Oak Bay Recreation Centre

Imagine a space where an active lifestyle blends harmoniously with a cozy community atmosphere. The Oak Bay Recreation Centre is more than just a sports facility; it is the true epicenter of life in one of Victoria's most picturesque neighborhoods. As one of the largest and best-equipped facilities in Canada, it offers guests access to world-class amenities in a friendly and relaxed environment.

This multi-functional complex is strategically located near local schools and residential areas, making it a convenient hub for pedestrians and cyclists. Over its half-century history, the center has become an integral part of the region's cultural fabric, offering entertainment for all ages—from toddlers to seniors.

Inside this modern "public amenity campus," visitors will find everything needed for quality recreation and training. Whether it’s professional sports courts or relaxation zones, the facility is designed to make every guest feel right at home.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date contact information to help you plan your visit and reach the center's administration if needed.

Water enthusiasts will be delighted by two modern pools. The main 25-meter pool is equipped with water slides, a climbing wall, and even a rope swing, turning a regular swim into an exciting adventure. For those seeking tranquility, there is a smaller pool with warmer water, as well as a hot tub and a steam room with a sauna for total relaxation.

If you prefer the ice or the court, the center offers an excellent ice arena with skating programs for all skill levels and seven hard-surface tennis courts. The sports infrastructure is meticulously designed, ranging from hockey lessons to professional tennis training in indoor pavilions.

For fitness fans, a modern gym is available with a full range of cardio and strength equipment. A unique feature is the giant indoor field with Fieldturf™ synthetic grass, where you can play soccer or baseball regardless of the weather. After your active session, be sure to stop by the Sports View Lounge on the second floor for a bite to eat while enjoying panoramic views of the pools and the arena.

Getting to this popular leisure spot is easy. The Oak Bay Recreation Centre is located at 1975 Bee Street. Thanks to its strategic position in the heart of the Oak Bay neighborhood, it is easily accessible for both locals and visitors alike.

For those who prefer private transport, there are parking zones directly in front of the building on Bee Street, as well as at the end of Goldsmith Street. However, please note that due to the center's high popularity, parking spots can be completely full during peak hours, so it is best to allow a little extra time to find a space.

If you plan to travel by public transport, use the Victoria bus routes that pass through major transit hubs and stop in the immediate vicinity of the center. The facility is also easily reachable by taxi from the city center or by bicycle—the neighborhood infrastructure is perfectly suited for cyclists and pedestrians.

The history of this iconic place began on October 24, 1975. Since its grand opening, the center has become a true pillar of athletic and community life, not only for the Oak Bay district but for all of Victoria. Over five decades, it has evolved from a simple sports facility into a dynamic and multi-functional complex.

In October 2025, the institution celebrated its 50th anniversary. This event was a major celebration for the entire community: the program included nostalgic 1970s-style classes, an open house showcasing historical archives, and the unveiling of its own Wall of Fame. One of the most touching moments was the opening of a time capsule buried decades ago.

Interestingly, the center's popularity has grown so much in recent years that the parking situation has become something of a local legend—at almost any time of day, the parking lot around the complex is filled to capacity. This clearly confirms the center's status as a place where social life truly thrives and family memories are made.

To fully enjoy all the facilities this complex offers, we recommend planning for 2 to 4 hours. If your goal is a specific workout in the fitness center or a quick swim, an hour and a half should be sufficient.

For families planning a visit with children, it is better to set aside about 4 hours. This allows you to enjoy the water attractions without rushing, play on the indoor sports field, and finish your visit with lunch at the local restaurant overlooking the arena. If you decide to drop in for multiple activities at once, such as tennis followed by a sauna, expect to spend a full half-day of relaxation.

The complex's doors are hospitably open to visitors every day. The standard operating hours for the main facilities and the reception desk are 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. This makes it easy to fit a workout or family outing into even the busiest schedule.

It is worth noting a few details: while the fitness center operates on the general schedule until 10:00 PM, the pools close a bit earlier on Saturdays—at 6:30 PM. Indoor tennis courts are available for booking until 11:00 PM, which is convenient for those who prefer late-night matches.

The Oak Bay neighborhood is famous for its cozy atmosphere, and a visit to the recreation center can easily be combined with exploring other local points of interest. A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to better experience the charm of this part of Vancouver Island.