{"id":12062,"date":"2024-06-20T04:00:12","date_gmt":"2024-06-20T04:00:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/?p=12062"},"modified":"2024-12-23T20:32:38","modified_gmt":"2024-12-23T20:32:38","slug":"50-things-victoria-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.clippervacations.com\/magazine\/50-things-victoria-summer\/","title":{"rendered":"50 Things to do in Victoria, BC this Summer (2024)"},"content":{"rendered":"

After a loooonnng winter, our cherished PNW summer has arrived. And while Northwest natives have come to accept the fact that the sun doesn\u2019t truly show up until well into the season, it\u2019s those brilliant blue skies and peaks upon peaks filling the horizon that make it all worth the wait. To help you make the most of this amazing time of year, we\u2019ve created a list of 50 epic Victoria summer activities<\/a> to supercharge a season full of relaxation, exploration and new adventures.<\/p>\n

93 days. That\u2019s the duration of this summer and you better believe it\u2019s time to make every second count! Feeling a little pressure? <\/span>Whether you have your eye on a quick weekend getaway or a weeklong escape, grab a friend and hop aboard the Victoria Clipper ferry<\/a> for a scenic 2-hour and 45-minute ride to Victoria, BC and enjoy the season of sun!<\/p>\n

\"Skip
Skip the airport lines and driving by hopping aboard the Victoria Clipper ferry for a quick and easy cruise to Victoria.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

See the Sights: Quintessential Victoria<\/span><\/p>\n

1. The Butchart Gardens<\/strong><\/h2>\n

No matter the season, The Butchart Gardens<\/a><\/u> are sure to put on a show.\u00a0Insider tip, get your summer flower fix by enjoying a visit mid-week when the crowds are less!<\/p>\n

<\/figure>\n
\"Stroll
Stroll among vibrant blooms in the iconic Sunken Garden. Credit: The Butchart Gardens<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Returning with their summer entertainment series on the Concert Lawn, enjoy live music at The Butchart Gardens<\/a> among verdant trees and foliage starting at 8pm daily (excluding Saturdays) throughout July and August. Planning a Saturday visit? Settle in for live music beginning at 7pm, topped off with a spectacular firework display at 10pm.<\/p>\n

2. Tea at the Empress<\/strong><\/h2>\n

For more than 100 years, the Empress’ elegant Lobby Lounge\u00a0has been the<\/em> place to visit for an authentic British tea and pastry experience<\/u><\/a>. Choose from a selection of 21 of the finest loose leaf teas<\/a> paired with mouth-watering treats, and check this Victoria must-do off your list.<\/p>\n

3. Royal BC Museum<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Discover authentic artifacts and specimens from distant times and places displayed in the Royal BC Museum<\/a>\u2019s interactive exhibits. Slide back 4,500-5,000 years ago to the mysterious monuments and artifacts of the Stonehenge exhibit, now open through July 5, 2025, or stand next to grizzlies in a massive forest in the Natural History Museum.<\/p>\n

\"The
The Royal BC Museum is comprised of British Columbia’s natural and human history museum as well as the BC Provincial Archives.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

4. BC Parliament Buildings<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Overlooking Victoria\u2019s majestic Inner Harbour, the Parliament Buildings<\/a> are a 19th-century icon. Spend some time exploring the nearly block-long expanse of the Parliament Buildings to uncover details in the intricate architecture that you would\u2019ve missed from the street. (Have you spotted the ram fighting the buck?)<\/em> One of the finest commemorations of Canada\u2019s independence, there isn’t a better place to visit on Canada\u2019s birthday come July 1.<\/p>\n

\"Designed
Designed by Francis Rattenbury, the iconic Parliament Buildings are home to the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia. Credit: Destination BC<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

5. Johnson Street<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hit up Victoria\u2019s shopping mecca on LoJo (that\u2019s lower Johnson Street for the uninitiated)<\/em> to indulge in some serious, guilt-free shopping at the array of great boutiques and pick up some new threads. Or stage a Wes Anderson-inspired shoot outside the candy-colored storefronts in this unique part of the city.<\/p>\n

\"Pop
Pop into one of the many unique boutiques that line lower Johnson Street. Credit: Destination Greater Victoria<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

6. Abkhazi Gardens and Teahouse<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Created in 1946 by Prince and Princess Abkhazi, the Abkhazi gardens<\/a> are known for their majestic trees and dynamic, evolving plantings. Stay for lunch or afternoon tea<\/a> in the original home, where you\u2019ll feel like a personal guest of the Abkhazis.<\/p>\n

7. Pickle Boat \u201cBallet\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n

When the Victoria Harbour Ferries were originally brought to Victoria in 1990, the skippers were amazed at their maneuverability. Every Sunday from May to September and all weekend in July and August, these cheerful little boats put on a fascinating display<\/a> of beautifully choreographed sequences.<\/p>\n

\"Hop
Hop on one of Victoria\u2019s cute Harbour Ferries and zip across the Inner Harbour. Credit: Scott Meis<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

8. Miniature World<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Often called \u201cThe greatest little show on earth,” Miniature World<\/a> is a one-of-a-kind Victorian experience. The perfect activity for the young and young at heart, this quaint and quirky museum brings everything from historical battles to childhood fantasy lands come to life in miniature.<\/p>\n

9. Still Life<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Arguably one of Victoria\u2019s foremost fashion retailers, Still Life<\/a> has both \u201cfor him\u201d and \u201cfor her\u201d top-notch threads. Something of a local gem, the shop has been the city\u2019s source for emerging style for more than three decades, and features clothes curated from forward-thinking brands such as\u00a0Denmark\u2019s Minimum<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Discover the Past at Victoria\u2019s Numerous Historical Sites<\/span><\/p>\n

10. Historic Chinatown<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Canada\u2019s oldest Chinatown district<\/a> has plenty to see, we suggest exploring this colorful neighborhood by foot<\/a> on a historical walking tour. Duck under the immense Gate of Harmonious Interest, stroll down Fan Tan Alley, and discover a maze of courtyards and pathways. It’s easy to fill an entire summertime afternoon here exploring everything from theaters to shops to one-of-a-kind restaurants.<\/p>\n

\"Explore
Stroll among everything from the Gate of Harmonious Interest to historical buildings in Victoria\u2019s Chinatown. Photo: Kusum Basavaraju<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

11. Craigdarroch Castle<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Take a tour of this ornate Victorian castle<\/a>, built by the coal baron Robert Dunsmuir between 1887 and 1890, and immediately feel transported to a bygone area. Meander through the 39 rooms chock-full of rich, Victorian-era furnishings, vintage photographs, and some of the most beautiful stained glass in North America.<\/p>\n

12. Hatley Castle<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Originally a retirement resident for Victoria’s wealthy Dunsmuir family, the stunning Hatley Castle<\/a> is now a popular filming location for movies such as X-Men and Deadpool. Want a peek inside yourself? You\u2019re in luck! The castle is also the administrative center of Royal Roads University and offers daily tours to explore the lavish interior and notched battlements.<\/p>\n

13. Government House<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Built in 1860, the Government House<\/a><\/u> is the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia. Love gardening? Wander through the grounds\u2019 36 acres, which are divided into numerous zones according to plant life and garden style. If you need to give your feet a rest, swing by the seasonal tea house<\/a> for a steaming cup of herbal tea and pastries.<\/p>\n

14. Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Found at the edge of the Esquimalt Lagoon, this lighthouse<\/a><\/u> was the first on Canada\u2019s West Coast! Climb to the top floor of the building to soak in breathtaking views (on a clear day you can see all the way across the Strait of Juan de Fuca)<\/em> or scamper out to the red Adirondack chairs to snap a coastal selfie.<\/p>\n

\"Discover
Discover intriguing underground magazines and camouflaged searchlight emplacements built more than 100 years ago at Fisgard Lighthouse.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

15. Royal Theatre<\/strong><\/h2>\n

An opera house and concert hall designed in 1912, the theater<\/a> retains its original Rococo\/Renaissance Revival style d\u00e9cor. Browse the iconic venue’s calendar<\/a> to check their array of live performances, an excellent opportunity to peek inside one of Victoria\u2019s most opulent spaces. Just be sure to arrive a little extra early to take a stroll around the ornate, historic theater and grab a drink along the dark wood bar in the lobby!<\/p>\n

16.\u00a0Ann\u2019s Academy<\/strong><\/h2>\n

An icon from the mid-1800s, St. Ann\u2019s<\/a> is a historic treasure older than both The Empress Hotel and the Parliament Buildings. Take time to explore the cathedral, which boasts ornate gold-leaf detailing, original oil paintings, and other relics of the past. You may even stumble across a resident ghost or two!<\/p>\n

17. Emily Carr House<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Discover the birthplace of Emily Carr<\/a> and learn more about the painter and writer who was heavily inspired by the Indigenous peoples of the Pacific Northwest Coast. The childhood home of Victoria\u2019s celebrated artist, the sunny yellow home boasts enormous arched front windows and pillars framing the front door. Be sure to save time on your visit to explore the home\u2019s vibrant front yard. Packed with foliage and flora, the garden\u2019s hues echo the vivid color palettes of the artist herself.<\/p>\n

\"\"
Visit Emily Carr House for a look at how one of Canada\u2019s most celebrated artists and authors lived. Credit: Flickr user dronepicr<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

18. Christ Church Cathedral<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Looking like the work of a 14th-century Parisian architect, the Christ Church Cathedral<\/a> was built in 1929. Open daily for tours, the building\u2019s stone foundation is impressive both inside and out. (Inside tip: Walk the <\/em>church\u2019s unique, seven-circuit labyrinth<\/a><\/em> on their south lawn, which is said to help spark creativity, focus the mind and leave you feeling centered.)<\/em><\/p>\n

19. Gonzales Observatory<\/strong><\/h2>\n

After originally serving as a weather station for 75 years, the observatory now stands as a scenic heritage building in the Gonzales Hill Regional Park<\/a>. Around sunset, make the quick walk up to the top for incredible views of Victoria, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, Olympic Mountains, Sooke Hills, the Salish Sea and even the Victoria Clipper<\/a> as she cruises past!<\/p>\n

20. Mile \u201c0\u201d<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Located next to Beacon Hill Park, Mile \u201c0\u201d<\/a> of the Trans-Canada Highway marks the start of the 8,000 km (or 4,860 miles)<\/em> road spanning the breadth of Canada. The fourth longest highway in the world, it is the Canadian equivalent to America\u2019s Route 66 with many quirky roadside attractions along its sides.<\/p>\n

\"The
The official starting point to the longest highway in the world. Credit: Steve Vohgt<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

21. Trial Islands Lighthouse<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If you have a good eye, you might spot the iconic Trial Islands Lighthouse<\/a> off to the right as you cruise into the Inner Harbour aboard the Clipper. Once on land, the lighthouse is easily visible from Clover Point or Beacon Hill Park\u2019s waterfront. And in 2015, thanks to the work of the Oak Bay Heritage Foundation and vocal support from the public, the lighthouse was granted heritage status.<\/p>\n

22. James Bay Neighborhood
\n<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Exploring Victoria\u2019s downtown core is a must-do for first-time visitors. However, sometimes it\u2019s good to push beyond your familiar boundaries and discover a new location! Surrounded by water on three sides and with walkable pathways, the charming bedroom community of James Bay is an easy pick. Meander down Kingston and St. Lawrence Street, where more than a half dozen historic properties line the road. All of the homes boast storybook-like details, such as turrets, double chimneys, wraparound porches and spires.<\/p>\n

Soak in the Sights with Victoria\u2019s Popular Tours & Attractions<\/span><\/p>\n

23.\u00a0Victoria Butterfly Gardens<\/strong><\/h2>\n

About 30 minutes north of Victoria, the tropical jungle that is the Victoria Butterfly Gardens & Insectarium<\/a> is home to thousands of butterflies – some 70 species! Inside you\u2019ll also find lush gardens chock-full of carnivorous plants, frogs, koi fish, tortoises, large iguanas and free-flying birds. Pop into the insectarium and check out the social behavior of a leaf cutter ant colony as they maintain their habitat.<\/p>\n

\"Where
Where else can you get this close to butterflies? Discover new species and colors in the midst of this urban jungle. Credit: Victoria Butterfly Gardens<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

24. Indulge in a Perfect Libation<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If you have something to celebrate, or just want to treat yourself to something decadent, settle into a sumptuous booth at the Q at the Fairmont<\/a> and order up the gilded display known as the Last Train to Paris<\/a>. Accompanied by gold-dusted macarons and fresh strawberries, this Vevue Clicquot and Hennessy Paradis cocktail is presented with a full tray of custom gold plated cocktail equipment.<\/p>\n

25.\u00a0Cowichan Valley Wine Country Tour<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Unwind up island in the lush Cowichan Valley. Whether it\u2019s a romantic date escape or a girls\u2019 weekend getaway<\/u>, a visit to the valley\u2019s world-renowned vineyards<\/a><\/u> \u2014 paired with stops at awe-inspiring viewpoints along the way \u2014 is sure to leave you feeling refreshed.<\/p>\n

\"Taste
Taste some of Vancouver Island\u2019s finest wines at sprawling, scenic vineyards. Credit: Island Time Tours<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Fancy some live music? While you’re in the Valley, head north to Laketown Ranch and join the Sunfest Country Music Festival<\/a> August 1-4. Featuring artists from Keith Urban and Lee Brice to Canadian singer and songwriter Brian John Harwood, dig out your turquoise jewelry and favorite pair of boots for a celebratory weekend.<\/p>\n

Insider tip: Check out their shuttle schedule<\/a> departing from Cowichan Lake and downtown Victoria, for easy travel to and from the festival.\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

26. Victoria Bug Zoo<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Experience a microcosm of wonder at Victoria\u2019s Bug Zoo<\/a>, which is home to about 50 fascinating insects, arachnids and millipedes, including Canada\u2019s largest ant colony. Shatter your phobias and get hands-on with live walking sticks, praying mantis and glow-in-the-dark scorpions at this must-see miniature zoo.<\/p>\n

27.\u00a0Victoria Public Market at the Hudson<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Constructed in 1912, the Market<\/a> now features soaring concrete ceilings and is home to a coffee shop, hot yoga studio and, of course, local artisan tables and an acclaimed farmers market. Grab a hearty sandwich from Roast<\/a>, a sweet treat from The Chocolate Project<\/a>, and head over to Beacon Hill Park to enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the ocean.<\/p>\n

\"Feast
Feast on a variety of market-fresh berries. Credit: Destination Greater Victoria<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

From August 9-11, unwind after a day of shopping at the popular Phillips Backyard REVERB Music Festival<\/a>. Just a few blocks from the Market, enjoy a lineup of fantastic artist accompanied by Victoria’s most loved food trucks and sudsy sips.<\/p>\n

28. Victoria Food Trucks and Festivals<\/strong><\/h2>\n

If you need a quick snack break while exploring downtown Victoria, look no further than the city\u2019s army of delicious food trucks<\/a>. From sweet and savory waffles at the Wannawafel Cart<\/a> to a truly stellar array of tacos from Taco Justice<\/a>, we have a feeling you\u2019ll be tempted to try them all<\/em> while you\u2019re in town!<\/p>\n

Planning a visit early September? Savour mouthwatering ribs barbecued to perfection by pitmasters from all over the region, as the air fills with the aroma of smoky, sweet delights at this year’s Esquimalt Ribfest<\/a>. Join the community for a weekend of great food, live music and craft brews this September 6-8.<\/p>\n

29. Wharf Street<\/h2>\n

Just a few blocks over from the Victoria Bug Zoo and home to the infamous Canada sign, Wharf Street offers a plethora of exciting shops, restaurants and activities nestled amongst the waterside walkways.<\/p>\n

From August 9-10, join the community for the annual Dragon Boat Race Festival<\/a> featuring a main stage with live entertainment, boat races, local brews, and cultural and family activities!<\/p>\n

Grab a Kayak, Golf Club or Bike and Get Active!<\/span><\/p>\n

30. Kayak the Inner Harbour<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Experience the beauty of Victoria’s picturesque harbour with an intimate and unique kayaking tour<\/a>. Spend a relaxing day on the water as you paddle past ocean vistas, iconic landmarks, seaplanes, and spectacular sea life! During the tour, soak up the sun and learn about the historic waterfront from experienced guides all while enjoying the best view in the city.<\/p>\n

31.\u00a0Golfing<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Spend a gorgeous summer day putting your swing to the test on some of the island\u2019s finest links! Jutting rocks, roaring rivers, plus panoramic mountain and ocean views provide a jaw-dropping backdrop for the rustic Bear Mountain Golf Club & Academy<\/a>, located just outside of Victoria.<\/p>\n

32.\u00a0Zip Line Adventure<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Get your heart pumping as you whisk above the Sooke rainforest on an AdrenaLINE Zipline Adventure Tour<\/a>. Eight ziplines ranging from 150 to 1,000 feet long and up to 150 feet high will give you an adrenaline rush and offer a bird\u2019s-eye view of Vancouver Island\u2019s stunning mountain and ocean vistas.<\/p>\n

\"Fly
Fly past the treetops of Sooke\u2019s stunning old growth rainforest. Credit: Adrenaline<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

33.\u00a0Paddle Boarding<\/strong><\/h2>\n

See the city from the sea! Learn the basics of stand up paddle boarding in Victoria\u2019s Inner Harbour with a three-hour introductory course. Not only will you get a chance to strengthen your bond with your travel companions, but you\u2019ll also get a chance to soak in the natural beauty of British Columbia from its surrounding waters.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

34.\u00a0Bicycle Tour of Castles, Hoods & Legends<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Craving a little fresh air, fun and exercise? Get a look at Victoria\u2019s iconic landmarks from behind the handlebars of a trusty bicycle<\/a> on a two-hour guided tour through Chinatown, Beacon Hill and Cook Street Village.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Cruise
Cruise past the stunning Craigdarroch Castle. Credit: The Pedaler Bicycle Tours<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

35. Beacon Hill Wind & Kite Surfing<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Birds aren\u2019t the only thing in the air on a sunny Victoria day! Head to Beacon Hill\u2019s<\/a> waterfront and watch as adrenaline junkies take to the skies. Or venture down the road to blustery Clover Point<\/a>, where unparalleled views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca make for one heck of a kiteboarding spot.<\/p>\n

36. Mount Washington<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Located three hours up island, Mount Washington<\/a> is home to a beautiful mountaintop ski resort. After a day of hiking, head to the water for a seaside bike ride near Vancouver Island\u2019s famously crystal-clear waters.<\/p>\n

37. Dallas Road<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Take an opportunity to be one with nature and experience the scenic Dallas Road<\/a> on two wheels! Pedal along the southern end of Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca to soak in wraparound waterfront views. (Inside tip: Ride all the way to Clover Point to catch sight of massive waves crashing against the shore.)<\/em><\/p>\n

\"The
The smooth Dallas Road is the perfect place to catch a sunset. Credit: Destination Greater Victoria<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Hikes, Views and Photo-Ops: Explore the Island\u2019s Outdoor Offerings<\/span><\/p>\n

38.\u00a0Whale Watching<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Depart directly out of downtown Victoria on an exciting\u00a0Eagle Wing Whale Watching tour.<\/a> Glide through the waters of the Salish Sea on a luxury, semi-covered, catamaran or a zippy open speed boat while the knowledgeable naturalists onboard search for wildlife and give you valuable insights into these magnificent creatures. Cruise through the waters of the Gulf Islands and the Strait of Juan de Fuca and soak in phenomenal views as you watch orcas, humpbacks, sea lions and bald eagles splash and play in their natural habitat.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Orca
Orca whale watching season comes into full swing each summer around Victoria. Credit: Gary Sutton<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

39. Thetis Lake and Matheson Lake<\/strong><\/h2>\n

On a warm summer day, there\u2019s nothing<\/em> better than a refreshing dip in one of the region\u2019s many lakes<\/a>. Use Victoria as a home base and bike or bus your way to local favorites such as Thetis Lake<\/a> and Matheson Lake<\/a> and while away the day swimming in their cool blue waters.<\/p>\n

40. Kinsol Trestle<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Also known as the Koksilah River Trestle, the Kinsol Trestle<\/a> is a massive wooden railway trestle that spans the salmon-bearing Koksilah River north of Shawnigan Lake. One of the tallest free-standing rail trestles in the world, the 144-foot high structure serves up views of the region you have likely never seen before.<\/p>\n

\"Soak
Soak in breathtaking views as you pedal over this wooden railway trestle crossing the Koksilah River north of Shawnigan Lake. Credit: Dale Simonson<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

41. Mount Finlayson<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Enjoy the gorgeous ocean view atop the 4 km round-trip <\/a>trail<\/a> to the top of Mount Finlayson. Be sure to bring plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and use caution \u2013 this trail can get very steep!<\/p>\n

42. Breakwater at Ogden Point<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A spectacular walkway<\/a> jutting out about 800 meters from the shore, the colorful breakwater is our go-to spot for catching the perfect Victorian sunrise. Snap a seaside selfie at the end, and induce major FOMO (fear-of-missing-out)<\/em> from all your friends.<\/p>\n

\"Venture
Venture out on the breakwater for breathtaking vistas of the Harbor\u2019s calm waters. Credit: Brenna Ciummo<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

43. Mill Hill Regional Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n

One of Victoria\u2019s hidden gems, and located not too far outside of town, there is no better spot for a day hike than Mill Hill Regional Park<\/a>. Make the easy 200-meter climb to catch sight of meadows full of beautiful wildflowers as well as views of Esquimalt Harbour, downtown Victoria and the surrounding hill and mountains.<\/p>\n

44. Beacon Hill Children\u2019s Farm<\/strong><\/h2>\n

A farm in the middle of the city awaits within beautiful Beacon Hill Park<\/a>. Let the kiddos get up close and personal with pigs, donkeys, chickens and peacocks. Catch the \u201cRunning of the Goats\u201d<\/a> at 10:10 a.m. and 5:10 p.m. daily and witness a furry, bleating stampede underfoot!<\/p>\n

\"Little
Little ones can cuddle up with the friendly goats at Beacon Hill Park\u2019s Children\u2019s Farm. Credit: Destination Greater Victoria<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

45. Elk & Beaver Lake Regional Park<\/strong><\/h2>\n

In the summertime, the Saanich Peninsula is hard to beat. Just North of Victoria, Elk and Beaver Lake Regional Park<\/a> is a local favorite, where swimming, canoeing, kayaking and water skiing are all popular ways to cool off. Both spots have sandy beaches, perfect for relaxing in the shade or tanning in the island sun.<\/p>\n

46. Malahat Skywalk Tour<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Boasting incredible 360-degree views of islands, fjords, forests and mountains, ascend the 10-story spiral tower of Malahat Skywalk<\/a>. Just over 800 feet above sea level, discover the beauty of B.C. from new heights on a one-of-a-kind tour.<\/p>\n

\"Get
Get a bird’s-eye view of Vancouver Island. Credit: Malahat Skywalk<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

47.\u00a0Lone Tree Hill<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Boasting one of the best viewpoints on the island, Lone Tree Hill<\/a> offers spectacular vistas of the Malahat, the Highlands, downtown Victoria and the distant Olympic Mountains. As an added bonus, the hilltop is an excellent spot for bird watching \u2013 keep an eye out for bald eagles, ravens and turkey vultures riding the winds!<\/p>\n

48. Surfing Lessons<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Tofino\u2019s reputation for great surfing is known across the island, and the town caters to surf beginners with a handful of fantastic surf schools. A drive along North Tofino\u2019s Campbell Street should turn up more than a few options for getting you out into the swell.<\/p>\n

\"Tofino's
Tofino’s wild waves make for one of the best surfing locales on the West Coast. Credit: Michael Swan<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

49. Westsong Walkway<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Cross the Johnson Street Bridge and take the trail, just on the other side, to the beautiful Westsong Walkway<\/a> to the West Bay Marina. Soak up the views from across the Inner Harbour, then take a Harbour Ferry back if you want to give your feet a break for your return trip.<\/p>\n

50. Circle Tour<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Want to explore beyond Victoria\u2019s downtown core? Pick up a set of wheels at Budget downtown<\/a> and go for a scenic drive<\/a> along Vancouver Island\u2019s ultra-scenic country roads. Travel up the Malahat Highway (Hwy 1) toward Mill Bay, taking time to soak in the views along the way. Grab lunch dockside at Bridgeman\u2019s Bistro<\/a> before hopping on the Mill Bay Ferry across the Saanich Inlet.<\/p>\n

Once you\u2019re on the Saanich Peninsula, take Highway 17A to the Butterfly Gardens<\/a> at Keating Cross Road, and work your way back to Victoria, stopping by the farms on Oldfield Road.<\/p>\n

\"Take
Take time for a stop along the serene waters of Lake Cowichan on the Marine Circle Route. Credit: Dale Simonson<\/a><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Nestled on an island overflowing with outdoor activities, unique shops, award-winning gardens and impressive historical sites, Victoria is much more than the sum of its downtown core. Whether you are looking for fresh Northwest fare or a relaxing beachside stroll, there’s truly an adventure for everyone in Victoria.<\/p>\n

Do one, do them all\u2026whatever the case may be, we always want to hear from you and see your photos, so be sure to share on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter<\/a> or Instagram<\/a> using #ClipperVacations. Happy exploring!<\/p>\n

\"Book<\/a><\/p>\n

Featured image: Destination Greater Victoria\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

After a loooonnng winter, our cherished PNW summer cannot come soon enough. And while Northwest natives have come to accept the fact that the sun doesn\u2019t truly show up until well into the season, it\u2019s those brilliant blue skies and peaks upon peaks filling the horizon that make it all worth the wait.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":70,"featured_media":16551,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[64],"class_list":["post-12062","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-victoria","tag-adventure"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n50 Things to do in Victoria, BC this Summer (2024) |<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Hello summer! 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