Say what you will about the ubiquitous selfie photos dominating your social feed, but we’ve all taken them at one point or another. Whether it’s a simple cell phone snapshot, the notorious “selfie-stick” or timer mode on a professional camera, when there’s no one around (and no one looking), there’s nothing as practical as the humble selfie.
In Victoria, there’s a surplus of prime locales for photo ops, which showcase everything from the area’s natural beauty to historic landmarks. Go ahead and make your way to one (or all 10) of these epic selfie spots and snap a quick one!
The Parliament Buildings
Nothing says Victoria quite like the Parliament Buildings. This statuesque landmark is first on our list for obvious reasons. Historic building in the background? Check. Flowers in the foreground? Check. Regal expression with a hint of eyebrow lift? You’re killing it.
Ogden Point
Impressive any time of the day, Ogden Point is sure to induce major FOMO with all your friends come sundown. Position your phone just right and you’ll capture those golden rays as they form a halo behind you, Salish waters lapping the breakwater on either side.
Fisherman’s Wharf
With dozens of quaint houseboats sporting bright pastel paint jobs, Fisherman’s Wharf is begging for some Insta action. It’s not uncommon to come across seals from time to time, and everyone knows a seal selfie tops them all.
Drinking Tea
It’s no secret Victoria is home to plenty of tea rooms, so there’s certain to be one up your alley. Plop down for a sumptuous sip and mug with your cuppa at the Fairmont Empress Afternoon Tea. Or, if modern and minimal is your preferred look, Terroir’s Tea Salon is sure to impress with its New York café interior and fancy Steampunk tea brewers.
On Top of a Mountain
Though not technically in Victoria proper, nearby hikes on Mount Douglas or Mill Hill Park will prove worthy of some downright breathtaking views of the island from above. Just make sure to drink water and bring sunscreen if you go on a warm day. Rosy cheeks are in, but sunburn? Not so much.
In a Kayak
While this shot isn’t for butterfingers, a selfie on a kayak can be supremely rewarding. Paddle out into the Inner Harbour aboard a sunset kayak tour, unzip that plastic bag, and for a few sweet moments you’ll feel on top of the world.
Surrounded by Flowers
There are entire Instagram feeds dedicated to flowers, and why shouldn’t there be? They’re pretty much proven to beautify any scene. Snap a selfie with some vibrant roses at The Butchart Gardens (NOTE: Selfie sticks are banned from The Gardens), along winding pathways at Abkhazi or underneath one of hundreds of hanging baskets in downtown Victoria.
With the Real Locals!
Imagine spotting a pod of orcas on the Salish Sea: big plumbs of mist burst from their blowholes just yards from your boat. It’s enough to feel…over-whalemed! In the heat of the moment, don’t forget to grab a few snaps before they dive back under. With several options for whale watching in Victoria, you can plan a time that works with your busy selfie schedule.
In Canada’s Narrowest Street
Fan Tan Alley. At less than a meter wide, it’s difficult not to rub your shoulders on either side, never mind pose for the perfect photo. Nevertheless, we’ve seen some impressive selfies born here, especially from those with Spiderman-like wall scaling abilities.
With Victoria Behind You!
As you board the Clipper to return home, nothing caps off the entire adventure quite like a shot of downtown Victoria and the Inner Harbour taken right from the deck of the boat. Sea breeze in your hair, the setting sun and a grin across your face, it’s basically a free glamour shot, courtesy of yours truly.
With your memory card full of all the memories (and goofy expressions) from a journey you’ll never forget, you’ll have plenty of photos to choose from to share when you return. We’ll bet you’ll be planning your next trip almost as soon as you’re back. Just don’t be surprised if a couple of extra friends tag along.
Clipper Recommends:
- Want to really test your selfie skills? Sign up for a stand up paddling tour of the Inner Harbour! Though this one will certainly test your balance, it’s also the most fun you’ll have on out on the water.
- Take a selfie with a mammoth! Head to the Royal BC Museum and explore exciting exhibits like the Natural History Gallery as well as rotating exhibits and other fascinating artifacts.