Summer in Victoria, British Columbia is an experience like no other. With its temperate climate, coastal charm, and lush landscapes, Victoria comes alive with possibilities when the days grow longer and warmer. Whether you're craving nature, culture, food, or fitness, there’s something special waiting for you right outside your front door when your living at Boardwalk communities like Aspire, The Vue, or Aurora. Here’s an extended guide to help you soak up every sun-filled moment this season.
Wander the Waterfront
Victoria’s waterfront is the heart of summer activity. The Inner Harbour, ringed by historic buildings and vibrant energy, offers an ideal starting point for any summer day. Stroll along the seawall, stop for ice cream or a cold drink, and watch seaplanes land while street performers entertain passersby. The waterfront pathways connect you to Fisherman’s Wharf, where floating homes, fish-and-chip stands, and eco-tours offer a taste of seaside charm.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coast from the water. Paddle past seals lounging on rocks and take in views of the Olympic Mountains across the strait. Whale watching tours also depart from the harbour daily in the summer and offer the unforgettable chance to see orcas, humpbacks, and marine wildlife up close.
Experience Victoria’s Summer Events
Victoria’s summer calendar is stacked with outdoor festivals, cultural showcases, and family-friendly activities that make the city buzz with energy. Highlights for Summer 2025 include:
- Victoria Pride Festival (June 27 – July 7): A colourful celebration of love and inclusivity, the Pride Festival features a vibrant parade, live entertainment, drag performances, community markets, and all-ages events.
- Symphony in the Summer (July 25 – 27): The Victoria Symphony performs in scenic outdoor venues including Beacon Hill Park and the Legislature Lawn, offering an unforgettable musical experience beneath the open sky.
- Victoria Dragon Boat Festival (August 9 – 11): A cultural spectacle featuring athleticism, music, and traditional ceremonies, this festival transforms the Inner Harbour into a hub of excitement.
- Rifflandia Music Festival (August 30 – September 1): An eclectic music festival featuring artists from across genres, set across multiple stages and venues throughout the city.
- Butchart Gardens Fireworks (Saturday nights, June – August): Enjoy stunning floral displays during the day, and stay into the evening for a spectacular fireworks show set to music.
Get Active on Local Trails
Victoria is home to some of the most scenic trails in Canada, ideal for everything from leisurely strolls to serious cycling. The Galloping Goose Regional Trail, a former rail line turned multi-use path, stretches over 55 kilometers and connects Victoria to Sooke. The Lochside Trail also offers picturesque rides through farmland and coastal communities.
For more leisurely nature walks, head to Beacon Hill Park, where paved trails wind through manicured gardens, duck ponds, and rolling meadows. The park also features a petting zoo, playgrounds, and spectacular views from the hilltop lookout. Mount Douglas Park offers more of a challenge—with hiking trails that lead to panoramic ocean views at the summit.
Soak Up the Sun at the Beach
No summer is complete without a few beach days. Victoria offers a variety of stunning shorelines:
- Willows Beach: Ideal for swimming, relaxing, and picnicking under shady trees. Its shallow waters and sandy shoreline make it a popular choice for families.
- Spiral Beach: A rocky and dramatic coastline near Clover Point, this beach is known for sunsets, driftwood-strewn shorelines, and the soothing sound of waves crashing.
- Gonzales Beach: A local favourite for sunbathing and paddleboarding, nestled in a calm bay with spectacular views.
- Dallas Road Waterfront Trail: While not a beach in the traditional sense, the stretch along Dallas Road offers rocky coves, sea breezes, and unbeatable ocean views.
Bring a picnic, a book, and your flip-flops—then stay until the sun dips below the horizon.
Embrace Farm Fresh Living
Victoria is a paradise for market lovers, especially in summer. Moss Street Market (open Saturdays) features local produce, baked goods, handmade crafts, and live music in a welcoming community setting. The Esquimalt Farmers Market which operates om Thursdays, is another fantastic option, showcasing sustainable goods, organic produce, and local artists.
Many markets also host summer night editions with food trucks, craft beer gardens, and entertainment, turning a grocery run into a festive night out.
Enjoy Outdoor Dining and Patio Culture
Summer is patio season in Victoria, and the city’s restaurants embrace it with enthusiasm. From casual food trucks near the wharf to elegant waterfront dining at places like The Breakwater Cafe, Barb's Fish and Chips, or 10 Acres Commons, there’s no shortage of places to enjoy a meal or a drink outdoors.
Craft beer lovers will enjoy visiting local breweries like Driftwood Brewery, Phillips Brewing, and Hoyne Brewing, many of which have taprooms or outdoor seating.
Take a Day Trip
Victoria’s coastal location makes it easy to plan a scenic day trip. Hop a ferry to Salt Spring Island for artisan markets, cheese farms, and lavender fields. Or head west to Sooke Potholes Provincial Park, where freshwater pools and waterfalls create a refreshing escape from the city.
Other options include:
- Goldstream Provincial Park: Known for its lush rainforest trails and cascading waterfall.
- Sidney-by-the-Sea: A charming seaside town perfect for bookshop browsing, beach walking, and ice cream.
- The Malahat SkyWalk: A newer attraction offering a treetop walk and spiral lookout tower with incredible views.
Living in a Boardwalk community in Victoria places you at the center of one of Canada’s most beloved summer destinations. From sunlit parks and sandy beaches to vibrant festivals and fresh local food, life in BC comes alive in every direction. This summer, get outside, explore, and make memories that last well beyond the season.
Looking for more local tips? Follow us on social or visit bwalk.com to stay connected with your community.