Introduction
James Bay comprises the south west corner of Victoria and includes Mile Zero, the southernmost point of the island. Surrounded on three sides by water and on the east by Beacon Hill Park, James Bay is named after Sir James Douglas, one of the founding fathers of Victoria and British Columbia.
Lifestyle
The boardwalk, parks and waterways are well used by locals and visitors alike. Cyclists and skateboarders pass dog lovers. Heritage homes and cherry blossom-lined streets augment the British atmosphere, and in fact, British newspapers can be bought at the local corner grocer, an institution since 1909. This is the place for outdoor lovers. The proximity to the water makes it one of the cooler and foggier of Victoria neighbourhoods.
Dollars & Sense
This area has a wide spectrum of prices for housing and for dining out. Thrift and consignment stores see a brisk business as the area lacks clothing, household goods and furniture stores. Chains and independent retail outlets are side by side competitors, resulting in a fairly regular turnover for some businesses.
The Good, the Bad & the Rest
Quirky personality is in evidence. Poets and local characters contribute to the monthly paper with wry observations on life. Book exchanges, lovingly adorned gardens, and even a few chickens can be seen. Floatplane and cruise ship traffic, noise and air quality are ongoing issues. The benefit of being bordered by mostly water reduces overall land traffic. There are visibly down-and-out characters in the area.
1.6 km
Planes, Trains & Automobiles
Walking and biking the area and to downtown is quick and easy. Seasonally there’s horse & buggy as well as pedicab options. Pleasure boats, fish boats, the coast guard and houseboats move around the waters. Many buses begin and end their routes here. Harbour ferries and water taxis also stop here. There is a heli-pad and float planes. US ferries dock on the north side of the bay.
In the Area
Two elementary schools, one doing double duty as a community centre, a senior’s centre, and another Community Centre with medical offices, lab, library and drop-in programs provide much-needed services. The ‘five corners’ where five roads meet in the village proper, is the retail and service hub. There is a walk-in clinic, dentist, podiatrist, pharmacy, restaurants, coffee shops etc. Public beaches and boardwalks see lots of traffic as do the playgrounds.
Meet the Neighbours
15% of Victoria’s population reside here, including the largest group of people 65+. Many residents are from other parts of Canada whose ancestry can be traced back to Northern Europe. 73% of people rent their homes. The working folks can walk or cycle everywhere. The odd daycare and a couple of public schools serve the families with young children. Artists open their home studios during the annual Art Walk.
The Vibe
A unique mix of hotels and bed and breakfasts, government buildings, plus varied residential dwellings. Cruise ships land at Ogden Point. In the centre is a relaxing yet bustling village. The grocery store is open 24 hours and the farmer’s market is popular. Horses and buggies as well as pedi-cabs can be seen seasonally. These factors contribute to a feeling of pleasantness, ease, a Sunday type of mood every day.
Gallery
Neighbourhood Hotspots
The Legislature
The provincial legislature building dominates the entrance to James Bay. It’s striking architecture and tours draw visitors in droves. Lunch for the public is available in “The Leg” when the House is in session.
more infoThe Breakwater
This half mile concrete walkway jutting out into the Strait near Ogden Point where the cruise ships land was recently fenced for safety reasons. A mural on the side acknowledges the First Nations territory.
more infoBeacon Hill Park
One of Victoria’s oldest, largest and best-loved parks. Ponds full of wildlife and a heron rookery are big attractions. Ditto for the petting zoo and band shell. Many couples get married on one of its stone bridges.
more infoFisherman’s Wharf
This is where to find fresh fish, fishing boats, houseboats, eateries and the start of a waterside walking trail to downtown. A new playground and park are nearby. Harbour seals are friendly.
more infoEmily Carr House
Birthplace of Victoria’s most famous artist, this residence is now a museum and National Historic Site. Readers of her books will delight in picturing her upbringing and family as she describes them.
more info