Ucluelet:
A Bird Trail Outpost

Pronounced ups-cheek ta-schee, ʔapsčiik t̓ašii is a 25km multi-use pathway connecting the communities of Ucluelet and Tofino. Fully paved, the pathway is tucked away in the forest and makes for a great way to spend the day finding birding spots! Stop at the junction to rent an e-bike from T̓iick̓in (Thunderbird) eBikes, then hop on the pathway and spend some time exploring the many access points along this epic stretch of Pacific Rim.

Always follow trail etiquette. Stay on the path, with respect to the local Esowista and Ty-Histanis communities and to protect sensitive ecological areas. ʔapsčiik t̓ašii is best enjoyed in the summer. In the winter, powerful storms can bring down large branches. The trail is not maintained in the winter and can accumulate debris, ice and snow.

About 11km from the junction (towards Tofino), Combers Beach is right next door to Long Beach, with the same soft sand and fewer crowds. The beach is accessed by a 0.5km trail through the forest and makes for great bird watching. Sightings can include birds of prey, waterbirds, shorebirds and much more. Eagles, peregrine falcons, loons, cormorants, sandpipers, Anna’s hummingbirds… the list goes on.

Comber’s Beach is located in Pacific Rim National Park but near the Esowista First Nations reserve. Respect the land at all times. Remember to check the tides. At high tide, beach access can be cut off.

Ahh, Flo Bay – a favourite of the locals. Back on the Ukee side of the junction, Florencia Bay and Halfmoon Bay are both accessed by the same trail (and are both worth checking out), located at the end of Willowbrae Road. With gravel, dirt and stair sections, it generally takes about 20 minutes to get to the fork. You’ll be rewarded with an epic beach, and a plethora of bird species… listen for the chirps and trills of song sparrows or the throaty call of the red-throated loon. Expect to see surfers and others enjoying the water, including seals and even sea lions!

Be careful when you’re out in bad weather and remember to always assess your surroundings. Storms could be approaching and waves can be unpredictable.

When you’re at the Junction, you should stop by Ukee Poke! They make delicious poke bowls with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You can build your own bowl with fresh seafood, veggies, and tasty toppings. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, healthy meal.

Get your journey on the Ucluelet Bird Trail Outpost rolling with T Bird e-bike rentals! Stop by their shop near the Ucluelet/Tofino junction to pick up a high-teck electric rental bike and cruise along the coast. They offer half day and full day rentals, so they’re perfect for adventures of any scale.

Wya Point Resort offers a unique stay surrounded by nature. Nestled among the lush coastal rainforest and perched on the edge of a private beach, the resort is known for its eco-friendly accommodations, including luxury yurts, beachfront lodges, and rustic campgrounds. Guests can enjoy direct access to the coastline, with opportunities for kayaking, surfing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The resort is owned and operated by the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ First Nation and blends modern comforts with cultural heritage.

Stop by the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre at the junction for all the information you need to explore the Pacific Rim region. The friendly staff can help you with regional maps, and local recommendations to enhance your stay in Ucluelet.

The calm and protected waters of the Ucluelet Harbour and the surrounding lands are a great spot to go birding. Numerous species of birds can be found here, including brown pelicans, ancient murrelets, and trumpeter swans, for example, alongside the classics for this area – eagles, blue herons, gulls and sparrows. If you’re lucky you’ll even see (and hear) the local sea lions on the docks.

The harbour is easily accessible and has parking. If you can, we recommend leaving the car at your accommodation and walking around town!

[The Wild Pacific Trail is made of 2 sections. This section is the Big Beach to Artists Loop section (45 mins to 1 hr), plus the Rocky Bluffs and Ancient Cedars Trail (20 mins). For the other section, including Amphitrite Point Lighthouse, head to Stop 11: Lighthouse Loop, and Stop 12: Terrace Beach.]

A beautiful system of accessible trails right in the heart of Ucluelet, through dense rainforest giving way to rugged beaches, the Wild Pacific Trail offers great birding opportunities for all levels. With sections of beautifully crafted boardwalks and mostly flat terrain, the trail is family-friendly and can be split up into smaller sections. 

Birds are abundant here! You could see oystercatchers, turnstones, mergansers, great blue herons, kingfishers, eagles, osprey and many species of shorebirds. This area is a haven for them to feed during migration season, so please make sure not to disturb the birds.

The care and dedication that goes into these trails are all thanks to the friendly folks at the Wild Pacific Trail Society. Visit their website to learn more, see a map, and check out their free Naturalist Walks!

Pack it in, pack it out! Stay off the rocks – waves could come even if you think it’s safe.

Pack up a picnic and head down to the beach! This is a family-friendly area within walking distance from town with picnic tables, sandy beaches and the remains of a shipwreck. Plus, it’s west-facing so if you’re lucky you’ll catch a sunset. Check out the children’s interactive signs featuring local creatures – you might learn something too!

Common sightings here include barn swallows, grebes, wimbrels, Hairy woodpeckers, and Pacific loons, just to name a few!

If you’re beachcombing, remember to put all creatures back where you found them. Leave only footprints, take only pictures.

Part of the Wild Pacific Trail, this easy 2.6 km coastal loop offers breathtaking views and countless opportunities to spot seabirds and migratory species. This section of the Wild Pacific Trail takes you through mossy rainforest, and to the iconic Amphitrite Lighthouse. There are plenty of benches and viewpoints along the trail where you can rest and pull out your binoculars to try and spot some of the over 300 bird species that pass through the Ucluelet Peninsula.

Look no further for a secluded, sandy beach lined with magnificent trees. Near the end of Peninsula Road, nestled in between He Tin Kis Park and Terrace Beach Park, the beach itself is usually pretty quiet. The trailhead for Wild Pacific Trail’s “Lighthouse Loop” can be found here, adjacent to the beach. It’s 2.6 km, or about 30-45 minutes in total. The Lighthouse Loop is accessible for strollers and some motorized wheelchairs. Check out the Wild Pacific Trail website for more information.

Get your coffee fix at Big Wave Cafe, a surf-themed espresso bar and breakfast food cafe. Try their locally roasted coffees, breakfast sandwiches and bowls (made with local ingredients)!

The Foggy Bean is a local favourite. Located in the heart of town, this cozy coffee bar is in a beautifully repurposed former Church. Start your day with artisan coffees made with their locally roasted beans, and fresh pastries, and enjoy the warm atmosphere. Or, pick up some grab-and-go light snacks to bring with you on your adventures!

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast at The Break Café & Bistro. Located in the heart of the village, this spot offers all-day brunch! Their dishes are made with fresh seasonal ingredients whenever possible. You should also try their fresh-baked pastries, and grab a delicious coffee while you’re at it!

The Floathouse is a laid back bar & grill with a relaxed atmosphere and awesome views. Set right on the Ucluelet harbour you can experience beautiful oceanfront views while you enjoy tasty pub classics like burgers, ribs, and you have to try the award winning seafood chowder!

Heartwood Kitchen is a unique breakfast and brunch spot in a renovated cottage, nestled in the village. Their menu features casual classics like fried chicken and French toast, and a variety of eggs benny.

Treat yourself to an award winning dining experience at Pluvio. Known for its seasonal menu using locally sourced ingredients, Pluvio showcases the best of Canadian cuisine. The intimate and upscale vibe make it a great spot for a date or special occasion, or if you’re just looking to get a taste of the best west coast flavours.

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious bite, checkout Jiggers Fish & Chips. They use fresh and local seafood, and home cut fries for their fish & chips. They also serve homemade burgers!

Ucluelet Brewing Company is a must-visit for craft beer lovers. Located in a restored church, this local haunt offers a rotating selection of handcrafted beers. It’s a great spot to relax in the welcoming atmosphere after a day of adventure. Enjoy ocean views while you sip on a brew and enjoy a snack from their menu, like their house-made soft pretzels or home-made chilli.

This unique and uber popular spot serves up tasty hot dogs and gourmet tacos. They offer classic dogs like chilli-cheese dogs, but also some unique twists like a Korean dog with kimchi, or a hotdog topped with pulled pork! Check out this beloved Ukee spot.

Located in the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Big Beach Lounge is a laid-back spot with stunning views of the ocean and rugged coastline. Their menu highlights local seafood, and comfort food like burgers, fish & chips, and pasta. Relax and enjoy your meal with a delicious cocktail, or choose from their beer and wine list.

Find unique gifts and art at Image West Gallery + Gifts! This shop carries artwork and pottery made by local artists, apparel, jewelry, toys, novelties and more!

Redd Fish Supply Co. is the shop by the Redd Fish Restoration Society, an environmental protection organization working to save wild salmon habitat in Ucluelet and the surrounding area. Shop for apparel, jewelry, and outdoor gear for your next birding excursion. All proceeds go towards helping ecosystem restoration!

Stock up on snacks and essentials for your birding adventures at Co-op. Find groceries to bring to your accommodation, or grab something to-go from the deli counter. If you forgot to bring anything with you on your trip, they also have hardware items and some apparel options, and a pharmacy!

The Ucluelet Aquarium is a unique, collect-and-release facility that offers an up-close look at the diverse marine life of the Pacific Northwest. The interactive displays and knowledgeable staff make it a fun and educational experience for visitors of all ages. A must-see for anyone looking to explore the rich marine ecosystems of Ucluelet.

Owned and operated by artist Tlehpik Hjalmer Wenstob, from Tla-O-Qui-Aht First Nations, and his family, the Cedar House Gallery is a must-see in Ucluelet. This gallery specialize in Nuu-Chah-Nulth art, from the First Nations on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. View a wide selection of carvings, jewelry, masks, prints, paintings, gifts, and more.

Enjoy a waterfront escape at Water’s Edge Shoreside Suites. Each spacious suite features a private deck, full kitchen, and cozy living space, making it perfect for a peaceful retreat or a family getaway. Many suites also include outdoor soaker tubs! It’s the perfect home base for explore the rugged coast, with lots of opportunities for wildlife sightings across the harbour.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is a stunning getaway offering luxurious accommodations with contemporary design, and breathtaking views of the rocky coastline. Guests can explore nearby hiking trails, and experience fine dining at the resort’s award-winning restaurant. Perfect for those seeking relaxation, adventure, or a romantic escape.

Snug Harbour Inn is an intimate, adults-only bed and breakfast overlooking the stunning Pacific Ocean. Offering cozy, well-appointed rooms with private balconies, fireplaces, and ocean views, it’s a perfect spot for a peaceful, romantic getaway. Guests can explore the private beach, relax in the barrel sauna or hot tub, rent paddleboards and bikes!

Check in and chill out at The Cabins at Terrace Beach. These cozy, fully equipped cabins are perfect for families or couples, and offer a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature. With options ranging from romantic suites to larger, family-friendly cabins, guests can enjoy easy access to the beach, hiking, and stunning coastal views.