Victoria, British Columbia, is a charming city on Vancouver Island that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, rich history, and modern amenities. As the capital of British Columbia, Victoria is known for its stunning Inner Harbour, beautiful gardens, and impressive architecture, including the iconic Fairmont Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings. Whether you’re interested in exploring downtown Victoria, relaxing in Beacon Hill Park, or venturing out to attractions like Butchart Gardens or the Royal British Columbia Museum, there are plenty of options for every type of traveler.
Our Pick of the Best Hotels
- 💎 Luxury Hotel: Fairmont Empress
- ✨ 5-Star: Fairholme Manor Inn
- 🏨 4-Star: Royal Scot Hotel & Suites
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Guest suites on Benvenuto
- 💸 Cheap: Legato Zen Suite by IRIS PROPERTIES!
- 🏢 Apartament: Harbour Walk Executive Condo
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: Abigail's Hotel
- 🏩 For Couples: The Craigmyle
When it comes to choosing the best place to stay in Victoria, visitors have a variety of neighborhoods and accommodations to consider. Downtown Victoria offers easy access to top attractions, restaurants, and shops, while areas like James Bay and Oak Bay provide a more relaxed atmosphere with beautiful ocean views. For those seeking luxury, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and the Fairmont Empress are top choices, while boutique hotels like the Magnolia Hotel and the Oswego Hotel offer unique experiences. No matter where you choose to stay, Victoria’s walkable layout and efficient public transportation make it easy to explore all that this charming city has to offer.
The Best Places to Stay: Quick Guide
- 🏙️ For first-time visitors, urban explorers, and culture enthusiasts: Downtown Victoria
- 🌊 For waterfront views, history buffs, and a quieter atmosphere: James Bay
- 🏖️ For upscale charm, beach lovers, and a village vibe: Oak Bay
- 🎨 For artistic vibes and community spirit: Fernwood
- 💰 For budget-friendly options and natural beauty: Esquimalt
- 🌳 For families and outdoor enthusiasts: Fairfield
- 🏰 For history lovers and tranquil surroundings: Rockland
- 🍷 For wine enthusiasts and rural scenery: Brentwood Bay
1. Downtown Victoria: Heart of British Columbia’s Capital 🏙️
🏛️ Historic Charm: Downtown Victoria exudes a captivating blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. Its streets are lined with well-preserved Victorian-era architecture, including the iconic Parliament Buildings and the Fairmont Empress Hotel. This area offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time while enjoying contemporary amenities.
🌊 Waterfront Beauty: The Inner Harbour is the crown jewel of downtown Victoria, offering breathtaking views and a bustling atmosphere. Visitors can watch seaplanes take off and land, enjoy street performances, or take a scenic boat tour. The harbor’s beauty is particularly enchanting at sunset, with the illuminated Parliament Buildings reflecting on the water.
🍽️ Culinary Paradise: Downtown Victoria boasts the highest number of restaurants per capita in Canada, making it a food lover’s dream. From farm-to-table establishments to international cuisines, the area offers a diverse range of dining experiences. Many restaurants feature locally sourced ingredients, showcasing the best of Vancouver Island’s produce and seafood.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Royal BC Museum: A world-class museum showcasing the natural and human history of British Columbia.
- Fairmont Empress Hotel: An iconic landmark offering traditional afternoon tea.
- Miniature World: A fascinating attraction featuring intricate miniature displays.
- Thunderbird Park: Home to a collection of totem poles and other First Nations art.
- Chinatown: The oldest in Canada, featuring the famous Fan Tan Alley.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Il Terrazzo: Upscale Italian cuisine in a romantic courtyard setting.
- Red Fish Blue Fish: Casual seafood served from a converted shipping container.
- Brasserie L’École: French bistro fare in a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
- Olo Restaurant: Farm-to-table cuisine focusing on local, seasonal ingredients.
- The Courtney Room: Modern Pacific Northwest cuisine in an elegant setting.
🚶♂️ Getting Around: Navigating downtown Victoria is a breeze due to its compact layout and pedestrian-friendly streets. Most attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other. For those who prefer not to walk, the city offers an efficient public bus system, as well as numerous bike rental options for eco-friendly exploration.
🏨 Where to Stay in Downtown Victoria
⭐Best Hotels in Downtown Victoria
- The Magnolia Hotel & Spa: A luxurious boutique hotel offering spacious rooms with flat-screen TVs and marble bathrooms. It features a spa, fitness center, and an on-site restaurant, all within walking distance of Victoria’s main attractions.
- Fairmont Empress: An iconic 5-star hotel overlooking Victoria’s Inner Harbour, featuring luxurious rooms, a full-service spa, indoor pool, and the famous Afternoon Tea service. This historic Châteauesque-styled building, opened in 1908, is considered one of Canada’s grand railway hotels.
- Hotel Grand Pacific: A 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms, an indoor pool, hot tub, and fitness center. Located near the Inner Harbour, it features on-site dining options and is within walking distance of major attractions.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- James Bay Inn Hotel, Suites & Cottage: A charming, affordable hotel in the James Bay neighborhood, offering comfortable rooms and suites, some with kitchenettes. It’s known for its heritage building and proximity to downtown attractions.
- The Embassy Inn: A moderately-priced hotel near the Parliament Buildings, offering clean and comfortable rooms, complimentary breakfast, and free parking. It’s well-located for exploring downtown Victoria on foot.
- Helm's Inn: A budget-friendly option offering studio suites with kitchenettes, located near Beacon Hill Park and within walking distance of downtown attractions. It provides good value for travelers looking for longer stays.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- The Vic, Ascend Hotel Collection: While not a traditional hostel, this budget-friendly hotel offers affordable rooms and a central location, making it popular with budget travelers.
- Strathcona Hotel: Located in the heart of downtown, this historic hotel offers budget-friendly rooms and on-site entertainment options including restaurants, bars, and a rooftop volleyball court.
- Pendray Inn and Tea House: A heritage inn offering a unique experience with Victorian-style rooms and a popular tea house. While not a hostel, it provides a charming alternative for budget-conscious travelers looking for character accommodation.
2. James Bay: Waterfront Charm and Historic Allure 🏜️
🏠 Quaint Neighborhoods: James Bay is characterized by its charming tree-lined streets and well-preserved heritage homes. This historic neighborhood offers a glimpse into Victoria’s past, with many houses dating back to the late 19th century. Walking through James Bay feels like stepping into a living museum of Victorian architecture.
🌊 Seaside Serenity: As Victoria’s oldest residential neighborhood, James Bay boasts stunning waterfront views and easy access to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls along Dallas Road, watch ships enter the harbor, or relax on one of the area’s beautiful beaches.
🏞️ Green Spaces: James Bay is home to several parks, including the expansive Beacon Hill Park. These green spaces offer a tranquil retreat from the bustle of downtown, perfect for picnics, bird watching, or simply enjoying nature in the heart of the city.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Fisherman’s Wharf: A colorful floating village with food kiosks and eco-tour operators.
- Emily Carr House: The childhood home of the famous Canadian artist.
- Ogden Point Breakwater: A long walkway extending into the sea, offering panoramic views.
- Beacon Hill Park: A 200-acre park featuring gardens, ponds, and a petting zoo.
- Legislative Assembly of British Columbia: Offers free guided tours of the impressive building.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Heron Rock Bistro: Casual fine dining with a focus on local ingredients.
- Breakwater Café & Bistro: Waterfront dining with stunning views.
- Fisherman’s Wharf Kiosks: Various food stalls offering fresh seafood and international cuisine.
- 10 Acres Bistro: Farm-to-table restaurant using produce from their own farm.
- James Bay Tea Room & Restaurant: Charming spot for traditional afternoon tea.
🚲 Getting Around: James Bay’s proximity to downtown makes it easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. The neighborhood is well-served by public transit, with frequent bus services connecting to other parts of Victoria. Many visitors enjoy renting bikes to explore the scenic waterfront paths and quiet residential streets.
🏨 Where to Stay in James Bay
⭐ Best Hotels in James Bay
- Royal Scot Hotel & Suites: A 4-star hotel offering spacious rooms and suites, an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and fitness center. Located near the Inner Harbour, it features Jonathan’s Restaurant and is within walking distance of major attractions. Popular for family stays, it provides a range of amenities and comfortable accommodations.
- Fisher House Victoria Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast offering comfortable rooms and delicious breakfasts. Known for its friendly host, Jen, who provides great dinner recommendations. The location is perfect for exploring Victoria, and guests appreciate the comfortable beds and rooms.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Pristine & Modern Parliament View Condo, James Bay, Gym, Parking.: A modern condo offering a comfortable stay with a view of the Parliament buildings. It features fully furnished interiors, a gym, and parking. The property is rated 4 out of 5 by Booking.com for its facilities, size, location, and services provided.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Ocean Island Garden Suites: While not a traditional hostel, this property offers affordable suites in Victoria. It provides a budget-friendly option for travelers looking for a more home-like atmosphere than a typical hostel.
3. Oak Bay: Upscale Charm and Coastal Beauty 🏺
🌸 Village Atmosphere: Oak Bay exudes a quaint, village-like charm with its tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and art galleries. This upscale neighborhood offers a more relaxed pace compared to downtown, perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat.
🏖️ Beach Paradise: Oak Bay boasts several beautiful beaches and coves, including Willows Beach and Gonzales Bay. These pristine shorelines offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains across the strait.
🏌️ Recreational Haven: The neighborhood is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with world-class golf courses, scenic walking trails, and opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding. The Oak Bay Marina is a hub for boating activities and whale watching tours.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Oak Bay Village: Charming shopping district with unique boutiques and cafes.
- Oak Bay Marina: Scenic marina with restaurants and eco-tour operators.
- Uplands Park: Natural park with rare Garry Oak ecosystem.
- Victoria Golf Club: One of the oldest golf courses in Canada with spectacular ocean views.
- Oak Bay Beach Hotel: Luxury hotel with mineral pools overlooking the ocean.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Vis-à-Vis: French-inspired buvette offering small plates and wine.
- The Snug Pub: Historic pub in the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.
- Penny Farthing Public House: Traditional British pub with a cozy atmosphere.
- Marina Restaurant: Upscale dining with panoramic ocean views.
- Ottavio Italian Bakery & Delicatessen: Gourmet deli and cafe.
🚗 Getting Around: While Oak Bay is slightly removed from downtown Victoria, it’s still easily accessible. Regular bus services connect the neighborhood to other parts of the city. Many visitors choose to rent a car for added flexibility, as parking is generally more available in Oak Bay compared to downtown. The area’s flat terrain also makes it ideal for cycling, with several bike rental options available.
🏨 Where to Stay in Oak Bay
⭐ Best Hotels in Oak Bay
- The Craigmyle: A charming bed and breakfast located near Craigdarroch Castle. It offers various room types including single, double, suite, family, and studio options. The property is 1.6 km from Victoria city center and provides amenities such as golf courses within 3 km. Check-in starts at 15:00 and check-out is until 11:30.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Amethyst Inn: A moderately priced accommodation option in Victoria. While specific details aren’t provided in the search results, it’s likely to offer comfortable rooms at a more affordable rate.
- Large Suite Fairfield Heritage Manor, Free Parking: A spacious suite located in a heritage manor in the Fairfield area. It offers free parking, which is a valuable amenity in Victoria.
- one bedroom suite near Hillside mall: A one-bedroom suite conveniently located near Hillside Mall. This option provides a more residential feel and is suitable for those who prefer apartment-style accommodations.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Sea Birds Cottage: While not a traditional hostel, this cottage offers a unique accommodation option that might appeal to budget-conscious travelers looking for a homey atmosphere.
4. Fernwood: Artistic Vibes and Community Spirit 🌊
🎨 Creative Hub: Fernwood is Victoria’s artistic heart, brimming with colorful murals, indie galleries, and creative spaces. This vibrant neighborhood attracts artists, musicians, and performers, creating a dynamic and eclectic atmosphere that’s palpable as you walk its streets.
🏘️ Community Focus: The sense of community in Fernwood is strong, centered around Fernwood Square. This gathering place hosts farmers’ markets, outdoor concerts, and community events, offering visitors a chance to experience local life and connect with residents.
🌿 Sustainable Living: Fernwood is at the forefront of Victoria’s sustainability movement. The neighborhood boasts community gardens, eco-friendly businesses, and initiatives promoting local food and sustainable living, making it an ideal spot for environmentally conscious travelers.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Belfry Theatre: A converted church now hosting cutting-edge performances.
- Fernwood Square: The neighborhood’s lively central hub.
- Fernwood Community Centre: Offers various activities and events.
- Little Fernwood Gallery: Showcases works by local artists.
- Fernwood Peace Garden: A tranquil spot for reflection and relaxation.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Stage Wine Bar: Intimate spot offering small plates and an extensive wine list.
- Fernwood Coffee Company: Local roastery and cafe with excellent brews.
- Parsonage Cafe: Charming cafe in a heritage building.
- The Fernwood Inn: Neighborhood pub with a great selection of local beers.
- Cold Comfort: Artisanal ice cream shop with unique flavors.
🚶♀️ Exploring the Area: Fernwood’s compact layout makes it ideal for on-foot exploration. The neighborhood is well-connected to downtown Victoria by regular bus services. Bike rentals are also popular, allowing visitors to easily navigate between Fernwood and other parts of the city while enjoying the scenic residential streets.
🏨 Where to Stay in Fernwood
⭐ Best Hotels in Fernwood
- The Craigmyle: A charming bed and breakfast located near Craigdarroch Castle. It offers various room types including single, double, suite, family, and studio options. The property is 1.6 km from Victoria city center and provides amenities such as golf courses within 3 km.
- Abigail's Hotel: A luxurious 5-star boutique hotel located at 906 McClure Street, just 3,100 feet from the center of Victoria. It offers double rooms and is known for its highly-rated American breakfast (guest review score: 9.8). Check-in is from 3:00 PM and check-out is until 11:00 AM.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- one bedroom: A one-bedroom accommodation option in Victoria, likely offering a more affordable and homey stay experience.
- Jukebox Oasis by IRIS PROPERTIES!: While specific details aren’t provided in the search results, this property likely offers a unique themed stay experience at a moderate price point.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Legato Zen Suite by IRIS PROPERTIES!: While not a traditional hostel, this suite offers accommodation for up to 5 guests with 2 bedrooms. Located at 1105 – 960 Yates St, it’s 650 m from Victoria’s city center. Amenities include a fitness center, hiking routes, and a children’s playground. Check-in is from 16:00 and check-out is until 10:00.
5. Esquimalt: Budget-Friendly Options and Natural Beauty 🏛️
💰 Affordable Accommodations: Esquimalt offers some of the most budget-friendly accommodations in Greater Victoria, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking to save on lodging without sacrificing proximity to downtown.
🌳 Natural Escapes: The neighborhood is home to numerous parks and green spaces, including the beautiful Gorge Waterway Park. These areas provide opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying nature without leaving the city.
🏛️ Naval Heritage: As the home of Canada’s Pacific Naval Fleet, Esquimalt has a rich maritime history. Visitors can explore this heritage at sites like the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Esquimalt Gorge Park: Scenic park with Japanese gardens and waterfront views.
- Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse: National Historic Sites offering insights into coastal defense.
- Macaulay Point Park: Former military fortification with walking trails and ocean views.
- CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum: Showcases the area’s naval history.
- Saxe Point Park: Waterfront park with stunning views of the Olympic Mountains.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub: Canada’s oldest brewpub with farm-to-table cuisine.
- Esquimalt Roasting Company: Local cafe with great coffee and light meals.
- Sushi Field: Popular spot for fresh, affordable sushi.
- Esquimalt Farmers Market: Seasonal market offering local produce and prepared foods.
- Yummy Pho: Authentic Vietnamese cuisine in a casual setting.
🚌 Navigating Esquimalt: The neighborhood is well-served by public transit, with frequent bus connections to downtown Victoria and other areas. Many visitors find cycling a pleasant way to explore Esquimalt and its surroundings, with several bike-friendly routes available. For those with a car, Esquimalt offers easier parking compared to more central areas of Victoria.
🏨 Where to Stay in Esquimalt
⭐ Best Hotels in Esquimalt
- The Vic, Ascend Hotel Collection: Located in Victoria, this hotel offers comfortable accommodations. While specific details aren’t provided in the search results, it’s likely to offer standard amenities and a convenient location for exploring Esquimalt and Victoria.
- Lipton Place by Elegant Waterfront: This waterfront property likely offers scenic views and a prime location. Specific details aren’t available in the search results, but it’s expected to provide a more upscale stay experience.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Victoria Gorge Waterway Vacation Home: A vacation home located near the Gorge Waterway. It’s rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 6 reviews. The property is situated at 2800 Inez Dr, Victoria, BC V9A 2J3, Canada, offering a home-like atmosphere for visitors.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Harbour Walk Executive Condo: While not a traditional hostel, this executive condo offers an alternative accommodation option. It’s worth noting that the search results show a similarly named property in San Pedro, CA, so confirm the exact location in Victoria before booking.
6. Fairfield: Family-Friendly Charm and Outdoor Delights 🏖️
👨👩👧👦 Family Appeal: Fairfield is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, with numerous parks, playgrounds, and safe, quiet streets. This residential neighborhood offers a perfect balance of urban amenities and suburban tranquility, making it ideal for families visiting Victoria.
🏞️ Natural Beauty: Home to the expansive Beacon Hill Park, Fairfield provides easy access to nature within the city. The neighborhood also boasts several beaches, including the popular Dallas Road waterfront, offering stunning views and outdoor recreational opportunities.
🏘️ Historic Charm: Fairfield features a mix of architectural styles, from grand Edwardian homes to charming craftsman bungalows. Walking through its tree-lined streets feels like stepping back in time, providing a glimpse into Victoria’s rich architectural heritage.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Beacon Hill Park: A 200-acre park with gardens, ponds, and a petting zoo.
- Dallas Road Waterfront: Scenic coastal pathway with breathtaking ocean views.
- Clover Point: Popular spot for kite flying and watching marine life.
- Ross Bay Cemetery: Historic cemetery with beautiful landscaping and ocean views.
- Government House: Official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Part and Parcel: Creative, locally-sourced small plates and craft cocktails.
- Cafe Brio: Upscale Italian cuisine with a focus on local ingredients.
- Pizzeria Prima Strada: Authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas.
- Bubby’s Kitchen: Family-friendly cafe with homestyle cooking.
- Abkhazi Garden Teahouse: Charming spot for afternoon tea in a beautiful garden setting.
🚲 Traversing Fairfield: The neighborhood’s flat terrain makes it perfect for cycling or walking. Many visitors enjoy renting bikes to explore the scenic Dallas Road waterfront path. Regular bus services connect Fairfield to downtown Victoria and other areas. For those with a car, street parking is generally more available than in the downtown core.
🏨 Where to Stay in Fairfield
⭐ Best Hotels in Fairfield
- Dashwood Manor Seaside Bed & Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located near the seaside in Fairfield. While specific details aren’t provided in the search results, it’s likely to offer comfortable rooms with scenic views and a cozy atmosphere.
- Beaconsfield Bed and Breakfast - Victoria: Another bed and breakfast option in the Fairfield area. It’s expected to provide a homey atmosphere and personalized service typical of B&Bs.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Large Suite Fairfield Heritage Manor, Free Parking: This spacious 1000 sq ft suite is located in a heritage manor in Fairfield. It offers a private entrance, free parking, and free WiFi. The property is non-smoking and is 1.5 km from Spiral Beach. It features 1 bedroom, a fully equipped kitchen, a washing machine, and 1 bathroom with a bath. The suite also has a patio and access to a garden.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Heritage Cook Street Suite: While not a traditional hostel, this suite offers an affordable accommodation option in the Fairfield area. Specific details aren’t provided in the search results, but it’s likely to offer basic amenities in a heritage building setting.
7. Rockland: Historic Grandeur and Tranquil Surroundings 🏝️
🏰 Architectural Splendor: Rockland is renowned for its impressive mansions and heritage homes, many dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This neighborhood offers a glimpse into Victoria’s opulent past, with stunning examples of various architectural styles.
🌳 Peaceful Retreat: Despite its proximity to downtown, Rockland maintains a serene, almost rural atmosphere. Its quiet streets and lush gardens provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city center.
🏛️ Cultural Attractions: Rockland is home to several significant cultural sites, including the famous Craigdarroch Castle and Government House. These attractions offer visitors insight into Victoria’s rich history and heritage.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Craigdarroch Castle: A Victorian-era mansion offering tours of its lavish interiors.
- Art Gallery of Greater Victoria: Housed in a heritage mansion with a diverse collection.
- Government House: Official residence of the Lieutenant Governor with beautiful gardens.
- Langham Court Theatre: Community theatre in a historic building.
- Rockland Walking Tour: Self-guided tour of the neighborhood’s architectural highlights.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Paprika Bistro: Cozy spot offering Hungarian and Mediterranean cuisine.
- Stage Wine Bar: Intimate restaurant known for its small plates and extensive wine list.
- Cafe Veneto: Charming Italian cafe with homemade pastries.
- Rockland Cafe: Local favorite for breakfast and lunch.
- Little Gem Grocery: Gourmet deli and cafe in a historic corner store.
🚶♂️ Exploring Rockland: The neighborhood’s hilly terrain offers beautiful views but can be challenging for some walkers. Many visitors choose to drive or take public transit when exploring Rockland. Regular bus services connect the area to downtown Victoria. For those who enjoy walking, the neighborhood’s quiet streets and beautiful homes make for pleasant strolls, especially in the spring when gardens are in bloom.
🏨 Where to Stay in Rockland
⭐ Best Hotels in Rockland
- Fairholme Manor Inn: A 5-star inn located at 638 Rockland Place, V8S 3R2 Victoria, Canada. It offers excellent service and is praised for its great location. The inn is 1.2 km from the nearest beach and 2.1 km from Victoria city center. Room types include suites and double rooms with one bed. Check-in starts at 16:00 and check-out is until 11:00.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- Abbeymoore Manor: While specific details aren’t provided in the search results, this manor likely offers a more affordable option for staying in the Rockland area, possibly with a bed and breakfast setup.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Prior Castle Inn: Although not a traditional hostel, this bed and breakfast offers an alternative accommodation option in Rockland. It’s likely to provide a more intimate and homey atmosphere compared to larger hotels.
8. Brentwood Bay: Rural Serenity 🏄
🍷 Wine Enthusiast’s Paradise: Brentwood Bay is the gateway to the Saanich Peninsula’s wine country. This area is home to several acclaimed wineries and vineyards, offering visitors the chance to sample local vintages and enjoy stunning vineyard views.
🌸 Botanical Beauty: The world-famous Butchart Gardens is located in Brentwood Bay, drawing visitors from around the globe with its meticulously manicured themed gardens and seasonal floral displays. This horticultural masterpiece is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
🛶 Waterfront Wonders: Situated on the Saanich Inlet, Brentwood Bay offers numerous water-based activities. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, or taking a scenic boat tour to observe local marine life, including seals and occasionally orcas.
🏛️ The Best Sights
- Butchart Gardens: 55 acres of stunning floral displays and themed gardens.
- Victoria Butterfly Gardens: Tropical indoor garden with free-flying butterflies and exotic birds.
- Church & State Wines: Award-winning winery offering tastings and tours.
- Gowlland Tod Provincial Park: Beautiful hiking trails with coastal views.
- Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa: Luxury resort with a full-service marina.
🍽️ The Best Places to Eat
- Dining Room at Brentwood Bay Resort: Upscale dining with waterfront views.
- Blue’s Bayou Cafe: Cajun and Creole cuisine in a unique setting.
- Zanzibar Cafe: Cozy spot for breakfast and lunch.
- Seahorses Cafe: Charming waterfront cafe with local fare.
- Mosi Bakery Cafe & Gelateria: Artisanal baked goods and gelato.
🚗 Venturing Around: Due to its more rural location, having a car is recommended for exploring Brentwood Bay and the surrounding Saanich Peninsula. However, there are bus services connecting the area to downtown Victoria, though they are less frequent than in more central neighborhoods. Many visitors enjoy cycling in this area, with several scenic routes available. For those staying at local resorts, shuttle services to major attractions are often provided.
🏨 Where to Stay in Brentwood Bay
⭐ Best Hotels in Brentwood Bay
- Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa: A luxurious resort and spa located in Brentwood Bay. While specific details aren’t provided in the search results, it’s likely to offer high-end amenities, comfortable accommodations, and spa services in a scenic setting.
🏨 Best Cheap/Moderate Hotels
- A Peaceful Suite Stay: This property offers a more affordable option for staying in Brentwood Bay. It likely provides a peaceful environment and basic amenities for a comfortable stay.
🛏️ Best Hostels
- Guest suites on Benvenuto: While not a traditional hostel, this property offers guest suites located at 1130 Benvenuto Avenue, V8M 1J6 Brentwood Bay. It’s situated 1.5 km from the center of Brentwood Bay. The property offers suite accommodations and check-in starts at 16:00, with check-out until 10:00. It’s part of the Genius program on Booking.com, which may offer discounts to eligible guests.
Where to Stay in Victoria BC
Victoria, BC, is a city that delights visitors with its diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique experience. From the vibrant cultural hub of Downtown Victoria to the serene and picturesque Brentwood Bay, there’s a perfect spot for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to the historic allure of James Bay, the artistic vibes of Fernwood, or the upscale charm of Oak Bay, Victoria’s neighborhoods provide a rich tapestry of experiences to explore. With its compact size and excellent transportation options, visitors can easily navigate the city and enjoy the best of what each area has to offer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Victoria, BC, for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, staying in Downtown Victoria is ideal due to its central location and proximity to major attractions like the Inner Harbour, Royal BC Museum, and Fairmont Empress Hotel. This area offers a vibrant mix of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.
Which neighborhood in Victoria is best for families?
Fairfield is a great choice for families, offering a safe, residential atmosphere with plenty of parks and recreational activities. Its proximity to Beacon Hill Park and the Dallas Road waterfront makes it perfect for outdoor family adventures.
Where can I find the best waterfront views in Victoria?
For stunning waterfront views, consider staying in James Bay or Oak Bay. Both neighborhoods offer beautiful coastal scenery and easy access to beaches and walking paths along the water.
What is the best time of year to visit Victoria, BC?
The summer months are the most popular time to visit Victoria, thanks to the pleasant weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. However, spring and fall also offer mild weather and fewer crowds, making them great times to explore the city.
How can I explore Victoria without a car?
Victoria is a very walkable city, especially in areas like Downtown Victoria and James Bay. The public bus system is efficient and connects all major neighborhoods. Additionally, bike rentals are widely available, providing an eco-friendly way to explore the city.
