Top 10 Things to Enjoy in a Rainforest
It rains here. There we said it. Not all the time of course, but it’s called a rainforest for a reason. And if you haven’t experienced the magic of Tofino’s rainforests, you haven’t looked through the magnificent eyes of Mother Nature herself.
Imagine trees so ancient, gnarled and huge you feel itty-bitty beside them. Dense mossy banks in more shades of green than you thought possible. Long sandy beaches and misty, relentless surf that shimmers as the sun breaks through. And the lure of countless unique things to do, inside and out.
But first some cool factoids on coastal temperate rainforests like ours here in Tofino:
- These rare forests only grow in a few regions of the world, covering 0.2% of the earth’s surface.
- As part of a thriving ecosystem that’s dependent on rainfall, Clayoquot Sound’s wildlife live for this moist climate. From bald eagles and bears, to salmon spawning in forest streams, it’s one big circle of life.
- We get about 3 metres (10 feet) of rain each year, which is why it’s so breathtakingly green and beautiful.
So if the forecast is for a spectacular rainy day in Tofino, grab your gumboots and explore our Top 10 Things to Enjoy in a Rainforest:
1. Art Gallery Crawl
Local artisans come out of the woodwork here, literally. Seven plus galleries line the easy-walking streets of Tofino including the famous works of local Roy Henry Vickers. The glass blowing artistry of Sol Maya is also stop-worthy on the way to or from town.
2. Get Walking & Get Wet
Embrace the rain, grab the Pacific Sands rain slickers in your suite and head out for storm and wave-watching. Or check out the sheltered, easy hiking trails in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The new Lighthouse Trail is also an “out and back” path that weaves through the rainforest with spectacular water views.
3. Get On Board
We surf year round here and we’re famous for it. Book a Pacific Surf Package, put on a cozy wetsuit and enjoy a safe, fun experience for men and women of all ages with the pros from Surf Sister.
4. Hit the Hot Tub in Hot Springs Cove
Boat or seaplane to Hot Springs Cove–we’re quite sure it’s the most incredible outdoor, natural hot tub you’ve ever seen. Look out at the Pacific as you soak in the geothermal heat of healing, salty water in a cascading succession of pools. Refreshing raindrops on your face will add one more dimension to this don't miss tour.
5. Learn Something
Visit the newly transformed Kwisitis Visitor Centre in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, complete with a fantastic observation deck over Wickaninnish Beach and exhibits including giant murals and an educational theatre.
6. Create Your Own Foodie Tour
Tofino may be a small corner of the world, but our restaurants speak loudly in culinary circles. From fish tacos at Tacofino to Relais & Châteaux at The Pointe Restaurant at Wickaninnish Inn, there's something for every palette. Thirsty? Don't miss the beer sampling at Tofino Brewing Company. Then maybe grab some to have with take-home artisan pizza from RedCan Gourmet.
7. Ohmmmmmm
Breathe in the zen of rainforest relaxation at several drop-in yoga studios around Tofino. The morning classes at The Ancient Cedars Spa at the Wickaninnish Inn includes bonus access to their steam room. Does it get more blissful?
8. Have a Scrabble Tournament or Movie Marathon
When’s the last time you played Scrabble with nothing but nature as a distraction? Exactly. Watch the surf from your Pacific Sands suite with a day of games or fireside movies. We’ve got Scrabble and lots of other fun, timeless board games as well as 500+ DVD’s to choose from at Guest Services. Come find your new favourite family flick or cuddle up with a romantic comedy. And yes, we’ve got popcorn too.
9. Find Nemo
The Ucluelet Aquarium is a cool way to experience marine life first hand, from guided tours and interpretive displays to actually getting your hands wet, learn about marine life in both Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds.
10. Catch a Live Blowhole
Watch whales breach in Clayoquot sound from the comfort of an enclosed cruiser featuring an outdoor viewing deck. Check out our Pacific Adventure Package for all the details, fun extras and memories guaranteed to blow your mind.
