10 Things to Do in Ucluelet for a Weekend Getaway in BC

1. Hike the Wild Pacific Trail

Locals will tell you the best way to experience Ucluelet is to hit the Wild Pacific Trail and see where the path leads. The Wild Pacific Trail stretches north of Ucluelet and loops around the southernmost point on the peninsula. The coastal trail is split into several segments, from the easy 2.6 km Lighthouse Loop to longer, wilder stretches like the Artist Loop and Ancient Cedars Trail. In all, there are 8 km to explore.

As you journey along the trail, notice the area’s varying ecosystems; coastal forests, bogs, and mudflats. Take advantage of the informational signs to learn more.

This is pure West Coast magic, with views of crashing waves, twisted trees, and even the occasional whale breaching offshore.

Go during the golden hour for a truly unforgettable experience, or take a guided tour with a naturalist.

Check for more information at the Amphitrite House Interpretive Centre or the white Discovery Tent near the lighthouse.

Local tip: The Lighthouse Loop is great for families and sunset photos, but the Artist Loop is quieter and filled with hidden benches, perfect for a peaceful coffee break. It is more challenging but offers outstanding viewing platforms for photographers and painters. The Artist Loop also has a stroller bypass to avoid stairs.

Caution signs along the Wild Pacific Trail. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Amphitrite Lighthouse

The original wooden lighthouse at Amphitrite Point, erected in 1906, was destroyed by huge waves during a fierce storm in 1915. The next year, in 1916, the present Amphitrite Lighthouse replaced it.

Once manned by the Canadian Coast Guard, it changed to automation in 1988.

Interesting fact: The Fisgard National Historic Site of Canada is British Columbia’s oldest lighthouse. Its operation started in 1860 on Fisgard Island, a small island near Esquimalt Harbour, south of Victoria on Vancouver Island. This lighthouse operated until 1957. Learn more about Canada’s 750 lighthouses and discover more about heritage lighthouses from Parks Canada.

Amphitrite Lighthouse on the rocky shores of the Wild Pacific Trail. Photo Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

2. Discover the Mysterious Big Beach Shipwreck

Countless ships and lives have been lost along Vancouver Island’s west coast, known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific.” It is thought that this 100-year-old ship washed ashore in a raging storm, and Big Beach became its final resting place. The Douglas fir timbers were discovered here as early as 1896. The 18th-century ship’s exact identity is still unknown.

Big Beach Mystery Shipwreck. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Big Beach Mystery Shipwreck informational sign. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

3. Go Beachcombing

In Ucluelet, beachcomb on He-Tin-Kis Park Beach, Brown’s Beach, Little Beach or the largest of them all, Terrace Beach, which has tide pools to investigate.

In Ucluelet, go beachcombing on He-Tin-Kis Park beach. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Exposed volcanic rock on the rocky shoreline of a beach in Ucluelet. Photo Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

4. Learn at Canada’s First Collect and Release Eco Aquarium

Open from March through November, the Ucluelet Aquarium is an amazing place to stop to learn about local marine life in the forever-changing interactive exhibits. The aquarium showcases the rich diversity of coastal waters and is dedicated to marine conservation and education. Its unique program carefully collects local marine life each season where it is observed, then released back into the ocean in the fall.

5. Cast a Line Saltwater Fishing

The West Coast has some of North America’s best saltwater fishing. Experience fishing for salmon, halibut, cod and more around the Barclay Sound. The salmon season runs from May to September and halibut from March to October. Find a fishing charter.

6. Kayak the Barkley Sound or the Harbour

Kayak in the calm waters of Ucluelet Harbour, where you could spot seals, sea lions, eagles, and maybe a bear. Or venture further past tiny islands into Barkley Sound to see the rugged coastline and kelp forests, offering a less crowded experience than Broken Group Islands.

You don’t need to be an expert; guided tours are available.

7. Go surfing

Head down to Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park, often called the “Surf Capital of Canada,” or any beach along the west coast. There are several surf shops in Ucluelet.

8.  Explore by Bike

Explore by bike. Peddle on the sandy beaches or take one of the many multi-use trails. There is also a new 76 km roundtrip bike trail connecting Ucluelet and Tofino. The ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced ups-cheek ta-shee) pathway travels through the National Park Reserve. Bike rentals are available. My group rented bikes from Ukee Bikes. This location has a couple of E-bikes available, including double E-bikes. They also offer 2.5-hour guided tours.

There are seven mountain bike trails through the forest in Ucluelet and the traditional lands of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ people. Be prepared and be respectful of the land and the environment. Ride with protective gear, ensure bike is in top condition, check the weather, stay on designated trails only and give wildlife their space. Do not feed the animals.

Going for a bike ride in Ucluelet. Photo Stephanie Carr©

9. Look for Marine Life or Wildlife

Take a wildlife sighting tour or explore on your own. The rocky shoreline, islands and reefs support an abundance of large and small marine creatures for feeding or breeding. Grey Whales can be spotted near the shore in the spring as they migrate in the thousands.

From spring through the fall, look for humpback and orca whales, dolphins, and porpoises. If you spot any of these mammals, report it to help protect them and the environment. Watch for Stellar and California sea lions, harbour seals and the occasional playful sea otters. Leatherback sea turtle sightings have increased due to global warming.

Informational sign about sea life along the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet. Photo Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

10. Storm Watch in Shoulder Season

Visiting during the fall or winter is popular for the storm-watching season (November to March). This is when Ucluelet comes alive with crashing surf slamming into the shore, moody skies, and untamed energy you won’t find in summer.

Many accommodations offer great picturesque windows from which to watch the storm in a comfortable setting while sipping a hot chocolate. If you have waterproof gear, brave the storm and watch the waves explode from the Wild Pacific Trail.

Less crowded local favourite beaches like Browns Beach and He-Tin-Kis Park beckon to exploration. Some offer a little shelter for a quick dip and protection from wild waves, while others are very rocky, surrounded by towering trees and a chance for a refreshing hit of ocean spray.

Where to Stay in Ucluelet, BC

On our last visit, we stayed in a large house overlooking the ocean along the Wild Pacific Trail. It was a perfect spot for attending a beach wedding with family and friends. Other options are the luxurious Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Canadian Princess Lodge & Marina, Waters Edge Shoreside Suites, The Cabins at Terrace Beach and Reef Point Cottages. Find out more.

House rental on the rocky shoreline on a beach in Ucluelet. Photo Wendy Nordvik-Carr©

Explore more: Road trip to Tofin0, Best things to do in Nanaimo, Things to do in Parksville, Victoria, Banff, and explore Newfoundland and Labrador.

Where to Drink and Eat

Here are a few local favourites to try in town.

Foggy Bean Coffee Co brews up small batches of locally-roasted organic coffee at this family-owned operation. Light snacks available.

Ucluelet Brewing in Safe Harbour has a tasting room and a good comfort food menu.

Pluvio is an award-winning fine dining experience and one of Canada’s top 100 restaurants.

Jiggers and Chips is known for the best fish and chips around.

Eagle’s Nest Marine Pub overlooks Ucluelet Harbour and serves traditional pub food.

Foggy Bean Coffee Company in Ucluelet. Photo Wendy Nordvik-Carr©