Guest contributor: Clipper Vacations

Spectacular sun-filled days, blue skies, trees filled with fluffy, cotton candy-like cherry blossoms… the long-awaited days of spring have finally returned! Why not start a new tradition with your gals this year? Whisk yourselves away on a fun-filled adventure to BC’s capital city with a quick and easy ride on the Victoria Clipper.

If soaking in the springtime island vibes with your besties sounds like a surefire win, then check out these 10 ideas and plan that Victoria girls’ getaway you’ve been talking about for ages!

1. Cozy up in the Victoria Clipper’s Vista Class

Why drive when you can walk to another country? Kick off your carefree weekend with ease on the newer, smoother, spacious Victoria Clipper V vessel. The light-filled interior and wide walkways provide an irresistible sense of freedom and relaxation. 

Pro tip: Spoil yourselves even further with Clipper’s brand new Vista Class. Cozy up in the private cabin on the vessel’s upper deck while relaxing in comfy leather seats. Soak in incredible Pacific Northwest views from the vessel’s expansive windows while snacking on complimentary treats and espresso.

Image: Clipper V at Victoria’s Inner Harbour

2. Take a Bite out of BC’s Capital City 

If you’re hungry for lunch upon arrival, grab a bite at Fisherman’s Wharf or stretch your legs and enjoy an easy, 3-minute walk to local favourite, Floyd’s Diner in James Bay. If their creative meals (think cinnamon-infused brioche bread) don’t leave the foodie fanatics in your group salivating, the restaurant’s famous brunch treat, ‘the Mahoney’, certainly will prompt some food snaps. If you’re curious as to what that is, watch this video. 

When you’re ready for dinner, sample some of the freshest fare around at Zambri’s, an award-winning restaurant specializing in classic Italian cuisine. They’re located in the gorgeous Atrium Building in downtown Victoria, with floor-to-ceiling windows and a sophisticated atmosphere; a perfect backdrop for a group photo of your girl crew. 

Image: Zambri’s

3. Frolic Through Flowers at The Butchart Gardens

Feast your eyes on wave upon wave of colour as the world-famous Butchart Gardens springs to life with thousands of blooms. Overflowing with vibrant beds of flowers in a kaleidoscope of colours, unique shrubs and blossoming trees, The Butchart Gardens’ crown jewel, the Sunken Gardens, are an absolute must-visit. Wander off The Gardens’ beaten path to discover hidden gems, such as the Snail Pond. Tucked among evergreens and ferns next to a cascading brook, it is a little slice of Zen.

Not only will you and your girls dig the chance to get your garden fix with the array of swoon-worthy blooms, but they might also provide a little inspiration for decking out your own backyard. If you’re in need of an energy boost after exploring the 55-acres grounds, swing by Gelateria Benvenuto in the Italian Garden to indulge in a scoop or two of refreshing gelato.

Image: The Butchart Gardens

4. Catch Up Over a Cozy Cuppa

Make the most of your girl time by indulging in the quintessential tradition of Tea at the Empress and let the gabfest begin! With an elegant dining room, selection of 21 exquisite loose leaf teas, plus a three-tiered platter stacked with tasty, house-made treats, it’s easy to relish in royalty for an afternoon. Celebrating a fun occasion? Add flutes of sparkling wine to add a special touch.

Tip: If you’re looking for an alternative place to enjoy afternoon tea, we highly recommend Abkhazi Garden in Oak Bay. Not only do they serve up an incredible afternoon tea, but their gardens are also a sight to behold. 

Image: Tea at the Empress

5. Relax at a Seaside Spa Oasis 

From the tranquil sound of waves crashing against the shore to the soothing scent of eucalyptus wafting from the Boathouse Spa steam room and sauna, a weekend of relaxation may be on the mind for your overworked gal pals. Kick back and relax at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel while indulging in a day of lavish pampering at the hotel’s luxurious spa. 

If a full slate of rejuvenating massages, facials, manicures and pedicures don’t leave you rejuvenated, a sunset soak in seaside mineral pools – cocktail in hand – should do the trick.

Another fantastic place to soak in some girl time is the Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa on the Saanich Peninsula, right near The Butchart Gardens. Indulge in a facial, mani-pedi and full-body massage, or rent kayaks and enjoy a fun afternoon paddle through the calm waters of Brentwood Bay. 

Image: Oak Bay Beach Hotel

6. Cruise Through the Salish Sea with Victoria’s Locals 

Do you and your gals have a soft spot for the enchanting creatures of the sea? You’ve come to the right place. Take in awe-inspiring views on Five Star Whale Watching’s whale watching tour as you cruise through the waters of the Gulf Islands and Strait of Juan de Fuca in search of orcas, humpbacks, sea lions and bald eagles. 

If you’re looking for an extra exciting experience, choose a whale watching adventure on a zodiac rather than one of the big boats. You won’t get amenities (like a washroom or indoor seating area), but you will get to suit up in some super flattering red jumpsuits and enjoy an exhilarating journey as your small, speedy boat zips across the ocean’s surface. 

Image: @brandonsmale on Instagram

7. Pedal Around Victoria 

Craving a little fresh air, fun and exercise? Victoria is a gateway to island adventure with a vast array of close by outdoor escapes. Be one with nature and experience the marvellously scenic Dallas Road from behind the handlebars of a trusty bicycle with Bike Tours Victoria. These leisurely, informative guided tours highlight the best of Victoria’s parks and culture with lots of stops for stories and photo ops along the way. 

Another option is to book a Castles, Hoods and Legends guided tour with The Pedaler Cycling Tours and Rentals. Cruise up to the grassy knoll just outside Victoria to geek out over the likes of Craigdarroch Castle Historic House Museum and numerous historic buildings.

Tip: Find out if your accommodation offers bike rentals! The Parkside Hotel & Spa and Hotel Zed both do, and this is a great option if you’re comfortable exploring Victoria without a local guide. 

Image: Hotel Zed 

8. Get Out on the Water

Whether you’ve tried SUP before or are new to the practice, a girls’ trip to Victoria is the perfect place to give it a try! Find your inner Zen on a stand-up paddling tour around the calm waters of Victoria’s Inner Harbour and beautiful Gorge Waterway with Ocean River Adventures. Not only will you get a chance to strengthen your bond with your BFF’s, but you’ll also get a chance to soak in the natural beauty of British Columbia. You may even make friends with the local harbour seals, who have been known to pop up out of the water to bid boarders a friendly “hello.” 

Image: Ocean River Adventures

9. Shop Local in the Downtown Core

Whether you’re window shopping or out for a marathon shopping spree, Victoria offers everything from quaint shops and local food markets to unique boutiques, local independent retailers and full shopping centres. If your group is in need of a little retail therapy, creating a winning fashion formula has never been easier with Victoria’s shopping scene. Make your way to the fashionistas’ paradise that is lower Johnson Street, affectionately known as “LoJo” to locals. 

Image: Downtown Victoria Business Association

Peruse the racks at high-end boutiques for locally-made designs or uncover funky one-offs at one of the many vintage shops along LoJo. You can also check out Baggins Shoes for a large selection of converse shoes.

Take a photo of your group of girlfriends and have it printed onto custom kicks for you and your crew as a memento of your trip. Pace yourselves as another gold mine of shopping experiences is found on the neighbouring Government Street. Pick up expertly-blended teas at Silk Road Tea, and shop handcrafted Indigenous arts, crafts, jewellery and moccasins at Cowichan Trading Co.  

Tip: Stop in at The Bay Centre for more great shopping and a chance to take some photos against their brand new art walls.

Image: The Bay Centre 

10. Toast to Your Sisterhood with an Expertly Crafted Cocktail

There’s nothing better than capping off the day with a fine cocktail with your besties at a local watering hole. Cozy up in the relaxed and inviting 14 seat Clarke & Co. bar for outstanding cocktails created with locally-distilled spirits and house-made ingredients. Be adventurous, skip the menu and get a taste of Canada with the Maple Butter Smoked Old Fashioned paired with comfort food-inspired small plates. 

If you’re near the waterfront, use your sleuthing skills to seek out Little Jumbo’s speakeasy-style bar on Fort Street. Comb through the bar’s extensive, 15-page drink menu or pick your favourite “poison” from the more than 250 spirits on the back bar and watch your talented mixologist go to work doing what they do best – whipping up superb cocktails. Not quite ready to call it a night? Head north on Douglas Street to the sleek, refined Veneto Tapa Lounge for creative drinks and to satiate your late night hunger with a lineup of tasty tapas. 

Boasting acres of blossoming flowers, award-winning restaurants with phenomenal farm-to-table fare, amazing shopping and easily accessible opportunities for sightseeing and recreation, Victoria is the perfect locale for a much-needed break with your girlfriends. 

Image: Little Jumbo

Still looking for more? 

Get more inspiration and ideas for your spring girls getaway with our spring experiences page. You’ll also be able to search for deals on transportation, accommodation, and activities for your stay! 

Image: @samanthasmith on Instagram

#ExploreVictoria

About Clipper Vacations

Clipper Vacations has been known as a travel expert for the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada since 1986. Clipper offers opportunities to experience picturesque and popular destinations such as: cosmopolitan Seattle or Vancouver, charming Victoria, the peaceful San Juan Islands, the hub of Portland and the beauty of Vancouver Island. Book your Seattle to Victoria overnight getaway today!