Never one to turn down a visit to a beach, this is a particularly amazing area of the City of Victoria. My favorite in fact, I think it’s the best part, and an absolute treasure. Not only are there various parks and recreational areas, the views and coastal vibes are unique and authentic. Dallas Road Victoria & its beautiful beaches is somewhere I just had to revisit.
Getting There
Head towards downtown Victoria and more specifically to Beacon Hill Park. Snaking along the coastline in either direction, is the stretch of Dallas Road where you want to be. There is an abundance of parking all along here as well as at several small peninsulas. Google link here to a map.
Dallas Road Walkway
A paved path stretches for five miles all along this part of the coast. The area between Dallas Road and the ocean was made into parkland in perpetuity, by the city’s founders. Views of the straight of Juan de Fuca off the southern coast of Vancouver Island are the scene that unfolds before your eyes.
There are several parks along the way, the most famous and largest being Beacon Hill. Others include Clover Point and Holland Park. Above the cliffs are grassy spaces, some specifically for dogs to enjoy being off leash and having the freedom to play.
These paved paths that make their way along the coastline are popular and used regularly by locals. From runners to cyclists and everything in between, there seems to be space for everyone. Benches are placed at regular intervals for unsurpassed views of Mt. Baker in Washington State.
Beaches
Head down any staircase and find yourself on a beach. My favourites are Finlayson Point and Spiral Beach. Check the tide charts before your visit if you are looking for a wider stretch to explore. In some places at high tide there won’t be much of a beach at all. The shoreline can be covered in driftwood as it is right now. People have created small structures, huts for shade and such that become almost natural art.
The water is subject to any number of conditions and it is unusual to see people swimming. Water is regularly tested for bacteria levels and the summer months are often the worst. For this reason, it’s best to find other areas around the coastline to take a dip if that is what you are looking for.
Beachcombing
This part of the coast is rocky with very few small patches of sand. Beachcombing is a fun pastime and there is quite a bit of sea glass to be found. Other finds will be an abundance of wildlife that has washed ashore from the depths of the ocean.
Right now, the kelp bed is particularly abundant and close to shore. Loads of the giant plants have washed up onto the rocks and are fascinating to inspect up close. From baby kelp to the more robust ones, they form part of an amazing underwater ecosystem.
If you find yourself in Victoria and are looking for a bit of exercise or scenery, head to Dallas Road. The fresh salt air, wind in your hair, bird song and crashing waves will wash away any bit of stress. Bring a coffee, go for a coastal hike, sit and sunbathe, its all possible while enjoying the incredible coastal views of southern Vancouver Island.
