Beach It

Wouldn’t it be nice to be on vacation for the whole summer? Just the thought of it makes us smile…but you can go somewhere on a warm July day that will make you feel like you’re farther away than you are.

Pack up the blanket, some beach toys, swimsuits, sunscreen, even a bike or two and head to Willows Beach in Oak Bay. 

With public washrooms, a shaded playground and even a small canteen to get some food and drinks, this beach is an easy, breezy day trip. The shallow protected waters on the white sandy beach are a safe and ideal place for kids to burn off energy, build sand castles, skim board and swim while you read a magazine or book against the breathtaking backdrop of Mt. Baker and Discovery Island. Lots of shade-making trees on the grass provide a perfect spot for babies to nap on a blanket, while the older kids play some soccer nearby or ride their bikes.

If you don’t feel like packing lunch, or you’re looking for a caffeine fix, just take a short walk down Estevan Street to Estevan Village, an undiscovered gem with an eclectic mix of shops and cafés that are a pleasure to stroll through. Our favourite is Crumsby’s—Victoria’s best, and most unique cupcake café that also serves fantastic homemade paninis, soups, lattes and cappuccinos. The cupcakes are delicious and the perfect size (not too big) for little one’s tummies. It is a completely kid-friendly café with chalkboards to play on and display artwork, and lovely, old-school wooden toys that even a preteen will enjoy. 

Need a butterfly net or a good beach shovel? Buddies Toys is next door. Buddies is an independent neighbourhood toy store that has a wide selection of unique toys and gifts.

If only it were summer every day.

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