James Bay Victoria BC can be a wonderful neighborhood to explore, especially for history buffs and architectural enthusiasts. This is the oldest neighborhood in the British Columbian capital, and many of the historic homes still boast lovely Victorian designs. Walking tours are very popular in James Bay, thanks largely to the historic homes and the inviting tree-lined streets, and those who stay at one of the neighborhood hotels should find that the location is about as ideal as it gets.

The quiet residential enclave that is James Bay is situated between downtown Victoria and the Juan de Fuca Strait. As if this wasn't enticing enough, the neighborhood's northern end meets the beautiful Inner Harbour waters, and on its southern coastline, the views of the water and the Olympic Mountains of Washington State are breathtaking.

The hub of James Bay Victoria BC is known as James Bay Village, and it offers various perks for residents and visitors to take advantage of. These things include a grocery store, cafes, shops, and a liquor store. As for the main Victoria attractions that can be found in and around James Bay, they include the famed Emily Carr House. One of Canada's best-known artists, Carr lived in this attractive Victorian-style abode with her family in the late 1800s. The home was built in 1864, and today, it is a popular Victoria museum. The Emily Carr House is located at 207 Government Street, and this puts it within close proximity to the Victoria Legislative Buildings and the Royal BC Museum.

Victoria Map

Many of the best attractions in Victoria are found in and around the James Bay neighborhood. Such is the case with Beacon Hill Park. Situated on James Bay's eastern boundary, this wonderful park offers walking trails and a tranquil atmosphere, and the views from the top of the Beacon Hill are alone worth a visit. More great views can be enjoyed along the waterfront trail that wraps itself around James Bay. This trail extends from the Ogden Point Breakwater to the Ross Bay Cemetery and is often populated with walkers, joggers, skaters, and bikers.

Other attractions that help to make James Bay such a great place to live or visit are Macdonald Park and the Ogden Point Dive Centre. At Macdonald Park, recreational activities reign supreme, thanks to the athletic fields and the James Bay Athletic Club. As for the Ogden Point Dive Centre, it is one of British Columbia's finest scuba diving facilities. When divers aren't diving, they can hang out at the center's restaurant and share stories or plan their next fun-filled outing.

In 1903, the eastern end of James Bay was reclaimed. This was done to make way for the Empress Hotel, which is one of the very best hotels in Victoria. Those who are interested in James Bay Victoria hotels are encouraged to keep the Empress in mind, as long as there is sufficient room in the budget.

Also worth considering when looking for a place to stay in and around the James Bay neighborhood is the James Bay Inn. One of the more affordable hotels that can be found in the James Bay-Inner Harbour area, the James Bay Inn is also among Victoria's oldest lodging establishments. Guests can choose from rooms, suites, and a cottage. The suites and cottages have fully-equipped kitchens, which helps to make them extra enticing.