10 things to do in Victoria this April

Fresh off the heels of Greater Victoria’s annual Flower Count, spring is in full swing! This April, let discovery be your motto as you explore all that our beautiful region has to offer. From top eateries across the city to sports in the dazzling sun, you’ll never be at a loss for activities in our timeless coastal home.

Here are 10 things to do in Victoria this April.

1.     Go for Brunch

With Canada’s most restaurants per capita, Victoria is filled with delectable, locally sourced food. And in the springtime, what better way to start your day than with a scrumptious brunch? To help narrow down your search, we’ve compiled a list of our must-try brunch spots.

2.     Visit the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is officially open for the 2024 season and three new baby goats are ready to welcome you for another year of family fun! A short distance from downtown Victoria, Beacon Hill Park holds endless fun for visitors of all ages. Other amenities include pickleball courts, sports fields, manicured flower beds and scenic walking paths.

3.     Take in the Views from atop the Malahat SkyWalk

Elevate your vacation experience with a visit to the Malahat SkyWalk. Widely considered as one of the best views in all of British Columbia, the 360-degree panorama from the top of the tower will take your breath away. Whether you’re seeking tranquility or new perspectives, the Malahat SkyWalk promises unforgettable memories.

4.     Go on a Paddleboarding Adventure

As sunsets push later into the evening, April is a great month to explore Victoria by water on a paddleboard! With rentals and guided tours available from South Island SUP and Ocean River Sports, discover Victoria from a new vantage point as you traverse through the Gorge and beyond. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or a complete beginner, the calm waters of Victoria’s Inner Harbour will make for a great experience.

5.     Celebrate Earth Week in the Great Outdoors

Greater Victoria is known for its raw, natural beauty—from breathtaking oceanfront views to lush temperate rainforests. This Earth Week, from April 21-28, celebrate our green planet with a series of events taking place throughout Greater Victoria:

• April 17: Highrock Cairn Park | Esquimalt Parks & Recreation Staff will be coordinating an Earth Day Celebration from 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, with activities including invasive species removal, planting, trail building and environment stewardship.
• April 20: Earth Day Clothing Drive | Visit Max Furniture on Saturday, April 20 and donate clothing, textiles and shoes in a fundraiser for Lifetime Networks. It’s a great way to give used items a second life while supporting an impactful local charity.
• April 21: Earth Day in Langford | Celebrate Earth Day at Jordie Lunn Bike Park and Gravity Zone for family-friendly fun from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. From educational crafts to tasty treats, there’s plenty to do!

As an extension of Earth Week, we also encourage you to be a responsible traveller as you explore the great outdoors—where the smallest effort to preserve nature goes a long way. For additional resources on choosing sustainable options on your trip, visit our website for lists of attractions, dining experiences, shopping and more.

6.     Explore the Victoria Butterfly Gardens

For all the animals you can’t find on a hike through one of Greater Victoria’s lush parks, the Victoria Butterfly Gardens are the place to be. With thousands of butterflies and many other exotic creatures, it’s an experience that is sure to inspire and delight visitors of all ages. Visit their website to explore all there is to discover.

7.     Go for a Cider Tasting

With blossoming orchards, this month is a perfect time for a cider tasting adventure. Immerse yourself in the craft of cider making with visits to local establishments like Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse, Junction Orchard & Cidery and Merridale Cidery & Distillery. Each cidery with its own twist on the classic beverage, you’ll discover the passion that these local producers put into every bottle. It’s a taste of Southern Vancouver Island at its finest!

8.     Play Golf

Although Victoria’s mild climate allows for many golf courses to remain open through the winter, April is when golf season really gets into full swing. From the pristine courses at Bear Mountain Resort—designed by Jack and Steve Nicklaus, we must note—to the breathtaking views of Highland Pacific Golf and Olympic View Golf Course—the first course in BC that Tiger Woods played—you’ll see why Greater Victoria is considered a top golfing destination in Canada.

9.     Go on a Shopping Spree

In case you haven’t heard, Greater Victoria is the Resale Capital of Canada! Boasting 44 resale businesses throughout the area, Victoria’s secondhand scene is as vibrant as the natural beauty that surrounds it. Visit our guide to shopping resale or explore more resources including Victoria’s Guide to Shopping Locally.

10.     Enroll in a Workshop at Starlite Soap Studio

Dive into creativity at Starlite Soap Studio, where hands-on workshops invite you to craft your own soaps, candles, lotions and more! Perfect for all skill levels, these intimate sessions promise a unique blend of fun and learning, leaving you with your own creations and new skills. A must-do for a thoughtful and inspiring spring activity in Victoria.