Oak Bay Scenic Walk 

Distance: approximately 5 km

Welcome to Oak Bay, one of Greater Victoria’s 11 municipalities. Oak Bay has been a municipality for 92 years and, in the words of the famous architect and one-time Oak Bay councillor, Francis Mawson Rattenbury, "I think the Oak Bay district is one of the most lovely residential areas I have ever seen…" To assist in maintaining the beauty and charm of the area, the community has limited its growth. Thirty years ago, the population was just over 18,000 and today it remains at 18,340. Oak Bay is renowned for its well-designed homes, beautiful gardens, beaches and parks.

Oak Bay is named for the Garry oak tree, the single oak species native to Western Canada, which grows almost exclusively on southern Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. The huge old trees are prevalent along Beach Drive, through the Uplands and Cadboro Bay residential areas. Some of the local trees are at least 400 years old and have grown to 33.5 metres in height. The Garry oak is a protected species.

Start at Monterey and Beach Drive (by the Scenic Drive intersection at Beach Drive and King George Terrace) and walk north along Beach Drive. You will pass through the Victoria Golf Club, which lies on either side of the street. The oldest golf club in Canada, the Victoria Golf Club was established in 1893. Enjoy beautiful views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca to Washington State and the Olympic Mountains.

Just past the golf course, you will reach the lovely Tudor-style, Oak Bay Beach Hotel and Marine Resort, at 1175 Beach Drive. The original hotel opened in 1927, built by Major William Merston. The venture was short-lived, as the entire building burned to the ground in 1929. It was rebuilt to the original design in 1930 and has been open for business ever since. Stroll through the beautiful hotel gardens or stop for afternoon tea. The Oak Bay Beach Hotel offers many services and houses the oldest traditional English pub in Victoria.

Continue north along Beach Drive to the Oak Bay Marina, at 1327 Beach Drive. Follow the path to the marked Turkey Head Walkway, which takes you along the water to the docks at the marina. Visit the seals and enjoy the scenery. The Marina Restaurant specializes in fresh seafood, sushi and features a fabulous wine list. For a light lunch, try the Café Deli downstairs.

From Beach Drive, turn left and stay on Windsor Avenue for one block, then turn right on Newport. Newport will lead you to Oak Bay Avenue and the Oak Bay Village for unique shopping, antique hunting and perhaps afternoon tea at any one of the quaint tea rooms.

Continue down Oak Bay Avenue and turn left on Monterey to return to Beach Drive.