Winter Activities

During the winter, the atmosphere on Vancouver Island changes with the season. The vibrant summer pace slows to a reflective, relaxed atmosphere, creating the perfect time for a visit to Victoria and the Island. Activities, tours and entertainment still abound, but without crowds or high-season costs.

Winters are always temperate in Victoria, with snow falling mainly in the mountains and northern regions of the Island. Almost all outdoor activities can be enjoyed year-round. Skiing, snowboarding and other snow-based activities can be found at world-class Mount Washington as well as many other locations on the Island. Only on Vancouver Island would a typical winter day include golf in the morning, skiing in the afternoon and a long walk in the evening to enjoy the crisp, clean air.

In the winter, surfers brave chilling waters to ride the best waves of the year. These same waves can rise to 20 feet during a winter storm and storm watching on the west coast of Vancouver Island is a thrilling experience packed with power and drama. Of course, the winter season also brings Christmas, and a Victorian Christmas is one of lights, magic and charm.