James Bay sits at the edge of Vancouver Island, surrounded by the calm waters of the Victoria Harbour and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. To the east lies Beacon Hill Park, providing a luscious green landscape.
Tourism plays a significant role in the economy of James Bay, both because it hosts many tourist destinations and because it is home to the Ogden Point cruise ship terminal. During the summer months, James Bay’s extensive waterfront is alive with activity. Many of Victoria’s key attractions are located in the neighbourhood, including the Parliament Buildings, Royal BC Museum, Beacon Hill Park, Fisherman’s Wharf and many hotels and bed and breakfast establishments. Horse-drawn carriages and waterfront walkways also serve as a draw.
The heart of the neighbourhood is James Bay Village, filled with local shops and services. James Bay is an extremely walkable and bike-able neighbourhood and acts as a hub for many community sporting events that use Dallas Road as a major portion of their routes.
Parks
The parkland in James Bay is extensive. The neighbourhood contains a large portion of Beacon Hill Park. Other parks include Holland Point Park along Dallas Road, waterfront parkland in the Laurel Point area, MacDonald Park, Fisherman’s Wharf Park, neighbourhood parks (e.g., Irving Park which is located beside the seniors complex) and several other open spaces owned and managed by other levels of government.
Schools
James Bay Community School
South Park Family School
Gardens & Markets
James Bay has two allotment gardens located on Montreal Street:
The Neighbourhood Garden of All Sorts and
The Allotment Garden
The James Bay Farmer’s Market boasts a wide array of local produce, foods, and art. The market runs every Saturday from May through to September from 9am to 3pm, and is located at the corner of Menzies St. and Superior St.
