 Your journey to the magnificent west coast begins with a leisurely ferry ride to Nanaimo or Sidney on Vancouver Island, followed by a scenic drive north to Parksville and then west to Port Alberni. From Port Alberni, the Pacific Rim Highway (Highway 4) leads west through the rugged mountain scenery of the Mackenzie Range, past the rushing waters of Kennedy River and the shores of Kennedy Lake, to the west coast of Vancouver Island. At the edge where land meets the Pacific Ocean lies Ucluelet.
The Nuu-Chah-Nulth people have long used the word U-clue-let, meaning "safe harbour" and it is indeed an apt description for a village that offers both a sheltered inner harbour and magnificent vistas of the open Pacific Ocean within easy walking distance. From the sheltered inner harbour, watch the bustle of the fishing and charter vessels, spot the ever present bald eagles as they soar overhead, and keep an eye out for the Sealions, harbour seals and river otters. The rocky shoreline of the open Pacific offers spectacular view and breathtaking winter storm watching.
Visitors from around the world come here for our excellent fishing, whale watching, scuba diving, nature cruises, beachcombing, kayaking, wilderness hiking and the pristine nature. On June 8, 2008 runners will be in our beautiful part of the world for the Seventh annual Edge to Edge Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay .
Ucluelet, a town with a population of 1,753, is surrounded by the spectacular beauty of Canada's temperate rainforest and the Pacific Ocean. Some of British Columbia's largest inventories of red cedar stand adjacent to the town. We enjoy a temperate climate with year-round temperature ranges from 5ºC to 20º C. Snowfall is minimal, and we have 328 frost-free days and 1800 hours of sunshine a year.
Situated on a natural harbour, Ucluelet is connected by Highway 4 (Pacific Rim Highway) to the major centre of Port Alberni. Just a short drive away, at the north end of Long Beach - Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is the community of Tofino. Bus lines, an airport, seasonal passenger ferry and float plane service serve the two communities. (see Getting Here)
A variety of accommodations as well as excellent restaurants featuring fresh seafood are available in relaxed, casual Ucluelet. Fishing, whale watching, beach combing, nature cruises, storm watching, kayaking, old growth forests, and the 20-kilometer stretch of pristine beach at Pacific Rim National Park Reserve are some of the attractions and activities which draw visitors from around the world. Be sure to visit our Members Directory for a comprehensive listing of lodging, dining, adventure, and shopping services.
Fish Barkley Sound for salmon, cod, and halibut. Ucluelet has one of the largest fleets of guided charter vessels on the West Coast.
Experienced boaters, canoeists, and kayakers enjoy the beautiful waters and coastlines of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands. For the novice, take a half-day trip by kayak or canoe and discover the wild side of the inner harbour. Rentals, guides, and tours are available from the Outdoor Adventure page.
Dive into the waters of Barkley Sound and around the Broken Group Islands for an underwater adventure among the numerous reefs and shipwrecks.
Shop for supplies and browse for unique gifts and the works of local artisans in the galleries.
During the winter months, see nature at its wildest during storm watching season. Eight-meter waves, thundering surf, and ocean spray whipped into a foaming frenzy provide nature's ultimate natural theatrics. Watch the storms from safe, designated viewpoints outdoors or from the comfort of an ocean view inn.
If you are looking for more information please check out our Community Links page and our Events section. |
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