9 Best Spots for Kayaking Victoria, BC to Explore

Source: Flickr

Victoria, BC, is a kayaker's paradise, offering a variety of scenic spots perfect for paddling enthusiasts of all skill levels. Whether you’re after calm lakes, stunning coastlines, or adventurous inlets, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best places to kayak in this picturesque region!

Kayaking Victoria is never-ending fun. From calm rivers like the Yarra to sprawling networks like Gippsland Lakes and the wild coastlines, there are plenty of varieties to paddle.

Besides that, kayaking Victoria is also an immensely popular activity to explore the area because there’s a strong sense of kayak community there, with clubs, tours, and rentals.

To experience authentic Victoria kayaking, let’s hop on our list of 9 best spots in this amazing state.

DISCLAIMER: Before traveling to a kayak location, ensure that the location still allows for kayaking and make yourself aware of any rules and regulations in place.

1. Thetis Lake Regional Park

Thetis Lake Regional Park is a true gem located just a short drive from downtown Victoria. It’s a haven for nature lovers, offering two serene interconnected lakes—Upper and Lower Thetis—perfect for a relaxing paddle. Surrounded by lush forest trails, it’s an ideal spot for beginners and families looking for a calm and scenic kayaking experience. The tranquil waters and peaceful atmosphere make it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Source: Flickr

• Water Type: Calm freshwater, ideal for leisurely paddling.
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly; great for those just starting with kayaking.
• Launch Points: Easy access from the main beach area with nearby parking.
• Amenities: Well-maintained picnic areas, ample parking, and over 40 kilometers of hiking trails to explore after your paddle.
• Unique Features: Frequent sightings of local wildlife like herons, turtles, and eagles.

Whether you’re paddling around the quiet lakes or hiking through the park’s extensive trail network, Thetis Lake Regional Park offers an idyllic setting for a day of adventure and relaxation.

2. Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

A top spot for kayaking in Victoria, this park offers calm, sheltered waters along Tod Inlet, perfect for beginners and intermediate paddlers. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning coastlines, it’s a peaceful escape teeming with wildlife like seals and otters.

• Water Type: Sheltered inlet
• Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Launch Points: Brentwood Bay
• Amenities: Hiking trails, picnic areas, nearby cafes
• Unique Features: Wildlife-rich waters, scenic coastline, and tranquil paddling atmosphere

3. Langford Lake

Langford Lake offers a peaceful escape for kayaking in Victoria, with crystal-clear waters and a unique floating boardwalk that lets you paddle close to aquatic plants and wildlife. Known for excellent fishing, it’s a quiet retreat with minimal boat traffic, perfect for beginners and leisure paddlers.

• Water Type: Freshwater, calm and clear
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
• Launch Points: Public boat ramp
• Amenities: Floating boardwalk, parking, picnic areas, fishing spots
• Unique Features: Floating boardwalk and top fishing opportunities

4. Victoria Harbour

Victoria Harbour is the heart of kayaking in Victoria, combining stunning natural beauty with a vibrant urban backdrop. Paddle alongside iconic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings and the Empress Hotel while sharing the water with ferries, sailboats, and wildlife like seals and otters. The harbor’s bustling yet scenic atmosphere makes it a one-of-a-kind kayaking experience.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

• Water Type: Busy harbor with boat traffic
• Skill Level: Intermediate (requires awareness of water activity)
• Launch Points: Fisherman’s Wharf or Inner Harbour
• Amenities: Nearby restaurants, kayak rentals, restrooms
• Unique Features: Iconic cityscape, marine wildlife, and dynamic waterway

5. Oak Bay

Oak Bay is a must-visit destination for kayaking in Victoria, offering stunning coastal views and access to small, picturesque islands like the Chatham and Discovery Islands. This area is rich in marine life—seals, otters, and seabirds are frequent companions on your paddle.

• Water Type: Coastal, with mild waves
• Skill Level: Intermediate
• Launch Points: Cattle Point or Willows Beach
• Amenities: Parking, restrooms
• Unique Features: Marine life and island exploration opportunities

6. Esquimalt Lagoon

Esquimalt Lagoon is a unique kayaking spot in Victoria, BC, offering a serene paddle with spectacular views of the Olympic Mountains and Fisgard Lighthouse. This saltwater lagoon is a designated bird sanctuary, making it a haven for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts. The calm, shallow waters are ideal for beginners, and its proximity to the ocean provides a stunning mix of coastal and lagoon scenery.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

• Water Type: Calm saltwater lagoon
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
• Launch Points: Beach access via Lagoon Road
• Amenities: Parking, picnic areas, and nearby trails
• Unique Features: Bird sanctuary, views of Fisgard Lighthouse, and coastal landscapes

7. Cadboro Bay

Cadboro Bay is a standout spot for kayaking in Victoria, offering sheltered waters and access to the stunning Chatham and Discovery Islands. Paddle along the picturesque coastline, dotted with rocky outcrops and sandy beaches, and enjoy the chance to spot seals and sea birds

• Water Type: Sheltered bay with mild waves
• Skill Level: Beginner to intermediate
• Launch Points: Cadboro-Gyro Park
• Amenities: Parking, washrooms, nearby cafes
• Unique Features: Access to Chatham and Discovery Islands, rocky outcrops, and marine wildlife

8. Goldstream Provincial Park

Goldstream Provincial Park offers a one-of-a-kind kayaking experience in Victoria, BC. Paddle along the Goldstream River, surrounded by lush rainforests and towering trees, for an immersive nature adventure. In the fall, the river comes alive with the annual salmon run, attracting eagles and other wildlife, making it a magical time to visit.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

• Water Type: Freshwater river with gentle currents
• Skill Level: Intermediate due to narrower waterways
• Launch Points: Near Goldstream Campground
• Amenities: Parking, picnic areas, hiking trails
• Unique Features: Seasonal salmon run, lush rainforests, and wildlife sightings

9. Willows Beach

Willows Beach is one of the most picturesque spots for kayaking in Victoria, offering sandy shores, calm waters, and breathtaking views of Discovery Island and Mount Baker on clear days. The shallow, protected bay makes it ideal for beginners, while its location in Oak Bay provides easy access to nearby islands for more adventurous paddlers.

• Water Type: Coastal
• Skill Level: Beginner-friendly
• Launch Points: Beach area at Willows Park
• Amenities: Parking, restrooms, cafes
• Unique Features: Scenic coastal views and a family-friendly vibe

Where to Rent a Kayak in Victoria, BC?

Need a kayak? Victoria has plenty of rental shops to gear you up:

• Ocean River Sports: Offers a wide range of single and tandem kayaks, along with guided tours.
• Victoria Kayak Tours & Rentals: Conveniently located near the Inner Harbour, providing hourly and daily rentals.
• Pacifica Paddle Sports: Ideal for exploring Brentwood Bay, offering high-quality kayaks suitable for all experience levels.

But here’s the deal: renting on-site is convenient, but nothing beats having your own inflatable kayak for comfort and flexibility! Check out the iROCKER Inflatable Kayak—it’s portable, durable, and perfect for any adventure.

Already have a paddle board? Convert it into a kayak with iROCKER’s SUP Kayak Conversion Kit for the ultimate versatility!

Enjoy Kayaking Victoria with iROCKER!

From calm lakes to stunning coastlines, Victoria has kayaking spots for every adventurer. Don’t wait—grab your gear and start exploring! And for the best experience, equip yourself with iROCKER’s high-quality inflatable kayak or paddle board conversion kits. Shop now and make your next adventure unforgettable!