Locally known as "behind the tweed curtain" in homage to original British development of the area, Oak Bay is a Victoria municipality challenging stereotypes and offering alternatives. Oak Bay is both established and innovating, and maintains an easy hospitality in keeping with the inclusive community atmosphere.
Oak Bay is designed with a British "High Street" model in mind, where the primary commercial district is composed of a series of shops and services arranged along one centrally-located boulevard, the famous Oak Bay Avenue. Radiating outward from Oak Bay Avenue are beautiful single-family oceanfront homes, condominiums, and assisted-living facilities. Recreation Oak Bay provides year-round tennis, a hockey, recreational and competitive figure skating facility, swimming, and a newly-updated fitness studio and weight room.
Oak Bay's lovely Rose Garden at Windsor Park, established in 1937, is an example of the green space that defines Oak Bay's public parks. The Beach Drive walkway is a favourite strolling destination for visitors and residents, and the famous Oak Bay Tea Party, held every June and heralded with a parade, inaugurates summer and celebrates the municipality's distinctive character. The Oak Bay Marina is a popular meeting place for locals and tourists, and the Yacht Club is a lively dinner destination. Oak Bay offers ideal retirement living with the option of maintaining a single residence or living within one of the retirement villas, many with customised care packages. Oak Bay is also valued as a community for University of Victoria and Camosun College, Landsdowne, students. Families are also welcomed by the Oak Bay community. Complementing the many public schools in Oak Bay, the prestigious Glenlyon Norfolk School is internationally acclaimed for academic and athletic excellence.
Oak Bay's tree-lined avenues waterfront real estate and quaint shopping districts exhibit the quintessential west coast suburban lifestyle, with the additional grace of established elegance. Oak Bay's reputation as one of the most desirable neighbourhoods in Victoria is well-earned, and inspires a continuous community effort to exceed expectations.
