Breakwater, Victoria

At Ogden Point, the Breakwater separates and protects Victoria’s inner Harbour from the Pacific Ocean.  This kilometer long Unity Wall decorated with Aboriginal art provides breathtaking views of the ocean, the wildlife and one of Canada’s best dive spots (so I am told).  At the end of the pier sits a light house which leads the way into the Harbour. Be cautious of this walk on windy days.  The breakwater can seem narrow with multiple walkers and does not have a guard rail.  On the day I made the walk the waves were calm but the wind prevented me from sitting on the bench at the end of the pier and watching the ocean liners and cruise ships.  Before you head out for your walk have an ice cream at the cafe. I did!

Willows Beach, Victoria

In Oak Bay, Willows beach is just a few minutes by bus or car from downtown Victoria.  It is a peaceful break from all the action of downtown Victoria that is well worth the commute.  Parking is available but it is a limited resource. A sandy beach borders the ocean with a boardwalk separating it from a park and children’s playground.  Lots of park benches line the boardwalk that make it an ideal spot for dog walkers or beachcombers. Afternoon tea and snacks are available at the Kiwanis tea room as well as washrooms and a change area.  Don’t forget to check out the walking trails leading to Cattle Point. Although this is a windy spot, lots of benches are available to sit and watch the waves without being blown away.  Willows beach is one of my favorite places in Victoria.  I hope you love it as much as I do.

Tofino

Tofino is not just for surfer dudes! What a beautiful place but, an expensive one.  There are lots of grocery stores, beaches, hiking and camp grounds that can help the pocket book.  Be sure to use them. I was there over the course of a weekend.  We drove in in the sunshine and left in heavy thick fog (we couldn’t even see the water at Long Beach).  Be sure to check the weather before you go because the drive into Tofino is a curvy one. There are daily bus runs with Greyhound and TofinoBus from Victoria. I got out kayaking while there.  We circumnavigated Stubbs Island in Clayoquot sound.  We were lucky that the wind was calm but, the tides were high.  Be cautious.

Parksville, Vancouver Island

This breathtaking spot is a short drive from Victoria and well worth it! The glorious views of the snow capped mountains in the background of a sandy beach setting are to die for. You feel like you were transported to another Country.  Not minutes outside of  Victoria. While we were there (end of July) we had a chance to take in the sandcastle festival.  Except for a small donation request, this event is free to view. Teams from all over the world compete in this annual competition. The creations will take your breath away.  They are true works of art. It is amazing what some people are able to create out of sand. If I only had the skill and imagination!

Cadoboro Bay, Victoria

I headed out kayaking from the Caroboro Bay a few times.  When the wind is gusting this is a tricky bay to maneuver.  Beyond the Bay, the tides and currents are powerful so always stick with a buddy. However, even if you are not into kayaking it is a gorgeous window into the waters that line Victoria with a sandy beaches that provide lots of suntanning and reading options.  The cottages, homes and yacht clubs that line the bay are insights into how the rich and famous live. There are lots of playing area for kids (with equipment) and picnic tables and often a soccer or baseball match going on.  Good washroom facilities (no showers) are available here.  At times Caroboro Bay is a student hangout. Especially on warm days in September.

Goldsteam Park, Victoria

An hours bus ride from the city, this park is a natural wonder that should not be missed. It is full of mature trees that are rich in character and lots hiking trails.  This park is a popular campground with a calm flowing river around it.  Caution should be used if you are heading on the Mt. Finalyson trail.  It is a steep, slippery and rugged climb (so I am told). I spent my time checking out the Goldstream falls. It was beautiful. My profile picture is taken at Goldstream Park. Check it out.

Quallicum Beach, Vancouver Island

What a magical and tranquil beach. Whether you are into sunbathing, surfing, kayaking, wading, castle building or people watching this is the spot for you! Quallicum Beach offer lots of beach area to play or park benches to watch the waves crash in. I caution you to bring your sunnies and hat.  When the sun reflects off the water, this is a sunny beach. Although they are limited, parking and public bathrooms are available.  There are also lots of refreshments, boat and chair rental vendors along the strip.  This beach is sure to have something for everyone.

Stanley Park

Stanley Park is an urban oasis with lots of recreational options.  One side looks out into English Bay, other side shows great views of Vancouver’s skyline. The perimeter of the park is lined with the Seawall and offers biking, walking and roller blading on a cement pathway.  There are lots of playing fields for soccer, frisbee, rugby, cricket or whatever your heart desires. Be sure to check out the totem polls and nine o’clock gun. There is lots to see and do here without paying the admittance fee for the aquarium and miniature train (both expensive and overpriced in my opinion). If you time your visit for July, check out the fireworks display Celebration of Lights. It’s worth it!

Sombrio Beach, Victoria

Sombrio Beach provided me with one of the best sunsets I have ever seen!! Accessible by hiking in from the car park or the Juan de Fuca Trail, this is a great camping spot.  Complete with hidden waterfalls, this sandy beach is steps from the water. The park offers washroom (no shower) facilities. It is best to get there early in the day if you want the best camp spot and privacy. Make sure your tent is high enough that the tides don’t wash you away!

Jericho Beach, Vancouver

What a great retreat without having to leave the city.  Although my visit was late in the summer and it was too cold to swim (although some crazies were), the sun was shining and I was able to lay back, suntan and read while admiring the amazing views of English Bay, Stanley Park, Lions Gate Bridge and the Vancouver Harbour.  I was joined by lots of dog walkers, sandcastle building families and traveling musicians.  Since the park caters to sailboats, windsurfers and kayakers, there is lots of boat traffic to watch.  At the east section of the beach, there are washrooms and a food outlet (that was closed when I went).

Botanical Beach, Victoria

This is a natural vision of the power and beauty of the West Coast that shouldn’t be missed.  It is a natural playground for all ages. Be sure to visit Botanical Beach at low tide and check out the marine life that this beach is known for.  Bring your boots and stomp through the puddles as you view tide pools with brightly coloured marine animals (starfish, sea urchins, muscles, sea cucumbers).  Or stare in awe (like I did) at the power of the ocean crashing in.

Mount Douglas, Victoria

With amazing view of Victoria Harbour and city, Mount Douglas is a view of paradise and the water surrounding it.  Although it is a steep climb up the back (the training place of many athletes) there is a winding road leading to the top and view point with parking.  If you look closely you can see the cruise ships in the Harbour. If you are headed to the peak, check out the beaches along the inner trails.  There are many breathtaking spots to catch some rays and listen to the waves crashing in. 

Quarry Rock, North Vancouver

From the bus loop in the centre of Deep Cove, the Quarry Rock trail is a short walk down panorama drive.  This family friendly (suitable for people and dogs of all ages) easy grade trail starts with steep stairs but is a gradual incline through wooded retreats that opens up onto Quarry Rock and one of the best views of Deep Cove, North Vancouver, and Burrard Inlet. The 2 hour hike is full of natural pathways that have very little root or rock cover. The day I went, you needed a light jacket to shield you from the bugs and the light rain and a dog friendly attitude. Reward yourself after with well deserved ice cream (or donut stop at Honey’s).  Be sure to check out this free natural wonder!

Stawamus Chief, Squamish

This hike is full of lots of stairs, steep rock climbs, ladder and rope climbing.  If I had known it was one of the hardest climbs in Vancouver, I might have thought twice.  Very glad I did it though! Amazing views over looking Howe Sound and Squamish and a real sense of accomplishment.  The Chief
has three peaks.  I went to the first (and closest) one.  Although you are in the trees for a lot of the climb, still make sure your shoes have good tread!

Steveston

A short skitrain and bus ride away from Richmond, Steveston is a quaint fishing village with lots of character and great ice cream shops.  One could sit for hours watching the boats leaving the harbour and looking in it’s unique shops. I highly recommend you head to Steveston to walk along it short boardwalk and enjoy its great fish and chips.  Just watch out for the diving sea gulls.

Grouse Grind, North Vancouver

This is a steep 1.5 hour average climb with lots of stairs.  I was panting, along with lots of others! Make sure you bring lots of water!! The view of North Vancouver and Burrard Inlet from the top is beautiful though and worth the climb.  You can grab lunch or a coffee (at the pricey cafe) at the top or take the inexpensive gondola ride down.  Yes, there is a lift down. Hikers cannot go down the trail.  The only way down is the gondola. Before you head down make sure you take in the bears and ride the chair lift to the top of Grouse Mountain (all for free).

White Rock

It was a journey on transit but worth the trip.  Enjoying a ice cream on pier was just what the doctor ordered.  There are lots of hiking trails there or you can just walk on the boardwalk and enjoy the art vendors that line the sides. When I was there I was amazed with two guys making and photographing rock sculptures with the water and setting sun as the back drop. The homes are beautiful and worth seeing.  Stare at how the wealthy live in the million dollar homes that line the coast. (Just don’t drool!)

Lynn Canyon Park & Suspension Bridge, North Vancouver

This free alternative to Capilano Suspension Bridge is just a short bus ride from Lonsdale Quay and well worth the effort! Once you cross the Suspension Bridge you are transported into the peaceful trees with only the sound of chirping birds around.  There are lots of hiking opportunities in this tranquil forest.   The calm flowing river below the bridge presents lots of wading opportunities. Take off your boots and soak them in the refreshing water. I did!  Be cautious of the large stair case if you want to hike past the river.

Deep Cove, North Vancouver

Accessible by bus from Phibbs Exchange, Deep Cove presents majestic views of Burrard Inlet.  I rented a kayak for the day and headed upstream.  You don’t have to. From the land, Deep Cove is not a spot to miss!

While paddling amongst the seals I could get over how the mountains feel so close you can touch them. Just don’t make the mistake I did; check the tides!!! The day that I went the water level changed 14 feet with the tides.  On the return paddle we couldn’t see our
lunch spot. It felt like you were paddling into a VERY strong headwind!

Lighthouse Park, West Vancouver

Take a bus from Lonsdale Quay or drive to this breathtaking park.  It provides amazing view of English Bay, downtown Vancouver, Stanley Park and the lighthouse.  I spend hours watching the ships and boats come into the harbour.  Bring a lunch and stay for awhile. There are picnic tables or lots of areas to lay down a blanket. Time it right and you can watch the sun setting over English Bay.  It is a great spot to take in the wonders of BC.  Just watch the tides.  When I was there a couple couldn’t get across the rocks without going for a swim.