Overview
Esquimalt sits just west of downtown Victoria, on a peninsula surrounded by the harbour, the ocean and the Gorge Waterway. It’s home to CFB Esquimalt, the base of the Royal Canadian Navy’s Pacific fleet, and has a proud, close-knit community to match.
You get ocean parks, quick access to downtown and prices that are often more approachable than other neighbourhoods this close to the core.
Areas within Esquimalt
West Bay. Waterfront condos and homes along the harbour, with the West Bay walkway leading toward downtown.
Saxe Point and Fleming Beach. Quiet streets near some of the prettiest ocean parks in the region.
Rockheights. Up on the hill, with established family homes and views over the harbour.
Esquimalt Village and the Gorge. The community centre of Esquimalt, with the library, shops and the new village development, plus homes near the Gorge Waterway.
Homes
Esquimalt has a mix of post-war bungalows, character homes, newer townhomes and a growing number of condos. Many older homes have suites. For buyers who want to be close to downtown on a budget, Esquimalt is often the first place I suggest looking.
Schools
Esquimalt is part of Greater Victoria School District 61. Public schools include Esquimalt High School and Rockheights Middle School, along with neighbourhood elementary schools. Always confirm catchment with the district for a specific address.
Parks and outdoors
Saxe Point Park, Macaulay Point and Fleming Beach have rocky shorelines, gardens and views across to the Olympic Mountains. Esquimalt Gorge Park has walking paths, a Japanese garden and the Gorge Waterway, which is popular for paddling and swimming in summer.
Local favourites
A few of the places that make Esquimalt feel like home:
- Saxe Point Park: gardens, tide pools and sunsets over the Olympic Mountains.
- Fleming Beach: a sheltered little beach with a boat launch, popular with paddlers.
- The West Bay walkway: a waterfront walk toward downtown, past the float homes.
- Buccaneer Days: Esquimalt’s long-running community festival.
Who Esquimalt suits
Esquimalt is a great fit for first-time buyers, military families, anyone who loves the ocean and people who want to be close to downtown without downtown prices.
Esquimalt FAQ
Is Esquimalt a good place for first-time buyers?
Yes. It often has more approachable prices than other areas this close to downtown, with a good mix of condos, townhomes and homes with suites.
How close is it to downtown?
Usually 5 to 10 minutes by car, and an easy bike ride along the West Bay walkway or the Galloping Goose.
Is Esquimalt changing?
Yes. The new village centre and several newer developments have added housing and amenities in recent years.