🇨🇦 Vancouver Island | Eat, Play & Explore in Victoria

While my main goal for this trip was wildlife photography 🦦, I stumbled upon so many cool spots along the way! Here’s my roundup of fun places around Victoria. This post focuses on food and attractions in and around Victoria. Next up: hidden gems on the way to Telegraph Cove! 🍴 Red Fish Blue Fish A legit famous spot in Victoria! We ordered: BC Halibut Fish & Chips Salmon Tacone Chipotle Chowder The portions were generous. The salmon taco was tender with great black pepper flavor. The chowder had a tangy coconut twist. The fish and chips were decent—worth a try! 🍣 Yua Bistro A Japanese spot right next to Chinatown. We went for lunch and tried three lunch specials: Nigiri sushi 🍣 (fresh and good!) Pork Tenderloin Oju Box (super tender with yuzu sauce—not greasy at all) Unagi Rice (a bit small, but tasty) They serve lots of side dishes! Affordable—around $30 per person. 🍵 Murchie’s Fine Tea & Coffee A century-old tea shop open since 1894—said to be Canada’s oldest tea company! We bought Tieguanyin oolong and Lychee Coconut Black Tea 🍃. Perfect for souvenirs! They also serve coffee and pastries—great for afternoon tea. 🏛️ Parliament Buildings One of Victoria’s iconic landmarks. Free entry! Inside, you’ll find historical photos and real legislative chambers. Definitely worth a visit. 🌿 Clover Point Park A great spot for otter watching! 🦦 Not crowded—surrounded by neighborhoods. Perfect for a relaxing walk. 🏰 Abbeymoore Manor If you want to experience Victorian-era charm, I highly recommend this B&B! It was originally a gold rush merchant’s mansion. The furniture and decor are full of history. And yes—breakfast is included! 🍳 📍 Near Nanaimo 🛒 Old Country Market This place is famous for the goats on the roof! 🐐 (We didn’t see them that day though😅) The market has unique souvenirs from around the world. Food options are plenty—try the German Bee Sting Cake! They also sell dried sausages, beef jerky, local goat cheese, and there’s a British pastry shop inside. 🌲 Cathedral Grove The easiest way to experience Vancouver Island’s temperate rainforest! The loop trail takes less than 20 mins—suitable for all ages 👨👩👧👦 #VictoriaBC #VancouverIsland #Vancouver #TravelCanada #NorthAmericanLife #TravelAndEat #VictoriaFood #HiddenGems #HotelGoals