Escape the heat with a dip in one of these great local swimming holes.
Greater Victoria is surrounded by ocean, but it also has no shortage of freshwater lakes perfect for swimming, floating or just dipping your toes. Here are some of our favourites.
Thetis Lake > This popular lake lies within the 800-plus-hectare Thetis Lake Regional Park, which is an excellent place for a hike, picnic or paddle. It’s a fave destination for families — including the four-legged members, who have their own dog beach — and although it can get pretty crowded on a sunny day, you can always follow one of the many trails to a more secluded spot.
Durrance Lake > The largest (though still smallish) of the three lakes in Mount Work Regional Park offers great swimming just 35 minutes from downtown. A walking loop circles the lake and offers plenty of access to its cool waters — but not for anything with a motor, making this a quiet and peaceful place to take a dip. Keep an eye out for turtles enjoying the sun as much as you do.
Prospect Lake > Although much of the lakeside is now home to private residences, there are still four public access points at this family-friendly Saanich spot for fishing, swimming, snorkelling and generally escaping the summer heat. Also: Just to the west you’ll find Eagles Lake, a tiny, warm lake especially popular for families with young children.
Elk Lake > Connected by a narrow channel to the smaller Beaver Lake, this well-loved destination along the Pat Bay Highway has it all when it comes to summer fun: sandy beaches, hiking trails, playgrounds, great fishing, terrific swimming, boat launches, a concession stand, picnic and washroom facilities, even an equestrian centre and off-leash area.