Fisherman’s Wharf in Victoria, BC Colour, Character, and Coastal

Tucked along the edge of Victoria’s Inner Harbour lies one of Vancouver Island’s most vibrant hidden gems: Fisherman’s Wharf. This lively floating marina, located in historic James Bay, invites visitors into a world of colourful homes, working fishing boats, and fresh seafood stalls—all just minutes from downtown. It’s a perfect stop on a private tour with EV Tours, where you can explore the city at your own pace with a local guide who brings the story of this fascinating place to life.

A Wharf with Deep Roots

Fisherman’s Wharf has been part of Victoria’s working waterfront since the late 1940s. Originally built to support the bustling commercial fishing industry, it served as a moorage and offloading site for fishers working the waters around Vancouver Island. Although the size of the commercial fleet has decreased over the decades, the spirit of the sea remains. Today, a few independent fishers still dock their boats here, keeping the legacy alive while sharing space with small tour operators, houseboat dwellers, and curious visitors from all over the world.

Floating Homes with Personality

One of the most unique and photogenic aspects of Fisherman’s Wharf is its collection of floating homes—brightly painted residences that seem to float like storybook houses on the water. These homes are part of a private, tight-knit community that adds vibrancy and charm to the marina. Painted in eye-catching hues and often decorated with quirky personal touches, they reflect the creative and free-spirited personality of this coastal corner.

Visitors strolling the docks are welcome to admire the homes from the boardwalk (please respect privacy), and they often stop to take photos of the whimsical details and flower boxes, or watch the resident seals and seabirds go about their day.

Culinary Adventures on the Dock

Fisherman’s Wharf isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a culinary destination as well. Freshly prepared seafood is a highlight here, with food kiosks offering everything from classic fish and chips to Pacific Northwest oysters, salmon burgers, and chowders. Many visitors make a point to sit on the edge of the docks, enjoying their meals with views of the Inner Harbour, floating homes, and passing kayaks.

In addition to seafood, there are also international food stalls offering Thai noodles, Mexican tacos, and locally crafted desserts—making it easy to sample a variety of flavors in one picturesque setting.

Art and Culture at Studio 106

Just across the street from Fisherman’s Wharf, in the heart of James Bay, visitors can discover a unique local art shop: Studio 106. This welcoming creative space showcases the work of local artists, featuring paintings, ceramics, textiles, and mixed-media pieces that often draw inspiration from coastal life and island nature. It’s a wonderful place to find an original piece of art or a handcrafted gift to remember your visit.

Stepping inside Studio 106 offers a different rhythm than the busy wharf—quiet, reflective, and full of inspiration. Many guests find it the perfect balance to the sensory buzz of the marina, and it deepens the experience of Victoria’s creative culture.

The Historic Neighbourhood of James Bay

Fisherman’s Wharf is nestled within James Bay, the oldest residential neighbourhood on Vancouver Island. This historic area was home to the first settlers of Victoria, and it retains much of its heritage charm. Strolling through James Bay reveals quiet streets lined with Victorian and Edwardian homes, lovingly maintained and bursting with architectural details—arched windows, gingerbread trim, wrap-around verandas, and stained-glass panels.

The area offers a glimpse into what life was like in Victoria over a century ago, with heritage plaques dotting the neighborhood and small parks offering rest stops along the way. It’s a place where past and present meet, and where residents continue to preserve the unique character of their seaside community.

A Story Worth Sharing

Over the years, Fisherman’s Wharf has been the backdrop for countless personal stories. From fishermen hauling in their early morning catch to artists painting on the docks, from families sharing a fish and chips lunch to wildlife lovers spotting seals from the floating walkways—it’s a place full of memory-making moments.

One favourite tale often shared on EV Tours is about the community’s resilience and creativity. When the float home residents were threatened by redevelopment decades ago, they organized and worked with local authorities to preserve the marina’s unique identity. Their effort helped turn the wharf into the lively, welcoming place it is today.

What to Do at Fisherman’s Wharf

Whether you’re stopping by for an hour or planning a longer visit, there’s no shortage of things to do at Fisherman’s Wharf:

Dine outdoors on the docks with waterfront views and freshly prepared seafood

Charter a fishing boat for a local angling experience right from the marina

Kayak along the coastline, taking in the marine life and colourful homes from the water

Go whale watching with small eco-tour operators that depart directly from the wharf

Hop on a water taxi—a fun and scenic way to travel across the harbour and into downtown Victoria

Browse local art at Studio 106 just across the street, showcasing handmade work by Vancouver Island artists

Take photos of the iconic floating homes, vibrant and whimsical in every season

Watch for wildlife, including harbour seals, otters, herons, and gulls along the docks

Explore with a Private Tour with EV Tours

For guests seeking a deeper understanding of Victoria’s culture, history, and coastal beauty, a private tour with EV Tours offers a rich and flexible experience. With personalized itineraries, comfortable vehicles, and guides who know the city’s lesser-known stories, you’ll see more than just the surface.

A visit to Fisherman’s Wharf can be paired with other highlights such as Craigdarroch Castle, Beacon Hill Park, Chinatown, or Butchart Gardens, creating a full day of exploration tailored to your interests. Unlike crowded group tours, EV Tours lets you move at your own pace, ask questions, and enjoy meaningful stops—perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, or small groups.