The hype
Travelers universally praise the serenity and views, often calling it a 'hidden gem' that beats the downtown Victoria crowds.
Brentwood Bay Resort
$150-300/ night
Book this if You want a dead-quiet, adults-only sanctuary that feels like a remote lodge but is actually just a short ferry ride from the mainland.
Why People Love It
- Strict 16+ policy keeps the pool and hallways blissfully quiet
- Every single room has an ocean view, fireplace, and balcony
- Located minutes from Butchart Gardens but feels worlds away from the tourist crush
Quick Take: A serious sleeper hit for couples who want the 'Tofino lodge' vibe without the five-hour drive.
Reviewed by @victoriabcmom: I needed a break from the city, and this spot in Brentwood Bay was perfect. My ocean view suite was huge, and the spa day was exactly what I needed to reset. Highly recommend for couples looking to unwind.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The jetted tubs in the rooms have a self-cleaning cycle that can startlingly roar to life at 2 AM if you don't close the bathroom door.
- You are escaping your own children for the weekend
- You want to kayak directly from your hotel to a hidden inlet
- You appreciate a room where a gas fireplace and ocean view are standard, not upgrades
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.2
- Housekeeping: Impeccable. Daily service is thorough, and guests consistently rave about the 'spotless' condition.
- Bathroom hygiene: Sparkling. Grout lines are clean, and the large jetted tubs are well-maintained (despite the noise).
- Maintenance: Excellent condition. The property feels fresh and well-cared for, with no peeling paint or worn carpets reported.
- Linens & towels: High quality. Crisp white linens and fluffy towels that feel new.
- Odors & scents: Neutral and fresh. No masking scents, just the smell of clean laundry and sea air.
Sleepability™
8.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- The automatic self-cleaning cycle of the in-room jetted tubs
- Occasional noise from wedding parties in the event spaces
Before you book
Good to know
- The Brentwood Pub on-site is excellent but casual; for fine dining, book The Arbutus Room well in advance.
- The ferry terminal is next door, making this a strategic stop before or after crossing to the mainland.
- Spa slots fill up weeks ahead—book your massage when you book your room.
What to pack
- Slip-on shoes for the walk between your room and the pool/spa
- A swimsuit for the year-round heated pool (even in winter)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Ocean King Room (3rd Floor) for vaulted ceilings and the best privacy
- Brentwood Suite for a private hot tub on your own deck
Rooms to avoid
- Ground floor Ocean King rooms if you aren't bringing a dog—you trade privacy for patio access
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I would love a room on the 3rd floor with vaulted ceilings for maximum privacy and view. Please avoid the ground floor if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is breakfast included?
No, it's cooked-to-order in The Arbutus Room for about $15-25 CAD per person.
Can I bring my kids?
Only if they are 16 or older. The hotel, pool, and spa are strictly adults-only.
Is it pet friendly?
Yes, dogs are welcome in designated ground-floor rooms for a $30 CAD/night fee.
Is there a resort fee?
No hidden resort fees; parking and wifi are free.
How far is Butchart Gardens?
It's a 5-minute drive or a short boat ride across the bay.
Do the rooms have AC?
Yes, all rooms have climate-controlled air conditioning.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Rent a kayak from the marina and paddle to Tod Inlet—it's a secret back entrance to the Butchart Gardens area with incredible jellyfish viewing.
- ✨
The 'Brentwood Pub' has a heated patio that rivals the fine dining restaurant's view for half the price.
- ✨
Ask for a 'Corner Room' on the upper floors for a wider panoramic view of the Saanich Inlet.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Adults Only' rule is strictly enforced—don't try to sneak a toddler into the pool.
💡There are no EV chargers on property, which is shocking for a BC resort; you have to drive to the library 2km away.
💡The in-room jetted tubs are huge but loud; the jets can auto-start for cleaning, so keep the bathroom door shut at night.
💡You are right next to a ferry terminal, but the noise is surprisingly minimal due to the resort's orientation.
💡The 'Ocean Suite' isn't a true two-room suite; it's an open-concept layout with a sitting area.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Brentwood Bay Resort is located and what's nearby.