Whether you prefer a lake or a river, salt water swimming or freshwater, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor swimming places to choose from around the greater Victoria area.

The closest indoor pool for visitors to Birds of a Feather is just a few minutes drive away, at the Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre just up the road from us.

And, if you like ocean swimming, it’s just steps from the door, though Victoria is not known for its warm water, even in summer.  However, there are some salt water swimming spots that DO warm up in the summertime, most notablyColes Bay, 

…located on the western shore of the Saanich Peninsula on Vancouver Island, covering 3.6 hectares of enchanting forest bordering on Saanich Inlet.

Stroll along the woodland trails, meandering through a cool canopy of mixed deciduous and coniferous forest, to the tranquility of the bay and beach, perfect for beachcombing at low tide.

The barnacle-covered rock beach is typical of the peninsula’s west coast. Bring along a pair of beach shoes to best enjoy the environment. Spot seals offshore feeding on salmon that run to the head of the inlet in the fall. A visit to the park rewards one with peace and solitude - and a sense of the past.  (more…)