Ogden Point Sundial (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ogden Point Sundial?
What makes it 70% Kids-Friendly: Kids can run the wide railed path and use their own shadows to learn how a clock works, but parents must watch for wind and edges and plan toilet breaks because no public washrooms exist on the breakwater.
Positives:
- Free admission: Walking the breakwater and using the sundial is complimentary.
- Stroller‐friendly path: Wide, smooth concrete makes it easy for strollers and small legs.
Challenges:
- No on‐site restrooms: No public washrooms on the breakwater—use café facilities with purchase or plan a downtown stop.
- Wind exposure: The breakwater is open to wind and spray—dress kids in warm, waterproof layers.
What is Ogden Point Sundial?
- An 18-foot-wide interactive sundial installed in 2009 on Victoria’s Ogden Point breakwater
- A functional timepiece that employs embedded brass hour markers and shoe-print gnomon templates to cast human shadows as the gnomon
- An outdoor installation crafted from marine-grade materials and subtle nautical motifs to withstand coastal conditions
What is so special about Ogden Point Sundial for with kids?
- Interactive sundial lets kids learn shadows and time.
- Wide, flat breakwater is safe and stroller-friendly.
- Tide-pool and wildlife spotting add hands-on fun.
- Benches offer rest stops and ocean panoramas.
- Nearby café serves kid-friendly snacks and drinks.
Recommended visit duration: 1.5-2.5 hours
Why 1.5-2.5 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the breakwater walk, interactive sundial play and tide‐pool exploration without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ogden Point Sundial
Family breakwater stroll:
Walk the 800 m concrete path from shore to the sundial.
Tip: Hold hands near railings and let kids explore under supervision.
Interactive sundial experiment:
Stand on brass shoe‐print markers to use your shadow as the gnomon.
Tip: Visit near midday for the longest shadows and best photo ops.
Tide‐pool exploration:
Search rocks at low tide for crabs, barnacles and small fish.
Tip: Wear grippy shoes and check tide charts to catch low tide.
Wildlife watching:
Spot seals, eagles and passing whales from benches along the path.
Tip: Bring binoculars and pause at each bench to scan the water.
Snack break at Breakwater Café:
Enjoy sandwiches, baked goods and kid‐friendly drinks.
Tip: Arrive before noon to skip the lunch rush and secure a seat.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ogden Point Sundial
- Time your visit: Arrive before 10 AM or after 3 PM to avoid peak crowds.
- Plan around tides: Use tide charts to explore rockpools at low tide safely.
- Pack essentials: Bring water, snacks and binoculars to enhance wildlife spotting and save time.
Reviews of Ogden Point Sundial
Gagan Handa
If you’re ever in Victoria, you must take a walk to the Ogden Point Sundial. From the moment you arrive, the sights and sounds of the ocean draw you in—and it quickly becomes one of those places that remind you how beautiful nature, architecture, and simple pleasures can be.
Séverine Rochette
Very nice point, free to watch the pacific coast, the boats and the seals (when they want). We loved spending time in family and walking through. Very rare in North America continent, you can leave the way and walk on the rocks.
Mishu Islam
A very beautiful and serene place. I was lucky to go close to sunset. It is very cold and windy there though.
Destroyer
To be honest I didn't even know there was a sundial in this area until looking at google maps and seeing it but the whole area itself is pretty rad, and the sundial also seems pretty interesting and they're just totally W's overall !
M. S.
What a beautiful place to visit! We visited on a beautiful afternoon. The parking is right next to ogden point sundial. The sundial is near the start of the walk to breakwall. You can spend any where from 30 minutes to an hour enjoying the stunning view. Ogden point is perfect for taking a stroll. You can walk right up to Breakwater Lighthouse. Enjoy the fresh breeze, and it's dog friendly.
When is the best time to visit Ogden Point Sundial (Victoria, Canada)?
Check local tide schedules for low‐tide rockpooling. In summer, pack sunscreen and hats. In fall/winter, wear windproof layers and rain jackets.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Breakwater Café snacks & drinks | CAD 30 |
| Whale‐watching tour (2 adults) | CAD 338 |
| Whale‐watching tour (2 children) | CAD 168 |
| Total Estimated | CAD 536 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Ogden Point Sundial
Address: 211 Dallas Rd, Victoria, BC V8V 1A3, Canada
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About Ogden Point Sundial
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Phone Number
+1 250-386-132110 BEST nearby Activities
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