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Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
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Coastal Sights and Adventures

The stunning coastal scenery of Victoria is the perfect setting in which to enjoy a wide range of adventures and experiences including; exhilarating marine activities, the luxury of a world-class spa, a breathtaking journey on a vintage train or a drive or cycle along the awe-inspiring Scenic Marine Drive. Here are some itinerary suggestions that lead from Victoria’s Inner Harbour all the way to Sidney on the tip of the Saanich Peninsula:

Maritime Museum of BC
Housed in an 1889 heritage building, this museum features more than 5,000 artifacts. Exhibits include the Vice Admiralty’s Courtroom, Passenger Travel Gallery, and the First Floor Gallery.

Spas
Victoria has several luxurious spas that offer full and part day packages.

Fishing Charters
Fresh and saltwater fishing charters are available. Points of departure include the Inner Harbour and marinas in and near Victoria.

Harbour Tours
Take a tour of Victoria’s Inner Harbour and the Gorge Waterway. Stops can include Fisherman’s Wharf and other key points on a circle route. Harbour ferry “ballets” take place on Sunday mornings in the summer in the Inner Harbour.

Sailing Tours
Sail along the spectacular coastline and to the Gulf Islands. The islands offer some of the most spectacular scenery and favoured sailing conditions in the world.

Scenic Marine Drive
Dallas Road becomes Beach Drive and leads past the municipality of Oak Bay (shops, restaurants, pubs), the Oak Bay Marina (restaurants, charters), Willows Beach (public access, parking available), the stately homes of Uplands residential district, and through to Cordova Bay.

Royal BC Museum
A world-renowned museum at Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

Whale Watching
Victoria’s biggest attractions are the approximately 100 awe-inspiring resident killer whales that inhabit the offshore waters. Several whale and wildlife watching companies operate throughout Victoria and offer tours to see these magnificent creatures in their natural environment. A variety of boat types are available.

Diving
The waters of Vancouver Island are world-renowned among divers. Guided tours, lessons, and equipment rentals are available.

Kayaking Excursions
A number of operators offer guided kayaking tours and equipment rentals from the Inner Harbour and other points in Victoria. Tours can be adapted for any level of ability.

Cycling
One of the most popular ways to tour the city. Cycling tours and equipment rentals for groups are available and there are several routes of varying lengths to choose from. The Galloping Goose Trail is particularly recommended and is accessible at several points along the way connecting Sidney, Saanich, and Sooke. Other excellent routes are found in Oak Bay, the Cowichan Valley, and the Gulf Islands.

Cordova Bay
One of the city’s most desirable neighbourhoods, valued for its rural beauty and views of Haro Strait. Highlights include a charming collection of galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Saanich to Sidney
From the Scenic Marine Drive, continue through the neighbourhoods of Saanich toward Sidney, which is known for its beautiful marinas, waterfront walkways, great shopping and dining. Sidney attractions include: the Sidney Marine Mammal Museum, Sidney Historical Museum, Marine Ecology Centre and Heritage Acres, which features antique farming equipment. Just offshore, Sidney Spit Marine Park is an island park popular with birdwatchers, beachcombers and picnickers; passenger-only ferry service is offered from mid-May through October. Marine adventures include sailing, whale watching, kayak tours, and harbour cruises. Accommodations are available in Sidney.


Some motor coach restrictions apply to this route, please refer to our online  Motorcoach Guide for details. For more information about these and other interesting products see our  Adventure Operators and Attractions sections in our Things To Do area of our site.







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