Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Hatley Park National Historic Site protects the estate of one of Victoria's most prominent residents.
Esquimalt Lagoon
Easily recognized from the lookout point dotted across Fort Rodd Hill is Esquimalt La-
goon, immediately to the west. The lagoon's protected waters are a haven for a great vari-
ety of birdlife, including shorebirds such as gulls, terns, black oystercatchers, plovers,
sandpipers, and killdeer. Waterfowl present throughout summer include mergansers, pin-
heads, grebes, Canada geese, swans, cormorants, and great blue herons, as well as buffle-
head, which migrate through in late fall. The lagoon is separated from the open water by a
narrow1.5-kilometer(0.9-mile)causeway.Anunpavedroadleadsalongitslength,provid-
ing access to a driftwood-strewn beach that is a popular swimming and sunbathing spot in
summer. Access is along Ocean Blvd., down the forested road beyond the Fort Rodd Hill
National Historic Site turnoff.
