Things To Do
in Colwood
Colwood is a coastal municipality on Vancouver Island just west of Victoria. It offers easy access to nature preserves, historic sites, and a family-friendly vibe with a mix of residential neighborhoods and waterfront trails. The community is known for its quiet neighborhoods, scenic coastal views, and proximity to the capital's cultural amenities.
Visitors can enjoy a blend of outdoor recreation and convenient access to downtown Victoria and the island's natural beauty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Colwood Heritage Park, where you can admire the beautifully restored buildings that showcase the region's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the gardens, taking in the sights and sounds of the surrounding nature. Be sure to stop by the local café for a warm beverage and a pastry to fuel your morning adventures.
After lunch, head over to Fort Rodd Hill and the Fisgard Lighthouse, exploring the fascinating exhibits that detail the area's military history. Take a guided tour to learn more about the fort's strategic importance and enjoy the stunning coastal views from the lighthouse. Capture memorable photographs of the lighthouse and the rugged shoreline as you take a scenic walk around the grounds.
As the sun begins to set, make your way to the nearby Esquimalt Lagoon for a picturesque evening walk along the beach. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you watch the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors, reflecting off the water. Conclude your day with a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant, savoring local seafood while listening to the calming sounds of the waves.
Kick off your morning at Colwood's beautiful Royal Beach, where you can enjoy a refreshing swim or relax on the sandy shores. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery. Don't forget to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the beach as you soak in the sun.
After lunch, join a local water sports group for lessons in windsurfing or sailing, ideal for both beginners and experienced enthusiasts. Spend your afternoon gliding across the water, feeling the thrill of the wind and waves as you navigate the picturesque coastline. Take breaks to appreciate the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forested areas.
As evening falls, unwind with a stroll along the beach, collecting seashells and enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature. Consider grabbing a light dinner at a beachside café, where you can savor delicious fish tacos and local craft beer. End the day by watching the stars twinkle above the calm ocean, creating a truly magical ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 🏠Rent (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,600-2,100 |
| 🚌Monthly transit pass | $78-90 |
| 🧺Groceries (monthly) | $350-550 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to nature and coastline
- Calm, family-friendly atmosphere
- Easy access to Victoria’s services
- Strong public safety and walkability around towns
- Limited nightlife within Colwood
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Smaller town amenities compared to Victoria
- Seasonal tourist crowds in summer
Places to Visit in Colwood
Visit one of these nice places.
Coastal fortress with rugged cliffs, historic structures, and lighthouse silhouettes at golden hour.
Shallow waters, birds, and reflective light perfect for wide-angle coastal shots.
Harbor views and boats against a backdrop of the Olympic Mountains on clear days.
Beaches, boardwalks, and marshland teeming with wildlife for nature photography.
Forest canopies, mossy logs, and seasonal streams ideal for landscape photography.
Food in Colwood
Colwood Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Creamy chowder featuring locally caught salmon and seasonal vegetables, available at many coastal eateries.
Must-Try!
Smoked salmon served with rye bread, capers, and lemon; commonly found in seafood spots and markets.
Fresh crab served with melted butter and lemon, popular at waterfront restaurants.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub of local vendors offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and ready-to-eat options.
Seasonal clusters of food trucks around Bastion Square and Government Street offering diverse street bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak politely, queue respectfully, and mind personal space in public and on trails.
Stay on marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and dispose of trash properly.
Respect local Indigenous sites and learn basic respectful terms if engaging with culture.
Safety
Tipping in Colwood
Ensure a smooth experience
In Canada, tips (gratuities) of 15-20% at restaurants are standard; rounding up for small services is common.
Credit and debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash accepted but less common for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dryer, longer days with temperatures typically between 20-25°C; great for outdoor activities, coastal hikes, and harbour strolls; occasional sea breeze and marine fog.
Mild with increasing rainfall; fall foliage and salmon runs in Goldstream; layers recommended for cool mornings and evenings.
Mild but wet and windy; average temps 0-7°C; rain common, occasional snow at higher elevations; pack rain gear and sturdy footwear.
Sheltered, variable weather; blossoming flowers and longer daylight; coastal trails can be muddy, waterproof footwear advised.
Colwood at Night
Hiking in Colwood
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails along the canyon and waterfall, with salmon runs in fall.
Coastal trails and boardwalks through wetlands and beaches.
Gentle to moderate hikes around the lake with forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Colwood by plane.
Located north of Colwood, a primary gateway to Vancouver Island with domestic and some international flights; about 25-30 minutes by car to Colwood depending on traffic.
Major hub with extensive international and domestic connections; requires a flight to Victoria or a ferry/drive combination to reach Colwood.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families with kids gravitate toward the safe, residential neighborhoods and nearby parks.
Quiet neighborhoods and easy access to healthcare attract retirees.
Proximity to Victoria’s job market and schools draws professionals.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple of Canadian sports culture; local leagues and junior teams are active in the region.
Popular in schools and community clubs; local leagues and recreational play are common.
Extensive bike routes and scenic rides along the coast and through surrounding neighborhoods.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Colwood.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options; look for veggie bowls, salads, and seafood substitutes; ask for dairy-free options.