A Local’s Guide to the Ultimate Al Fresco Weekend

Summer weekends in Oak Bay reach new heights with our Al Fresco Garden Party Series, a lively gathering on the Seaside Terrace. Wine lovers will toast to this year’s lineup, which begins July 20 with a tasting from Nk’Mip Cellars, the first Indigenous-owned winery in North America. On July 27, Unsworth Vineyards brings its signature Vancouver Island wines to the table, followed by an August 10 showcase of Iconic Wines of BC with sommelier Bram Bolwijn, featuring labels from CheckMate, Martin’s Lane, and Mission Hill. The series wraps up August 17 with a festive Italian Spritz Garden Party, perfect for soaking in the views with something sparkling in hand. Each afternoon pairs live music, garden games, and seasonal small plates from Executive Chef Kreg Graham, with wines and spritzes served seaside. Build your weekend around this upbeat affair, then round it out with coastal walks, spa rejuvenation, and relaxed dining for a perfectly balanced escape.

Must-Do Wellness Experience for Your Weekend in Oak Bay

Steps from your room at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel, the Boathouse Spa offers a serene escape shaped by the rhythms of the sea. Unwind in the oceanfront mineral pool, soak in the hot tubs overlooking the Salish Sea, or take in the view from the glass-ceilinged stargazing sauna during sunrise or sunset sessions. Choose from restorative treatments like the Signature Boathouse Massage, an organic seaweed body wrap, or a customized facial designed to leave skin glowing. Hotel guests enjoy complimentary access to the mineral pool and sauna as part of their spa experience, while non-hotel guests can purchase a pool pass for a few hours of well-deserved indulgence. With its waterfront setting and thoughtful offerings, the Boathouse Spa brings a sense of deep calm to any Oak Bay weekend.

Seaside Walks and Coastal Views in Oak Bay

Start your morning by tracing the shoreline just outside the hotel, where Garry oaks and sun-warmed rock frame the Salish Sea. A walk to the Oak Bay Marina offers views of sailboats and curious harbour seals, while nearby Willows Beach is ideal for a sandy stroll with a coffee in hand. Meander through the quiet, leafy streets to McNeill Bay, a favourite with locals for its driftwood-strewn shore and uninterrupted ocean views. Continue on to Cattle Point and Uplands Park, where coastal bluffs and forest trails offer a quiet escape and sweeping glimpses of the Olympic Mountains. With one of the sunniest microclimates on the West Coast, Oak Bay makes outdoor wandering feel effortless year-round.

Lunch with a View and Italian Dining by the Fire

Pause midday at The Snug, where panoramic ocean views and elevated West Coast fare make for a leisurely lunch break. Seasonal ingredients, local seafood, and a well-curated list of wine and craft beer set the tone. As evening settles in, head to FARO for wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, fresh pastas, and elegant share plates, all served in a warm, design-forward space. Enjoy cocktails by the outdoor fire or settle into a booth for a dinner that’s both relaxed and refined.

Boutiques, Books and Local Finds in Oak Bay

Oak Bay’s seaside charm comes with plenty of character. Spend some time exploring local shops and galleries that offer a mix of thoughtful design and coastal ease. Timeless Toys and Finn & Izzy have curated collections for little ones, while Ivy’s Bookshop is a favourite for browsing with a cup of tea. Pick up a handcrafted piece at Side Street Studio, a fresh arrangement from Oak Bay Flower Shop, or elegant home goods at Nicholas Randall. Hughes Clothing brings elevated fashion to the Avenue, and Oak Bay Bicycles is a go-to for cycling gear and advice. For a dose of creative inspiration, stop by The Avenue Gallery, then cap it all off with a sweet treat from Rogers’ Chocolates.

From coastal indulgence to garden party cheer, Oak Bay offers the kind of weekend that lingers in memory long after the last glass is poured. Book your stay at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel and make the most of summer while it lasts.