Beacon Hill Park is Victoria’s crown jewel—a massive green space packed with gardens, ocean views, and even roaming peacocks.
Whether you’re up for a relaxing stroll, a picnic with unbeatable scenery, or spotting wildlife, this park has it all.
But what makes it special? Let’s dive into why Beacon Hill Park is a must-visit in Victoria!
What Is Beacon Hill Park?
⚠️ Tourist without a car? Your best bet for getting over for tea is getting the bus to Victoria from downtown Vancouver. You won’t need to lift a finger.
Beacon Hill Park is a 200-acre urban park in Victoria, known for its stunning landscapes, peaceful walking paths, and coastal views.
It’s perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone looking for a quiet escape from the city.
People consider it one of the best things to do in Victoria for:
- ✅ Beautiful gardens – Manicured flower beds, cherry blossom trees, and colourful seasonal blooms.
- ✅ Wildlife everywhere – Peacocks, ducks, herons, and even turtles can be spotted throughout the park.
- ✅ Ocean views – Stunning coastal scenery with benches to relax and take it all in.
- ✅ Mile Zero Monument – The start of the Trans-Canada Highway, a cool spot for photos.
- ✅ Outdoor activities – Walking trails, ponds, and even a petting zoo for kids.
The best part? It’s completely free and just a short walk from downtown Victoria.
The only downside? If you’re visiting in peak summer, expect crowds – especially around the petting zoo and main gardens.
What to See in Beacon Hill Park
- Peacocks! – Yes, real peacocks wander freely in the park.
- Mile Zero Monument – The symbolic starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway.
- Goodacre Lake – A peaceful pond with ducks, turtles, and beautiful reflections.
- Petting Zoo – The Beacon Hill Children’s Farm lets kids meet friendly goats.
- Clifftop Ocean Views – Head to the park’s southern edge for stunning vistas over the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
- Totem Pole – One of the tallest totem poles in the world stands proudly in the park.
Best Thing to Do at Beacon Hill Park
If you only have time for one thing, make sure to walk down to the coastal cliffs. The views of the ocean and Olympic Mountains are unbeatable, and there are plenty of benches to just sit and soak it all in.
If you’re with kids, the petting zoo is an easy highlight. Watching the baby goats run around is ridiculously entertaining.
Where Is Beacon Hill Park?
Beacon Hill Park is right next to downtown Victoria, making it one of the easiest attractions to visit.
You can walk here in about 10 minutes from the Inner Harbour.
✅ Ease of access: 10/10 – No need for a car; just walk or take a short bus ride.
How to Get to Beacon Hill Park
You can get more details in my post on how to get to Victoria from Vancouver, but here’s a quick check:
- Vancouver to Victoria by car/ferry: 3.5 hours total, estimated cost $100 (BC Ferries + fuel).
- Vancouver to Victoria by bus from downtown: 4 hours total, estimated cost $100, operated by BC Ferries Connector.
- Seaplanes to Victoria from downtown Vancouver: 35 minutes, estimated cost $250+.
- Guided Tours to Victoria from Vancouver: 12 hours, estimated cost $150-$280, includes city highlights.
Most tourists or cruisers looking to see Victoria opt for all-inclusive guided tours from Vancouver.
Here are a few of the highest-rated ones:
Easiest Way to Get to Beacon Hill Park
Walking is the best way to get there if you’re staying downtown.
If you’re coming from further away, you can take a BC Transit bus or grab a taxi.
A bit too far? Check out some other ideas on my list of best day trips from Vancouver.
Is Beacon Hill Park Worth Visiting? My Experience
Absolutely. The first time I visited, I couldn’t believe how peaceful it was despite being so close to the city. The peacocks were an unexpected surprise—I had no idea they’d just be wandering around!
The cliffside ocean views were my personal highlight. It’s the kind of spot where you can just sit for an hour, watching boats go by and taking in the fresh air.
If you’re into photography, bring your camera. Between the gardens, wildlife, and coastal scenery, there’s no shortage of amazing shots.
My Tips for Visiting Beacon Hill Park
- ✅ Go in the morning – It’s quieter, and you’ll have the best light for photos.
- ✅ Bring a picnic – There are plenty of grassy spots to relax with a snack.
- ✅ Wear comfy shoes – The park is big, and you’ll want to explore different trails.
- ✅ Check out the petting zoo – Even if you don’t have kids, it’s fun to see the animals.
- ✅ Don’t miss the ocean views – Head south in the park to find the best lookout spots.
Beacon Hill Park FAQ
How long should I spend in Beacon Hill Park?
Plan for at least 1-2 hours, more if you want to relax or explore the gardens.
Is Beacon Hill Park free?
Yes! The park is completely free to enter.
Are there public washrooms at Beacon Hill Park?
Yes, there are several washroom facilities throughout the park.
Can I bring my dog to Beacon Hill?
Yes, but dogs must be on a leash in most areas. There’s an off-leash section near the waterfront.
What’s the best season to visit Beacon Hill Park?
Spring and summer are the best times, with blooming flowers and sunny weather. Fall is beautiful too, with golden leaves everywhere.
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