Things To Do
in Esquimalt
Esquimalt is a small community located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its beautiful waterfront views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The suburb is home to the Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt, which plays a significant role in the local economy.
Esquimalt offers a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and green spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $100 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2.50 - $3.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $120
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Saxe Point Park. Enjoy the stunning ocean views and maybe spot some marine wildlife.
Have lunch at a local café followed by a stroll at Esquimalt Lagoon. This beautiful lagoon is perfect for bird watching and photography.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant as the sun sets. Embrace the serene atmosphere while enjoying fresh seafood.
Kick off your day with a walk at the Gorge Waterway Park. The lush greenery and waterway views are refreshing.
Enjoy a picnic at the park before heading to the nearby Esquimalt Recreation Centre. Take advantage of the indoor swimming pool or gym.
Visit a local brewery to unwind after an active day. Sample different craft beers and enjoy a lively atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Victoria, providing easy access to urban amenities and cultural activities.
- Strong sense of community and local events that foster engagement.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with access to oceans, parks, and recreational activities.
- Good public services, including schools and healthcare facilities.
- Rich history and heritage, with several interesting historical sites.
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in Canada.
- Limited job market in certain sectors, which can make employment challenging.
- Traffic congestion during peak hours, particularly when commuting to Victoria.
- Seasonal weather variations, with wet winters that may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Esquimalt
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful tidal lagoon that offers kayaking, paddleboarding, and birdwatching opportunities, as well as scenic trails for walking and cycling.
A park featuring waterfront views, picnic areas, and walking trails, perfect for enjoying nature and watching the sunset.
A scenic waterway ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding, with walking paths along the shore for leisurely strolls.
Offers outdoor sports facilities, including tennis courts, soccer fields, and playgrounds, suitable for various sports and family activities.
Located nearby, this park provides walking trails, picnic spots, and access to the waterfront, making it a great place to enjoy the outdoors.
Take a boat tour or go fishing in this picturesque area that offers local shops, restaurants, and the chance to see marine life.
Tours
Uncover the best of Esquimalt with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Esquimalt
Visit one of these nice places.
Saxe Point Park overlooks the coastline and offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains and Strait of Juan de Fuca.
The West Bay Walkway provides picturesque views of the coastline, boats, and the Esquimalt Lagoon.
Macaulay Point Park is a historic site offering panoramic views of the ocean, naval base, and passing ships.
Food in Esquimalt
Esquimalt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of Indigenous cuisine, this fried bread is a must-try. Visit the Esquimalt Nation's annual Pow Wow or look for it at local Indigenous-owned cafes.
Must-Try!
Enjoy a hearty bowl of creamy chowder filled with fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants like The Six Mile Pub or Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub.
Indulge in these iconic Canadian treats at Esquimalt Farmers Market or local bakeries like Ma Miller's.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Esquimalt better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore a vibrant mix of local produce, artisanal goods, and street food stalls. Don't miss the diverse range of international cuisines on offer.
Visit the food truck parked outside the pub for delectable street food, especially during special events and festivals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Esquimalt has a rich Indigenous heritage. It’s important for visitors and residents to learn about and respect the local Indigenous communities, their history, and cultural practices. Engaging with Indigenous organizations and attending cultural events can foster respect and understanding.
In Esquimalt, as in much of Canada, punctuality is valued. Arriving on time for meetings and social engagements demonstrates respect. Additionally, using polite forms of address, especially in formal settings, is appreciated.
Esquimalt residents pride themselves on environmental stewardship. Engaging in sustainable practices, such as recycling and conserving wildlife habitats, is important. Participating in community clean-up events or supporting local environmental initiatives shows respect for the community and its natural surroundings.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Esquimalt with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Esquimalt
Ensure a smooth experience
In Esquimalt, as in much of Canada, tipping is customary in the service industry. Typically, a tip of 15-20% of the total bill is expected at restaurants, cafes, and bars. Tips are also commonly given to taxi drivers, hairdressers, and hotel staff. While tipping is appreciated, it is not mandatory, and service charges may be included in larger parties.
Payment methods in Esquimalt include cash, credit cards, debit cards, and mobile payment options. Most businesses accept major credit and debit cards, while some may also provide contactless payment options. Electronic transfers via e-wallets and apps are becoming more popular, especially in retail and service sectors.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Esquimalt.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
In spring, the weather in Esquimalt starts to warm up, and the beautiful cherry blossoms bloom, creating a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and strolls by the waterfront.
Summer is the best time to visit Esquimalt, as the weather is warm and pleasant, perfect for enjoying the beaches, outdoor festivals, and various water activities.
Fall in Esquimalt brings stunning foliage colors, making it an ideal time for nature walks, hiking, and exploring the nearby parks and gardens.
In winter, Esquimalt experiences mild temperatures, and holiday events and winter sports provide plenty of opportunities for festive and outdoor fun.
Esquimalt at Night
Hiking in Esquimalt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful waterfront park with trails for walking and biking along the Gorge Waterway.
Offers scenic views of the ocean with trails that lead to rocky shorelines and picnic areas.
Features a coastal trail with stunning views and access to the water, perfect for leisurely hikes.
A serene area with trails around the lagoon and beach, great for bird watching and relaxing walks.
A large park just a short drive away, offering numerous trails, gardens, and viewpoints.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Esquimalt through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Esquimalt by plane.
Located approximately 25 kilometers north of Esquimalt, this airport serves the Greater Victoria area and offers numerous international and domestic flights.
Located about 100 kilometers north of Esquimalt, it is one of Canada's busiest airports, providing a wide range of international flights.
Situated about 130 kilometers southeast of Esquimalt, this airport offers some international services and is popular among travelers seeking alternative options.
Located approximately 200 kilometers southeast of Esquimalt, this major airport offers extensive international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Esquimalt, primarily consisting of individuals of British and European descent.
Including First Nations communities such as the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations, contributing to the cultural heritage of the area.
A significant demographic group, including individuals of Chinese, South Asian, and Filipino descent.
Representing a smaller but important community within Esquimalt, contributing to the cultural diversity.
A growing demographic group, primarily consisting of individuals from various Latin American countries.
Includes individuals from various other backgrounds and ethnicities not classified in the larger demographic groups.
The Soul of Esquimalt
Discover the essence of Esquimalt through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely played team sport in Esquimalt, enjoyed by both youth and adults.
Ice hockey is particularly popular, with local leagues and teams representing the community.
Known as Canada's national summer sport, lacrosse has a strong following in Esquimalt.
Rugby clubs in the area foster both competitive and social play among various age groups.
The nearby waters and local pools offer great opportunities for swimming, both recreationally and competitively.
With various parks and trails, Esquimalt is a popular place for running enthusiasts.
Both road cycling and mountain biking are popular among residents, supported by scenic routes and trails.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Esquimalt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Esquimalt boasts several eateries catering specifically to vegetarians and vegans, with diverse and creative menus to explore.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy a range of offerings, from gluten-free bakeries to restaurants with dedicated gluten-free menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Esquimalt with these cultural adventures.
