There is a mystical island off of the coast of mainland British Columbia where spruce and evergreen trees rule the land and vast beaches greet the waves. The Pacific North Rim is a small slice of heaven on the mid-northwest edge of Vancouver Island. This is a place that is guaranteed to keep a piece of your heart.
It is a place where you are free to let your adventurous, nature admiring, childlike self roam free and happy. It is awe-inspiring in its unimaginable beauty and pristine. This is a place that must be treasured, respected, and protected. The stretch between Ucluelet and Tofino, which includes the Pacific Rim National Park, is an alluring rarity.
Where to Settle In
Finding that deep state of relaxation is easy when the air is cool, the breeze rustles through the trees, the ocean sings sweet lullabies, and the accommodations are cozy. There are plenty of great accommodations ranging from beachfront campsites like Mackenzie Beach Resort to luxury lodges like the Wickaninnish Inn.
In Ucluelet, Reef Point Cottages is highly recommended. They offer studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom cottages. Several of the cottages have a private hot tub on the patio, some have a gas fireplace, and others are pet friendly. It is easy to settle in here and not want to leave.
Reef Point Cottages
Little Beach is across the street from Reef Point.
Right outside of Tofino, Ocean Village Resort is a beachfront gem. The ocean view cabins have a rustic luxurious vibe that make you feel like you are right at home. The resort is situated on Mackenzie Beach and is only three kilometers south of the picturesque town of Tofino.
The beach is bonfire friendly and each room comes with a bonfire kit. At night it is not uncommon to see ten plus little bonfires roaring with rosy-cheeked friends and families gathered around under the star dripping sky. Your furry friends are welcomed there too.
Ocean Village
Bonfire Kit
Where to Satisfy Your Hunger
There are several extraordinary restaurants in the Tofino area. Two in particular, both of which produce dozens of exquisite masterpieces using locally sourced and sustainable ingredients, are Wolf in the Fog and Shelter. It would be wise not to miss out on these two restaurants. Both provide a warm and inviting ambiance and exceptional service.
At Shelter, you will dine near a crackling fireplace or under heat lamps on the patio. The Shelter tuna stack, Vancouver Island oysters, and pan-seared local wild salmon are a few of the creations that will leave you satiated and smiling. Shelter is also a fun place to grab a few drinks with friends. The atmosphere is lively.
At Wolf in the Fog you will see items on the menu like Moroccan spiced octopus, potato crusted oysters, and smoked steelhead trout. You can be assured that the seafood is locally caught and as fresh as it could possibly get. This is a restaurant loved by both locals and visitors alike.
Where to Surf and Hike
The Pacific Rim highway, which is a two-lane road that connects Ucluelet and Tofino, runs between dense rainforest and over a dozen beaches. Many of these beaches also have great surf. Cox Bay and Chesterman’s are two popular surf spots.
All of the beaches are extensive and detailed with washed up beach wood and giant kelp. A dreamy effect is produced when the ancient forest meets the wild oceanfront and fog rolls in and out throughout the day. You could spend your entire day walking between the beaches and the marked forest trails. Days spent this way are good for the soul.
The island has a rejuvenating power. Whether you want to surf, kayak, fish, hike, or just be inspired by such raw and wild beauty, Vancouver Island is a place where you can reconnect with yourself and nature.
