The Wickaninnish Inn

Tofino, British Columbia

PERSONALITIES

Artists. Woodcarvers. Surfers. Nature Enthusiasts. Wildlife Lovers. Couples looking for a destination wedding location.

MOMENTS

Moody seascapes. Slow days. The rugged shore of the Pacific coastline. Ancient rainforest. Yoga overlooking the sea. Storm watching from your window. Fireplaces in every room. Sunset bonfires.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

Tofino, British Columbia, is a year-round destination, with each season offering its unique allure and experiences:

Spring (March to May):
Spring in Tofino brings mild temperatures and blooming landscapes, making it an ideal time for outdoor exploration. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring migration of gray whales along the coast during the annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival. The season also offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, including migratory shorebirds, bald eagles, sea otters, and bears emerging from hibernation. Hiking trails and guided nature walks are particularly vibrant as the temperate rainforests come alive with fresh greenery, whilst scents of salmon berry blossoms and rhododendrons blooming waft through the Spring air.

Summer (June to September):
The summer months are Tofino's most popular season, with long days and pleasant weather perfect for beach activities, surfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay become havens for ocean enthusiasts, while boating and fishing tours are at their peak. Summer also offers clear skies for helicopter and floatplane tours, providing stunning aerial views of the coastline and nearby islands. Warm evenings are perfect for enjoying vibrant sunsets on the beach and creating unforgettable memories under the stars.

Autumn (September to November):
As summer fades, autumn brings cooler temperatures and a quieter, more peaceful vibe to Tofino. The natural hot springs near Tofino offer a warm and tranquil retreat from the crisp air.  The first storms of the season eventually make their appearance, creating awe-inspiring scenes of crashing waves and moody skies. Cozy indoor experiences like spa treatments and fireside dining then take on a special charm. The evergreen forests become speckled with autumn hues, making guided nature walks and hikes especially captivating. Surfing conditions are also excellent, with consistent waves attracting seasoned surfers.

Winter (November to March):
Winter transforms Tofino into a serene and atmospheric escape. This is the best time for storm watching. The unbridled fury of the Pacific storms reach their peak, drawing visitors for the dramatic storm-watching experience from the comfort of oceanfront accommodations like the Wickaninnish Inn where every room has a view. While the days are shorter, the moody landscapes and quiet beaches create a sense of solitude, perfect for reflection, beachcombing, and enjoying the slower pace of the season.

Please note the hotel is closed every January for the month.

WHY STAY

The Wickaninnish Inn, located on the rugged western edge of Vancouver Island in Tofino, British Columbia, is a place where raw nature and thoughtful design converge. Nestled between the ancient rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and the dramatic shores of the Pacific Ocean, the Inn offers unparalleled access to some of Canada’s most breathtaking landscapes.

Surrounded by towering cedar and spruce trees, miles of unspoiled beaches, and the rhythmic crash of ocean waves, Wickaninnish is a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its location on Chesterman Beach provides stunning views of the ocean and endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as surfing, storm watching, exploring nearby trails and contemplative beach walks .

The Inn’s architecture and design reflect a deep respect for its natural surroundings and local craftsmanship. Built with locally sourced materials from Vancouver Island, including red and yellow cedar, yew wood, and black Carmanah marble, the Inn showcases an authentic connection to its environment. Hand-adzed cedar beams, carved by the late Henry Nolla, the original resident carver, along with handmade Maxwell Newhouse driftwood chairs and custom-built furniture, add unique touches to each room. Guests will also find hand-adzed coffee tables and Fred Peters evocative paintings of Tofino’s scenery, making every space a tribute to the region’s artistry. The onsite carving shed, home to resident carvers, highlights the Inn's commitment to celebrating local artisanship, providing a window into the rich traditions of the area.

Every guest at the Wickaninnish Inn is treated as an individual, with the team dedicated to delivering warm, genuine service and creating unforgettable experiences. The Ancient Cedars Spa and The Pointe Restaurant embody this ethos, offering locally inspired menus and treatments that complement the inn’s natural surroundings. The Wickaninnish Inn is more than a tranquil retreat—it’s a celebration of nature, craftsmanship, and a deeply rooted connection to the Pacific Northwest.

WHY WANDER

Tofino is located in the heart of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a region defined by every experience being an invitation to connect deeply with the natural beauty of Tofino's rugged coastline. Guests can begin their day with a beach stroll along Chesterman Beach, where the Pacific's waves meet the shore in a rhythmic symphony. Hikes through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve unveil ancient rainforests boasting towering 1200-year-old trees such as Sitka Spruce, Western Red cedar, and Shorepines, surrounded by lush undergrowth, and rich ecosystems teeming with life. The area’s hiking trails, including breathtaking coastal paths, invite exploration at every turn, while biking offers a dynamic way to take in the lush surroundings.

Paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating excursions provide an up-close encounter with Tofino’s diverse marine life, while whale-watching tours offer the thrill of seeing majestic gray or humpback whales in their natural habitat, with occasional rare sightings of transient orcas. Bear-watching boat tours along nearby inlets allow guests to witness these incredible creatures as they forage along the shoreline. Surfing enthusiasts can ride the legendary waves of the Pacific, while chartered fishing trips invite adventurers to cast their lines and experience the thrill of reeling in salmon or halibut on the rolling ocean swells. For a bird’s-eye view of this untamed region, guests can take to the skies with helicopter or floatplane tours, soaring above the dramatic coastline, ancient forests and verdant hillsides.

Wellness enthusiasts will relish a visit to Tofino’s natural hot springs, reached by boat or seaplane andset against the ocean bedrock with the forest at their back, the hot springs trail leads you through the shoreline forest to reveal the soothing natural pools. End your day with a sunset bonfire, embraced by the cool ocean breeze—a perfect conclusion to a day of adventure.

INDULGE IN

Dining at the Wickaninnish Inn is an extraordinary culinary journey, set against the stunning backdrop of 240-degree ocean views at The Pointe Restaurant. The menu celebrates the bounty of the Pacific Northwest, featuring dishes crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Highlights include the West Coast Clam Chowder at the On the Rocks Bar, the local whole steamed Dungeness Crab paired with Island farm-fresh accompaniments. Sweet treats like our own Coastal Dark Chocolatecrafted from scratch in Paris by our pastry team working with master chocolatiers to create this exclusive blend are not to be missed. All while enjoying an expansive wine list and a curated selection of single malt scotches. Each dish is a reflection of the region’s bounty, thoughtfully prepared to complement the beauty of Tofino.

GETTING THERE

The Wickaninnish Inn is nestled in Tofino, a picturesque town on Vancouver Island, on Canada’s rugged west coast.

Traveling to Tofino is an adventure in itself, with several options to suit different preferences. For those opting to fly, Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ) provides convenient access, featuring 5,000-foot (1,500-meter) runways. Scheduled and charter flights are available from Vancouver, Victoria and Seattle, making it easy to reach this remote destination by air.

For travelers arriving by car, the journey involves a scenic ferry ride to Vancouver Island. Ferries depart from Horseshoe Bay, north of Vancouver to Nanaimo or Tsawwassen, south of Vancouver also to Nanaimo or from Tsawwassen  to Victoria. Visitors from Washington State can also access ferries to Victoria from Seattle, offering a beautiful introduction to the Pacific Northwest’s striking landscapes.

WILD INITIATIVES

Sustainability lies at the core of the Wickaninnish Inn’s operations, reflecting a profound commitment to preserving the pristine beauty of Tofino’s land and seascapes. From its inception, the Inn has prioritized sustainable practices, integrating them into every aspect of its design and daily management. The property was built with careful attention to minimizing environmental impact, ensuring that it operates in harmony with the surrounding rainforest and coastal ecosystem.

The Wickaninnish Inn takes a comprehensive approach to sustainable operations, addressing everything from energy efficiency to waste reduction. Energy-saving systems, eco-friendly cleaning products, and robust compost and recycling programs are implemented throughout the property. Locally sourced materials, including cedar, fir and stone from Vancouver Island, were used in the Inn’s construction, blending the architecture seamlessly into its environment while supporting regional artisans. Guests are provided with curated Tranquillity™ Blend Comfort Zone products in the guestrooms, and the culinary offerings emphasize fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local suppliers.

The Inn’s sustainability efforts extend beyond its property, actively contributing to local conservation initiatives and community well-being. Partnerships with sustainability organizations help protect Tofino’s delicate ecosystems and the social fabric of its residents and work forceAdditionally, the Wickaninnish Inn promotes sustainable tourism by engaging visitors in practices that honor and preserve the area’s natural beauty.

Read more here.

Photo property of Wickaninnish Inn, Simone Mondino, Michael Becker, Jeremy Koreski

 The Nami Project

British Columbia, Canada

THE PERSONALITIES

Photographers. Surfers. Slow travelers. Wellness aficionados. Bird watchers.

MOMENTS

The rugged Canadian coastline. Endless ocean. Deep green forest. The harmony of nature. Japanese simplicity. Scandinavian minimalism. Watching whales pass by on their migratory routes. A slow and silent living. Time standing still.

BEST VISITING MONTHS

The best time to visit the Ucluelet-Tofino area in British Columbia depends on your desired experience. Winter offers the dramatic beauty of storm season, perfect for storm watchers but with fewer open local stores. Spring and fall provide a balanced experience with mild weather, fewer crowds, and ample opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural exploration. Summer is the peak season, ideal for beach activities, hiking, surfing, kayaking, and wildlife watching, but also comes with larger crowds and bustling markets. Regardless of the season, each time of year offers a unique way to enjoy the stunning landscapes of western Canada.

COST

WHY STAY

The Nami Project is an adults-only oceanfront landscape hotel situated in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in Ucluelet, British Columbia, Canada. Offering unparalleled access to nature, the property is just steps from the Pacific Rim Trail. The Tofino-Ucluelet area is a compelling destination known for its stunning natural landscapes, unique wildlife encounters, and rich cultural experiences set against Vancouver Island's rugged coastline.

Created as a haven for slow and silent living, The Nami Project encourages guests to embrace the rhythm of the changing seasons and the tranquility of nature. The meticulously designed cabins and suites, each featuring a personal cedar sauna, offer breathtaking ocean and forest views. This environment invites guests to slow down, practice gratitude, and relax, fully immersing themselves in the natural beauty surrounding them.

Embracing Japandi design, The Nami Project blends Japanese simplicity and harmony with Scandinavian minimalism and warmth. Large sliding glass windows and extended ceilings provide unobstructed views of the coastline, enhancing the connection with nature. Each cabin and suite includes a custom-made cedar sauna and a private sunken cedar hot tub (in cabins only). Guests also have access to a common area with additional hot tubs, a cold plunge tub, lounge chairs, and a gas fireplace.

Guests at The Nami can enjoy incredible moments from their units, such as whale watching, observing bald eagles, and the calming rhythm of the tides. The emphasis on thoughtful design promotes well-being, making The Nami Project a unique retreat that combines a truly undisturbed experience with the attentive care of a traditional hotel.

WHY WANDER

The Pacific Rim National Park is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Ucluelet, boasting over 500 kilometers of stunning coastline. This park is a haven for diverse wildlife, including bald eagles, black bears, and whales. Visitors can immerse themselves in the park's natural beauty by exploring on foot, bike, or kayak, with breathtaking ocean and forest views at every turn. Hiking enthusiasts will find numerous trails, such as the Wild Pacific Trail, which offers spectacular coastal and rainforest scenery. Bird watchers and nature photographers will find endless opportunities to capture the area's diverse ecosystems and scenic landscapes.

Ucluelet is also a hotspot for surfing, with waves suitable for both beginners and seasoned surfers. The area's beaches are perfect for beachcombing, where visitors can discover a variety of shells. Fishing is another popular activity, with ample opportunities to catch salmon, halibut, and other species in the rich coastal waters. Whether you're an experienced angler or a novice, the region's fishing spots are sure to provide a rewarding experience.

INDULGE IN

Each cabin comes with a fully equipped kitchen stocked with essential items, perfect for preparing your own meals while taking in the breathtaking views. Additionally, the local dining scene offers a variety of flavors and cuisines to explore beyond your accommodations. Here are some top local dining recommendations:

• The Schooner Restaurant: A Tofino staple, acclaimed for its outstanding local seafood and extensive wine selection.

• Wolf in the Fog: Innovative cuisine inspired by the natural wilderness of our surroundings.

• Tacofino: Famous for its casual yet flavorful Mexican dishes, starting from a beloved food truck to its current permanent location.

• Ucluelet Harbour Seafoods: The perfect spot to enjoy the freshest seafood catches of the day.

• Pluvio Restaurant: Distinguished for its creative, seasonally inspired menu, providing a unique dining experience in Ucluelet.

• Shelter Restaurant: A cozy Tofino haven known for its comforting dishes made from locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.

• The Shed: Celebrated for its dynamic atmosphere and inventive, delicious offerings, popular with both locals and visitors.

• The Break: A local favourite for fresh baked goods, sandwiches, and excellent coffee, Zoe's is ideal for a quick breakfast or lunch, featuring locally sourced ingredients.

• Heartwood Kitchen: Offering a cozy vibe and a menu that blends local and international flavors, Heartwood Kitchen presents seasonally inspired dishes in a warm, welcoming setting. 

GETTING THERE

Fly into Vancouver or Victoria airports, following a second short flight with Pacific Coastal Airlines to Tofino Long Beach Airport, just 25 minutes from The Nami Project. Alternatively, you can drive from Vancouver, which takes about 5 hours and includes a 2-hour ferry ride.

WILD INITIATIVES

The Nami Project emphasizes sustainability through eco-friendly designs, using sustainable materials and energy-efficient systems to minimize environmental impact. Products are carefully selected to align with this ethos, including natural cleaning and personal care items to maintain a chemical-free environment for guests. The commitment to natural well-being extends to the use of organic wool mattresses and comforters, along with pure linen bedding, avoiding synthetics for a sustainable and comfortable stay. Additionally, the Nami Project prioritizes partnering with local brands, integrating their exceptional quality and craftsmanship into its operations.

*Images property of The Nami Project

CLAYOQUOT WILDERNESS RESORT

BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA

The Personalities

Wildlife lovers. Photographers. Travelers looking to truly disconnect.

Moments

Breathing in your surroundings. A blanket of stars. Feeling fresh. Nature and you.

Best Visiting Months

May - September.

Cost

Why stay

Nestled in the heart of British Columbia's pristine Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Clayoquot Wilderness Resort is a remarkable destination for those seeking an immersive natural experience. This eco-friendly resort offers luxurious, safari-style accommodations amid lush temperate rainforests, calm inlets, and rugged coastline. The resort's tents, or "Ensuite Bedrooms," provide a unique blend of rustic elegance and comfort, with plush furnishings and cozy wood-burning stoves. Surrounded by old-growth cedar and hemlock trees, guests can enjoy the sounds of nature right outside their canvas walls, fostering a deep connection to the wilderness.

What sets Clayoquot Wilderness Resort apart is its dedication to protecting and conserving the environment. This commitment extends to its wildlife conservation programs, habitat restoration projects, and adherence to Leave No Trace principles. Guests can engage in nature-based activities like wildlife viewing and coastal restoration projects, furthering their understanding and appreciation of the region's ecological significance. All of these efforts, combined with a world-class culinary program, exemplary guest services, and unforgettable wilderness adventures, create a harmonious blend of luxury and environmental stewardship. Clayoquot Wilderness Resort is a true pioneer in sustainable tourism and an ideal choice for those seeking an eco-friendly retreat immersed in nature's splendor.

Why wander

The surrounding landscape is a testament to Mother Nature's grandeur, with pristine rivers, ancient forests, and abundant wildlife. Here, guests can witness black bears foraging for food, whales breaching in the open waters, and eagles soaring through the clear skies. The resort encourages exploration, offering activities such as kayaking, hiking, wildlife safaris, and hot spring soaks, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty and biodiversity of Clayoquot Sound.

Indulge in

Locally grown and raised products from the region of Cascadia. Try the grilled Clayoquot Sound oyster chowder.

Getting There

Fly to Vancouver International Airport, head to Tofino and take a sea plane or boat transfer. 

*Images property of CLAYOQUOT WILDERNESS RESORT