Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Top 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Victoria, BC (2025 Update)

two dogs playing at the beach

From the rugged coastline of Juan de Fuca Provincial Park to the sandy shores of West Vancouver, Victoria in British Columbia is home to many gorgeous dog-friendly beaches. Whether you’re looking for a quiet beach for a romantic sunset stroll or an expansive shoreline for a full day of play with your pup, the city has the perfect place for you and your four-legged friend. So, grab your leash, and explore this list of the top 10 dog-friendly beaches in Victoria, B.C.!

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

The 10 Dog-Friendly Beaches in Victoria, BC

1. Mystic Beach

️Address: Capitol Regional District, BC, Canada
Open Times: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • Nice little gray sand beach on the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail
  • Magnificent waterfall from the top of the cliffs to the sandy shores
  • A winding 2.4-km hike from the road leads to a spectacular view of the beach and the ocean
  • Plenty of parking spaces but gets crowded quickly in the high season

2. Elk/Beaver Lake

️Address: 5267 Patricia Bay Hwy, Victoria, BC, Canada
Open Times: 24/7
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, in the designated area
  • Beautiful, peaceful lakes with long trails to stretch your legs
  • A playground makes this spot ideal for family outings
  • Plenty of free parking spaces available
  • Be sure to keep your dog on a leash from June 1 to September 15
  • Don’t forget to bring your paddle boards for a great adventure with your pup!

3. Cadboro-Gyro Park

️Address: Sinclair Rd, Victoria, BC V8N 6B4, Canada
Open Times: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: No
  • Stunning oceanfront park with sandy beach, picnic areas, playground, tennis courts, and boat ramp
  • Jog along the ocean with your best buddy, enjoying the breathtaking views of Haro Strait
  • Keep your eyes peeled: A sea monster called Carborosaurus is said to have been prowling these waters since the 1930s!

4. Parker Park in Cordova Bay

️Address: 5405 Parker Ave, Victoria, BC V8Y 2N1, Canada
Open Times: 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • A hidden gem for long beach walks but best when the tide is out
  • Small park nearby and long sandy beaches for more tranquility
  • Dogs are allowed off-leash all year round
  • Be sure to pick up after your dog and respect the neighborhood that is nearby

5. Thetis Lake Regional Park

️Address: View Royal, BC, Canada
Open Times: 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Cost: No admission fee, but you must pay for parking May–October
Off-Leash: Yes, except the main picnic area beach
  • Popular open space on the edge of Lake Thetis for hiking and refreshing swims
  • Go canoeing early in the morning with your pup, and you might have the lake all to yourself!
  • Your dog will love wading through the dog-friendly areas of this beautiful freshwater lake
  • Picturesque views all around the beach

6. Spiral Beach

️Address: 1119 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC, Canada
Open Times: 24/7
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Nice place for lovers of rocky and pebble beaches
  • Stunning views of the mountains and even Washington State on a clear day!
  • Perfect spot to take your dog off leash all year round

7. Gonzales Bay

️Address: Victoria, BC V8S 2G8, Canada
Open Times: 24/7
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, from September to May
  • Beautiful, scenic, crescent-shaped beach where dogs are allowed off-leash from September to May
  • Parking is a bit tricky, so be sure to arrive early
  • Keep your eyes peeled, and you might be lucky enough to spot an elephant seal!

8. Ross Bay Public Pebbles Beach

️Address: Victoria, BC, Canada
Open Times: 24/7
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Pebble-covered beach located near the road for easy access
  • Gorgeous views to sit back and watch your pup happily wade through the water
  • Less crowded than most other surrounding beaches

9. Telegraph Cove

️Address: 4040 Telegraph Bay Rd, Victoria, BC V8N 4J5, Canada
Open Times: 24/7
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes
  • Rocky, secluded beach with driftwood and logs to sit on
  • Incredible killer whale observation spot!
  • The waters are cold but ideal for kayaking and canoeing
  • Keep in mind that there are no facilities and that parking is limited

10. Island View Beach

Address: Cordova Channel, BC, Canada
Open Times: 24/7
Cost: Free
Off-Leash: Yes, from September to June
  • Vast sandy beach with breathtaking sunrises
  • Panoramic seascape view of Haro Strait and Mount Baker
  • Dogs must be kept on a leash at the park campsite
  • Best to go at low tide to enjoy a long walk with your dog

divider dog paws 4 oct 2024

Summing Up

There is nothing quite like the feeling of sand between your toes and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. If you and your dog are looking for a great place to spend a day at the beach, head to one of these dog-friendly beaches in Victoria, B.C. But be sure to observe any rules, and don’t forget to bring a leash, plenty of water and food, and your dog’s favorite treats and toys!


Featured Image Credit By: Karsten Bergmann, Pixabay

Want content like this delivered to you?

Sign Up For Our Newsletter

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

* By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

Your feedback really matters.

What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

Join the conversation

Leave a Reply

You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.

Talk With A Vet Online

Peace of mind,
anywhere, anytime

Affordable vet advice

How to Clean Dog Vomit From Carpet: 4 Ideas & Tips (With Pictures)

Being a dog owner means that at some point, you’re going to deal with dog vomit. Sometimes, dogs get stomach bugs or eat...

5 Things to Do When Your Friend’s Dog Dies

One of the hardest times to be a pet owner is when you have to say goodbye to your companion. Watching a friend...

Does a Bernese Mountain Dog Like to Cuddle? Getting to Know Your Dog

The Bernese Mountain Dog is basically a living, breathing plush bear, so the question is not, “Do these dogs like to cuddle?” but...

When to Take Your Dog to the Vet: 15 Emergencies Reviewed (Vet Answer)

All dog owners will know that our canine companions are very much a part of the family. It’s so important to keep them...

More related

9 Off-Leash Dog Parks in Bend, OR You Can Visit in 2025

Although Bend isn’t one of the biggest cities in Oregon, it’s one of the friendliest places when it comes to dogs. Various places...

Can a Dog Smell Human Pheromones? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Dogs can be embarrassing. It never seems to fail that when people stop by to visit, our best friends and furry family members...

Can Dogs Eat Teriyaki Sauce? Vet Reviewed Nutrition Facts & FAQ

Teriyaki sauce can spice up many of our meals. However, while it is tasty, it isn’t safe for our canines. Teriyaki sauce contains...

11 Best Dog Foods for Cane Corso Puppies in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Cane Corsos are huge dogs that take a lot of time to grow. Therefore, you’ll be feeding your Cane Corso puppy food for...

Keep reading

10 Best Dental Treats for Dogs in 2025 – Reviews & Top Picks

Dental treats aren’t meant as a replacement for regular brushing, but your dog will love them, and they work as a good backup. They help remove plaque and tartar buildup, thanks to their abrasive surface, and sometimes the ingredients they...

siberian husky given a dental treat

Life’s Abundance Dog Food vs. Blue Buffalo 2025: Pros, Cons & What to Choose

There are a surprisingly high number of dog food brands out there. Plus, each brand has different recipes, which all contain different ingredients and benefits. There are a huge number of controversies out there, too. You’ll find varying opinions about...

Dogster_Dog Food Life’s Abundance VS Blue Buffalo

Can Dogs Eat Pistachios? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Pistachios are a favorite food among humans that are rich in protein, fiber, and vitamin B6. They are popular in salads, desserts, and just on their own as a snack. Wondering whether dogs can eat pistachio nuts may be a...

Can Dogs Eat Pistachios

Can Dogs Eat Gravy? Vet-Reviewed Facts & Alternatives

Gravy can seem like a treat that many dogs can enjoy. Gravies are often meat-based, and many dogs lap them up enthusiastically. However, it’s generally not recommended for dogs to eat gravy because it can contain harmful ingredients, and it...

Can Dogs Eat Gravy

Can Dogs Eat Ham? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Dogs are omnivores, and they can eat plant—and animal-based ingredients. In the wild, they hunt small animals individually, and in packs, they work together to take down larger animals. However, they also eat plants, including fruit and vegetables. Ham, made...

Can Dogs Eat Ham

Can Dogs Eat Asparagus? Vet-Reviewed Facts & FAQ

Depending on how they’re prepared, most vegetables are safe, even beneficial, for dogs to eat, including asparagus. Asparagus is a fiber-rich vegetable that is high in several vitamins and minerals. It is a popular addition to many spring dishes and...

Can Dogs Eat_Asparagus

Apple Cider Vinegar for Dogs: Vet-Approved Uses, Safety & Effectiveness

Apple cider vinegar and home remedies are extremely popular right now, and for good reason. They’re usually affordable, and some have actually been proven to work. And who wants to miss out on affordable preventative medicine? However, some remedies are...

Apple Cider

Can Dogs Eat Crawfish? Vet Reviewed Facts & FAQs

A crawfish, also known as a crayfish, rock lobster, and crawdad, is a well-known crustacean eaten worldwide. People of many cultures eat them; dogs can eat them, too, if they’re prepared properly. Some preparation methods can be dangerous for dogs,...

Can Dogs Eat_Crawfish