Dog-friendly Victoria, BC: Restaurants, walks & breweries

Live in the capital of BC with a canine companion, or thinking about exploring the city through house sitting as a pet sitter in Victoria? You’re in the right place — you’ve landed on the ultimate guide to dog-friendly Victoria, BC. Below, we’ll dive into the dog-friendly restaurants Victoria has to offer, along with dog parks, events, beaches, activities, breweries and more.

Dog-friendly restaurants in Victoria, BC

Whether you’re in the mood for Pacific-caught seafood, farm-to-table dining, or just a casual bite, BC’s capital has it all. So that you can experience local eateries with your pup by your side, explore some of the dog-friendly restaurants Victoria, BC has to offer below. And remember — always call ahead to make sure dogs are still welcome, and to give staff the heads up that you’ll be bringing a furry guest.

Red Fish Blue Fish

If you’re looking for dog-friendly patios in Victoria, head to Red Fish Blue Fish for ultimate dockside views, pet-friendly vibes and fresh seafood. Enjoy locally-sourced fish and chips, seafood chowder and other sustainable seafood options.

Location: 1006 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 1N8, Canada

Bard & Banker

Set in one of Victoria’s most attractive historic buildings, Bard & Banker boasts a refined menu of fresh seafood, fried chicken, rice bowls, salads and more.

Location: 1022 Government St, Victoria, BC V8W 1X7, Canada

Heron Rock Bistro

For somewhere a little more casual, head to Simcoe Street’s Heron Rock Bistro for Canadian classics, including poutine, fresh soups, hearty stews, burgers and sandwiches.

Location: 435 Simcoe St, Victoria, BC V8V 1L4, Canada

Lido Waterfront Bar & Bistro

If you just can’t get enough of Victoria’s harbour views, head to Lido Waterfront Bar & Bistro where your pup can join you at the outdoor seating area. The spot has been running since 2009, and is loved by locals for its fresh pizzas.

Location: Harbour Level, 1234 Wharf St, Victoria, BC V8W 3H9, Canada

Beagle Pub

Head to one of the sidewalk tables at the Beagle Pub on Cook Street for a laidback menu and neighbourhood vibes.

Location: 301 Cook St, Victoria, BC V8V 3X3, Canada

10 Acres 

Head to the industrial-chic patio of 10 Acres Commons with your furry friend to enjoy a menu made with fresh ingredients — choose from the sushi bar, burger menu or stop by for happy hour deals.

Location: 620 Humboldt St, Victoria, BC V8W 1A4, Canada

Cafe Brio

Got a soft spot for Italian cuisine? Head to Fort Street and find Cafe Brio to enjoy home-style dishes made with fresh, local vegetables.

Location: 944 Fort St, Victoria, BC V8V 3K2, Canada

The Drake Eatery

For comfort food and craft beers, grab a table at The Drake Eatery and choose from one of the 29 taps available, along with sharer plates and handhelds.

Location: 517 Pandora Ave, Victoria, BC V8W 1N5, Canada

Dog parks in Victoria, BC

Want somewhere you can get your pup off the leash, where they can socialize with other dogs? Find a dog park near you, and make sure you’re in a designated off-leash area before letting your dog run free.

Victoria West Dog Park

Located in Victoria West Park, the designated off-leash area is a popular spot for local pet parents to let their pups run free over the large rock hill that’s in the middle.

Location: 125 Wilson St #145, Victoria, BC V9A 7N6, Canada

Songhees Hillside Park

If you can’t get enough of Victoria’s harbour views, head to Songhees Hillside Park to let your pup explore off-leash.

Location: 40 Saghalie Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 6Z6, Canada

High Rock Park

Follow the signage to find the off-leash area of High Rock Park that’s tucked away in the heart of Esquimalt.

Location: CHMV+P8 Esquimalt, British Columbia, Canada

Tips for visiting Victoria’s leash-optional areas

There are 15 parks with leash-optional areas in Victoria, BC — currently including Alexander Park, Banfield Park and Clover Point. The most important thing to remember is to always check you’re in an off-leash zone before letting your dog run free — this will not only protect your pup from getting into danger, but also other people, pets and wildlife.

Dog-friendly beaches in Victoria, BC

Sitting on the tip of Vancouver Island, Victoria is lined with stunning beaches popular with both locals and visitors (both human and furry!). Below, we’ll list a few of the beaches in Victoria where dogs are currently allowed, but it’s important to check local rules and signage before entering any beach with your pup.

Spiral Beach

On the Dallas Road waterfront, you’ll find Spiral Beach — a spot that’s famous for the driftwood-covered shingle. Keep your furry friend on a leash and explore this spot for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle, and always pick up after your pup.

Location: 1119 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC V8V 1B8, Canada

Willows Beach

Head to Oak Bay for fresh sea air with your furry friend — just be aware that seasonal restrictions apply (dogs are currently not allowed at Willows Beach between May 1 and September 30), and are only allowed on certain areas of the beach. Follow the signage, and always check local sites to make sure you’re only exploring Willows Beach when and where restrictions allow.

Location: Esplanade, Oak Bay, BC 000, Canada

Gonzales Beach

Explore this stunning, crescent-shaped beach with your furry friend, where dogs are currently welcome on a leash from September 1 to May 31. It’s also worth noting that Gonzales Beach is home to at-risk bird species, so keep your pup away from any local wildlife when visiting.

Location: Victoria, BC V8S 2G8, Canada

Clover Point Park

This oceanfront park is popular with local kiteflyers, windsurfers and of course, pet parents walking their dogs. Explore for stunning views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Look out for the signs to ensure you’re in an area of the park that’s dog-friendly. 

Location: 1250 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC V8V 1C4, Canada

Arbutus Cove and Gordon Head Beach Park

Explore the trails through Gordon Head Beach Park that lead to Arbutus Cove, and enjoy the natural, rugged beauty of the cove with your dog on a leash.

Location: 4038 Locarno Ln, Victoria, BC V8N 6J9, Canada

Mount Douglas Beach

Head to Mount Douglas Beach that’s popular with hikers and bird watchers for a tranquil break from the city. Follow the local signage to ensure you’re always in a spot where dogs are welcome.

Location: 4550 Cordova Bay Rd, Victoria, BC V8N 2S8, Canada

Tips for visiting dog-friendly beaches in Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC is home to a stunning coastline, but restrictions on bringing dogs are present both seasonally and year-round. So, always check local sites and signage to ensure you’re in a dog-friendly zone, and be aware that restrictions can change.

Dog-friendly activities in Victoria, BC

Want to make the most of your city, or explore as much of BC’s capital while you’re house sitting in Victoria? Below, explore some of the dog-friendly attractions Victoria has to offer to plan a fun day out with your pup. And remember, always come prepared with waste bags, water, treats and any weather protection you and your dog might need.

Butchart Gardens

For somewhere a little different to walk your dog, head to Butchart Gardens with your dog on a leash. It’s a 122-year-old garden display in Brentwood Bay, and is home to stunning, dog-friendly botanical gardens popular with nature lovers and dog owners.

Location: 800 Benvenuto Ave, Brentwood Bay, BC V8M 1J8, Canada

Mount Douglas Park (PKOLS)

Explore the trails of Mount Douglas Park which boasts the highest point in Saanich, and is home to over 21km of trails — perfect if you want to explore some of the most iconic dog-friendly trails in Victoria. Keep an eye on the signage to ensure you’re in the dog-friendly zones (as some may allow dogs off-leash), and keep your pup under control to help protect the area’s delicate ecosystems.

Location: 4500 Cedar Hill Rd, Victoria, BC V8X 3S8, Canada

Goldstream Provincial Park

Just a 20-minute drive out of Victoria, you’ll find Goldstream Provincial Park — keep your eyes peeled for bald eagles, and keep your dog on a leash at all times.

Location: Finlayson Arm Rd, Langford, BC V9B 6H7, Canada

Victoria Harbour Ferry

Book a harbour tour to see the city from a different perspective and learn about the local wildlife. Dogs are welcome on the ferries (with leash restrictions), and tours depart from Empress Dock.

Location: 327 Harbour Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 3S2, Canada

Beacon Hill Park

Beacon Hill Park is home to over 180 acres of paved walking paths, manicured gardens and oak ecosystems — the perfect place to step into nature, without travelling out of the city. Dogs are welcome on a leash throughout the park, with the exception of the playgrounds and the heron nesting area that’s south of Goodacre Lake.

Location: 100 Cook St, Victoria, BC V8V 4Z8, Canada

Galloping Goose Trail

Galloping Goose is one of the most iconic dog walks from Victoria BC. The trail was first built during World War I as a freight railway, as is now popular with nature enthusiasts, cyclists and dog walkers. The 55km trail passes through all kinds of terrains — from urban to rural and wilderness. 

Location: Capital Regional District, BC, Canada

Mount Work Regional Park

If you’ve got an energetic pup and you’d like to plan a real adventure together, consider a hike around Mount Work Regional Park. Just a 20-minute drive out of Victoria, the park is popular for its summit trail, freshwater lakes and dense cedar forests.

Location: Highlands, BC, Canada

Gowlland Tod Provincial Park

If you love nature walks, you’ll adore Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. It’s less than a 20-minute drive from Victoria, and is home to the famous Tod Inlet trail, stunning views from Jocelyn Hill and vibrant spring wildflower displays.

Location: Ross Durrance Road, Highlands, BC V9E 2A3, Canada

Dog-friendly breweries in Victoria, BC

After all of that exploring, you’re bound to be looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy a drink with your furry friend. Luckily, Victoria is home to multiple breweries, and some welcome dogs. Below, we’ll list a few — just be sure to check with a staff member before finding a seat with your dog.

Whistle Buoy Brewing Company

Grab an outdoor table at Whistle Buoy Brewing Company to enjoy its bustling community vibes and a refreshing craft beer.

Location: Market Square, Lower Courtyard, #63, 560 Johnson St, Victoria, BC V8W 3C6, Canada

Herald Street Brew Works

Bursting with brewing know-how, Herald Street Brew Works aren’t afraid to experiment, and locals are here for it. Find a dog-friendly table to try a craft brew, and homemade pizza to wash it down.

Location: 506 Herald St, Victoria, BC V8W 1S6, Canada

Driftwood Brewing Company

Driftwood is home to seasonal outdoor tables where pups are welcome to accompany their humans. Stop by for house-brewed beer and spirits, and stay for the welcoming, community atmosphere.

Location: 836 Viewfield Rd, Victoria, BC V9A 4V1, Canada

Ile Sauvage Brewing Co.

Got a taste for sour beer? Ile Sauvage Brewing Co. will be your next hang out, next time you need somewhere dog-friendly to stop.

Location: 2960 Bridge St, Victoria, BC V8T 4T3, Canada

Phillips Brewing & Malting Beer Shop

As one of the only breweries in Victoria to malt their own barley, Phillips sure does take craft beer seriously. With strong local vibes, environmental initiatives and an eclectic beer menu, it’s clear to see why visitors love this place.

Location: 2000 Government St, Victoria, BC V8T 4P1, Canada

Dog-friendly cafes in Victoria, BC

Looking for somewhere dog-friendly to fuel up and grab a coffee before a day of exploring the city and its surrounding natural landscape? It’s time to find a dog-friendly coffee shop. Below, we’ll list a few great spots that currently welcome dogs, but be sure to check with a staff member before finding a seat with your pup.

Marina Bay Cafe

Find a pet-friendly table at Marina Bay Cafe for a locally-loved spot to enjoy a coffee or lunch made with fresh ingredients. Visitors love the sunny patio, Philippines-inspired drinks and sourdough toasties.

Location: 474 Head St Unit 108, Victoria, BC V9A 5S2, Canada

Discovery Coffee

If you’re serious about your coffee, grab a sidewalk table at Discovery Coffee to enjoy barista-brewed drinks, and choose a bag of beans to take home.

Location: 664 Discovery St, Victoria, BC V8T 1G9, Canada

2% Jazz

This coffee shop has been serving Victoria for over 30 years, and to say they’re passionate about great coffee is an understatement! Stop by to try a lovingly-made brew.

Location: 740 Hillside Ave, Victoria, BC V8T 1Z4, Canada

Moka House Coffee

This spot is a local favorite — and for good reason! Moka House Coffee is not only dog-friendly, but they’ve also been serving up delicious coffee, cakes and cookies since 1996.

Location: 345 Cook St, Victoria, BC V8V 3X6, Canada

Tips for pet parents: Important things to know about Victoria, BC

• Get to know seasonal restrictions. Any pet parent in Victoria should get to know the seasonal restrictions around bringing dogs to beaches — there are many rules around when dogs are welcome at Victoria’s beaches, so always check local sites before visiting and never enter a beach if you’re not 100% sure it’s dog-friendly.
• Keep your eyes peeled for signage. Victoria is surrounded by stunning green spaces filled with trails where dogs are allowed — sometimes off-leash. Follow the signage to make sure you’re only exploring dog-friendly areas, and letting your dog off the leash on designated paths.
• Plan ahead for your vacation. It’s clear that your pup isn’t short of things to do, sniff and explore in Victoria, BC. But what about when the time comes for a vacation? Well as vets agree pets are happier at home, consider welcoming an in-home pet sitter to take care of your pup in the surroundings they’re used to while you’re away. Click below to learn how it works.

Tips for pet sitters

• Explore Victoria’s brewery scene. If you’re into craft beer, Victoria BC might just be your new favorite house sitting destination. Tap into the brewery scene by exploring local spots that welcome dogs in the seating area.
• Plan an adventurous day out. If you’re looking after an energetic pup, check with pet parents and plan a day at a local park where you can explore trails, lakes and even summits with your new furry friend.
• Explore Victoria, BC through house sitting. Want to get to know the capital of BC first-hand? Sounds like it’s time to get your house sitting adventure started — click below to find out how it works.

More dog-friendly travel guides near Victoria, BC

Thinking about house sitting near Victoria, BC, visiting a nearby town with your canine companion, or welcoming a pet sitter soon? Explore our travel guides below for dog-friendly places to visit, along with local tips and advice.

• Dog-friendly Nanaimo, BC: What to see & do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Bellingham: Things to do with a dog
• Dog-friendly Vancouver: Restaurants, beaches, trails & more
• Dog-friendly Seattle: Things to do with a dog in Seattle
• Dog-friendly Langley: Things to do in Langley with a dog