vrbo in ucluelet

Things to Do in Ucluelet

Up until a few months ago, I had never heard of Ucluelet.  I was interested in visiting Tofino, and upon researching places to stay and things to do in Tofino, I found nearby Ucluelet met all my needs for a more affordable price.

Located on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast, Ucluelet is smaller and the less hipster sister of its famous northern neighbor Tofino.  With a population of just over 2,000 and growing, the small downtown features several coffee shops, a few retail stores, and some nice restaurants.

Hiking trails and beaches surround the village whose names comes from the local Nuu-chah-nulth language and translates to people of the safe harbor.  Below are a few things to do in Ucluelet.

EXPLORE!
tofino hot springs tour

Tofino: Hot Springs Cove Tour

A popular tour in Tofino is to Hot Springs Cove.  The six-hour tour includes a boat ride, a hike, and a soak in the hot springs in Maquinna Provincial Park.  The only way to get to Hot Springs Cove is by float plane or boat.  As a result, the tour time is dependent on the tides and coordinated among the many companies that have a park permit.

SOAK IT IN!
Wild Pacific Trail

Hiking the Wild Pacific Trail

The Wild Pacific Trail travels along the rugged coastline and through the magnificent rainforest of Ucluelet, BC on Vancouver Island.

The trail may be hiked in three sections, the Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach Section, and Browns Beach to Rocky Bluffs including Ancient Cedars Loop. Each section has a parking area and is extremely well marked.

HAPPY HIKING!

Canso Bomber Trail in Tofino

I spent several mornings hiking during my week in Ucluelet and Tofino.  Despite the mud, I particularly enjoyed the Canso Bomber Trail, which is a 3.2 mile hike to the crash site of a WWII bomber.

HAPPY HIKING!