Beaches
Cadboro-Gyro Park. A long, sandy, driftwood-strewn beach backed by a grassy park with plenty of picnic tables and shade trees draws families to this sheltered bay, accessible via the Scenic Marine Drive. Kids enjoy the sea creature structures in the play area (including a replica of the legendary "Cadborosaurus" sea serpent said to live in these waters). Hiking trails, a boat launch, and tennis courts keep adults busy; swimming is safe here, if you don't mind the cold (or the sea creature). Snacks can be had at nearby Cadboro Village. Amenities: parking (free); toilets. Best for: walking; sunrise. Sinclair Rd., off Cadboro Bay Rd., Saanich, Victoria, British Columbia, V8X 2W7. 250/475–5522; www.saanich.ca.
Cordova Bay. Walkers, swimmers, and sunbathers flock to this long stretch of forest-backed sand, pebble, and driftwood beach, which is just north of Mount Douglas Park. There are several access points along Cordova Bay Road. The Beachhouse Restaurant, perched on the sand about midway along the beach (at 5109 Cordova Bay Road), serves take-out snacks plus casual lunches and dinners. Amenities: food and drink; toilets (May 1–October 30). Best for: swimming; walking. Cordova Bay Rd., Saanich, Victoria, British Columbia, V8Y 2K1. www.saanich.ca.
Willows Park Beach. This sandy beach with its calm waters, playground, and shady picnic spots, is a summertime favorite among Victorian families. It’s just a few miles from Downtown in the very British Oak Bay neighborhood—there’s even a teahouse on the beach. Amenities: food and drink; parking; toilets. Best for: swimming. Dalhousie St., at Beach Dr., Oak Bay, Victoria, British Columbia, V8R 2J1. www.oakbay.ca.
Witty's Lagoon Regional Park. About 30 minutes west of Downtown Victoria, this park has a sandy beach, forest trails, marshlands, and a large lagoon—and it's home to 160 species of birds. There's also a nature house that presents interpretive programs. Amenities: parking; toilets. Best for: solitude; walking. Metchosin Rd., between Duke and Witty Beach Rds., West Shore, Victoria, British Columbia, V9C 3Z6. 250/478–3344; www.wittyslagoon.com.
