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If you’re visiting Victoria and looking for a great sand beach to dip your toes in the ocean, this might be the place to visit. beaches, driftwood displays and the sites that surround this fantastic beach. While you’re here, stop next door as the visit Fisgard Lighthouse, Fort Rodd Hill and Hatley Castle are all within walking distance.
Looking to spend time with the family, enjoy a sunset, walk barefoot in the sand? If you’re in search of a large beach with easy access, I’ve found what your heart desires. Esquimalt Lagoon offers 2km of sand, a migratory bird sanctuary and wonderful views of the active Juan de Fuca Strait.
Located on the edge of Victoria in Colwood, there’s plenty of free parking and is surrounded by popular tourist stops including Fort Rodd Hill, Fisgard Lighthouse, and Hatley Castle.
Esquimalt Lagoon is a great stop for anyone visiting Vancouver Island.
Esquimalt (pronounced ‘Ess-KWI-malt’) Lagoon is a vital bird sanctuary almost entirely enclosed by a sand and gravel peninsula. This 2km long naturally built barrier and the sand beach has become a popular spot for locals and visitors to walk along driftwood, play in the sand and enjoy the saltwater air.
Parking:
There are plenty of free parking spaces along Ocean Blvd, with room on the shoulder for your longer vehicle.
Restrooms:
Public washrooms are available at the southwest end of Ocean Blvd and porta-potties at the driftwood art installation.
Picnic Facilities:
There are only a few picnic tables along the beach. Most are located in the area of the Driftwood Art Installation. During the summer months, you will find food trucks in the spit’s central area.
It started with “McGnarly” – The Guardian of the Lagoon, protector of the birds and small creatures. A sculpture from Alex at Drifted Creations” was built for Colwood’s Eats & Beats Beach event. The mythical creature guards the lagoon and captivates visitors all year long.
The art installation also inspired another artist, Paul Lewis, who started adding driftwood birds and animals to the beach. As you explore, keep your eyes open for one of the many driftwood creatures created by Paul, including the Sasquatch in East Sooke.
Both Paul and Alex’s amazing work can be spotted around the island.
With other great stops to add to your visit just around the corner such as Fisgard Light House, Hatley Castle and Wild Play Victoria. Callwood is a great place for any visitor to Victoria to stop and enjoy.
Colwood Beach Food Days.
For an even better outdoor experience visit in the summer starting in May, Friday-Sunday food trucks take over a small section alongside Ocean Boulevard. Who doesn’t enjoy access to great local food, walking along the beach while taking in the beauty and natural seaside surroundings?
Saturdays offer even more! A rustic stage built on the beach amongst the driftwood sculptures hs local musicians playing from 5 to 7 pm. Schedule Information
Links
– Colwood Food Days
– Tide charts
Check out Witty’s Lagoon for another great beach in the area.
Fort Rodd Hill is in close proximity to two other great stops. For an exceptional day, we suggest visiting Hatley Castle in the morning, then head to Esquimalt Lagoon. for a picnic or food truck and spend the afternoon at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse.
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Pack Out:
We love Vancouver Island and want to keep the natural beauty. Please respect the places you visit and pack out what you pack in and leave the area better than when you arrived. We all know how much trash can spoil an experience and the environment, so please help us keep it clean!
Wildlife:
Vancouver Island is a land of natural beauty and abundant wildlife. Please be aware of your surroundings and take the usual precautions for personal and wildlife safety.
Black bears, cougars and even wolves are common on Vancouver Island for more on Wildlife Safety Click Here
Tide and Seasonal Safety:
Changing seasons and tides can have a drastic effect on most locations on Vancouver Island. Please be cautious as the information in this post may vary depending on the time of year and weather. Make sure to check for current weather and tide information before you make your journey!
When visiting the beach, it’s essential to pay attention and stay safe! Please be cautious walking on the shore during high tide. At this time, some areas may not be accessible. Click here for the tides in your area. Be aware of ocean currents before swimming, paddle boarding or kayaking.
Land Acknowledgement:
We would like to acknowledge the land we appreciate daily within the 50 First Nations that make up the traditional territories of the Coast Salish, Nuu chah nulth, and Kwakiutl–the first peoples of Vancouver Island .
Disclaimer:
The information on this website should not be taken as accurate, complete or up-to-date. Please check and look into the information yourself. We do not assume any liabilities for the use of this information. It is unreasonable to rely solely upon the information from this website.
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