Esquimalt is an area of significant historical, cultural and natural beauty located in the Greater Victoria area of southern British Columbia. Originally the ancestral land of the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nations, Esquimalt played a central role in the development of the region since the mid-1800s. It boasts a vibrant arts, culture and heritage scene and numerous unique attractions, from its beautiful natural scenery to its lively festivals and activities. From its earliest days to the present day, Esquimalt has been an important location for military activity and is now home to both the Canadian Armed Forces Pacific headquarters and HMCS Dockyard, the home of the Canadian Navy on the Pacific Coast. In this guide, we will explore the rich history, attractions and culture of Esquimalt and examine why it remains one of the most popular places to visit and live in the Greater Victoria area.
Getting to Know Esquimalt
Esquimalt is a vibrant and diverse community located in beautiful British Columbia, Canada. It has a population of 17,659 (2016 Census) and is part of the Greater Victoria Area.
The time zone for Esquimalt is Pacific Standard Time (PST). Daylight Saving Time (DST) is observed from the second Sunday in March until the first Sunday in November.
The two official languages spoken in Esquimalt are English and French. Other languages spoken in the community include Chinese, Japanese, Karen, Punjabi and Tagalog.
The currency used in Esquimalt is the Canadian Dollar ($), which is split into 100 cents. It is accepted everywhere in the country, with the US Dollar (USD) being accepted at some locations.
Climate and Weather
Esquimalt is a town located in British Columbia’s Greater Victoria area and is home to a mild climate. Esquimalt has mild winters with average temperatures ranging from 5-7°C in the day to lows of about -1°C in the night. Snowfall generally accumulates to between 7 and 10 centimeters on a yearly basis, but rarely sticks around for more than a few days. Summer temperatures in Esquimalt range from an average daytime high of 21°C to a nighttime low of 11°C. Esquimalt receives about 1824 hours of sunshine each year, and has an average of 161 mm of precipitation per year. Most of the precipitation falls in winter, with the summer months averaging only a few millimeters. Overall, Esquimalt is known for its temperate climate and is a great choice for those who prefer warm summers and cooler, temperate winters.
Touring Esquimalt: Airport and Transportation
There are no airports in Esquimalt. The nearest airport is Victoria International Airport, located approximately 8 kilometers northwest of Esquimalt.
To get from the nearest airport to downtown Esquimalt, use a number of public transport options including bus, taxi, rideshare, or car rentals. Bus services are the most cost-effective option and may cost between $3–9 depending on the time and how many transfers are required.
There is no money exchange facility at either Victoria International Airport or in Esquimalt. However, most Canadian banks have affordable currency exchange services, and you can also exchange money at the airport before departure.
Exploring the Rich History and Culture of Esquimalt
- Historically the Esquimalt people were the first inhabitants of the Harbour and the region, hunting seals, whales and salmon
- While there are no longer any Indigenous populations living in the area, the Esquimalt Nation has maintained a presence in the area and visitors can learn more about local Indigenous culture at such places as the W̱SÁNEĆ Cultural Center and Painted Turtle Place.
- Esquimalt is also home to unique cultural and military history, evidenced today by various museums, galleries, monuments and trails located around the Harbour, the CFB Esquimalt Naval and Military Museum, Stuart Heritage Garden and The naval base itself
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