Willows Beach
A beautiful waterfront park in Oak Bay, Victoria, offering stunning ocean views, a sandy beach, and a spacious grassy area for recreation.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking
Willows Beach
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier parking

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A beautiful waterfront park in Oak Bay, Victoria, offering stunning ocean views, a sandy beach, and a spacious grassy area for recreation.
"Locals have a gem in this area, offering hours of enjoyment and relaxation."
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking fills up fast on busy days. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy the scenery with your own food. The cafe's hours can be unpredictable.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning West Coast Views
The beach itself
Breathtaking ocean vistas with Mount Baker visible on clear days. Enjoy the gentle waves and peaceful atmosphere.

Family-Friendly Park and Playground
Adjacent grassy area
Spacious lawn for games, a playground for kids, and ample space to relax on the grass.

Scenic Beach Walk
Along the shoreline
Enjoy a leisurely stroll on the fine, light sand with plenty of driftwood for seating.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Relaxing Visit
Pack for a Perfect Beach Day
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beaches
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking fills up fast on busy days. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy the scenery with your own food. The cafe's hours can be unpredictable.
Oak Bay day trip suggestions
Recommended beach to visit for family with young kids in March?
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
The sun can be strong, even on cooler days. Protect your skin!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Many locals bring their dogs to enjoy the beach and park.
Been here for 3 days, what to do tomorrow?
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Can Be Tricky
Parking fills up fast on busy days. Arrive early or be prepared for a short walk.
🧺 Pack a Picnic Lunch
Enjoy the scenery with your own food. The cafe's hours can be unpredictable.
☀️ Sunscreen is a Must
The sun can be strong, even on cooler days. Protect your skin!
🐶 Dog-Friendly Vibes
Many locals bring their dogs to enjoy the beach and park.
✨ Visit During Local Events
The Oak Bay Tea Party brings extra fun but also more crowds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Willows Beach is a highly-rated waterfront park praised for its stunning West Coast views, family-friendly amenities, and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the fine sand, gentle waves, and the adjacent park's green space. While parking can be challenging during peak times and the on-site tea shop's status is uncertain, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, making it a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.
"Willow Beach is a beautiful spot in the Oak Bay area of Victoria. I stopped by recently and, while it was a little more crowded than I expected, it still had a calm, welcoming vibe. Families, dog walkers, and locals were all enjoying the sunny afternoon, and it was nice to see the space being so well-loved.
The views from the beach are stunning—on a clear day you can see Mount Baker in the distance, and the water has that peaceful, West Coast energy. There’s plenty of driftwood for seating, and the gentle waves make for a relaxing background soundtrack. It’s also a great walking area, with nice benches and easy parking nearby.
I was hoping to grab a drink from Kiwanis Tea Shop afterward, but it was closed when I went. (It turns out that location may have shut down permanently.) Still, Willow Beach was a lovely stop and well worth the visit. If you're in the area and want to take in some ocean air, this is a great place to do it."
Ranjeet kandari
"I love love this beach. The cafe is great for ice cream and fries.
My parents from Northern Canada absolutely love visiting Willow beach every time they come and stay.
Great park for the kids and large lawn area to play games or sit on the grass. Great for every age.
Pack a picnic and all your beach gear. The sand is beautiful.
4 stars because the parking can be tricky on a busy day, but once you get settled, you will love this beach and setting."
Keri Hendry
"A popular beach in Victoria with a nice walkway and places to grab a bite. This is a spot that should appeal to everyone and if you’re lucky you might just see a T-Rex!"
Shami K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Willows Beach is located in Oak Bay, Victoria. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options also serve the area, making it convenient for visitors without a car.
Yes, there is parking available, but it can be challenging to find a spot, especially on weekends and during peak season. Arriving early is recommended.
Biking is a great option, with scenic routes leading to the beach. There are usually bike racks available, though it's always a good idea to bring your own lock.
The park area and pathways are generally accessible, offering a pleasant experience for visitors with mobility challenges. The beach itself may have softer sand, which can be more difficult to navigate.
From downtown Victoria, you can take a bus route that heads towards Oak Bay. Driving is also a straightforward option, taking approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Willows Beach and its surrounding park are free to enter and enjoy. There are no admission fees required.
Willows Beach is a public park and beach, so it's generally accessible from dawn until dusk. The park facilities like washrooms are typically open during daylight hours.
There are no reservations needed for general picnic areas. You can find a spot on the lawn or bring your own blanket to enjoy a picnic.
The Kiwanis Tea Shop has had inconsistent hours and may be permanently closed. It's best to check local listings or inquire upon arrival for current status.
Yes, the Oak Bay Tea Party is a major annual event held at Willows Beach, drawing large crowds. Other community events may also take place throughout the year.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
You can sunbathe, swim, build sandcastles, have a picnic, walk along the shore, and enjoy the playground. It's a versatile spot for relaxation and family fun.
The water at Willows Beach is generally calm and clear, making it suitable for swimming, especially during warmer months. Always exercise caution and be aware of water conditions.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Willows Beach, and it's a popular spot for dog walkers. Please ensure you follow any local leash laws and clean up after your pet.
The beach features washrooms, a playground, a large grassy area for recreation, and sometimes concessions. There are also benches and driftwood for seating.
The sand at Willows Beach is described as fine and light, making it pleasant for walking and relaxing.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the on-site tea shop's status is uncertain, there are dining options available in the nearby Oak Bay village, offering various cuisines.
Absolutely! Willows Beach is a perfect spot for a picnic. Pack your favorite foods and enjoy them with a beautiful ocean view.
Historically, the tea shop offered ice cream and fries, but its current operational status and offerings are uncertain.
Yes, the Oak Bay area has several charming cafes and coffee shops where you can grab a drink or a snack.
Given the uncertainty of the tea shop and the desire for a relaxed experience, bringing your own food is highly recommended by visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the stunning ocean views, the sandy shoreline with driftwood, the playground, and the expansive grassy park. The golden hour light is particularly beautiful here.
Early mornings and late afternoons/evenings offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. The views of Mount Baker are best on clear days.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and Transport Canada guidelines before flying a drone in the area.
Keep an eye out for local wildlife, interesting driftwood formations, and the vibrant community enjoying the space. The contrast between the beach and the park is also photogenic.
A versatile setup is best. A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto can capture distant views. A polarizing filter can enhance the ocean and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parents often recommend packing beach toys, snacks, and drinks to keep little ones happy throughout the day. While parking can be a hurdle, the overall experience is rewarding. The beach's natural beauty combined with its family-friendly amenities makes it a memorable outing for all ages.
🐶 Dog Owners
Remember to adhere to local leash laws and always clean up after your pet to ensure the beach remains a pleasant environment for everyone. The relaxed atmosphere and ample space make it easy for both dogs and their owners to have a wonderful time.
🚶♀️ Active Explorers & Walkers
Combine your walk with exploring the adjacent park, which offers more open space for stretching or a light workout. It's an ideal spot for a refreshing walk any time of day, especially during the quieter morning or evening hours.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Willows Beach: A Local Gem
Visitors often rave about the stunning views, with Mount Baker visible on clear days, adding a majestic backdrop to the tranquil ocean scenery. The abundance of driftwood scattered along the shore offers natural seating and adds to the rustic charm. While the park is well-equipped with washrooms and a playground, the status of the on-site tea shop has been inconsistent, leading many to recommend packing their own refreshments.
Despite potential parking challenges during peak times, the overall experience at Willows Beach is overwhelmingly positive. It’s a place where you can spend hours soaking in the atmosphere, enjoying the fresh sea air, and appreciating the simple pleasures of a beautiful coastal setting. It truly is a gem for both residents and visitors alike.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from the Community
Many reviewers emphasize the joy of a well-prepared picnic. While there's a concession, its operating hours can be unpredictable, making it wise to bring your own food and drinks. This also allows you to fully savor the beach's ambiance without worrying about meal times. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, as the West Coast sun can be surprisingly strong.
For those with furry companions, Willows Beach is a dog-friendly paradise. It's common to see dogs frolicking on the sand and enjoying the water. Remember to be mindful of local leash regulations and always clean up after your pet. The combination of beautiful scenery, family-friendly amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere makes Willows Beach a must-visit destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit