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Victoria BC Vacation: Essential Recreation and Entertainment Experiences

Planning your Victoria BC vacation can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Of course we have iconic bucket list experiences such as whale watching and the world-renowned Butchart Gardens but there is so much more to see and do. Where do you start? Well you're in a great place right now.

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Whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, let me help you create lasting memories during your time in Victoria. I created this page as a hub for the main attractions, beaches, parks, festivals, events and activities the region has to offer. Click on the links below to get started planning your Victoria BC vacation.

Attractions and Activities

Find 40+ things to see and do in Greater Victoria here.

Water Adventure Activities

Explore Victoria by Kayak - find the best spots, tour operators and where to rent gear

Stand up paddler near Clover Point in Victoria

Rent the gear or join a guided stand up paddle boarding tour in Victoria. Learn more here.

Kiteboarders enjoying a day on the water

Learn to Kite board or take hydrofoiling lessons in Victoria and Southern Vancouver Island.

Windsurfers enjoying an exhilarating sport

Windsurfing in Victoria - find great local spots to get out on the water

Whale watching tour kiosk in Victoria BC

Whale watching - get with nature on a whale and wildlife excursion

Find even more great things to do on the water - like fishing charters, sailing, freediving and more!

Sports Entertainment

Canada's women's rugby team acknowledging fans

Sports Entertainment - a summary page of Victoria's diverse and plentiful sports entertainment options

Outdoor Activities

Find some of most popular day hikes here.
Victoria is a walker's paradise. Find 5 of the best places to walk that are flat and easy,
With many designated bike paths around town, cycling can be enjoyed by all members of the family. Find popular bike tours here.
Find places for bird watching
Want to enjoy a round or two of golf? We have plenty of options to choose from. Learn more about golfing in Victoria here.
Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride.
Experience an exhiliarating outdoor adventure at Wildplay Elements Park

Beaches and Parks

Review this summary page to find the best beaches and parks in Greater Victoria.

Enjoying the natural beauty of Goldstream Provincial Park

Experience a magnificent example of natural beauty just minutes from Victoria at Goldstream Provincial Park. Read more here.

Octopus play structure at Cadboro-Gyro Park

Cadboro-Gyro Park has been named "One of the World's Most Unique Playgrounds". If you're travelling with kids, this is a place worth visiting. Read more here.

Esquimalt Lagoon: an ideal spot for a picnic lunch, day at the beach or some off-leash fun for your fur friend. And then there's some really cool beach art! Read more here.

Beacon Hill Park: Over 200 acres of natural beauty, landscaped gardens, children's petting zoo and adventure spaces await you just steps from the downtown core. Read more here.

Victoria BC Vacation Options for Families and Couples

Horse-drawn carriage ride in Victoria BC

Victoria has been recognized as one of the most romantic cities in Canada. Find 8 Relaxing Things for Couples To Do.

Tandem kayakers enjoying a day on the water

If you want to explore Victoria in an active way, be sure to check these ideas of 7 Romantic Ideas for Couples Who Love Adventure.

Cement whale play structure at Cadboro-Gyro Park

Keeping the kids happy while on vacation is paramount. Discover 14 Fun Things for Kids to Do in Victoria.

Salmon fishing off the coast of Victoria BC

Best Teens Entertainment Ideas in Victoria - keep boredom away with these age-appropriate activities.

Romantic Vacation Ideas for Foodies - mix and match these ideas to ensure your Victoria getaway is unforgettable.

Visit some of the historical churches in Victoria.

Original art at Sean Schuster Fine Art Gallery in Victoria BC

View awe-inspiring art in all mediums at local galleries and museums.

Festivals and Events

Orange Ford Deuce on display at Northwest Deuce Days Festival in Victoria BC

Northwest Deuce Days: Happening every three years in downtown Victoria, this festival draws thousands of visitors from around the world and hundreds of vintage Ford Deuces. Next Deuce Days is scheduled for 2025.

Esquimalt Ribfest: Saucy, Smokey, Divine Goodness! Read more about Ribfest and other annual festivals and events here.

Moss Street Paint-in. Photo Credit: The Times Colonist

Moss Street Paint-In - an outdoor artistic event unlike any other! Read more here.

Discover our curated guide to all the local festivals and events here.

19+ Entertainment Ideas

Adult Entertainment for gambling, smoking and alcohol-related activities

Victoria Casino: Gambling, Food and Live Entertainment. Read more here.

Discover the breweries, distilleries & cideries of Greater Victoria

Guided Tours

Guided tours are an awesome way to learn some interesting facts, maybe a bit of history and experience Victoria through the eyes of a local. Whether it is a walking tour through downtown, a coastal bicycle tour, a food and drink tour or one of the dozens of other ways to experience Victoria, we've got friendly, knowledgeable local guides with tours designed to suit all travellers. Find all local tours here.

Victoria, BC is a city bursting with diverse attractions and activities, catering to all interests and ages. Whether you're drawn to the stunning natural beauty of the gardens and coastline, fascinated by the rich history and culture, or seeking adventure in outdoor pursuits, Victoria has it all. Explore charming neighbourhoods, immerse yourself in local arts and cuisine, or simply unwind in the tranquil surroundings. With so much to see and do, Victoria promises an unforgettable experience for every visitor. I love my city and hope that it shows. I’m very passionate about showing you how special your Victoria BC vacation can be. Plan your visit today and discover why Victoria, BC is a destination like no other.