Victoria Island, British Columbia Canada

One decent option for an overnighter within a reasonable driving distance of Victoria is the Juan de Fuca trail. You won’t be able to do a loop but you could get dropped off at the start (China Beach) and get picked up further down the trail. Other access points: Sombrio Beach, Parkinson Creek, Botanical Beach. China Beach is a bit under 2 hours drive from Victoria. Or start further up the trail and hike back.

If you decide on just a day hike, East Sooke Park is a good option. About an hour and 15 minute drive from Victoria. Nice trail all along the ocean. Pretty much takes (me) a day to go end to end. Interior trail to Babbington Hill is worth the view as well. East Sooke Park would be my first pick for a day hike. Not too far but feels fairly remote. Overnights not allowed.

I haven’t checked in quite a while (so don’t quote me!) but don’t count on cell service in either park (though you may be able to connect to the US).

Other part-day options are Gowlland Tod Provincial Park and Mt Finlayson in Goldstream Provincial Park. Both are about 45 minutes from Victoria.

@BCBob, thank you for the great information! I will definitely look into those routes. It looks like a beautiful area with plenty of what I like most: mountains and oceans.