I’ll admit it … good beaches are fairly subjective. Everyone has a different idea of what constitutes a ‘perfect beach’.
For me … it’s anywhere without a lot of other people. I don’t really mind if it’s sandy, rocky or pebbly as long as it’s quiet. For some people it’s simply a slice of sand where they can throw down a blanket and soak up the sun.
But … keep in mind … this is Victoria … not Hawaii. We’ve got a lot of beaches, (we are on an island after all!) but they tend to be smaller and less ‘touristy’ than you might be used to.
Having said that … here’s some options I think you’ll find pretty nice!
1. Willows Beach – Oak Bay
Nice Sandy beach with picnic facilities, change rooms & restrooms. Great for families and close to town.
2. Gyro Park – Cadboro Bay
A fairly long and sandy beach with restrooms, picnic area – also great for families.
3. Thetis Lake – View Royal
Nice lake for swimming, boating and laying in the sun. Restrooms and picnic areas, also hiking trails which are quite nice. Be forewarned tho … during the hot summer months this beach can be VERY busy – mostly with younger ‘less sedate’ (ahem) crowd!
4. Witty’s Lagoon – Metchosin
This is more my kind of beach! You have to drive a little ways out of town to get there … and there is a lovely walk down to the beach itself but I think it’s worth it! The walk goes past a waterfall (Sitting Lady Falls) and a lovely lagoon where you can often see migrating waterfowl. The beach is long with a mixture of rock/pebbles/sand. When the tide goes out it’s great for walking. Lovely views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca and the Olympic Peninsula beyond. There is restroom facilities and a picnic area.
5. Elk/Beaver Lake – Saanich
Two lakes in one really. There are 2 separate beach areas, one on either side of the lake. Lots of parking, restrooms, picnic areas and trails for walking when you’re finished sunbathing/swimming. There are also opportunities for kayaking/canoeing as well. A VERY nice area and not far from town!
Thanks for this. Very helpful. Just one question: what are restrooms? Is that like toilets/ washrooms or more like a picnic area?
Thanks
Yes, restrooms are washrooms/toilets. Seems like they’re called differently in different areas! Sorry for any confusion!