Visit Tofino and Ucluelet During The Pacific Rim Whale Festival

Visit Tofino and Ucluelet During The Pacific Rim Whale Festival

For those that follow my photography and writing, and to those just discovering my work, you will notice a deep respect for the natural world. As a result I am captivated and drawn to locations that this connection is prevalent and a part of the local way of life. If you were to visit Tofino and Ucleulet during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival you would immediately experience this and develop a greater understanding yourself.

What Is The Pacific Rim Whale Festival

On my recent assignment with FestivalSeekers I had the opportunity to learn all about this amazing event. The theme of the event is “Inspire Educate & Entertain” . You can check out my article here – Set Sail For Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim Whale Festival

A small excerpt from that article

The Pacific Rim Whale Festival, entering its 32nd year, is the vision of passionate First Nations and non-First Nations area residents. The non-profit society was started to create awareness about their pristine eco-system, the then endangered grey whale population, and their coastal traditions.

With the vibrant communities of Ucluelet and Tofino along with the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve as the hosts, they set stage for an incredible event. The event as named focuses on the estimated 20,000 migrating grey whales that pass by feeding along the shores of the area. This happens between February and April, which is why March is a perfect time for the event.

Self Guided Things To Do Between Whale Festival Events

A previous article I wrote last year while I was on assignment for Tourism Tofino and Tourism Ucluelet hits some great spots to visit. These spots are located on your way to visit the Whale Festival and then a few in the Ucluelet region.

Check it out here The Top Tofino Road Trip Must Do Stops

After checking out my top 10 road trip must stops on the way to the Pacific Rim Whale Festival I recommend these fun places to see and things to do. What list wouldn’t be complete without coffee to keep your energy levels as an added bonus of what cafes are the best to visit.

Wild Pacific Trail

Ranked in the top 10 of all activities in Canada by Trip Advisor it is clear this is a must do stop. The Wild Pacific Trail encompasses the rugged Ucluelet coastline starting at the 100 year old Amphitrite Lighthouse. Winding it’s way north along the Ucluth Peninsula it reaches all the way to the boundary of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. For all fitness levels and all ages with easy to hard access points, this is an activity everyone can enjoy.

 

 

 

Rainforest Trail

Everyone talks about the coastal temperate rain forests of Vancouver Island. Until you actually visit one the words and photos will but only give you a glimpse of what standing in this forest is like. Trail A was just upgraded and brand new boardwalk takes you on a 1km loop through the ancient old growth giant cedars, douglas fir, hemlock and more. Trail B is currently being rebuilt and should be done by the time of the 2018 Whale Festival.

 

 

Kwisitis Visitor Centre

Understanding the history and cultural significance of a region to me is an important part of visiting a region. The Kwisitis ( means “other end of the beach” in Nuu-chah-nulth) Visitor Centre is located at the southernmost point of Wickaninnish beach. Here one can step inside to an interactive and immersive world that takes you deep into the history and traditions of the Coastal First Nations. The Nuu-chah-nulth people have called this wild coastline home for over 5000 years of documented history. (That’s older than the Egyptian Pyramids)

Parks Canada Kwisitis Visitor Centre

 

 

 

Canada’s Best Surfing

One step on the world famous beaches like Chesterman, Cox Bay and of course Long Beach it will be evident why this is the mecca of surfing not only in Canada but the Pacific Northwest. If you don’t have your own surfboard there are endless rental shops and schools in Tofino and Ucluelet.

 

 

Beaches of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Not a surfer? No worries at as there is over 22 miles of beach between Tofino and Ucluelet worth exploring. From sandy sprawling beaches at low tide to the waves crashing on the rocky shoreline at high tide the experience is different every time you visit.

 

 

Amazing West Coast Coffee Shops

Expect long days exploring and taking in activities while visiting the Pacific Rim Whale festival. To keep you going from breakfast to afternoon snack I highly recommend two locations. In Tofino my go to is Rhino Coffee, their donut breakfast sandwich is amazing. While in Ucluelet Zoe’s Bakery and Cafe  is the must stop for great coffee and their fresh made flatbreads are must have.

Check out the Pacific Rim Whale Festival at Festival Seekers

I hope you get a chance to plan a trip to Vancouver Island’s west coast. A visit as I mentioned above during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival would be the perfect way to accomplish this. If you didn’t click on the link above please be sure to check out my article on the FestivalSeekers website. Also a special thanks to Tourism Tofino, Tourism Ucluelet and Hello Nature for their help with my visit.

Check it out ~ Set Sail For Vancouver Island’s Pacific Rim Whale Festival