The sundial relies on the wearer's physical position on the month-marked meridian line to calibrate for the seasonal shift in the sun's altitude.
The breakwater structure itself serves as a crucial artificial reef, supporting diverse marine life including rockfish, plumose anemones, and giant Pacific octopuses.
The base includes etched brass markers that correspond to the sunrise and sunset points for local astronomical events.
It is constructed from reinforced concrete and set into the Dallas Road waterfront path system, which follows the historic coastline of the Songhees First Nation territory.
The Ogden Point Sundial is a large-scale, interactive horizontal sundial situated at the terminal end of the Victoria Breakwater. It functions by using the visitor's own shadow to indicate the current time on the concrete dial face. The structure is set into a circular stone plaza at the start of the 800-meter-long concrete causeway extending into the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It was designed to celebrate the community's connection to the maritime environment and the cruise ship terminal. The site offers unobstructed views of the Olympic Mountains and the shipping lanes of the Pacific Northwest. The area serves as a primary hub for walkers, joggers, and scuba divers accessing the kelp forests beneath the breakwater.
Standing directly on the sundial marker looking out toward the Olympic Mountains with the breakwater in the frame.
Check the month marker on the dial before standing on it to ensure the time reading is accurate.
Combine your visit with a walk along the entire length of the breakwater for optimal wildlife spotting.
Bring windproof clothing, as the exposed point often experiences high gusts regardless of the weather in downtown Victoria.
Do not attempt to walk on the uneven rocks lining the breakwater; stick to the paved path for safety.
Avoid obstructing the path for those using the breakwater for exercise or fishing.
