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Brentwood Bay
Brentwood Bay pairs sheltered Pacific waters with lush gardens and peaceful coastal life. Explore Butchart Gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens and the Saanich Inlet Marina while this practical Brentwood Bay guide helps you compare attraction tickets, ferry options and local tours.
From the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal to Malahat Drive viewpoints, you can bundle attractions with combo passes, organize marina transfers and shape day trips around vineyards, hiking trails and artificial reef diving as you plan your Brentwood Bay escape.
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Brentwood Bay quick facts: airports, ferry terminals and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Brentwood Bay Canada. This small coastal community on the Saanich Peninsula sits north of Victoria and works best as a base for gardens, wine tasting and calm inlet adventures.
State/Region/Country: Brentwood Bay is in Central Saanich, on the Saanich Peninsula, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Airports: The nearest airport is Victoria International Airport YYJ, roughly 13 kilometers north of Brentwood Bay.
Main stations/hubs: Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for the Mill Bay route on Saanich Inlet, plus nearby Swartz Bay terminal for major BC Ferries sailings to Tsawwassen.
Public transport: BC Transit buses link Brentwood Bay with Victoria and Sidney, with key stops near Butchart Gardens and Saanichton.
Paying fares: BC Transit uses cash fares and reusable tickets or monthly passes purchased at outlets in Central Saanich and Victoria.
Coordinates: Brentwood Bay sits around 48.576 degrees north, 123.455 degrees west on the east shore of Saanich Inlet.
Popular neighbourhoods: Brentwood Bay village, nearby Saanichton, Central Saanich rural farmlands, and the coastal stretches toward Gowlland Tod Provincial Park.
Additional context: Expect sheltered waters on Saanich Inlet, forested slopes above Malahat Drive, regional and provincial parks for hiking and easy access to wineries and flower farms.
BC Transit occasionally adjusts seasonal schedules around Butchart Gardens and the Saanich Peninsula, so check the latest timetable before locking in evening garden visits or ferry connections from Brentwood Bay.
Top things to do in Brentwood Bay
Build your list of things to do in Brentwood Bay around iconic gardens, calm inlet water activities, coastal hikes and relaxed food and wine stops.
Secure Butchart Gardens tickets to explore the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden and evening illuminations at this National Historic Site perched above Tod Inlet.
Use Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets for a tropical pause with free flying butterflies, flamingos, tropical birds and an immersive Insectarium close to Brentwood Bay.
Ride the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal route for a 25 minute sailing to Mill Bay across Saanich Inlet, then continue by road toward Malahat Drive lookouts.
Book Saanich Inlet Marina access or tours for kayaking, small boat outings or relaxed dockside time watching the changing light on the inlet.
Hike in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, choosing coastal viewpoints above Tod Inlet and forested trails that feel surprisingly wild so close to Brentwood Bay.
Join Saanichton flower and rose garden tours to see working farms, seasonal blooms and the agricultural side of the Saanich Peninsula.
Sample Church and State Wines tasting flights and linger over vineyard views that pair perfectly with a garden focused Brentwood Bay itinerary.
Arrange artificial reef diving Brentwood Bay excursions for advanced divers keen on a unique artificial reef site beneath local waters.
Drive or join Malahat Drive scenic tour tickets for a half day of sweeping views over Saanich Inlet and the southern Gulf Islands.
Use regional and provincial park trails in nearby protected areas for gentle family walks or more challenging hikes with rare plant viewing opportunities.
Combine a hop on hop off style tour from Victoria with stops at Brentwood Bay attractions so you can cover gardens, wineries and viewpoints without driving.
Tickets and city passes in Brentwood Bay
Smart use of Brentwood Bay tickets and passes helps you avoid queues at headline sights and bundle experiences along the Saanich Peninsula.
Brentwood Bay attraction passes often bundle entry to Butchart Gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens and regional museums, handy if you plan several paid sights in two days.
Brentwood Bay combo tickets for Butchart Gardens tickets plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets save a few dollars and simplify transport planning between the two attractions.
Brentwood Bay city card style products sometimes include hop on hop off bus access that links Brentwood Bay, downtown Victoria and ferry terminals on a timed basis.
Malahat Drive scenic tour packages pair transport, viewpoints and sometimes winery tastings so you only book one product rather than juggling multiple bus or taxi legs.
Saanichton flower garden tours and Church and State Wines tasting tickets are usually timed, so check departure slots and allow extra minutes for local BC Transit connections.
If you want two or three Brentwood Bay attractions in a short stay, especially Butchart Gardens plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens and a scenic tour, a bundled pass or combo ticket often beats paying separate admission and transport.
Getting around Brentwood Bay by ferry, bus and car
Brentwood Bay is compact, yet you will combine BC Transit buses, ferries, marina services and driving or tours to reach scattered gardens, parks and wineries.
BC Transit bus routes link Brentwood Bay with Victoria, Sidney and Saanichton, with services stopping near Butchart Gardens and the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for onward travel.
Airport connections from YYJ usually involve a short drive by rental car or taxi via Patricia Bay Highway, or a combination of YYJ bus routes and connecting BC Transit services to Brentwood Bay.
Brentwood Bay ferry tickets cover the Mill Bay crossing, a scenic 25 minute link that lets you avoid some highway driving while adding inlet views to your route.
Saanich Inlet Marina services support private boats and small tours that can connect you with diving spots or gentle sightseeing on the water.
Driving Malahat Drive remains the most flexible way to reach distant viewpoints and trailheads, but plan for slower travel at peak summer or weekend times.
Rideshare and local taxis fill gaps in the evening when bus frequencies drop, especially after night shows or firework displays at Butchart Gardens.
Walking in Brentwood Bay village works for short hops between some accommodations, restaurants and waterfront viewpoints, but plan transport for more distant Brentwood Bay attractions.
Traffic around Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula is usually manageable, yet planning your Brentwood Bay tours outside commuter peaks keeps transfers smoother, especially if you are catching the Brentwood Bay ferry or timed garden entries.
When is the best time to visit Brentwood Bay?
Late spring and summer suit Brentwood Bay best, when Butchart Gardens and Saanichton flower farms are in full bloom and daytime highs sit around 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. May and June feel vibrant but slightly quieter than July and August. Early autumn brings calmer trails in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, cooler air and good visibility on Malahat Drive, though some gardens gradually scale back displays.
How many days do you need in Brentwood Bay?
Two full days in Brentwood Bay let you tour Butchart Gardens, visit Victoria Butterfly Gardens, enjoy a Saanich Inlet Marina outing and sample Church and State Wines. With three or four days, add Gowlland Tod Provincial Park hiking, a Malahat Drive scenic tour and time in Saanichton. Longer stays work well for divers targeting the artificial reef and deeper exploration of regional parks.
Is Brentwood Bay expensive to visit?
Brentwood Bay can feel moderate to pricey, mainly because marquee attractions like Butchart Gardens and guided Malahat Drive tours add up. Costs drop if you focus on free regional park hikes, scenic drives and self guided winery stops. Brentwood Bay combo tickets and attraction passes help if you plan several paid sights in two or three concentrated sightseeing days.
What are the must-see attractions in Brentwood Bay?
Start with Butchart Gardens for classic Brentwood Bay scenery, then add Victoria Butterfly Gardens for tropical color and wildlife. Include a crossing from Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal to Mill Bay, views from Malahat Drive and coastal hikes in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Round out your list with Church and State Wines tastings, Saanichton flower gardens and, for qualified divers, the artificial reef diving site.
Do I need to book Butchart Gardens tickets in advance?
Booking Butchart Gardens tickets ahead is strongly recommended, especially in summer, on holiday weekends and during evening events. Advance tickets secure your preferred entry day and make timing BC Transit buses or Brentwood Bay tours easier. If same day tickets remain, arrive early or visit later in the evening when many day trippers have already left the gardens.
How do I get from YYJ to Brentwood Bay?
From Victoria International Airport YYJ, the quickest option is a taxi or prebooked shuttle via Patricia Bay Highway to Brentwood Bay, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. Budget minded travelers can use BC Transit routes from YYJ toward Sidney and connect south toward Central Saanich. Renting a car at YYJ works well if you plan Malahat Drive, winery stops and regional park hikes.
Where should I stay in Brentwood Bay?
Stay near Brentwood Bay village for marina views, easy access to the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal and quick drives to Butchart Gardens. Central Saanich suits travelers seeking farms, wineries and quieter roads. Nearby Saanichton works for flower lovers and road trippers heading toward YYJ or Sidney. Victoria proper is ideal if you want city dining but still plan Brentwood Bay day trips.
What is Brentwood Bay known for?
Brentwood Bay is known for its sheltered Saanich Inlet setting, proximity to Butchart Gardens and relaxed garden to ocean lifestyle. Visitors pair Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Saanichton flower fields and Church and State Wines with inlet kayaking, marina strolls and Malahat Drive viewpoints. The nearby artificial reef diving site adds a more adventurous angle that contrasts nicely with tranquil coastal days.
Brentwood Bay quick facts: airports, ferry terminals and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Brentwood Bay Canada. This small coastal community on the Saanich Peninsula sits north of Victoria and works best as a base for gardens, wine tasting and calm inlet adventures.
State/Region/Country: Brentwood Bay is in Central Saanich, on the Saanich Peninsula, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Airports: The nearest airport is Victoria International Airport YYJ, roughly 13 kilometers north of Brentwood Bay.
Main stations/hubs: Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for the Mill Bay route on Saanich Inlet, plus nearby Swartz Bay terminal for major BC Ferries sailings to Tsawwassen.
Public transport: BC Transit buses link Brentwood Bay with Victoria and Sidney, with key stops near Butchart Gardens and Saanichton.
Paying fares: BC Transit uses cash fares and reusable tickets or monthly passes purchased at outlets in Central Saanich and Victoria.
Coordinates: Brentwood Bay sits around 48.576 degrees north, 123.455 degrees west on the east shore of Saanich Inlet.
Popular neighbourhoods: Brentwood Bay village, nearby Saanichton, Central Saanich rural farmlands, and the coastal stretches toward Gowlland Tod Provincial Park.
Additional context: Expect sheltered waters on Saanich Inlet, forested slopes above Malahat Drive, regional and provincial parks for hiking and easy access to wineries and flower farms.
BC Transit occasionally adjusts seasonal schedules around Butchart Gardens and the Saanich Peninsula, so check the latest timetable before locking in evening garden visits or ferry connections from Brentwood Bay.
Top things to do in Brentwood Bay
Build your list of things to do in Brentwood Bay around iconic gardens, calm inlet water activities, coastal hikes and relaxed food and wine stops.
Secure Butchart Gardens tickets to explore the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden and evening illuminations at this National Historic Site perched above Tod Inlet.
Use Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets for a tropical pause with free flying butterflies, flamingos, tropical birds and an immersive Insectarium close to Brentwood Bay.
Ride the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal route for a 25 minute sailing to Mill Bay across Saanich Inlet, then continue by road toward Malahat Drive lookouts.
Book Saanich Inlet Marina access or tours for kayaking, small boat outings or relaxed dockside time watching the changing light on the inlet.
Hike in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, choosing coastal viewpoints above Tod Inlet and forested trails that feel surprisingly wild so close to Brentwood Bay.
Join Saanichton flower and rose garden tours to see working farms, seasonal blooms and the agricultural side of the Saanich Peninsula.
Sample Church and State Wines tasting flights and linger over vineyard views that pair perfectly with a garden focused Brentwood Bay itinerary.
Arrange artificial reef diving Brentwood Bay excursions for advanced divers keen on a unique artificial reef site beneath local waters.
Drive or join Malahat Drive scenic tour tickets for a half day of sweeping views over Saanich Inlet and the southern Gulf Islands.
Use regional and provincial park trails in nearby protected areas for gentle family walks or more challenging hikes with rare plant viewing opportunities.
Combine a hop on hop off style tour from Victoria with stops at Brentwood Bay attractions so you can cover gardens, wineries and viewpoints without driving.
Tickets and city passes in Brentwood Bay
Smart use of Brentwood Bay tickets and passes helps you avoid queues at headline sights and bundle experiences along the Saanich Peninsula.
Brentwood Bay attraction passes often bundle entry to Butchart Gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens and regional museums, handy if you plan several paid sights in two days.
Brentwood Bay combo tickets for Butchart Gardens tickets plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets save a few dollars and simplify transport planning between the two attractions.
Brentwood Bay city card style products sometimes include hop on hop off bus access that links Brentwood Bay, downtown Victoria and ferry terminals on a timed basis.
Malahat Drive scenic tour packages pair transport, viewpoints and sometimes winery tastings so you only book one product rather than juggling multiple bus or taxi legs.
Saanichton flower garden tours and Church and State Wines tasting tickets are usually timed, so check departure slots and allow extra minutes for local BC Transit connections.
If you want two or three Brentwood Bay attractions in a short stay, especially Butchart Gardens plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens and a scenic tour, a bundled pass or combo ticket often beats paying separate admission and transport.
Getting around Brentwood Bay by ferry, bus and car
Brentwood Bay is compact, yet you will combine BC Transit buses, ferries, marina services and driving or tours to reach scattered gardens, parks and wineries.
BC Transit bus routes link Brentwood Bay with Victoria, Sidney and Saanichton, with services stopping near Butchart Gardens and the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for onward travel.
Airport connections from YYJ usually involve a short drive by rental car or taxi via Patricia Bay Highway, or a combination of YYJ bus routes and connecting BC Transit services to Brentwood Bay.
Brentwood Bay ferry tickets cover the Mill Bay crossing, a scenic 25 minute link that lets you avoid some highway driving while adding inlet views to your route.
Saanich Inlet Marina services support private boats and small tours that can connect you with diving spots or gentle sightseeing on the water.
Driving Malahat Drive remains the most flexible way to reach distant viewpoints and trailheads, but plan for slower travel at peak summer or weekend times.
Rideshare and local taxis fill gaps in the evening when bus frequencies drop, especially after night shows or firework displays at Butchart Gardens.
Walking in Brentwood Bay village works for short hops between some accommodations, restaurants and waterfront viewpoints, but plan transport for more distant Brentwood Bay attractions.
Traffic around Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula is usually manageable, yet planning your Brentwood Bay tours outside commuter peaks keeps transfers smoother, especially if you are catching the Brentwood Bay ferry or timed garden entries.
When is the best time to visit Brentwood Bay?
Late spring and summer suit Brentwood Bay best, when Butchart Gardens and Saanichton flower farms are in full bloom and daytime highs sit around 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. May and June feel vibrant but slightly quieter than July and August. Early autumn brings calmer trails in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, cooler air and good visibility on Malahat Drive, though some gardens gradually scale back displays.
How many days do you need in Brentwood Bay?
Two full days in Brentwood Bay let you tour Butchart Gardens, visit Victoria Butterfly Gardens, enjoy a Saanich Inlet Marina outing and sample Church and State Wines. With three or four days, add Gowlland Tod Provincial Park hiking, a Malahat Drive scenic tour and time in Saanichton. Longer stays work well for divers targeting the artificial reef and deeper exploration of regional parks.
Is Brentwood Bay expensive to visit?
Brentwood Bay can feel moderate to pricey, mainly because marquee attractions like Butchart Gardens and guided Malahat Drive tours add up. Costs drop if you focus on free regional park hikes, scenic drives and self guided winery stops. Brentwood Bay combo tickets and attraction passes help if you plan several paid sights in two or three concentrated sightseeing days.
What are the must-see attractions in Brentwood Bay?
Start with Butchart Gardens for classic Brentwood Bay scenery, then add Victoria Butterfly Gardens for tropical color and wildlife. Include a crossing from Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal to Mill Bay, views from Malahat Drive and coastal hikes in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Round out your list with Church and State Wines tastings, Saanichton flower gardens and, for qualified divers, the artificial reef diving site.
Do I need to book Butchart Gardens tickets in advance?
Booking Butchart Gardens tickets ahead is strongly recommended, especially in summer, on holiday weekends and during evening events. Advance tickets secure your preferred entry day and make timing BC Transit buses or Brentwood Bay tours easier. If same day tickets remain, arrive early or visit later in the evening when many day trippers have already left the gardens.
How do I get from YYJ to Brentwood Bay?
From Victoria International Airport YYJ, the quickest option is a taxi or prebooked shuttle via Patricia Bay Highway to Brentwood Bay, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. Budget minded travelers can use BC Transit routes from YYJ toward Sidney and connect south toward Central Saanich. Renting a car at YYJ works well if you plan Malahat Drive, winery stops and regional park hikes.
Where should I stay in Brentwood Bay?
Stay near Brentwood Bay village for marina views, easy access to the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal and quick drives to Butchart Gardens. Central Saanich suits travelers seeking farms, wineries and quieter roads. Nearby Saanichton works for flower lovers and road trippers heading toward YYJ or Sidney. Victoria proper is ideal if you want city dining but still plan Brentwood Bay day trips.
What is Brentwood Bay known for?
Brentwood Bay is known for its sheltered Saanich Inlet setting, proximity to Butchart Gardens and relaxed garden to ocean lifestyle. Visitors pair Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Saanichton flower fields and Church and State Wines with inlet kayaking, marina strolls and Malahat Drive viewpoints. The nearby artificial reef diving site adds a more adventurous angle that contrasts nicely with tranquil coastal days.
Brentwood Bay quick facts: airports, ferry terminals and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Brentwood Bay Canada. This small coastal community on the Saanich Peninsula sits north of Victoria and works best as a base for gardens, wine tasting and calm inlet adventures.
State/Region/Country: Brentwood Bay is in Central Saanich, on the Saanich Peninsula, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Airports: The nearest airport is Victoria International Airport YYJ, roughly 13 kilometers north of Brentwood Bay.
Main stations/hubs: Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for the Mill Bay route on Saanich Inlet, plus nearby Swartz Bay terminal for major BC Ferries sailings to Tsawwassen.
Public transport: BC Transit buses link Brentwood Bay with Victoria and Sidney, with key stops near Butchart Gardens and Saanichton.
Paying fares: BC Transit uses cash fares and reusable tickets or monthly passes purchased at outlets in Central Saanich and Victoria.
Coordinates: Brentwood Bay sits around 48.576 degrees north, 123.455 degrees west on the east shore of Saanich Inlet.
Popular neighbourhoods: Brentwood Bay village, nearby Saanichton, Central Saanich rural farmlands, and the coastal stretches toward Gowlland Tod Provincial Park.
Additional context: Expect sheltered waters on Saanich Inlet, forested slopes above Malahat Drive, regional and provincial parks for hiking and easy access to wineries and flower farms.
BC Transit occasionally adjusts seasonal schedules around Butchart Gardens and the Saanich Peninsula, so check the latest timetable before locking in evening garden visits or ferry connections from Brentwood Bay.
Top things to do in Brentwood Bay
Build your list of things to do in Brentwood Bay around iconic gardens, calm inlet water activities, coastal hikes and relaxed food and wine stops.
Secure Butchart Gardens tickets to explore the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden and evening illuminations at this National Historic Site perched above Tod Inlet.
Use Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets for a tropical pause with free flying butterflies, flamingos, tropical birds and an immersive Insectarium close to Brentwood Bay.
Ride the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal route for a 25 minute sailing to Mill Bay across Saanich Inlet, then continue by road toward Malahat Drive lookouts.
Book Saanich Inlet Marina access or tours for kayaking, small boat outings or relaxed dockside time watching the changing light on the inlet.
Hike in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, choosing coastal viewpoints above Tod Inlet and forested trails that feel surprisingly wild so close to Brentwood Bay.
Join Saanichton flower and rose garden tours to see working farms, seasonal blooms and the agricultural side of the Saanich Peninsula.
Sample Church and State Wines tasting flights and linger over vineyard views that pair perfectly with a garden focused Brentwood Bay itinerary.
Arrange artificial reef diving Brentwood Bay excursions for advanced divers keen on a unique artificial reef site beneath local waters.
Drive or join Malahat Drive scenic tour tickets for a half day of sweeping views over Saanich Inlet and the southern Gulf Islands.
Use regional and provincial park trails in nearby protected areas for gentle family walks or more challenging hikes with rare plant viewing opportunities.
Combine a hop on hop off style tour from Victoria with stops at Brentwood Bay attractions so you can cover gardens, wineries and viewpoints without driving.
Tickets and city passes in Brentwood Bay
Smart use of Brentwood Bay tickets and passes helps you avoid queues at headline sights and bundle experiences along the Saanich Peninsula.
Brentwood Bay attraction passes often bundle entry to Butchart Gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens and regional museums, handy if you plan several paid sights in two days.
Brentwood Bay combo tickets for Butchart Gardens tickets plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets save a few dollars and simplify transport planning between the two attractions.
Brentwood Bay city card style products sometimes include hop on hop off bus access that links Brentwood Bay, downtown Victoria and ferry terminals on a timed basis.
Malahat Drive scenic tour packages pair transport, viewpoints and sometimes winery tastings so you only book one product rather than juggling multiple bus or taxi legs.
Saanichton flower garden tours and Church and State Wines tasting tickets are usually timed, so check departure slots and allow extra minutes for local BC Transit connections.
If you want two or three Brentwood Bay attractions in a short stay, especially Butchart Gardens plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens and a scenic tour, a bundled pass or combo ticket often beats paying separate admission and transport.
Getting around Brentwood Bay by ferry, bus and car
Brentwood Bay is compact, yet you will combine BC Transit buses, ferries, marina services and driving or tours to reach scattered gardens, parks and wineries.
BC Transit bus routes link Brentwood Bay with Victoria, Sidney and Saanichton, with services stopping near Butchart Gardens and the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for onward travel.
Airport connections from YYJ usually involve a short drive by rental car or taxi via Patricia Bay Highway, or a combination of YYJ bus routes and connecting BC Transit services to Brentwood Bay.
Brentwood Bay ferry tickets cover the Mill Bay crossing, a scenic 25 minute link that lets you avoid some highway driving while adding inlet views to your route.
Saanich Inlet Marina services support private boats and small tours that can connect you with diving spots or gentle sightseeing on the water.
Driving Malahat Drive remains the most flexible way to reach distant viewpoints and trailheads, but plan for slower travel at peak summer or weekend times.
Rideshare and local taxis fill gaps in the evening when bus frequencies drop, especially after night shows or firework displays at Butchart Gardens.
Walking in Brentwood Bay village works for short hops between some accommodations, restaurants and waterfront viewpoints, but plan transport for more distant Brentwood Bay attractions.
Traffic around Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula is usually manageable, yet planning your Brentwood Bay tours outside commuter peaks keeps transfers smoother, especially if you are catching the Brentwood Bay ferry or timed garden entries.
When is the best time to visit Brentwood Bay?
Late spring and summer suit Brentwood Bay best, when Butchart Gardens and Saanichton flower farms are in full bloom and daytime highs sit around 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. May and June feel vibrant but slightly quieter than July and August. Early autumn brings calmer trails in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, cooler air and good visibility on Malahat Drive, though some gardens gradually scale back displays.
How many days do you need in Brentwood Bay?
Two full days in Brentwood Bay let you tour Butchart Gardens, visit Victoria Butterfly Gardens, enjoy a Saanich Inlet Marina outing and sample Church and State Wines. With three or four days, add Gowlland Tod Provincial Park hiking, a Malahat Drive scenic tour and time in Saanichton. Longer stays work well for divers targeting the artificial reef and deeper exploration of regional parks.
Is Brentwood Bay expensive to visit?
Brentwood Bay can feel moderate to pricey, mainly because marquee attractions like Butchart Gardens and guided Malahat Drive tours add up. Costs drop if you focus on free regional park hikes, scenic drives and self guided winery stops. Brentwood Bay combo tickets and attraction passes help if you plan several paid sights in two or three concentrated sightseeing days.
What are the must-see attractions in Brentwood Bay?
Start with Butchart Gardens for classic Brentwood Bay scenery, then add Victoria Butterfly Gardens for tropical color and wildlife. Include a crossing from Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal to Mill Bay, views from Malahat Drive and coastal hikes in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Round out your list with Church and State Wines tastings, Saanichton flower gardens and, for qualified divers, the artificial reef diving site.
Do I need to book Butchart Gardens tickets in advance?
Booking Butchart Gardens tickets ahead is strongly recommended, especially in summer, on holiday weekends and during evening events. Advance tickets secure your preferred entry day and make timing BC Transit buses or Brentwood Bay tours easier. If same day tickets remain, arrive early or visit later in the evening when many day trippers have already left the gardens.
How do I get from YYJ to Brentwood Bay?
From Victoria International Airport YYJ, the quickest option is a taxi or prebooked shuttle via Patricia Bay Highway to Brentwood Bay, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. Budget minded travelers can use BC Transit routes from YYJ toward Sidney and connect south toward Central Saanich. Renting a car at YYJ works well if you plan Malahat Drive, winery stops and regional park hikes.
Where should I stay in Brentwood Bay?
Stay near Brentwood Bay village for marina views, easy access to the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal and quick drives to Butchart Gardens. Central Saanich suits travelers seeking farms, wineries and quieter roads. Nearby Saanichton works for flower lovers and road trippers heading toward YYJ or Sidney. Victoria proper is ideal if you want city dining but still plan Brentwood Bay day trips.
What is Brentwood Bay known for?
Brentwood Bay is known for its sheltered Saanich Inlet setting, proximity to Butchart Gardens and relaxed garden to ocean lifestyle. Visitors pair Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Saanichton flower fields and Church and State Wines with inlet kayaking, marina strolls and Malahat Drive viewpoints. The nearby artificial reef diving site adds a more adventurous angle that contrasts nicely with tranquil coastal days.
Brentwood Bay quick facts: airports, ferry terminals and maps
Plan your days with these essential details for Brentwood Bay Canada. This small coastal community on the Saanich Peninsula sits north of Victoria and works best as a base for gardens, wine tasting and calm inlet adventures.
State/Region/Country: Brentwood Bay is in Central Saanich, on the Saanich Peninsula, Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada.
Airports: The nearest airport is Victoria International Airport YYJ, roughly 13 kilometers north of Brentwood Bay.
Main stations/hubs: Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for the Mill Bay route on Saanich Inlet, plus nearby Swartz Bay terminal for major BC Ferries sailings to Tsawwassen.
Public transport: BC Transit buses link Brentwood Bay with Victoria and Sidney, with key stops near Butchart Gardens and Saanichton.
Paying fares: BC Transit uses cash fares and reusable tickets or monthly passes purchased at outlets in Central Saanich and Victoria.
Coordinates: Brentwood Bay sits around 48.576 degrees north, 123.455 degrees west on the east shore of Saanich Inlet.
Popular neighbourhoods: Brentwood Bay village, nearby Saanichton, Central Saanich rural farmlands, and the coastal stretches toward Gowlland Tod Provincial Park.
Additional context: Expect sheltered waters on Saanich Inlet, forested slopes above Malahat Drive, regional and provincial parks for hiking and easy access to wineries and flower farms.
BC Transit occasionally adjusts seasonal schedules around Butchart Gardens and the Saanich Peninsula, so check the latest timetable before locking in evening garden visits or ferry connections from Brentwood Bay.
Top things to do in Brentwood Bay
Build your list of things to do in Brentwood Bay around iconic gardens, calm inlet water activities, coastal hikes and relaxed food and wine stops.
Secure Butchart Gardens tickets to explore the Sunken Garden, Rose Garden and evening illuminations at this National Historic Site perched above Tod Inlet.
Use Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets for a tropical pause with free flying butterflies, flamingos, tropical birds and an immersive Insectarium close to Brentwood Bay.
Ride the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal route for a 25 minute sailing to Mill Bay across Saanich Inlet, then continue by road toward Malahat Drive lookouts.
Book Saanich Inlet Marina access or tours for kayaking, small boat outings or relaxed dockside time watching the changing light on the inlet.
Hike in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, choosing coastal viewpoints above Tod Inlet and forested trails that feel surprisingly wild so close to Brentwood Bay.
Join Saanichton flower and rose garden tours to see working farms, seasonal blooms and the agricultural side of the Saanich Peninsula.
Sample Church and State Wines tasting flights and linger over vineyard views that pair perfectly with a garden focused Brentwood Bay itinerary.
Arrange artificial reef diving Brentwood Bay excursions for advanced divers keen on a unique artificial reef site beneath local waters.
Drive or join Malahat Drive scenic tour tickets for a half day of sweeping views over Saanich Inlet and the southern Gulf Islands.
Use regional and provincial park trails in nearby protected areas for gentle family walks or more challenging hikes with rare plant viewing opportunities.
Combine a hop on hop off style tour from Victoria with stops at Brentwood Bay attractions so you can cover gardens, wineries and viewpoints without driving.
Tickets and city passes in Brentwood Bay
Smart use of Brentwood Bay tickets and passes helps you avoid queues at headline sights and bundle experiences along the Saanich Peninsula.
Brentwood Bay attraction passes often bundle entry to Butchart Gardens, Victoria Butterfly Gardens and regional museums, handy if you plan several paid sights in two days.
Brentwood Bay combo tickets for Butchart Gardens tickets plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens tickets save a few dollars and simplify transport planning between the two attractions.
Brentwood Bay city card style products sometimes include hop on hop off bus access that links Brentwood Bay, downtown Victoria and ferry terminals on a timed basis.
Malahat Drive scenic tour packages pair transport, viewpoints and sometimes winery tastings so you only book one product rather than juggling multiple bus or taxi legs.
Saanichton flower garden tours and Church and State Wines tasting tickets are usually timed, so check departure slots and allow extra minutes for local BC Transit connections.
If you want two or three Brentwood Bay attractions in a short stay, especially Butchart Gardens plus Victoria Butterfly Gardens and a scenic tour, a bundled pass or combo ticket often beats paying separate admission and transport.
Getting around Brentwood Bay by ferry, bus and car
Brentwood Bay is compact, yet you will combine BC Transit buses, ferries, marina services and driving or tours to reach scattered gardens, parks and wineries.
BC Transit bus routes link Brentwood Bay with Victoria, Sidney and Saanichton, with services stopping near Butchart Gardens and the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal for onward travel.
Airport connections from YYJ usually involve a short drive by rental car or taxi via Patricia Bay Highway, or a combination of YYJ bus routes and connecting BC Transit services to Brentwood Bay.
Brentwood Bay ferry tickets cover the Mill Bay crossing, a scenic 25 minute link that lets you avoid some highway driving while adding inlet views to your route.
Saanich Inlet Marina services support private boats and small tours that can connect you with diving spots or gentle sightseeing on the water.
Driving Malahat Drive remains the most flexible way to reach distant viewpoints and trailheads, but plan for slower travel at peak summer or weekend times.
Rideshare and local taxis fill gaps in the evening when bus frequencies drop, especially after night shows or firework displays at Butchart Gardens.
Walking in Brentwood Bay village works for short hops between some accommodations, restaurants and waterfront viewpoints, but plan transport for more distant Brentwood Bay attractions.
Traffic around Victoria and the Saanich Peninsula is usually manageable, yet planning your Brentwood Bay tours outside commuter peaks keeps transfers smoother, especially if you are catching the Brentwood Bay ferry or timed garden entries.
When is the best time to visit Brentwood Bay?
Late spring and summer suit Brentwood Bay best, when Butchart Gardens and Saanichton flower farms are in full bloom and daytime highs sit around 18 to 24 degrees Celsius. May and June feel vibrant but slightly quieter than July and August. Early autumn brings calmer trails in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park, cooler air and good visibility on Malahat Drive, though some gardens gradually scale back displays.
How many days do you need in Brentwood Bay?
Two full days in Brentwood Bay let you tour Butchart Gardens, visit Victoria Butterfly Gardens, enjoy a Saanich Inlet Marina outing and sample Church and State Wines. With three or four days, add Gowlland Tod Provincial Park hiking, a Malahat Drive scenic tour and time in Saanichton. Longer stays work well for divers targeting the artificial reef and deeper exploration of regional parks.
Is Brentwood Bay expensive to visit?
Brentwood Bay can feel moderate to pricey, mainly because marquee attractions like Butchart Gardens and guided Malahat Drive tours add up. Costs drop if you focus on free regional park hikes, scenic drives and self guided winery stops. Brentwood Bay combo tickets and attraction passes help if you plan several paid sights in two or three concentrated sightseeing days.
What are the must-see attractions in Brentwood Bay?
Start with Butchart Gardens for classic Brentwood Bay scenery, then add Victoria Butterfly Gardens for tropical color and wildlife. Include a crossing from Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal to Mill Bay, views from Malahat Drive and coastal hikes in Gowlland Tod Provincial Park. Round out your list with Church and State Wines tastings, Saanichton flower gardens and, for qualified divers, the artificial reef diving site.
Do I need to book Butchart Gardens tickets in advance?
Booking Butchart Gardens tickets ahead is strongly recommended, especially in summer, on holiday weekends and during evening events. Advance tickets secure your preferred entry day and make timing BC Transit buses or Brentwood Bay tours easier. If same day tickets remain, arrive early or visit later in the evening when many day trippers have already left the gardens.
How do I get from YYJ to Brentwood Bay?
From Victoria International Airport YYJ, the quickest option is a taxi or prebooked shuttle via Patricia Bay Highway to Brentwood Bay, usually around 15 to 20 minutes. Budget minded travelers can use BC Transit routes from YYJ toward Sidney and connect south toward Central Saanich. Renting a car at YYJ works well if you plan Malahat Drive, winery stops and regional park hikes.
Where should I stay in Brentwood Bay?
Stay near Brentwood Bay village for marina views, easy access to the Brentwood Bay Ferry Terminal and quick drives to Butchart Gardens. Central Saanich suits travelers seeking farms, wineries and quieter roads. Nearby Saanichton works for flower lovers and road trippers heading toward YYJ or Sidney. Victoria proper is ideal if you want city dining but still plan Brentwood Bay day trips.
What is Brentwood Bay known for?
Brentwood Bay is known for its sheltered Saanich Inlet setting, proximity to Butchart Gardens and relaxed garden to ocean lifestyle. Visitors pair Victoria Butterfly Gardens, Saanichton flower fields and Church and State Wines with inlet kayaking, marina strolls and Malahat Drive viewpoints. The nearby artificial reef diving site adds a more adventurous angle that contrasts nicely with tranquil coastal days.