Six Must See Neighbourhoods in Victoria, BC
Like people, the neighbourhoods of Victoria, BC offers a sense of individuality and flair all their own. The invisible boundaries create varied vibes and styles. There’s Funky Fernwood, upscale Oak Bay, and the iconic Downtown. Whether you’re looking to relocate, or simply to visit, here’s what you should know about these four must-see neighbourhoods in Victoria, BC.
Fernwood
With its atmosphere described by some as ‘funky’, Fernwood is an incredible walkable community. Home to over 60 historic buildings including Vic High – the oldest public high school in Western Canada, the community blends urban with old. Its town square, located on Gladstone and Fernwood Ave is an entertainment hub that’s flanked by the Belfry Theater, The Fernwood Pub, Stage Wine Bar, and the Little June Cafe.
Oak Bay
Arguably Victoria’s most prestigious communities, Oak Bay is ‘the place to be’. Nestled along the waterfront and streets lined by mature trees, Oak Bay is home to the member’s only Victoria Golf Club, the Oak Bay Marina, the stately and luxurious Oak Bay Beach Hotel and the palatial residences of The Uplands. The hub of this community is easily defined by ‘The Avenue’ – a vibrant village created by the numerous boutiques, galleries, cafes and restaurants lining Oak Bay Avenue.
Vic West
Previously known as ‘the other side of the bridge’, Vic West is akin to Vancouver’s Yaletown. Completely transformed in the last two decades, contemporary condominiums stretch into the sky in the previously vacant land. Connected to the downtown core via the modern and spectacular Johnson Street Bridge, Vic West offers cafes (like Caffee Fantastico), modern condos (at Bayview Place, Dockside Green and The Railyards), trendy restaurants (like Boom & Batten & Browns Crafthouse) in this highly sought after locale.
Downtown
Picturesque is the best way to describe Victoria’s downtown. Anchored by the Inner Harbour, horse-drawn carriages traverse the streets, while float planes taxi for take-off and landing. On the water are water-taxis, the Coho ferry, paddleboarders and kayakers. And, in only a few blocks are the newly renovated Empress Hotel and the stately British Columbia legislative buildings. Downtown is walkable, incredibly bike-friendly, and is home to an abundance of boutiques, cafes, restaurants, fitness, and more.
Sidney
A 40-minute drive from downtown Victoria, (and a great cycling destination) Sidney by the Sea is a small sea-side community home to art, culture, activities and plenty of food. A mix of retirees and visitors, Sidney is bustling most times throughout the year. In Sidney, you can satisfy your cravings with a visit to Maria Souvlaki or Sabhai Thai. Consider walking along Beacon Avenue or popping into the Sidney Museum, Tanner’s Books, and Laroche Fine Art Gallery. Walk the pier and the waterfront walkway, and, for a visit to an island, take a ferry over to Sidney spit.
Sooke
Picturesque and everything West Coast, Sooke, only a one-hour drive from downtown Victoria, offers hiking, fishing charters, beaches, cafes, and breweries. Sooke is nestled into a harbour offering stunning vistas and a rejuvenating landscape. It’s home to the Sooke Harbour House, renowned as one of the top Island Resorts and features the highly coveted Sooke Harbour House Kitchen, a truly 5-star experience. Visitors and residents enjoy an abundance of parks like the Sooke Potholes or East Sooke Regional Park. And, curating phenomenal beer (and providing a great tasting tour) is the Sooke Brewing Company, Bad Dog Brewing, and Sooke Oceanside Brewery.
For all your yacht provisioning call our concierge desk at 778-432-0477. If you’re looking for a superyacht marina we accept 65′ to 180′ vessels. Phone or book online to reserve your slip or book the ultimate yacht Rendezvous.
