Pack up those cameras or cellphones, Victoria!
Before the summer reaches its inevitable end (I know, but someone had to say it), we wanted to give you anther bucket-list-worthy list of places to check out while it’s sunny!
The list will take you all over Vancouver Island, so make sure you have a map ready to mark down all of your favourites.
If you’re looking for some additional island beauty to spice up your adventures, check out our carefully selected, must-stop places to visit between Victoria and Tofino.
Without further ado, here’s nine truly incredible places in and around Victoria to spruce up your Instagram feed:
East Sooke Park
This loop offers both forest and coastal views, so you’ll get the best of both worlds and have plenty of opportunities to take some magnificent images.
Pack some water and snacks — this location is a popular hiking destination and is considered moderately challenging. There is some flexibility as you can choose between a vast selection of trails that differ in length.
Dogs are welcome on the trail but have to be kept on a leash while you wander!
Telegraph Cove
Known for its coastal, picturesque cabins and stunning inlets, this old fisherman’s village is something right out of a storybook.
Despite the town being quite small, there are a lot of activities to keep yourself occupied — including embarking on a whale watching expedition, going hiking in the surrounding area, check out their art gallery, and much more.
If you’re craving a quaint and inspirational adventure, Telegraph Cove is the place.
Fort Rodd Hill
Visiting Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse NHS is a nice and easy afternoon activity if you’re looking for something different and informative!
This National Historic Site is a 19th-century coastal artillery fort on the Colwood side of Esquimalt Harbour and the intentional preservation of the structures makes it a true time capsule.
Additionally, the Fisgard Lighthouse was the first lighthouse on the west coast of Canada!
Botanical Beach
Botanical Beach is home to an amazing natural phenomenon — carved from the rock and weathered smooth, these tidal pools are home to crabs, sea urchins, sea anemones, and more!
Located a little past the small town of Port Renfrew, you can check this incredible place out for yourself and count how many sea creatures you’re able to spot.
Stop by the Renfrew Pub on your way out to make it a well-rounded trip!
Sombrio Waterfall
Magical and extremely photogenic, this “hidden” waterfall is located just a short walk down Sombrio Beach’s shore and is absolutely worth seeing.
There’s a fairly noticeable path that winds you through some narrow openings in the trees and eventually it’ll lead you to the rocky bed with the waterfall just ahead.
There will most likely be other visitors coming in and out, so follow the crowd!
Strathcona Park: Buttle Lake
Strathcona Park is known for its jaw-dropping beauty and serene views, so don’t miss Buttle Lake on your next trip there!
This lake is located in Strathcona Regional District and is a popular camping spot as well other outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
If you plan on spending quite a bit of time near Buttle Lake, make sure to look up other trails in Strathcona Park as well!
Combers Beach Trail
If you’re hoping to work for that photographable reward, take the Combers Beach Trail near Ucluelet and Tofino!
You’ll travel through the forest of towering, beautiful trees and shrubbery and walk along the wooden boardwalks all the way to the beach.
There’s a sharp descent in parts (which means a nice steep uphill walk for the way back), so be prepared for that.
According to reviews, you may spot some sea lions while you’re there!
Fan Tan Alley
Downtown Victoria has plenty of gems sprinkled throughout the city, and Fan Tan Alley is definitely one worth mentioning.
Tucked between Fisgard and Johnson Street, this alleyway is the narrowest commercial street in North America and is packed with adorable and niche shops — including a quaint record shop, an umbrella store, a spiritual wellness store, and more.
If you’re spending the day downtown as a visitor or if you’re a local showing around a friend, don’t forget to bring them here!
Fisherman’s Wharf
Cute and colourful houses, artisan shops, delicious selections of seafood and other treats — what more could you need?
Spend the afternoon wandering the docks and ducking into shops to check out local pottery and jewelry, whale watching tour options, and eating to your hearts content.
Just remember that the houses are private property, so you may look but don’t touch.
To add to your jaunt out to Fisherman’s Wharf, take a water taxi from Victoria’s Inner Harbour right across from the Empress!
Did we miss somewhere you think might be in the running for the best spot to take a selfie? Let us know in the comments!
