The Canadian flag waves and an ocean view from Oak Bay Beach Hotel

From luxurious pampering to breathtaking adventures in nature, here are the best ways to spend your wellness vacation in Victoria, British Columbia.

My dream way to spend my time traveling mixes a little bit of luxury, pampering, nature, and of course, delicious food. This year for my birthday that dream came true when I had the opportunity to visit Victoria, British Columbia, a city that offers the ultimate combo of relaxation and adventure.

Located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island on Canada’s Pacific Coast, Victoria is known for mild weather year round, making it an inviting destination in any season. Victoria is called the “garden city” since its moderate weather and coastal location provide ideal conditions for vibrant blooms to paint the city year-round.

When it comes to nature, Victoria’s scenery is breathtaking, from its enchanting forests to its sparkling waters. If you're lucky, you might even catch sight of an orca leaping through the waves or a bald eagle soaring overhead.

The Vend boutique in Victoria [Image courtesy of The Vend]

And when exploring this charming city, there are plenty of cozy coffee shops, unique boutiques, art galleries, and world-class restaurants to enjoy as well.

Did I mention Victoria is known as Canada’s brunch capital? I’ve been craving those Victoria brunches ever since I returned from my visit.

I had the most magical birthday in Victoria, and I can’t wait to share my favorite experiences and tips from my trip to help you plan your own special getaway. Here are my top recommendations.

Canada sign near Victoria’s Inner Harbour

Where to Stay: Two Gorgeous, Historic Victoria Hotels

While visiting Victoria, I stayed at two wonderful, historic hotels. Each was unique a destination. I also appreciated that both of these hotels are taking steps towards being sustainably-conscious.

The Fairmont Empress

721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada; (250) 384-8111

Book Fairmont Empress

The Fairmont Empress Hotel in Victoria [Image courtesy of Fairmont Empress]

You can’t visit Victoria without staying at (or at least seeing) the Fairmont Empress Hotel for yourself! The Empress is iconic and about as glamorous as it gets. The historic hotel opened in 1904, named after Queen Victoria, and the city of Victoria popped up around the hotel.

Tea at The Fairmont Empress [Image courtesy of Fairmont Empress]

This hotel has been a favorite destination of royalty and celebrities from its origins through today. Stars including Ginger Rogers, Katharine Hepburn, Shirley Temple, John Wayne, and Bob Hope enjoyed stays there while escaping Hollywood for Victoria. And the royal family has been visiting the hotel since its opening. You never know. . . you might even bump into Megan and Harry at the hotel’s Q Bar.

Sparkling art hangs in breathtaking lobby of the Fairmont Empress Hotel [Image courtesy of Fairmont Empress]

Built by architect Francis Rattenbury, and since renovated three times, The Fairmont Empress is a sight to behold. When you enter the hotel you’re immediately wowed by the beautiful reception area and the sparkling art floating above you.

Harbour View Suit at the Fairmont Empress [Image courtesy of Fairmont Empress]

The Empress is located directly across from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, and I felt like royalty in my elegant Fairmont Gold suite which had a lovely water view. Bath amenities are made by Le Labo and feature a signature Rose 31 scent made just for Fairmont. Additional amenities included cozy terry bathrobes and Nespresso coffee makers. Since I stayed in a Fairmont Gold suite, I also had access to the expansive Fairmont Gold Lounge which included a legendary breakfast buffet and evening canapés. The Empress is also walking distance from all the excitement of Downtown Victoria.

Q Bar at the Fairmont Empress Hotel [Image courtesy of Fairmont Empress]

What to do at the Fairmont Empress:

Go for the Gold: Fairmont Gold offers the VIP experience with exclusive Check In on the private Fairmont Gold floor and access to the expansive 4,000 square feet state-of-the-art Fairmont Gold Lounge. The lounge is the perfect place to hang out, enjoy the amazing breakfast buffet, or evening canapés and cocktails.
Dinner at Q at The Empress Enjoy an elegant dining experience at the incredible Q at the Empress restaurant.

Hang out at Q Bar: Unwind with live music, an Empress 75 (or mocktail), the hotel’s signature charcoal popcorn, and appetizers at Q Bar.
Spa Treatments at Willow Stream Spa: Enjoy spa amenities and a relaxing treatment featuring Kerstin Florian products at Willow Stream Spa.
Tea at the Empress: The hotel is famous for Tea at the Empress, a beloved Victoria experience.

Oak Bay Beach Hotel

1175 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC V8S 2N2, Canada; (250) 598-4556

Book Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Oak Bay Beach Hotel in Victoria [Image courtesy of Oak Bay Beach Hotel]

Originally built in 1927, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel is located on the beautiful Pacific shoreline land that was once inhabited by the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nations people. Though it was destroyed in a fire in 1930, an exact replica was built in its place. The Tudor-style hotel is sophisticated, luxurious, and its seaside location adds a sense of tranquility.

Ella, the canine ambassador at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel [Image courtesy of Oak Bay Beach Hotel]

When you arrive at Oak Bay Beach Hotel, you’re greeted by the cutest concierge – Ella, the hotel’s canine ambassador. If you’re traveling with your dogs, your pup will get the VIP (Very Important Pet) service at Oak Bay Beach Hotel. Pet-friendly room options feature walk-out terraces to seaside gardens, welcome treats, dog dishes, and a dog bed. (The Fairmont Empress is also pet-friendly.)

Mineral pool with a view at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel

I spent my first night in Victoria at the Oak Bay Beach hotel and loved beginning my visit by soaking in the calming mineral pools and hot tub with breathtaking views of the Salish Sea, followed by a spa treatment.

A sunset view from Oak Bay Beach Hotel [Image courtesy of Oak Bay Beach Hotel]

Guest rooms are luxurious and spacious. My boutique garden suite offered a private walkout patio with direct pathway access to the hotel’s three heated mineral pools.

My boutique garden suite at Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Rooms are stocked with plush bathrobes, slippers, Nespresso coffee machines, and BABOR bath products. The room also featured an oversized soaking tub (with bath salts) which was the perfect way to unwind before bed.

View from the lobby lounge at Oak Bay Beach Hotel

The views from the hotel are incredible! Whether you are soaking in the heavenly mineral pools or dining at The Snug Pub, you have the opportunity to enjoy calming garden and sea sights. And while I didn’t have any orca sightings (as visitors at Oak Bay often do), I did see two bald eagles perched on the hotel roof, a truly awe-inspiring vision!

What to do at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel:

Breakfast at The Snug Pub: Enjoy the elegant setting, ocean views, and delicious brunch at The Snug Pub.
Mineral pool soaking: Soak in the heated pools and enjoy the views and lounging poolside with drinks and bites from Boathouse Kitchen & Bar.
Spa Treatments at Boathouse Spa: At the oceanfront Boathouse Spa, even the treatment rooms have sea views.
Yoga: Begin your morning with mindfulness and movement with yoga in the Seaside Gardens Terrace.

Where to Pamper Yourself with a Spa Day in Victoria

Whether you want to enjoy a luxurious hotel spa or are up for something a little more unique and adventurous, wellness awaits in Victoria. I enjoyed experiences from four local spas, and each one was a memorable journey of relaxation.

HAVN Saunas

920 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T3, Canada; (250) 508-0999

If you’re up for a truly out-of-the-ordinary spa adventure, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the hydrotherapy circuit at HAVN. The one-of-a-kind floating spa is built on a repurposed barge that was once docked at Pearl Harbor.

Cold plunge with a harbour view at HAVN saunas

The top level of the barge features a lush green setting filled with cold plunges, hot tubs, and saunas – all with extraordinary views of Victoria Inner Harbour. You can watch boats pass by, sea planes take off, and maybe even catch a glimpse of sea life as you soak in a hot tub. On the first level of HAVN Spa, there is a cafe and lounge where you can unwind with a hand-crafted beverage or snack while taking in the views. While this wellness site does not offer spa treatments yet, it’s an incredible destination to spend an afternoon of self-care.

A view of a seaplane from the relaxation lounge at HAVN Saunas

If you’ve never done a cold plunge, they can be intimidating at first but HAVN presents a great opportunity to do so in a setting so breathtaking, it might just distract you from the chill of the plunge. It’s invigorating to go from the icy waters to the sauna or hot tub. And you feel like a whole new person after the experience.

Boathouse Spa at The Oak Bay Beach Hotel

1175 Beach Drive, Victoria BC, V8S 2N2, Canada; (250) 596-4556

Boathouse Spa & Baths at Oak Bay Beach Hotel

If you’re staying at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, you must book a treatment at the tranquil Boat House Spa. And if you aren’t staying at the hotel, it’s worth visiting for a relaxing treatment and to get access to the thermal pools – the setting is magnificent. (Guests of the spa can upgrade any spa treatment to include access to the mineral pools and sauna.) Floating in the mineral pools with a gorgeous sea view is heavenly.

I enjoyed a stress-melting massage featuring custom essential oils that were created just for Boat House Spa, including lovely “Inhale,” which features eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint and “Exhale” made with citrus fruit, vanilla, and evergreen. The spa also offers skincare treatments featuring BABOR, Comfort Zone, and Queen Bee Farms.

Treatment room with an ocean view at Boathouse Spa

The Willow Stream Spa at the Fairmont Empress

721 Government Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 1W5, Canada; (250) 384-8111

Relaxing in the cozy lounge at Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress’ luxurious spa offers pampering fit for a queen. Amenities include a Finnish-style sauna, steam inhalation room, mineral pool, and hot tub. There’s also an indoor swimming pool. The cozy relaxation lounge offers spa snacks like hot tea and the hotel’s signature charcoal popcorn.

My treatment room for The Coastal Retreat

I was excited to learn that Willow Stream Spa treatments feature Kerstin Florian. I’m a huge fan of the brand’s Neroli Blossom products. I just can’t get enough of that scent, and I was thrilled to select it for my spa service, The Coastal Retreat. My service was a journey that included a body scrub, shower (in the private spa suite), aromatherapy massage, deep condition hair treatment, scalp massage, face masque, and face massage – the works! It’s a fabulous treatment, and I left with my skin feeling hydrated and my hair super shiny.

House of Ritual Medical Aesthetic Day Spa

1208 Wharf St Suite 206, Victoria, BC V8W 1T9, Canada; (778) 557-3241

Enjoying Oliveda face masks with a DIY Facial Workshop with House of Ritual at The Fairmont Empress

Have you ever tried face yoga? It’s a practice used to help tone, lift, and improve the appearance of your skin. And House of Ritual is the place to go for Face Yoga in Victoria. The med spa also offers a variety of services including facials and body treatments.

Glow Workshop Menu featuring Oliveda products for DIY Facial Party led by Jody Hollis and Naomi Dankwerth

If you are planning a girls’ weekend, bachelorette party, or group event at The Empress, House of Ritual can provide a pamper party for your group complete with DIY Facials led by Jody Hollis featuring Oliveda products and Face Yoga classes led by House of Ritual founder Naomi Dankwerth. My group had a fun, girly afternoon nurturing our skin with Oliveda products, learning face yoga techniques, and lively conversation.

For more Victoria spas, check out The Best Spas in Victoria.

Exploring Outdoor Adventures in Nature

If you love nature, you will be in awe of all the scenic beauty that Victoria has to offer. These four outdoor activities are entertaining ways to explore Victoria.

Hiking with Vancouver Island Hikes, Bites + Beers

Pre-hike at the entrance to Craigflower Creek {L to R: Cecily Meausette, Lizzy Sherman, Rebekah Cherniss, Donna Sozio]

I spent the day of my birthday hiking through Craigflower Creek, and I couldn’t think of a better way to spend it than connecting with nature. This particular hike is a great option for all skill levels and the serene forest setting is fairytale-like with majestic towering trees, roots, mosses, endless varieties of mushrooms, and tranquil pools. Vancouver Island Hikes, Bites + Beers founders Cory and Cecily Meausette are knowledgeable, fun, and make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable on the hike.

We got lucky with perfect hiking weather throughout our forest adventure, and just as we arrived at 4 Mile Pub for the Bites + Beers, it started to rain, making our pub visit extra cozy. The food at the pub was delicious, and I enjoyed a refreshing cucumber mocktail!

Kayaking with Ocean River Sports

Getting instruction before we embarked on our Victoria kayaking adventure with instruction from Wesley from Ocean River Sports

Ocean River Sports specializes in kayaks, canoes, and paddling gear. They offer a range of experiences, including beginner-friendly harbour tours, daylong explore tours, and multi-day excursions throughout Victoria’s picturesque waterways. Whether you're new to kayaking or a seasoned pro, they offer something for everyone.

We opted for a morning tandem kayaking adventure. It was my first time kayaking, and this was a great introduction to the activity. Our instructor Wesley was patient and made the experience fun and educational, sharing instruction and insights about the local environment and wildlife. The waters were calm as we paddled along, taking in the views.

Exploring Butchart Gardens

While I didn’t have time to make it to Butchart Gardens on this trip, it’s a place that will be at the top of my list for my next visit to Victoria. Exploring gardens around the world is one of my favorite things to do when visiting new cities. Butchart Gardens is a National Historic Site that covers over 55 acres and is home to many varieties of plants and animals, including native bird species.

Whale Watching

May through October is the best time to go whale watching in Victoria. Tour companies such as Orca Spirit Adventures offer daily whale watching tours, and Orca Spirit claims to have a 95% success rate for spotting whales.

Victoria’s Top Dining Experiences

With plenty of hot spots for fabulous brunches, locally caught seafood, and farm-to-table cuisine, Victoria is a foodie’s paradise. Here are some of my favorite places to dine in Victoria.

A dining room with ocean views at The Snug Pub at Oak Bay Beach Hotel

Brunch

I loved the brunches at The Fairmont Empress and the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. If you are staying at either hotel, it’s a great way to enjoy a leisurely morning. While you’d have to be a Fairmont Gold visitor to enjoy the brunch at the Fairmont Gold Lounge, you don’t need to stay at the hotel to make a reservation for their famous tea. Even if you’re not staying at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, it’s worth a visit to The Snug Pub. You could make a day of it with a morning spa treatment and mineral pool soak followed by brunch.

The Snug Pub

175 Beach Dr, Victoria, BC V8S 2N2, Canada; (250) 598-4556

Located at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, The Snug Pub has been beloved by visitors and locals alike since 1954. It’s a tough choice deciding between the Smoked Salmon Benedict and the Pacific Crab Benedict – both are mouthwateringly delicious. And if you have a sweet tooth, start with french toast or pancakes with fresh berries and maple syrup as an appetizer.

Fairmont Gold Lounge Breakfast

721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada

A cozy Victoria Inner Harbour view from the Fairmont Gold lounge at the Fairmont Empress

If you booked Fairmont Gold accommodations, don’t miss out on the complimentary breakfast buffet complete with fresh baked goods, a wide selection of prepared hot items, cereals, teas, coffees, juices, fresh fruit, cheeses, and more. It’s an epic buffet and the elegant lounge is a lovely setting.

John’s Place

723 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8, Canada; (250) 389-0711

I didn’t have the time to visit this local favorite, but John’s Place was recommended to me by a longtime Victoria resident I met on my trip. I heard it’s a Victoria classic! The restaurant even cooked up some of their famous specialties for Food Network Canada’s “You Gotta Eat Here,” serving Southwestern meatloaf, Belgian waffles with homemade cream cheese syrup, along with their best-selling eggs Benedict with an authentic butter hollandaise sauce.

Coffee

Bean Around the World

533 Fisgard St, Victoria, BC V8W 1R4, Canada; (250) 386-7115

This inviting coffee shop has served hand-crafted coffee and fresh pastries, breads, and soups in the heart of Victoria’s Chinatown since 1996. Bean Around the World is an endearing spot to cozy up with a warm beverage, whether you’re working, people-watching, reading, or catching up with a friend. Beyond its homey atmosphere, this cafe is deeply committed to community. The walls feature a rotating selection of artwork by local artists, celebrating Victoria’s diverse creative scene. Additionally, The Bean supports Escuela Privada Finca Carrizal, a school in a remote Guatemalan community where some of their coffee is sourced.

Lunch:

10 Acres Bistro

611 Courtney St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W8, Canada; (250) 893-5816

10 Acres Bistro serves fare crafted from fresh locally-sourced ingredients, including seafood, cheeses, and seasonal produce. If you’re looking for cozy comfort food, try the satisfying grilled cheese overflowing with melty gruyère, mozzarella, cheddar, raclette and served on house-made sourdough with a side of tomato soup for dipping.

Glo

2940 Jutland Rd, Victoria, BC V8T 5K6, Canada; (250) 385-5643

Take a water taxi from The Empress dock to Selkirk Landing for lunch at Glo Restaurant. This restaurant’s sleek design and floor-to-ceiling windows provide a cool modern vibe.

Glo offers an expansive menu with lots of unique appetizer and entree options. With plenty of seating at the 360 degree bar, it would also be a fun place to spend happy hour. We started with Ahi Tuna Tataki, Lemon Pepper Calamari, and Glochujang Popcorn Chicken.

I was in the mood for something lighter for my main entree, so I opted for the crave-worthy Tan Tan Chicken Salad featuring a refreshing mix of dates, almonds, avocado, goat cheese, orange segments, mint, baby greens, blackened chicken, and a tangy key lime dressing. Everything was so good!

Happy Hour

4 Mile Brewpub

199 Island Hwy, Victoria, BC V9B 1G1, Canada; (250) 479-2514

After our hike with Vancouver Island Hikes, Bites + Beers, we stopped for food and drinks at 4 Mile Brewpub, located in a rustic 150 year-old Tudor-style building. The English-style pub has plenty of history and lore. It once was the site of an old brothel and just might be haunted. I’m not usually a big fan of pub/bar food, but the food here was awesome. We snacked on potato skins, mussels, gyoza, and when in Canada you have to try the poutine (french fries with cheese curds and gravy) – so we did! I loved my refreshing cucumber mocktail, but if you’re into beer, this pub has an extensive selection.

Dinner

Q at The Fairmont Empress

721 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1W5, Canada; (250) 384-8111

Q at The Fairmont Empress offers a sophisticated dining experience that seamlessly blends Pacific Northwest flavors with modern culinary creativity.

Portraits of Queen Victoria at Q at The Fairmont Empress

This elegant restaurant showcases sustainably sourced seafood and fresh, locally grown ingredients, reflecting the vibrant flavors of the region. Start your meal with standout appetizers like the Dungeness Crab served with seaweed butter, roots broth, and shiso.

Gitanyow Sockeye Salmon, perfectly paired with summer peas, smoked potato, and a delicate lemongrass velouté

For the main course, savor dishes like the Gitanyow Sockeye Salmon, paired with summer peas, smoked potato, and a delicate lemongrass velouté. The thoughtfully curated wine list and inventive cocktails enhance the experience, while the dessert menu will tempt you with homemade seasonal ice creams, sorbets, and other decadent treats.

Vis-à-Vis

2232 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria, BC V8R 1G4, Canada; (250) 590-7424

Vis-à-Vis is a charming French-inspired wine bar and restaurant nestled in the heart of Oak Bay, and an ideal destination for a romantic date or a special celebration — in this case my birthday dinner. The ambiance at this Victoria gem is intimate and elegant, complemented by the wine selection and seasonal menu. We began our meal with the decadent Brie Tart, featuring double cream brie, caramelized onion, puff pastry, beet puree, and sundried tomato.

Another standout starter was the Avocado and Shrimp Salad prepared with a refreshing combination of Pacific baby shrimp, avocado, Marie-Rose sauce, greens, and crostini. For mains, I loved the Butternut Squash Ravioli with saffron cream, sage, and walnut and the Herb Crusted Sablefish with butternut squash puree, veggies, and buerre blanc. No celebration is complete without dessert, so crème brûlée was a must!

Nautical Nellie’s Steak & Seafood House

1001 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1T6, Canada; (250) 380-2260

Nautical Nellie’s Steak & Seafood House, walking distance from Fairmont Empress, offers fresh locally sourced West Coast seafood and premium steaks. The restaurant also boasts an excellent selection of hand-rolled sushi and an award-winning wine list. Begin your meal with fresh oysters, lobster mac n’ cheese, or a creative sushi roll like the Torched Spicy Shogun filled with ahi tuna, prawns, avocado, XO sauce, spicy mayo, and bird’s eye chili + tobiko.

Line Caught Sablefish at Nautical Nellie’s Steak & Seafood House

For my main entree, I enjoyed the Line Caught Sablefish perfectly prepared with torched miso, crispy onions, asparagus, and sushi rice.

Virtuous Pie

530 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N6, Canada; (250) 590-2992

For vegan fare in Victoria, head to Virtuous Pie, a 100% plant-based restaurant. The restaurant serves handcrafted vegan pizzas made with ingredients like cashew mozzarella and beyond pepperoni. They are also known for their creamy small-batch ice creams. While I didn’t make it to Virtuous Pie, I’m intrigued by its menu and rave reviews, and I hope to try it in the future.

Shopping at Victoria’s Unique Resale and Sustainable Boutiques

ReLove Market in Victoria [Image courtesy of The ReLove Market]

If you look forward to hunting for one-of-a-kind souvenirs during your travels, Victoria’s eclectic boutiques won’t disappoint. In January of 2024, Victoria was crowned with the title of the “Resale Capital of Canada.” Thrifters will enjoy the quality selection of resale and consignment stores. While I didn’t have time to explore the shops firsthand, here are a few highly recommended spots for discovering memorable treasures.

The Vend Collective in Victoria [Image courtesy of The Vend Collective]

The Vend Collective: This shop focuses on well-made, sustainable items, emphasizing slow fashion. The items found at The Vend are made from ethically sourced and recycled fibers, designed and created by local designers based in Victoria or the greater British Columbia area.
The ReLove Market: Their secondhand and vintage pop-up markets bring local curators and fashion enthusiasts together in a welcoming forum to share ideas and textiles.
Flavour: This two-story clothing shop on Johnson St. offers a collection of items made from eco-friendly natural fibers on the main floor and a wide selection of vintage and second-hand pieces on the second floor.
Glam & Fame: This shop focuses on items made with eco-friendly linen, cotton, and bamboo. The brand works with fair trade vendors to ensure its clothing is ethically made. Size inclusivity is also a priority, with items available in an extensive range of sizes.
Anián: This circular fashion company uses natural and recycled materials with minimal environmental impact and creates clothing meant for exploring the outdoors.
Tempo Trend Music: A family owned gem, this music store has been a cornerstone of Victoria’s music community for over 60 years, offering a wide selection of new, used, and consignment instruments (as well as lessons and repair services). Tempo Trend specializes in accordions and offers one of the largest inventories of the instrument in North America, making it a fun stop for enthusiasts and collectors.

With it’s rich history, stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and fresh local cuisine, Victoria is a truly a must-visit city. There’s so much to explore and enjoy!

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