Pacific Rim
Things to do in the Pacific Rim
Salmon and Halibut Fishing
Ucluelet has been a commercial fishing town for decades and while the majority of the dock space is still commercial fishing boats, it has become a destination spot for great salmon and halibut fishing all year long. Ucluelet has more banks (feed areas) for salmon and halibut than any other place on the coast. You can fish from Tofino and Bamfield as well.
Surfing
The beaches between Tofino and Ucluelet have become well known by surfers. You can get lessons all year round here or bring your own surf boards. Check out our page on surfing for which beaches are best for direction of swells.
Beaches and Trails
The Pacific Rim has some rugged wind blown scenery that you won’t see many other places. For all beaches and trails in the Pacific Region check out our Top Beaches section which include 5 beaches from the Pacific Rim and check out our Short Hikes for the best hikes in the Pacific Rim.
Kayaking
Both Barkley Sound and Clayoquot Sound offer great kayaking with both scenic nature and many small islands for protection and beach landings. There are water taxis which will transport you to your location of choice and kayak guides that will offer a great getaway for a few hours or a day.
Towns of the Pacific Rim
The Pacific Rim region consists of 3 small towns—Tofino, Ucluelet and Bamfield. You can stay at end of the world in a campground or in a 4 star accommodation at either Tofino or Ucluelet. Between Tofino and Ucluelet are many sandy surfing beaches that have become well known around the world. The last 30 minute stretch of highway before the junction will give you some great mountain and lake views, one going down the steep side of a large lake.
Bamfieldcan be reached by about an hour’s drive from Port Alberni by gravel road is one of the places on the island where you really do feel like you wound the clock back. It is the northern end of the West Coast trail, a popular rugged trail that will challenge your endurance but also your fortitude.
