If you’re looking for things to do in Victoria BC before or after your West Coast Trail hike, don’t skip Beacon Hill Park. This lush, oceanside escape is easy to access from downtown and just a short walk from the Empress Hotel and Inner Harbour.
We wandered through the park the day before starting the WCT. It turned out to be the perfect mix of nature, history, and peaceful moments—all without needing a car.
Why Visit Beacon Hill Park, Victoria?
Beacon Hill Park is a beloved public green space spread across 200 acres of manicured gardens, woodlands, and seaside bluffs in Victoria, BC. It’s free to enter, incredibly walkable, and filled with family-friendly features.
Here, you’ll find:
- Colorful peacocks roaming the lawns
- Shady paths winding through tall trees
- A petting zoo for little ones
- Ocean views that rival any in British Columbia
- A Putting Green!
We saw locals reading, kids laughing, and visitors like us, snapping photos around every corner.
Getting There Without a Car
Coming from the Victoria Marriott Inner Harbour, where we stayed, we walked down Douglas Street, past the Legislature Building, and continued south until we reached the main entrance to Beacon Hill Park at Douglas and Southgate.
No need for transit or taxis. This route is under 15 minutes on foot and full of classic Victoria charm.
(Planning a trip without a vehicle? Read Where to Stay in Victoria Without a Car for tips.)
Our Route Through the Park
We entered through the Douglas Street gates and walked straight toward Goodacre Lake. The little bridges and lily pads looked like something from a fairytale.
We looped past the petting zoo, where kids were feeding goats and squealing at what looked like miniature donkeys. Then we continued on tree-lined trails toward Beacon Hill Lookout.
Here, sweeping views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca opened before us. We sat on a bench, soaking in the salty air and spotting ships in the distance.
From there, we walked down to Dallas Road, where cliffs drop to the sea and the views stretch toward Washington’s Olympic Mountains.
Highlights Along the Way
Family-Friendly Spots
- The Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is free (donations welcome) and great for young kids. We didn’t go in, but could see many happy families enjoying it from the path we were on.
- Playgrounds and duck ponds are scattered through the park.
Photo-Worthy Scenes
- Keep your camera ready for strutting peacocks and Victorian-style lamp posts.
- Flower beds near the lake burst with color from spring to fall.
- The towering Totem Pole, one of the world’s tallest, is a must-see. We were lucky enough to see a bald eagle perched on the very top of it.
Historical Touches
- Monuments and statues dot the park, including the Terry Fox Memorial, the start of the Trans Canada Highway, and the old Grandstand, the oldest building in the park.
- The land has deep Indigenous significance, long used by the Lekwungen (Songhees and Esquimalt) peoples.
Extend Your Day
Once we finished exploring the park, we headed toward the waterfront path for a breezy walk along Dallas Road. You could easily combine this with an oceanside picnic or sunset view.
Or, head back toward town for lunch or gear shopping at MEC. That’s what we did before hopping on the West Coast Trail Express the next morning. (More on that here: Victoria to West Coast Trailhead).
Need pre-hike tips? Don’t miss What to Do in Victoria Before the WCT for gear, eats, and walkable attractions.
Beacon Hill Park is a true Highlight of Victoria, BC
Beacon Hill Park Victoria felt like a gift. It is green, scenic, and full of life. Whether you’re prepping for an epic trek like we were, or simply exploring Victoria BC, this park is a must-see. It’s a true retreat by the sea, just steps from downtown.
