Local Love

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Local Love: The Sidney Pier Hotel

There's a question I hear more than almost any other from clients who are thinking about moving to Vancouver Island. It comes up toward the end of conversations, almost like an afterthought, but it never really is. The question is: where should we stay when we come to look?

It sounds practical, and it is. But what's behind it is something bigger. The trip to Vancouver Island is often the moment everything becomes real. It's when you stop imagining the move and start actually picturing it. Where you stay, how you wake up, whether you can walk somewhere for coffee, whether the town feels right at seven in the morning before you've seen a single house — all of that shapes what you come home with.

For a long time I gave my clients the best guidance I could. But I didn't have a place I could point to and say: go here, I trust this completely, this is the right base for the trip you're about to take.

That changed when I walked into The Sidney Pier Hotel.

The Sidney Pier sits right on the waterfront in Sidney, at the edge of Beacon Avenue and the marina. It's a short walk to the bookshops, bakeries, and coffee spots that make this town so easy to fall in love with on a first visit. The building is modern and thoughtfully designed, with a spa on site and a restaurant downstairs. It doesn't feel like a place you pass through. It feels like a place you settle into.

I should mention: the hotel has just completed a full reimagining of the suites. New finishes, new furnishings, and a feel that's warmer and more considered than before. The bathrooms are spa-inspired and well-appointed. The kitchens and kitchenettes are beautifully fitted out. It's the same stunning waterfront location — the views haven't changed — but the experience inside has been genuinely elevated. If you've stayed here before, it's worth coming back with fresh eyes.

I've partnered with The Sidney Pier Hotel to offer my relocation clients a special rate on three specific room types as part of working with me.

The Townview Suite is a spacious studio with a king bed, a full kitchen, and west-facing views over the heart of Sidney. It's the room for clients who like to cook their own breakfasts and spread out a little. The Seaport or Courtyard King is a comfortable, well-appointed guestroom with everything you need, offering views of either the courtyard or the town of Sidney. And the Coastal King or Queen is a beautifully designed room with courtyard or Beacon Avenue views, with select floors offering a private furnished balcony — one of the loveliest places to have your morning coffee while you think through the homes you saw the day before.

I make the reservation personally. There's no code or link — you just reach out to me and we sort it out together as part of working with me.

Sidney is a town that tends to make the decision for people. You arrive not quite sure, you walk Beacon Avenue, you sit somewhere with a coffee and watch the ferries move across the water, and then you know. I wanted my clients to have a place that helps that happen. The Sidney Pier Hotel is that place, and with the newly reimagined suites, it's better than ever.

If you're thinking about a move to the Saanich Peninsula and want to know more about how this works, reach out. I'm always happy to talk through what the process looks like from start to finish.

Find out more and view those dreamy suites right here.

Jacqueline Ross, REALTOR®
Your Van Isle Home
call/text: 250-415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com

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Free Things to Do in Victoria This December (Holiday Guide 2025)

Victoria shines in December — literally. The whole city glows with lights, music, and community warmth, and some of the best things to do this season are entirely free. Whether you’re new to the Island or simply soaking up the magic, here’s your Local Love guide to the most festive no-cost activities across Greater Victoria.


1. Inner Harbour Holiday Lights

December transforms the Inner Harbour into a glowing postcard. Parliament, the Empress, and the marina sparkle every night — and it’s completely free. Grab a hot chocolate, stroll the waterfront, and soak in the atmosphere.
Best time: just after sunset.

https://gvha.ca/events/harbour-holiday-light-up/


2. Lights of Wonder

Check out Lights of Wonder - Downtown Victoria’s most photo-worthy holiday event at Centennial Square November 29 – December 31! Catch live entertainment on stage Friday and Saturday nights. Snap unforgettable holiday photos with family, friends, and even your pup. Don’t miss the return of the Ferris wheel, opening December 19.

https://downtownvictoria.ca/lights-of-wonder/


3. Sidney’s Seaside Lights & Beacon Avenue Stroll

Sidney goes all-in on holiday lights every year. Take a walk along Beacon Avenue, enjoy the decorated storefronts, and wander the waterfront promenade by the pier.

Bonus: Many shops offer free tastings or cookie samples on select days.

https://www.exploresidney.ca/holidays/


4. Esquimalt’s 2025 Christmas Tree Village

Esquimalt is one of the most underrated places for holiday magic. Experience the magic of the holidays at the tenth annual Christmas Tree Village.The Recreation Centre Atrium and Archie Browning Sports Centre is transformed into a holiday wonderland, teeming with twinkling lights and delightful decorations.

https://www.esquimalt.ca/ChristmasTreeVillage


5. Oak Bay Village Holiday Windows

Oak Bay’s boutique shops create beautiful window displays throughout December. It’s festive, friendly, and walkable — and with the smell of fireplaces drifting through the village, it feels like a small-town Hallmark movie.

And On the first Saturday of December the Island Equipment Owners Association Truck Parade & Food Drive, featuring over 80 brightly lit cement trucks, dump trucks and other heavy equipment comes through Oak Bay Village. Music, food collection from 5 PM at the Oak Bay Municipal Hall.

https://www.oakbay.ca/whats-happening/annual-events/christmas-in-oak-bay/


6. Beacon Hill Park Winter Walks

No cost, endless beauty. Wander through Beacon Hill Park, visit the ducks, enjoy quiet forest paths, and take in the views from Dallas Road. Crisp winter air + ocean scenery = perfection.

Park info:
https://www.victoria.ca/parks-recreation/parks-trails/our-parks/beacon-hill-park


7. Drive or Walk Through Festive Neighbourhoods

Local favourites you can walk or drive through:

https://www.timescolonist.com/life/greater-victoria-christmas-lights-map-4831091

Free, cheerful, and perfect for a pre-holiday drive.


8. Local Craft Markets

Victoria hosts multiple markets — and many offer free entry on certain days or after certain hours. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a lovely way to support local makers and feel part of the community.

https://www.victoria.ca/community-culture/events


Local Love Wrap-Up

December in Victoria is less about spending and more about slowing down, wandering, and feeling part of this island community. Whether you’re exploring harbour lights or discovering new neighbourhood favourites, the magic is everywhere — and most of it is free.

If you're new to Victoria or thinking about calling this beautiful place home, exploring in December is the perfect way to get to know its heart.

And if you’d like help choosing a neighbourhood that fits your lifestyle — I’d love to guide you.

Jacqueline Ross
REALTOR® | Coldwell Banker Oceanside Real Estate
(250) 415-5656
jac@yourvanislehome.com

www.YourVanIsleHome.com
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MLS® property information is provided under copyright© by the Vancouver Island Real Estate Board and Victoria Real Estate Board. The information is from sources deemed reliable, but should not be relied upon without independent verification.