Forest Bathing at Pettinger Point: A Tofino Experience for Your Soul

Ever tried forest bathing? It’s not about swimming—though the name might suggest it. It’s not about hiking or exercise either; it’s more about slowing down and engaging your senses. Forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku as it’s known in Japan, is the practice of immersing yourself in nature and soaking up all its sights, sounds, and smells. With health benefits like stress reduction, mood enhancement, and improved mental clarity, think of forest bathing as hitting the “refresh” button for your mind and soul. And when it comes to the perfect West Coast setting for this kind of relaxation, Pettinger Point in Tofino, British Columbia, is a showstopper.

~~~~~~~~~~

Standing guard at the northern edge of Cox Bay, which spans the beachfront of Pacific Sands Beach Resort, Pettinger Point is already well-known as the backdrop of unforgettable moments. From surprise proposals wearing gumboots to postcard-worthy weddings and family reunions. But Pettinger Point also offers breathtakingly wild—yet serene—forest bathing.

Easily accessible and exclusive to Pacific Sands guests, it’s a place to pause, breathe in the fresh coastal air, and let the ancient old-growth forest work its magic.

Let’s walk you through this soul-stirring experience.

This is You, Forest Bathing

Making your way along the whimsical wooden Sunset Trail to Pettinger Point, you feel like you’ve stepped into a parallel universe in shades of green. Towering old-growth trees surround you; their moss-covered trunks twisted and gnarled like welcoming gatekeepers to this secret sanctuary. Slowly strolling the meandering path, you can almost feel the weight of the world lift off your shoulders as you take one step. Then another. Then another.

You Reach For Your Phone

As your eyes focus on the names and messages engraved on the wooden planks, suddenly, your mind struggles with the stillness. Thoughts start to rush in. You distract yourself by reaching into your pocket for your phone to take a picture of the towering rainforest trees. But then you realize you left your phone in your room. Smart thinking. You push the noisy thoughts away and refocus on breathing, walking, and letting in the peaceful silence.

Take Your Time

Ever so slowly, you pause and tune in to your senses. You touch the rough bark on a tree, brush your hand through an overgrown salal bush, breathe in the scent of fresh cedar, and listen to the gentle rustle of leaves high above. When the wooden trail opens up to grassy seaside flats, you take in the scene: steady, rhythmic waves crashing on Cox Bay to your left, Rosie Bay rolling in on your right, and nothing but the open Pacific Ocean stretching out to the west, as far as you can see.

Ready for the next level of awe?

You follow the trail up the rocky bank through another forest grove of gnarled trees that greet you as you reach the windswept cliff at Pettinger Point. Standing there, high above the waves, you can feel the power of the ocean exploding on the rocks below. The wind pushes you back but draws you in at the same time, like a magnetic field forcing you to stop and stare. Even if you squint, there’s nothing but ocean. You gaze out at the horizon and just be.

You might even wonder what’s on the other side—Russia? Japan? Yes, you’re right. But right now, it’s just you and the Pacific.

Natural Connection

Forest bathing at Pettinger Point is more than just a walk in the woods; it’s an experience that connects you to nature, to the moment, and to yourself. Whether you’re here to unplug, reflect, or simply take in the awe-inspiring beauty, it’s the kind of experience that leaves you with a new perspective and a deep sense of calm.

Ready for more relaxation? Explore the onsite wellness services at Pacific Sands and immerse yourself in the healing power of nature and self-care.