Located in the heart of the Capital Region on Vancouver Island and surrounded by a stunning marine environment, Esquimalt embodies the live, work, play lifestyle. For the First Nations people who have resided here for centuries, Esquimalt means “place of gradually shoaling waters.” The community is defined by the water and shores that surround it. Geographically, the Township is comprised of a peninsula bounded on the south by the Juan de Fuca Strait, on the west by Esquimalt Harbour, and on the north by a long finger-like inlet of tidal water called the Gorge. The ocean shoreline is characterized by rocky headlands, coves and bays, and several beaches with public access. Historically, it was the quality of Esquimalt’s natural harbour which led to the community being selected as the site for the headquarters of the Royal Navy’s Pacific Squadron in 1865. Today, this same site serves as home to the Canadian Forces Base Esquimalt. The naval base is now the largest employer in Esquimalt, and the original town site has disappeared inside the boundaries of the Base. Today, the compact community is the embodiment of the “live, work, play” west coast lifestyle.
