Victoria - simply hanging out in the older part of town, the harbour and local cafes are a nice way to spend some time; the nearby Butchart gardens are beautiful though a bit touristy. Further away, the shoreline areas are small towns and very laid back; perhaps ideal to rent a car and go exploring. Taking connecting ferries to the outer islands are particularly pretty, with a greater sense of 'island', with far less tourists and bigger-impact nature. In the spring you are likely to need an umbrella, though sunny spells will be particularly enjoyable in that setting. Cheers.
lovethiscity, May 4, 2007 @ 16:19

I visit Vancouver and Victoria a few times every year - my sister and her family live there. One or more things you could try:

on clear days - rent a bike; ride along the shoreline or inland's biking trails

just walk - Victoria offers many hiking trails (most are easy to moderate). Gardens are blooming in May there.

May is good time to take a boat, see orca/gray whales.
The harbor and south end of the island offer many water sports.

Take a float-plane ride to Vancouver; When you arrive you will find tour guides at the dock.

Good Food - Keg Steakhouse or Panache (Steaks), Marina (great harbor views, bar, sushi), Blue Crab & Grill (seafood), Empress (good sleepy afternoon tea or brunch)

For drinks, good bars with views are along the shoreline, near the harbor.

tourismvictoria.com is a good link for what-is-going-on info.
colorado, May 4, 2007 @ 18:27

You could also head to Tofino and Ucluelet which are small fishing towns. I was able to do some whale watching while I was there. I would recommend staying in a bed & breakfast to experience the more homey side of the towns. If you have time and are into hiking I would highly recommend the West Coast Trail. This trail was originally built to help rescue shipwrecked survivors from the west coast part of Vancouver Island. Here is a helpful site for more info on Vancouver Island - www.vancouverisland.com. Enjoy your time there.
Kikiriki, May 4, 2007 @ 19:37

walks in the rain forest, walks along the coach, whale watching... i did all that when i stayed in Tofino. which i know isn't victoria! but still good fun.
joellem88, May 15, 2007 @ 20:40

Take a trip over to Gabriola Island if you can. It's a wonderful (somewhat shabby)relaxing little island mainly inhabited by artists and musicians, a few old hippies, and a some ex high-flyers. Walk up the hill off the Nanaimo-Gabriola ferry into the Village mall; have a coffee at Raspberry's and feel the stress evaporate.
vivs, Jun 4, 2007 @ 13:26