Premier Listings for Pacific Rim National Park
In the decades before the Pacific Rim National Park was born in 1970, this moss-laden landscape of mist and surf was a little-known outpost, a world apart. If adventurers managed to coax a vehicle across the tortuous road that led west from Port Alberni to the isolated ports of Tofino and Ucluelet, finding a bed was a simple matter at one of the few local inns. The alternative was constructing a driftwood shelter on one of the fabulous beaches nearby.
One million visitors a year now make this same journey on black-topped highway 4 (Pacific Rim Highway) to experience the romantic isolation of the region. It’s a tribute to the scale of this environment that so many travellers can be absorbed into it and still leave it so (apparently) empty.
The open ocean stretches off unbroken and vacant, while the elemental forces at play here – the winds and the tide, the sun and the rain – excite within visitors a deep-seated resonance, a sense of belonging to this place. Undoubtedly, the same chaos that reigns in winter during gale-force storms mimics, on a microcosmic scale at least, the fury of the Big Bang. And on eternal summer evenings, when a magenta sunset ignites the ocean’s summer evenings, there’s a peace so prevalent that you could almost bottle it and call it salvation. Take your pick of moods; they’re both soul-satisfying.
Nowhere else on earth has the meeting of land and sea created the magnificent beauty of Canada’s Pacific Coast. The spectacular Pacific Rim National Park is the only national park on Vancouver Island, providing protection for substantial rain forests and an amazing marine environment on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The full force of the mighty Pacific Ocean mercilessly pounds the constantly changing shores of this rugged coastline.
The territory now known as the Pacific Rim National Park has a significant history, having been inhabited by the Nuu-chah-nulth people for thousands of years. A rich natural heritage evolved as Vancouver Island became isolated from the mainland, retaining a great diversity of mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians and fish species.
This unique park encompasses a total area of 49,962 hectares of land and ocean in three separate geographic units – Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands and the West Coast Trail. Features of the park include long sandy beaches, an island archipelago, old-growth coastal temperate rainforest and significant Nuu-chah-nulth archaeological sites.
Recreational and outdoor adventure opportunities in the Pacific Rim National Park are numerous:
- Camping in Pacific Rim National Park
- Canoeing & Kayaking in Pacific Rim National Park
- Cycling & Mountain Biking in Pacific Rim National Park
- Diving in Pacific Rim National Park
- Fishing in Pacific Rim National Park
- Hiking & Backpacking in Pacific Rim National Park
- Surfing & Windsurfing in Pacific Rim National Park
- Whale watching & Whale Festivals in Pacific Rim National Park
The weather in the Pacific Rim area has a profound effect on any planned activities, as precipitation along the west coast of Vancouver Island is amongst the heaviest in the world. Match the season with your desired activity, and come prepared for rain, awe-inspiring winter storms and glorious sunshine! Visit the Park Information Centre for information on all Visitor Services.
Long Beach
The best known and most visited of the 3 regions, Long Beach is famous for the long sandy beaches of Schooner Cove and Wickaninnish and Florencia Bays, stretching between the two villages of Tofino and Ucluelet.
The 13,715-hectare Long Beach unit incorporates numerous rocky points and headlands, offshore islets and the mudflats of Grice Bay, an important wintering habitat and stopover for migrating waterfowl.
The impressive Green Point Campground caters to campers and RVs and, along with the Wickaninnish Centre and Parks Canada, provides valuable and interesting heritage learning programs on cultural features and the natural ecosystem of the Pacific Rim National Park.
Long Beach caters to visitors seeking to relax in the picnic areas, comb the beaches or stroll along the trails and boardwalks.
Radar Hill, just south of Tofino, provides a great view of Tofino Inlet, Meares Island and Gowlland Rocks. Naturalists watch whales from shore or follow the self guided Shorepine Bog Trail to study the moss, plants and interesting bugs found in a bog environment.
Late June to early September is high season in the Park and surrounding area. Mid-October through mid-March is the Park low season. Expect most park facilities, including the Wickaninnish Centre, the Park Information Centre and Green Point Campground to be closed. Visitors can drive the Pacific Rim Highway (Highway 4) from Port Alberni to Long Beach, 68 miles (108 km) of paved winding mountain highway. Busses run between Port Alberni and Ucluelet/Tofino, or the more adventurous can hop aboard the MV Frances Barkley for the trip down the Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound to Ucluelet.
Broken Group Islands
The Broken Group Islands Unit consists of over 100 islands, islets and rocky outcrops scattered in the centre of Barkley Sound, between Loudoun Channel and Imperial Eagle Channel.
This unit totals 10,607 hectares, of which only 1,350 hectares is land.
The larger of the forested islands are Effingham, Turret, Turtle, Dodd, Jacques, Nettle and Gibraltar Island.
The Broken Group is known internationally for awesome kayaking and wilderness camping enjoyed by organized adventurers seeking escape to the remote and desolate islands within the park. Natural features of this tranquil group of islands include lagoons, sandbars, blowholes, arches and secluded anchorages. Ancient native middens, village fortifications, stone fishtraps and archaeological sites stimulate the imagination of visitors to this traditional territory of the Nuu-chah-nulth people.
There are seven designated camping areas in the Broken Group Islands within national park boundaries, located on Hand, Dodd, Willis, Turret, Clarke, Gilbert, and Gibraltar Islands. All island visitors and users must camp in these designated campsites. Random campers will be asked to move to one of the designated campsites. All the campsites are small, and cannot sustain large groups. Please practice low impact camping techniques.
Camping was discontinued on Benson Island in May 2009 out of respect for its cultural significance. Archaeological research dates traditional use of Benson Island for over 5,000 years. Tseshaht First Nation’s oral traditions name this site as their origin place where the first Tseshaht man (Naasiya’atu) and woman (Naasayilhim) were created. It became the site of their principal village of Ts’ishaa. It is from this village that the Tseshaht derive their name, as Tseshaht literally means “people of Ts’ishaa”. Visitors are encouraged to visit Benson Island during the day and return to designated campsites for the night.
Maximum stay on each island campsite is 4 days. Maximum group size is 10 person total, and applies to private and commercial and non-profit groups. Maximum stay in the Broken Group Islands is 14 days. Solar composting outhouses are provided at all eight campsites. Please follow the posted directions for use of these facilities.
Camping fees in the Broken Group Islands are from May 1 to September 30. Fees are mandatory, non-refundable, and will be collected by a National Park licensed concessionaire at the campsites in the morning and evening. A Use Permit will be issued when fees are paid. VISA, MasterCard and cash are accepted.
Canoe and kayak access to the Broken Group Islands from Bamfield or Ucluelet is not recommended due to the exposed passages. Boaters and ocean paddlers can access the Broken Group Islands via Toquart Bay in northwest Barkley Sound. The unsigned road turnoff is located about 12 km northeast of the junction of Highway 4 and the Tofino-Ucluelet Highway.
A BC recreation campsite is located at Toquart Bay on the North side of Barkley Sound providing a boat launch for access to the islands. The popular Torquart Bay Recreation Campsite sees a lot of traffic from kayakers heading over to the Broken Islands. There are about 15 oceanside open tent sites, as well as RV areas, a cement boat launch, and lovely south-facing sand beaches. There is a parking fee for those who wish to park at the site but not camp there. From Port Alberni follow the Pacific Rim Highway 4 for about 50 miles (80 kms). Turn left at the sign for Torquart Bay on to the Maggie Lake Forest Service Road and follow it for 15.5 km.
The MV Frances Barkley will transport paddlers, kayaks and canoes to Sechart, on the fringe of the Broken Group Islands. The passenger and cargo vessel travels between Port Alberni, the Broken Group Islands, Ucluelet and Bamfield during the spring, summer and fall.
West Coast Trail
The West Coast Trail Unit of the park includes the section of coast southeast of Barkley Sound between the villages of Bamfield and Port Renfrew. This 25,640-hectare strip contains the 75-kilometre historic West Coast Trail, originally constructed for the rescue of unfortunate mariners shipwrecked off the treacherous west coast of Vancouver Island.
This internationally acclaimed hiking trail largely retraces an old telegraph route first established in 1890, and follows a rugged shoreline where approximately 66 ships have met their demise along this stretch of the “Graveyard of the Pacific”. The old telegraph line once connected Victoria with Cape Beale near present day Bamfield. Shipwreck survivors followed the rough and arduous trail in either direction, finding shelter in wooden cabins constructed at intervals along the route.
The land of the West Coast Trail unit is temperate coastal rainforest dominated by old-growth spruce, hemlock and cedar. Some of the tallest and largest trees in Canada grow along the West Coast Trail and in the adjacent Carmanah Walbran Provincial Park.
The topography of the region features natural wonders like the Hole-in-the-Wall, a natural sandstone arch carved by relentless wave action over time, the Tsusiat Falls at the mouth of the Tsusiat River, the Nitinat Lakes and Narrows and countless caves, creeks, coves, tidal pools and rocky headlands.
Recreation is decidedly of the wilderness variety! The merits of hiking the challenging West Coast Trail are known around the world. Of equal stature in the paddling world is the Nitinat Triangle Canoe Route, a gruelling battle against the wilderness, winds and extensive portages.
Access to the West Coast Trail unit of the park is via the trailheads at Bamfield and Port Renfrew.
Pacific Rim National Park is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, stretching between Port Renfrew on the southwest coast to near Tofino on the central west coast of Vancouver Island.
Nearby Regions & Towns
- Tofino
- Ucluelet
- Pacific Rim (West Coast)
- Pacific Rim Highway 4
- Barkley Sound
- Broken Group Islands
- Bamfield
- Port Renfrew
- Port Alberni
Park Notices
More Information:
Parks Canada – British Columbia
Website: www.pc.gc.ca
Phone: 250-726-4600 (Pacific Rim NP Information Centre – Year Round)
Premier Listings
Biographical Info
Pachena Bay Campground is nestled in an old-growth rainforest next to an expansive, sandy beach that directly faces the open Pacific Ocean. The campground is at the mouth of the Pachena River, next to the Huu-ay-aht First Nations community of Anacla, and just 5 kilometres from the picturesque town of Bamfield.
Enjoy unparalleled wilderness adventures, go beachcombing on pristine shores, hike through old-growth rainforests, and watch soaring eagles and other local wildlife along the way. Enjoy some of the world’s best sportfishing, kayaking, diving or eco- and cultural tourism adventures. The campground has been smartly upgraded to welcome RVs and campers, as well as tenting.
Biographical Info
FarOut Wilderness is an outdoor adventure travel company specializing in overland vehicle rentals and tailor-made itineraries in British Columbia. We use our local knowledge and experience to transform your ideas into an authentic and unique adventure.
Our self-drive itineraries allow you to explore off the beaten track at your own pace. We provide you with the resources to re-connect with nature and most importantly each another. All of our vehicles are fully insured for driving on unpaved roads and are equipped with a rooftop tent, camping equipment and GPS Messenger service.
FarOut Wilderness operates in all seasons and has one pet friendly vehicle. We offer complimentary vehicle collection and drop off at the following locations: Swartz Bay Ferry Terminal, Victoria Airport, Victoria Downtown, Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, Vancouver Downtown, and Vancouver Airport. If you have another collection or drop off location in mind, please contact us!
Biographical Info
Outpost Location:
Bedwell Sound
West Coast Vancouver Island
Vancouver Island’s celebrated luxury outpost Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge skirts the banks of its namesake ocean inlet, Clayoquot Sound, and offers an escape to the still, tranquil beauty of Canada’s remote wilderness. Set among magnificent conifer forests, the lodge offers guests an unforgettable experience of the landscape and its wildlife. Twenty-five canvas tents designed with contemporary interiors complement period and local artisan-designed pieces to offer a decadent retreat.
Guests have direct access to 600-acres of gloriously wild nature reserve where opportunities for adventure, education, natural enrichment and personal connection abound. Experiences span equestrian, marine-based, land-based, helicopter and fishing adventures.
Drawing inspiration from Vancouver Island’s wild beauty, Executive Chef Asher Blackford translates the landscape to the plate through the sights, scents and tastes of the region and uses premium sustainable, locally grown and foraged ingredients to deliver a 5-star taste of the destination.
Adventure-filled days are bolstered by the freedom to unwind at the spa, where physical and spiritual sanctuary are found in restorative treatments for body and soul. Featuring a waterfront massage tent, saunas and cedar hot tubs for relaxing and drinking in the view.
Biographical Info
Tofino Resort and Marina is a resort “Inspired by Adventure”. We are nestled in the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere; ideally located just steps from Tofino’s village and local beaches. Take our onsite shuttle to explore Pacific Rim National Park, or watch the sunset at Long Beach. Reserve pet-friendly ocean-view lodging, surf rentals, whale watching, bear watching, fishing, and hot-spring tours. Onsite dining features wood-fired pizzas and craft beer on three different patios, an oceanfront restaurant, and Tofino’s only pub.
Biographical Info
Jason Priestley and family invite you to visit our secluded beachfront cabins in Ucluelet, nestled between the two main sections of Pacific Rim National Park – the Broken Group Islands to the south and Long Beach and Tofino to the north. Pet friendly Terrace Beach Resort connects to The Wild Pacific Trail. Outdoor hot tubs on the decks of several units.
Biographical Info
Mills Landing is a private oceanfront cottage resort located on the edge of Barkley Sound. Our cedar cottages are fully self-contained and very comfortable. Mills Landing offers accommodation, moorage, fishing charters, whale watching, nature adventures, and marine tours of the Broken Group Islands near Bamfield. Perfect for anglers wanting access to the best fishing on Vancouver Island, and for those looking to get away from it all.
Biographical Info
Located in the quaint fishing village of Ucluelet, close to Barkley Sound, the Broken Group Islands, and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, our kayaking and hiking tours range from short half-day tours to week-long adventures. Whether you are an experienced or novice sea kayaker and/or hiker looking for a new and exciting adventure, or someone who is not really sure what the west coast of Vancouver Island is all about, we promise we will find the right experience for you.
Hello Nature Adventure Tours Video
Kayaking and hiking are great ways to explore the beautiful beaches, peaceful coves, offshore islands, wildlife and the native forests that make up our coastline. Participate at your own pace by sampling a half-day trip, full-day trip, or come on a guided overnight trip and allow us to take you to all of our favorite places.
Biographical Info
Mills Landing in Bamfield provides guests first class access to one of BC’s most beautiful, and productive fishing locations at an affordable price. Waterfront cedar cottages, premium fish processing, Grady Whites, Islander reels and the best in customer service keep our guests returning annually. Check us out once, chances are you’ll be back again!
Biographical Info
Cameron Ocean Adventures operates off the pristine Canadian shores of beautiful Ucluelet, home to Vancouver Island’s #1 trail, the Wild Pacific Trail. Cameron Ocean Adventures offers adventures in the waters of the Broken Group Islands and Barkley Sound in Pacific Rim National Park.
Experience first-class sport fishing for salmon and halibut, whale watching on the largest vessel in Ucluelet, and year-round custom charters with professional guides aboard clean, safe, luxury motor yachts that depart right from the convenient Ucluelet Harbour.
Join us for an experience you won’t forget.
Biographical Info
Our mission at Pacific Surf Company is to create the opportunity for all to experience the life-changing impact of the ocean! We are open year round, offering lessons, rentals, and west coast inspired apparel.
Our lessons are hands-down the most thorough you will find in Tofino, and are led by our energetic, certified instructors. Our instructor team is filled with people who have a love for sharing their passion for surfing, and are all Bronze Cross, First Aid, and CPR certified. They focus not only on your safety, but your fun as well!
Here is how we make your experience easier:
•Year-round group, family, and private surf and SUP lessons
•All lessons include all the necessary gear
•Transport of lesson gear down to the beach for you
•5:1 maximum student to instructor ratio
•Surf and SUP rentals
•Roof racks included with all surf board rentals
We also offer multi-day surf packages and can tailor lessons to large groups, school groups, and wedding parties! Find us from May to September also down at our satellite shop at Ocean Village Resort for any of your surf and SUP rental needs. Visit us in store, or book and shop online!
Biographical Info
Whether watching whales, dipping into Hot Springs Cove, or kayaking to a rainforest trail, people of all ages have enjoyed our excursions since 1986. We launch out of Tofino in Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island, just minutes from Long Beach and Pacific Rim National Park. We look forward to welcoming you aboard for a Clayoquot Sound adventure by Remote Passages.
Biographical Info
Enjoy a private beachfront cabin nestled in the clutches of a Pacific Rim rainforest, on the edge of the Wild Pacific Trail, where rugged shoreline meets the ferocious Pacific Ocean. Nature is everywhere, from huge expanses of sandy beaches, to intricate marine life in tidepools and giant cedars, hemlocks, and spruces. Located in Ucluelet at Terrace Beach, The Cabins is pet friendly.
Biographical Info
A consistently top-ranked Tofino hotel on TripAdvisor, this family and dog-friendly resort offers beachfront and ocean view accommodations ranging from 520 to 1400 square feet and is the only resort in Tofino with fully-equipped kitchens.
Located steps from spectacular Cox Bay on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, the resort sits on the edge of Pacific Rim National Park, a short scenic drive from Long Beach as well as the charming, seaside village of Tofino – famous for local culture and artisans. From year-round adventures including infamous storm watching, to make-yourself-at-home resort services and hospitality, experience Pacific Sands Beach Resort – the perfect convergence of land, sea and simple pleasures.
More at http://www.PacificSands.com
Biographical Info
The Wickaninnish Inn is an enchanting and critically acclaimed landmark offering rustic elegance on nature’s edge. From remote fishing to sunset beach walks, your luxurious custom getaway is our priority, and no trip to BC would be complete without experiencing this remarkable Tofino destination. The Wickaninnish Inn offers accommodation with direct beach access, 75 deluxe rooms, and panoramic ocean or beach views from every guest room.
Biographical Info
The Whale’s Tail Guest Suites are beautifully maintained, modern, private, clean, quiet and roomy travel apartments located in the ocean-front fishing village of Ucluelet. Full condo-style units with complete kitchens are provided with your choice of one, two and three-bedroom suites. The front desk is located one block north at the West Coast Motel on the Harbour, 279 Hemlock Street.
Biographical Info
The charming and cozy Reef Point Cottages are located in Ucluelet on the west coast of Vancouver Island offering an exciting, intimate and self-indulging experience for those who want to explore British Columbia’s most spectacular and natural landscape. Our accommodations include view and waterfront cottages with various sizes from studio to two bedrooms.
