Exploration

PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE encompasses 317 square miles of land and sea and is made up of three separate regions – Long Beach, Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail.
Exploring the Wild Pacific Trail should be on the top of your list. The Trail was the dream of “Oyster Jim” Martin who wanted to create a walking trail along the coastline. Jim’s dream is now world famous, drawing visitors to the region year round. There are 3 sections to the 8KM trail. The first section, The Artists Loop, passes directly behind Kinnikinnick Guest House and is accessible from Brown’s Beach or Odyssey Lane. The Ancient Cedars trail is to the north and to the south you will find the Lighthouse Loop. Each section winds through lush rainforests with a canopy of towering cedars and hemlocks, dense ground cover and moss-covered landscapes that insulates visitors from the hubbub of civilizational. The trail weaves its way along the rugged and breathtaking Pacific coastline where you can find a bench and loose track of time as the surf crashes into the rocks. You may even spot the water spout of a passing whale, sea lions playing in the surf or a bald eagle hunting. All sections are easy to walk. Just make sure to give yourself the immerse yourself in the tranquility.

Whaling Watching trips go out several times a day from both Ucluelet and Tofino and are extremely well organized. The best time for whale watching in Ucluelet is from March to October, with peak season for viewing Gray and Humpback whales runs from June through September. March to May is ideal time for viewing the Gray whale migration, while summer months offer the best chance to see humpbacks, orcas, and sea lions. Orcas (Killer Whales) are seen in the region throughout the year. In addition, you may spot sea lions, eagles, sea otters and other amazing wildlife while on the water.

Wildlife and Bird Watching Excursions on the water take you into the inlets and coves of Vancouver Island. It is the best way to experience the rugged west coast and an exciting way to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. There are also Floatplane and Charter Fishing expeditions that can be booked in the area.

Take a journey on the open ocean of Clayoquot Sound to Hot Springs Cover and relax in the natural thermal pools surrounded by the towering rainforest. Please note that trips to the Hot Springs are very limited and should be booked well in advance to avoid disappointment.

Ocean Kayaking is a truly immersive experience. Guided ocean kayaking tours provide you with the opportunity to explore kelp forests and rugged shorelines teeming with intertidal life. You will encounter the untamed wild of the Pacific Ocean, explore channels, waterways, inlets, bays, coves, rivers and streams with breathtaking scenery and wildlife. Enjoy kayak adventures to Barkley Sound, Broken Group Islands, Pacific Rim National Park, Clayoquot Sound and the Deer Group Islands. Explore intricate waterways through the 100 islands and tiny islets of the Broken Group Islands and paddle to tranquil coves, white sandy beaches and ocean swells. Discover sea caves, sea-sculpted rock formations, aboriginal fish traps and tide pools.

The Beaches of the Ucluth Peninsula have been named the Surf Capital of Canada and they draw local and international dudes year round. You can rent a board and/or sign up for lesson at the local surf shops. Summer waves are small and calm however winter waves can be wild and unpredictable. Wickanninish Beach, Long Beach, Cox Bay and Chestermans are popular surf spots just 30 minutes north of Ukee. Located in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Florencia and Wreck Beach are favourite surf spots with local wave riders. If surfering is a little ambitious for you you can simply take a walk, find a place to stretch out to watch the surfers, hang around for the sunset or take up a spot to watch a storm roll in. https://coastsmart.ca

Touring the region by bike is a great way to explore Ucluelet and the Pacific Rim. Bring your own bike, take a guided tour or rent an e-bike and explore the new 25KM trail through the Pacific Rim National Park or get off the beaten path!

The Zipline Eco-Tours takes you through the canyon where your senses will be heightened by the roar of the water and the crisp mountain air in your face. The journey starts at Canyon Bridge – between Port Alberni and the Pacific Rim – where you will be shuttled to the top of the course. The 2-hour flight zips you above the whitewater river and through old growth rainforests and the canopy of fragrant cedars next to Clayoquot Plateau Provincial Park.

Long Beach Golf Course is located between Ucluelet and Tofino, is “one of the most challenging courses on the island”. This 9-hole, par-36 course offers a challenging layout on the wild and rugged coast of the Canadian wilderness. The course features a pro shop, driving range, Lounge Restaurant and an 18-Hole Mini Golf Course.

The Ucluelet Aquarium is located at the base of Bay Street, right on the harbour, is Canada’s first collect-and-release aquarium with a colourful representation of local aquatic life.

If a more leisurely pace is more to your liking book an afternoon at a spa or one of the saunas, explore the local art galleries or find a patio and watch the world go by.

Storm Watching during the winter months is an exhilarating experience. You can feel the natural fury and power of the wind, rain and waves of a raging winter storm. When arctic and subtropical air masses collide over the Pacific Ocean, the tempests slam into Vancouver Island. Eight foot waves and thundering surf pound the beaches bringing driftwood, trees and Japanese glass fishing floats. Thundering surf and ocean spray provide nature’s dramatic theatrics.