A couple on a hike during sunset at Gonzales Hill Regional Park. Photo by Destination BC and Hubert Kang.
Thanks to its old-world elegance, walkable streets, and temperate weather — Victoria oozes romance. Here, mundane tasks, like grocery shopping, can feel like a date. But it’s not just the city’s day-to-day living that’s filled with couple-worthy activities. There’s an impressive selection of romantic things to do in Victoria, BC.
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/Hiking-at-sunset.-Photo-by-Destination-BC-and-Hubert-Kang.jpg380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2025-01-28 08:30:002025-01-30 00:06:5619 Ideas for a Romantic Weekend in Victoria, BC
Though the quaint archipelago tucked within the Salish Sea is technically part of Washington State, it feels a bit like its own country. Heck, some of its rocky inlets are closer to Canada than they are to the American mainland. But the 172-plus islands in the Olympic Rainshadow don’t require a passport and are relatively easy to access — if you know what you’re doing.
The following outlines 9 ways to travel from Seattle to the San Juan Islands. But at its most primitive level, there are only two ways to get here: by boat or plane. The nature of being surrounded by water on all sides makes this remote destination exactly that, remote. That’s part of the charm, part of what keeps this paradise a destination worthy of visiting year-round.
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Kenmore-Air-Otter-and-Cattle-Point-Lighthouse.jpg380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2025-01-10 05:00:002025-03-19 16:17:449 Ways to Get from Seattle to the San Juan Islands
There is a reason Victoria remains one of the most romantic and refreshing destinations on the West Coast. Its coastal views and temperate weather offer an elegant reprieve from the drizzle that often plagues the Greater Seattle area. Historic charm abounds in the BC Capital, as does a thriving food scene that’s rooted in farm-to-table cuisine. Here, a commitment to whole-body wellness is matched with an often unmentioned friendliness. It’s a dynamic combo that has made Victoria a haven for those looking to rest and refresh. And no place speaks to this epic sense of retreat more than the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.
Washington’s gourmet archipelago is undoubtedly known for its sun-filled summer days and fruit-laden farmers markets. But don’t assume this sweet little paradise closes up shop during the winter. While some businesses and residents like to hibernate until spring, there are still plenty of relaxing things to do on San Juan Island during the holidays.
In fact, visiting the San Juan’s during the winter might even be your favorite! The slower pace and lack of crowds give you more freedom to linger and enjoy your getaway. Not to mention, getting to San Juan Island from Seattle is as easy as catching a 45-minute scenic flight from Boeing Field!
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Friday-Harbor-Golden-Hour.-Photo-by-BrendanHunter.jpg380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2024-12-12 16:38:112024-12-12 17:45:05Relaxing Winter Escape to San Juan Island
Published Nov. 7, 2019 | Last Updated November 23, 2024
Sure, Seattle gets the ‘occasional’ rainy day during the winter. But natives have long since learned that the grey skies aren’t a reason to write off the Emerald City. In fact, with its plethora of cozy refuges, lively winter events, and inspiring museums, you’ll never be short of unique things to do this winter in Seattle.
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Seattle-Skyline-Sunkissed.jpg380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2024-11-23 05:34:002024-11-24 13:57:0230 Things to do in Seattle this Winter (2024)
Originally Published Dec. 19, 2019 | Updated Nov. 13, 2024
Thanks to being located in the heart of the Olympic Rain Shadow, the San Juan Islands enjoy an average of 270 days with sunshine. But, that doesn’t mean it never rains. The lush forests and fertile farmland are proof that they San Juans get their fair share of drizzle — especially during the cooler months. Luckily, there are a plethora of things to do in the San Juan Islands when it rains.
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Rainy-day-in-Friday-Harbor.png380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2024-11-13 05:00:002024-11-13 17:32:33Top Rainy-Day Activities in the San Juan Islands
Some might ask, “Why visit Victoria this winter?” But don’t let this northern gem fool you into thinking it has closed up shop. While the hanging baskets are stored for the season, there are still a plethora of fun things to do in Victoria this winter.
Sure, you’ll want to pack a good jacket. But don’t worry that exploring will put you at risk of frostbite, as it will throughout much of North America. The BC Capital is tucked at the edge of the Olympic Rain Shadow, making winters relatively mild and an early spring a common occurrence.
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Couple-outside-the-fairmont-Empress.-Photo-by-Destination-BC-and-Jordan-Dyck.jpg380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2024-11-05 05:00:002024-11-05 18:41:5320 Things to Do in Victoria this Winter (2024)
Christmas in Victoria, B.C., is a magical experience. The city transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive lights, seasonal events, and charming traditions. The world-renowned flower displays at The Butchart Gardens become a dazzling display of lights, while the iconic Fairmont Empress turns into a winter wonderland filled with charm and intrigue.
https://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Christmas-at-the-Parliament-Buildings-in-Victoria-BC.jpg380720Mikaela Juddhttps://kenmoreair.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/logo_kenmoreair_340-300x32.pngMikaela Judd2024-11-02 15:57:062024-11-02 15:57:08Christmas in Victoria B.C. at the Fairmont Empress & Beyond
Come for the craft cocktails. Stay for the fuss-free, locally sourced cuisine.
Clive’s Classic Lounge has the essence of a sultry speakeasy — a windowless bar, moody lighting, and plush seating where one might linger a little closer to their partner.
Like chicken soup for the soul, self-care offers the opportunity to relax and recharge. It’s the soothing remedy for a fast-paced life where meetings can pile up and deadlines loom.
But the practice of self-care isn’t one-size-fits-all. From ocean-side soaking tubs and rejuvenating facials to farm-to-table cuisine, we all need something a bit different. As the summer season tapers into cool crisp days, take a moment to let yourself relax and replenish. Discover some of the best destination-worthy self-care getaways in the San Juans, Victoria, and beyond!