activities
"Experience Life On Edge" Diverse activities on water or on land are available for all ages of visitors to the West Coast.
Ucluelet's unique location on a narrow peninsula means you don't have to go far to find water. The Wild Pacific Trail takes you through the pristine forests, along rocky headlands and within reach of sandy beaches to collect shells. The calm harbour is ideal for kayaking, bear watching and nature cruises. Some of the best fishing, diving and whale watching is possible in this area.
Kayaking
Rent a kayak to explore the calm waters of the Ucluelet Harbour or go on a guided trip in Barkley Sound. Over 100 islands in the Broken Group are great for beginners while more experienced paddlers appreciate the access to open waters in this area. Nearby, Clayoquot Sound provides challenge for advanced kayakers.
Fishing
Both freshwater and saltwater enthusiasts find plentiful opportunities year-round, as various species peak throughout the year. Numerous sport fishing charter operators are available for offshore fishing from Ucluelet Harbour. The protected waters in Barkley Sound provide shoreline runs of coho salmon in mid-June. By mid-July through August, maturing chinook salmon reach weights of over 30 lbs. (called a "tyee"). Halibut and ling cod are abundant from May through September. Year-round fly-fishing for trout and steelhead is nearby in many lakes, rivers & streams.
Whale-Watching
Spotting majestic whales from shore or on-board a boat, may be the highlight of your trip to the West Coast. From early February to the end of April, nearly 20,000 gray whales pass by our coast on their annual migration from Baja to the Bering Sea. Some whales, called residents, remain in our waters to feed throughout the summer and into the fall. More humpback whales have returned to Barkley Sound to feed as well. Pods of orcas are sighted on occasion. While on a whale-watching excursion you may also see seals, sea lions, sea otters and various species of birds. The Pacific Rim Whale Festival is held each year in March to celebrate the gray whale migration.
Scuba Diving
The water in Barkley Sound is renowned for its variety of underwater species, shipwrecks and vibrant colours. Jacques Cousteau rated the Broken Group Islands area as the world's best cold water scuba diving spot. Whether you have never dived before or are an experienced aquanaut, the clear waters off Ucluelet offer incredible underwater adventure.
Surfing
Surfing on the West Coast has gained in popularity as one of the best things to do an any of the 365 days of the year. Sandy bottomed surf breaks near Long Beach provide everything from gentle learning waves to challenging, nearly world-class peaks. If you have never tried surfing, you can rent a wetsuit & board and discover the thrill for yourself or take lessons from a reputable surf school.
Hiking
Ucluelet's Wild Pacific Trail offers a world-class trail system that provides spectacular scenery for photography, wildlife viewing and stormwatching. Tackle all 8 kilometres of the coastal trail or just do the original 2.5 km. loop past Amphitrite lighthouse. Sections at Big Beach and Brown's Beach take you through the forest with panoramic ocean viewpoints.
Golfing
Golf on Canada's western-most course- the Long Beach Golf Course, located between Ucluelet & Tofino. This 9-hole championship course is known as one of the most challenging courses on Vancouver Island, suitable for seasoned golfers or beginners. Our local golf pro Gibby can outfit you and your family for a enjoyable day out on the course.