Beaches Near Victoria
Victoria, British Columbia, is famous for its stunning coastline and breathtaking views of the Olympic Mountains. Sitting right at the southern tip of Vancouver Island, this charming city has amazing ocean views in three different locations!
Look to the north and you’ll spot the Gulf Islands, including Salt Spring. Turn a bit to the east, and you’ll catch sight of the distant volcanic peak of Mt Baker with the surrounding mainland's mountain ranges. The most iconic views are to the south, though, where the mountains stretch across the horizon.
This just means there are more places to enjoy here, but don’t forget to check out some of the popular beaches when you visit Victoria. Actually, Victorians are spoiled for choice when it comes to places to cool off. But, beware— swimming is usually reserved for the brave! The warmest water temperature is in August with an average of around 52.7F (11.5C). The coldest month is February with an average water temperature of 45.1F (7.3C).
Our Top Picks for the Best Beaches Near Victoria
As you’ve probably realized, Victoria’s geographical position creates ideal beach-going conditions: if it's windy or rough on one side, just head to the other to find calm water. If the winds shift, no worries! Most of the beaches within the city are a short drive from one another. Here are 4 top picks for travelers who are looking for ideas on how to spend their next beach day:
1. Willows Beach
Willows Beach, nestled in the Oak Bay area, is one of Victoria's most family-friendly beaches. It offers a long stretch of soft, white sand great for sunbathing and building sandcastles. For children, there's plenty to do, from playing on the sandy shores to exploring the nearby Gyro Park, which has a playground and picnic tables. The beach’s calm, shallow waters make it perfect for swimming, especially for younger kids or those looking for a gentle dip in the ocean.
For adults, Willows Beach offers a peaceful spot for relaxation. You can also enjoy stunning views of Mount Baker and the Olympic Mountains on clear days. It’s also a popular spot for picnicking, with plenty of open spaces to lay out a blanket and enjoy a meal in the sun.
Getting to Willows Beach from the center is a breeze, whether you’re driving or taking public transit. It’s just a 10-minute drive with parking available, though it can fill up during the busy summer months. If you prefer biking, you’ll also find bike racks right at the beach!
Some of the features there include washrooms, changing rooms, and a small stand for grabbing snacks or ice cream. If you’re looking for more active adventures, this beach is perfect for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Besides, you can often spot locals paddling along the coastline. Maybe you can even trade them a much-needed snack to a free paddle round once they’ve worked up an appetite!
2. Gonzales Beach
Gonzales Beach is a hidden gem in Victoria that gives you a more laid-back and secluded vibe compared to some of the busier beaches in the area. Tucked away between Gonzales Bay and Crescent Road, this beach has a mix of soft sand and rocky areas. Its sheltered location means calm waters, perfect for swimming or paddleboarding.
Adults can soak stunning views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and Olympic Mountains, especially during the spectacular sunsets this beach is famous for. One of Gonzales Beach’s unique features is its sea glass. If you’re a collector, this is the best beach in Victoria to find these colorful treasures washed up on the shore.
If you’re traveling with your little ones, Gonzales Beach is a great spot for a day out. Though smaller than some other beaches, its gentle waves make it safe for kids to play. The beach is just a short drive or bike ride from downtown Victoria, with street parking along Crescent Road. The parking is free and can fit up to 50 cars. That said, it can be challenging to find a spot during peak times, so you may want to arrive early.
Though Gonzales Beach doesn’t have a lot of amenities like food stands or playgrounds, it does offer public washrooms and outdoor showers to rinse off after a swim. Before heading out, you can store your extra stuff at a nearby luggage storage facility, without lugging it across the beach.
3. Spiral Beach
Spiral Beach is a small beach near Clover Point along the scenic Dallas Road walkway. It’s very easy to get here and it takes only about a 10-minute drive from downtown Victoria. The beach is known for its artistic vibe and rugged beauty, which is why it attracts a mix of locals, families, dog walkers, and anyone looking to enjoy the interesting coastal views.
The beach's shoreline is dotted with driftwood, which creates natural seating areas for visitors to relax, take in the ocean breeze, and watch the waves crash against the rocks. Bear in mind that the beach isn’t wheelchair accessible because of its steep steps and rocky terrain.
Spiral Beach is especially popular with the local youth and artists, thanks to the driftwood and rocks that serve as a canvas for improvised art installations. Since there are no formal amenities like washrooms or food stands, you should bring your own supplies like water and snacks, and be prepared for a more natural, off-the-grid experience.
4. Steve Fonyo Beach
Steve Fonyo Beach is a small spot located along Dallas Road. This beach is pretty quiet, making it ideal for a low-key day by the water. With sandy and rocky areas, it’s perfect for a casual stroll or exploring tide pools along the shoreline. Plus, the beach is close to Clover Point, a popular viewpoint and park with great views of the Juan de Fuca Strait.
You’ll find convenient parking along Dallas Road, and it’s just a short walk away from the beach via a short walk. If you plan to explore both the beach and park, think about storing your picnic supplies or extra bags in a nearby luggage storage location, so you can enjoy both spots without being weighed down.
Getting to Steve Fonyo Beach from downtown Victoria is straightforward, either by car or on foot. It's less than a 10-minute drive or a pleasant stroll along Dallas Road. There aren’t a ton of amenities at the beach itself, but since it’s close to Victoria, you’re never far from food, drinks, or other services.
Planning Tips for Your Beach Day
No matter which of Victoria’s beaches you visit, these few tips will help you have the best time of your life:
- Parking: Some beaches have parking lots, but they can fill up quickly during peak times. Make sure to come early in the morning or use public transportation.
- Weather: Victoria can get warm during the summer, but the water is still quite cool. If you’re planning to swim, be prepared for refreshing (and sometimes chilly) waters.
- More Places to Visit: Additional nearby spots worth visiting include Cook Street near Dallas Road and beautiful sandy spots like Island View Beach and Cordova Bay. Don’t miss Cadboro Bay, where you can check out the famous Sea Serpent sculpture.
- Luggage Storage: If you’re planning a busy day with multiple stops, or simply don’t want to carry all your beach gear around, luggage storage services can be a game changer. Drop off your extra bags and enjoy your beach day without the hassle of carrying everything. Check the available storage spots you can use in Victoria!