Things To Do
in Oak Bay
Oak Bay is a quiet, upscale coastal municipality just east of Victoria, known for its tree-lined streets and maritime charm. It blends elegant homes, gracious gardens, and a village core with cafes and shops along Oak Bay Avenue. Willows Beach, scenic coves, and waterfront greens offer serene coastal scenery just steps from the city.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks, cycling routes, and refined dining in a relaxed southern Vancouver Island setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful stroll along Willows Beach, where the soft sound of waves gently lapping at the shore creates a serene atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local specialties while taking in the stunning ocean views. After breakfast, take some time to relax on the beach or watch the morning light dance on the water.
In the afternoon, visit the Oak Bay Marina to admire the boats and perhaps even spot some sea otters playfully swimming nearby. Grab some lunch at one of the marina restaurants, enjoying fresh seafood with a view of the bustling harbor. After lunch, take a scenic bike ride along the waterfront and explore the beautiful parks in the area.
As dusk approaches, make your way to the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and unwind at their spa, indulging in treatments that refresh and rejuvenate. Dine at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant, where you can indulge in a gourmet meal crafted from locally sourced ingredients. To end your day, take a leisurely after-dinner stroll along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors.
Begin your day at the Oak Bay Arts and Culture Center, where you can explore the vibrant local art scene. Participate in a morning workshop, where you can get hands-on experience with local artists, or simply wander through the gallery to appreciate the works on display. After immersing yourself in creativity, refuel with a light brunch at a charming café nearby.
Spend your afternoon at the Victoria Golf Club, where you can enjoy the beautiful landscape while playing a round of golf or simply taking in the breathtaking views. If you're not a golfer, consider a tour of the Oak Bay Historic District, where you can admire the unique architecture and learn about the area's rich history. Stop for lunch at one of the local eateries, sampling some delicious farm-to-table dishes.
In the evening, head back to the Arts Center to catch a live performance or enjoy an open mic night showcasing local talent. After the show, treat yourself to dinner at one of Oak Bay's charming restaurants known for their cozy ambiance and exceptional service. Cap off your night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, surrounded by the charm of this coastal community.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 CAD |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 CAD |
| 🚌Public transit fare (per ride) | $3-4 CAD |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $120-250 CAD |
| 🎟️Museum/attraction entry | $12-25 CAD |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning coastal scenery and Victorian charm
- Safe, walkable village with excellent dining options
- Proximity to Victoria's cultural venues and nature trails
- Limited onsite nightlife; broader options require a short drive to Victoria
- Higher dining and lodging prices compared to some other BC towns
- Seasonal weather can be unpredictable outside summer months
Places to Visit in Oak Bay
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide sandy shore with calm water and golden hour light—great for seaside portraits and sunset shots.
Harbor views, boats, and calm water reflections ideal for coastal photography.
Elevated vantage point offering sweeping views of the harbor and the surrounding coastline on clear days.
Rugged coastal scenery with dramatic horizons and sense of maritime history.
Food in Oak Bay
Oak Bay Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh local salmon prepared simply to showcase the fish, paired with crisp greens and seasonal sides at waterfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Crispy crab cakes with citrus aioli, a common seafood specialty at coastal restaurants along the shore.
Succulent local prawns sautéed in garlic butter, often featured as a share plate at seafood-forward venues.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, seafood, baked goods, and artisanal foods from the Vancouver Island region.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer greetings, say please and thank you, and queue patiently in stores and transit lines.
Stay on designated trails, dispose of waste properly, and avoid disturbing wildlife on beaches and parks.
Safety
Tipping in Oak Bay
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tip around 15-20% at restaurants; casual service may warrant 10-15% depending on service. Tipping for other services (baristas, taxis) is appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still useful for small shops and markets. Contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild, gradually warming days; flowering landscapes and longer daylight hours—great for strolls and gardens.
Warm, dry days with plenty of outdoor dining, beach time, and waterfront activities; peak for marine-friendly activities.
Milder temperatures with colorful fall foliage; shoreline walks remain pleasant and less crowded.
Wet and cool, with occasional milder snaps; indoor dining and cultural venues become appealing, and coastal storms can produce dramatic seas.
Oak Bay at Night
Hiking in Oak Bay
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep trails with panoramic views of the region; popular for hiking and birdwatching.
Rugged coastal forest trails with varied difficulty and scenic overlooks.
Urban park with networked paths, gardens, and generous views near downtown Victoria.
Airports
How to reach Oak Bay by plane.
Serves the region with domestic and some international flights; about 30-40 minutes by car from Oak Bay.
Major international hub with extensive connections; typically a 1.5–2 hour trip to Oak Bay by car plus potential ferry travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many long-term residents with family-friendly parks, schools, and safe streets.
Quiet neighborhoods with access to healthcare and waterfront amenities.
Commuters to Victoria and the surrounding business areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A strong coastal culture with clubs and regattas in the region.
Popular on calm waters near Willows Beach and the marina.
Several scenic courses nearby offer ocean views and rolling terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oak Bay.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most Oak Bay venues offer vegetarian options; look for farm-to-table vegetables, salads, and creative mains, and ask for customization when needed.