasting stunning views of the Salish Sea and a rich tapestry of natural beauty. However, what truly sets Cadboro Gyro Park apart is its whimsical connection to the legendary creature known as Cadborosaurus and the play fixtures that helped the playground earn this prestigious title.

The Legend of Cadborosaurus

One of the most intriguing aspects of Cadboro Gyro Park is its ties to the mythical creature known as Cadborosaurus, or "Caddy" for short. According to local legend, Caddy is a sea serpent-like creature said to inhabit the waters of the nearby Cadboro Bay. Descriptions of Caddy vary, with some accounts likening it to a long-necked reptile resembling a plesiosaur, while others describe it as a more serpentine creature with multiple humps.

While the existence of Cadborosaurus remains a subject of debate among scientists and skeptics, the creature has become an integral part of the cultural fabric of Cadboro Gyro Park. Legend has it that a sea serpent was sighted in the bay back in the 1930s and has been immortalized as a play apparatus in the park since the 1950’s.

This playful interpretation of the legendary creature adds an element of fantasy to the park's natural beauty, sparking the imagination of visitors of all ages. In addition to Caddy, children can slide down the tentacles of a giant cement octopus or all over the salmon.

Salmon cement play structure at Cadboro Gyro Park in Victoria BC

Octopus cement play structure at Cadboro Gyro Park in Victoria BC

A Haven of Tranquility

Cadboro Gyro Park is a haven of tranquility, inviting visitors to unwind amidst lush greenery and the soothing sounds of the ocean. Stretching along the scenic shoreline, the park features winding paths perfect for leisurely strolls, shaded picnic areas and vibrant flower beds that add bursts of color to the landscape. With ample space for recreation and relaxation, it's no wonder that Cadboro Gyro Park is a cherished gem in Victoria's crown.

Exploring Cadboro Gyro Park

In addition to the cement sea creatures, the park's playground offers hours of fun for young adventurers. Recent upgrades to the park and structures mean thousands more children will enjoy the area for years to come. Combine these wonderful and unique play pieces with a zipline, an accessible ship, shipwreck and swings and you better plan on a long visit because the kids aren’t going to want to leave!

Play equipment at Cadboro Gyro Park in Victoria BC

Cadboro Gyro Park is more than just a playground – there are some terrific amenities for all members of the family. If you appreciate a sandy log-strewn beach with unforgettable ocean and mountain views then you’re really going to enjoy your visit to Cadboro Gyro Park. And the perfect complement to a beachside playground is a picnic lunch. I love my picnic backpack for days like this. The one I got is no longer available but it is very similar to this one - there's an insulated section, dishes and cutlery and a picnic blanket. So handy!

The park features several picnic areas that can be reserved through Saanich’s park permit system or used on a first-come basis. You will be asked to relocate if you are using a table that has been reserved though. What I like about the reservation system is when you are planning a large family reunion, team party or corporate event, you can be assured that you will have enough seating for your entire group.

Other unique features of this beautiful park are outdoor tennis courts, a boat launch for non-motorized craft and a seasonal wheelchair accessible beach ramp.

Your furry friends are welcome in the park and on the beach between Sept 1 and April 30 and before 9 am between May 1 and August 31 and always on a leash within 10 metres of the playground.

Playful pup on the beach at Cadboro Gyro Park in Victoria BC

If you are travelling from a distance to this park, you’re going to appreciate plenty of free parking, washroom facilities and a water bottle fill up station.

Community Connections

Cadboro Gyro Park is more than just a scenic destination—it's a vibrant hub of community activity. Throughout the year, the park plays host to a variety of events and gatherings, from summer concerts and art festivals to picnics and family reunions. Whether it's a leisurely afternoon spent flying kites on the beach or an evening concert under the stars, Gyro Park brings people together, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie among residents and visitors alike.

Preserving Natural Beauty

As stewards of the environment, the community of Cadboro Bay is committed to preserving the natural beauty of the park for future generations to enjoy. Through conservation efforts and sustainable practices, local organizations work tirelessly to protect the park's delicate ecosystems and native wildlife habitats. By promoting environmental awareness and responsible stewardship, they ensure that Cadboro Gyro Park remains a pristine oasis for years to come.

Log-strewn sandy beach at Cadboro Gyro Park in Victoria BC

Cadboro Gyro Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty and community spirit, where the allure of the ocean meets the whimsy of local legend. From its tranquil gardens and sandy shores to its playful nods to the mythical creature Cadborosaurus, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy. So pack your picnic basket, grab your beach towel and prepare to experience the magic of Cadboro Gyro Park firsthand. Who knows? You might even catch a glimpse of Cadborosaurus lurking in the depths of the lagoon.