Quick Servings for Big Appetites

Part of the Beacon Drive In's appeal stems from the fact that it has been in business for more than 60 years with very few changes.

Beacon Drive In

The Beacon Drive In is a classic 50’s style diner serving up Burgers, Fries, Shakes, & Soft serve ice cream in beautiful Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

Located at 126 Douglas Street, we are directly across from the 75-hectare Beacon Hill Park — making the Beacon a perfect destination for picnickers and park-goers. Our most popular menu item is the ice cream, which comes in a variety of dips and flavours, and has held the title of Victoria’s Best Ice Cream for 29 years running!

Gallery

What Drives Us In

Big Philly Ingredients and Taste

Founded and built in 1958 by Bill Pistol and Bob McMillan, it has come to be known as a “Victoria institution” for its soft-serve ice cream, friendly service and local charm. Part of the Beacon Drive In’s appeal stems from the fact that it has been in business for more than 60 years with very few changes.

The Beacon has changed ownership only three times over its long history and current owners have strived to stay true to its roots as a family run business. All owners credit previous owner Jim Douglas, who ran the Beacon for 44 years, for instilling the unchanging character of the Drive in. Jim had two mottoes for the business — “the customer always comes first” and “we don’t change.”

Aside from adding a few awnings, outdoor heaters, and a new colour scheme the building is still the same as it was when it was first built in 1958. Even the menu is largely unchanged, boasting that “our top 10 selling items have been the same for past 40 years!”

FUN FACT: The friendly character in Beacon Drive In’s logo name is Beacon Bill, a stylized seagull dressed in rain gear and carrying a life preserver.

Beacon Bill was conceived and illustrated by local Victoria artist Bill Hitchcox in 1978 upon the request of a local printer responsible for the menus.