Pacific Rim British Columbia Long Beach Surf and Rainforest

Why visit Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

The reserve covers about 511 square kilometres of land and sea and was established in 1970. It protects rugged coastline and temperate rainforest that gets more than 3,000 millimetres of rain a year, which is what keeps the forest so lush.

It is also the traditional territory of the Nuu-chah-nulth peoples, including the Tla-o-qui-aht and Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ.

Long Beach and the nearby trails

Long Beach

This is the largest and longest beach in the reserve, set on Wickaninnish Bay between Tofino and Ucluelet.

Surfing at Long Beach and Wickaninnish

Surf rolls in all year, with moderate conditions in summer and bigger swells in winter that suit only experienced surfers. Wickaninnish Beach offers a good mix of waves for beginners.

Wickaninnish Interpretive Centre

The main education centre in the area has exhibits on wildlife, plants, Indigenous culture and history, along with a theatre, a restaurant and a gift shop. It makes a good rainy-day stop, and you can pair it with a beach walk.

Kwisitis Visitor Centre

Here you can see a carved post marking the traditional territory of Kwisitis and hear stories shared by Nuu-chah-nulth elders, with interactive displays. The gift shop sells work by Nuu-chah-nulth artisans, so it is a thoughtful place to shop for a souvenir.

Nuu-chah-nulth Trail

This self-guided interpretive walk teaches you about the lands and seas that are essential to the people of this coast.

Green Point Campground

The only campground inside the reserve between Tofino and Ucluelet sits near the south end of Long Beach and is open seasonally. It has flush toilets and showers, plus assembled tent cabins for those who prefer not to bring a tent.

Tofino, Ucluelet and the water beyond

Tofino

Tofino sits on the tip of the peninsula at the edge of Clayoquot Sound, and is a lively base for whale watching, kayaking, hiking and eating well.

Ucluelet and the Wild Pacific Trail

Ucluelet, known locally as Ukee, lies at the western edge of Barkley Sound. The Wild Pacific Trail starts at Amphitrite Point Lighthouse and follows the open coast, ideal for a shoreline stroll with ocean views.

Meares Island

This forested island near Tofino is reached by boat or water taxi and is home to Opitsat, the main village of the Tla-o-qui-aht. A large part of the island is protected by conservancies.

Broken Group Islands

More than 100 small islands and islets in Barkley Sound make up this unit, reachable only by boat and loved by kayakers. There are seven camping areas, and there is no fresh water on the islands, so bring all you need.

West Coast Trail

This 75 kilometre trail runs along the coast from Port Renfrew to Bamfield, built after shipwrecks to help rescue sailors. It is a demanding hike of five to seven days, open from May 1 to September 30, and reservations are required because permits are limited each day.

Food and local flavors

The west coast of Vancouver Island is a seafood destination. Look for Dungeness crab, one of the most important catches on the coast, and for spot prawns, which are harvested in a short window around May and June and are prized for their sweet flavour.

For dessert, try Nanaimo bars, the no-bake chocolate, custard and coconut squares named for the city of Nanaimo on Vancouver Island. Tofino has attracted many chefs, so expect creative menus alongside simple harbour spots.

Where to stay

Tofino is the most lively base, with a wide choice of lodging, restaurants and tour operators.

Ucluelet is quieter and works well for hikers, anglers and anyone planning to walk the Wild Pacific Trail.

Green Point Campground is the in-park option for campers, close to Long Beach and the forest.

Bamfield, on the far side of Barkley Sound, is the stop for those starting or finishing the West Coast Trail, or planning a quieter stay.

Best time to visit

The reserve is open from mid-March to mid-October, though Long Beach can be visited year-round. Summer is drier, though fog often covers the coast in the mornings, and it is also the busiest season on Highway 4.

March brings the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, based in Ucluelet, and from November to March storm watching draws visitors who enjoy big surf from a safe distance.

Getting there and getting around

Highway 4, the Pacific Rim Highway, runs west from Port Alberni and takes at least 90 minutes on a steep, twisting road. It is busy in summer, so use pullouts to let others pass. Driving times to Long Beach are about five hours from Victoria and about three and a half from Nanaimo.

A small regional airport serves the area, and Tofino Bus runs services from Victoria, Vancouver, Nanaimo and Port Alberni. Between Tofino and Ucluelet, a network of trails and multi-use paths links many beaches, so cycling is an option.

A suggested itinerary

First day

Arrive in Ucluelet, walk a section of the Wild Pacific Trail and visit Amphitrite Point Lighthouse. Eat dinner in town.

Second day

Drive to Long Beach for a morning walk at low tide, then visit Wickaninnish Interpretive Centre.

Third day

Continue to Tofino.

A fourth day or more

Add a kayaking trip in the Broken Group, or plan a longer stay and tackle part of the West Coast Trail with a reservation.

Practical tips

• Check tide tables before walking Long Beach and stay away from rip currents and storm surf.
• Pack waterproof layers, since the area gets heavy rain.
• Buy your park pass and any beach parking pass before you set out, and check fees on the official site.
• Reserve camping and the West Coast Trail well in advance.
• Bring all drinking water for the Broken Group, since there is none on the islands.
• Respect Nuu-chah-nulth territory and follow the guidance of Guardians and visitor centres.