10 Summer Day Trips from Victoria to Add to Your Summer Bucket List

10 Summer Day Trips from Victoria to Add to Your Summer Bucket List

1. Butchart Gardens

A visit to the world-famous Butchart Gardens is a must. These beautiful gardens offer a stunning array of floral displays. You can explore the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and more. It's a perfect place for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or even afternoon tea.

2. Salt Spring Island

Take a short ferry ride to Salt Spring Island, known for its vibrant arts community, local markets, and natural scenery. Visit the Saturday Market, where you can find local produce, handmade crafts, and unique souvenirs. Make sure to take a pit stop at Salt Spring Island Cheese, and eat+enjoy live music at the Tree House Cafe.

3. Cowichan Valley

Head to the Cowichan Valley for a day of wine tasting. This region is known for its vineyards and wineries, offering tours and tastings. Visit quaint towns like Duncan and Cowichan Bay, where you can explore local shops, enjoy fresh seafood, and take in the picturesque views. Don’t miss the Cow Bay Bakery. 

4. Sooke Potholes Regional Park

For outdoor enthusiasts, spend a day at Sooke Potholes. This park features unique rock formations and crystal-clear swimming holes. It's a great spot for hiking, picnicking, and cooling off in the refreshing waters. The scenic views and natural beauty make it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.

5. Port Renfrew

For a more adventurous trip, head to Port Renfrew. This area offers access to the rugged West Coast Trail, Botanical Beach with its fascinating tide pools, and the Avatar Grove, home to some of the largest and oldest trees in the region. It's a bit further afield but well worth the journey for nature enthusiasts. Make sure to stop at Mystic Beach on your way. 

6. Goldstream Provincial Park

Just a 25-minute drive from Victoria, Goldstream Provincial Park offers lush forests, stunning waterfalls, and excellent hiking trails. The park is famous for its salmon run in the fall, where you can witness thousands of salmon returning to spawn.

7. Malahat Skywalk

Experience breathtaking views from the Malahat SkyWalk, an elevated walkway that rises above the forest canopy. The SkyWalk offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, ocean, and forests. It's an excellent spot for families and nature lovers.

8. Chemainus

Known for its vibrant murals, Chemainus is a charming town perfect for a day trip. Wander through the streets to admire the outdoor art gallery, visit the local shops and cafes, and enjoy a performance at the Chemainus Theatre Festival.

9. Nanaimo

Take a day trip to Nanaimo, a vibrant harbor city known for its scenic waterfront and rich history. Stroll along the Harbourfront Walkway, explore the historic Bastion, and indulge in the famous Nanaimo Bar Trail. Visit the Old City Quarter for boutique shops and art galleries, and take a short ferry ride to Newcastle Island for beautiful hiking trails and serene beaches.

10. East Sooke Regional Park

For a blend of rugged coastline and forested trails, head to East Sooke Regional Park. This park offers a variety of hiking trails with spectacular ocean views, petroglyphs, and picnic areas. The Coast Trail is particularly popular for its scenic vistas and challenging terrain.