Storm watching in Ucluelet and Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia allows you to experience the mysterious raw power of the Pacific Ocean and its raging storms.

Imagine waves growing to 50 feet or higher as they roll close to shore, crashing into rocky cliffs and beaches with a roar-sending sea spray in every direction. You can feel the thunder of these crashing waves in the ground, reverberating in your body.  It truly is a natural wonder to behold.

Photos by Liisa Nielsen

Storm watching in Ucluelet and Tofino has become a new draw for visitors to the west coast. Clad in head-to-toe rain gear and caught up on Coast Smart safety tips, storm watchers can experience this wild winter weather up close (from a safe distance). Or, you can cozy up under a blanket with a hot drink and watch the ocean flip into a frenzy from the comfort of your oceanside hotel room.

The west coast of Vancouver Island is the traditional home of the Nuu-chah-nulth people and the territory of several nations, including Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations, Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ, Tseshaht First Nation, Toquaht Nation, Hupacasath First Nation, and the Uchucklesaht Tribe. You can learn more about the Nuu-chah-nulth people in “The Nuu-chah-nulth: first to call the west coast home.”

What causes storm surges in Ucluelet and Tofino?

The coastal towns on the west coast of Vancouver Island are in the prime zone for these powerful storms. They are caused by a low-pressure air system moving north into the Gulf of Alaska, where Arctic air and subtropical air combine to form a frontal wave. As that front moves east toward the coast, the pressure drops rapidly, and the low-pressure system increases – bringing the wind and waves along with it!

This recipe makes the perfect storm (pun intended), and it usually causes storm after storm to collide with Vancouver Island’s rugged coastline. Between October and March, Ucluelet and Tofino host 15 to 20 mega storms.

Fun Fact: It doesn’t have to be raining to see massive waves! In the winter, surges from recent or distant storms and strong tides can send in those heavy rollers. Watching winter waves under sunny skies is also a wonder to behold!

Q&A: Local insider tips for storm watching in Ucluelet

Northern Explorers spoke to a local Ucluelet resident and photographer who is passionate about the west coast and the extreme wind, waves and weather it brings. Liisa Nielsen shares her experience and insider tips for those wanting to get a piece of the action.

Q. How long have you watched and photographed West Coast storms and storm waves?

Experiencing hurricane-force winds in the early 2000s was my first true storm experience here in Ucluelet. It was totally new to me, and I was in awe of Mother Nature’s force. I love the absolute raw power behind the wind and waves and the beauty they bring with them. I actually look forward to winter, and experiencing these storms has been a highlight of living here.

Q. For someone who has never heard of storm watching, how would you describe storm watching on the west coast of Vancouver Island?

When I stand at the Amphitrite Lighthouse on the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet, and the waves tower over me, crashing, booming, and spraying over the shoreline with their power, I feel pretty insignificant—a mere speck in the universe. It just shows me how powerful Mother Nature really is.

Q. What can people expect when they visit Ucluelet in the winter?

RAIN! We get between 2500-3,350ml (nearly 3.5 metres) of rain a year, and the majority of it comes between October and March. If you come to Ucluelet in the winter to watch storms, you’ll, at minimum, experience rain!

Ucluelet is also quieter in the winter compared to the summer months, which are pretty busy with tourists. You’ll have more accommodation available and maybe more affordable options, but you should be prepared to find that some restaurants and shops aren’t open or have reduced winter hours. Prepare accordingly!

Photos by Liisa Nielsen

Q. What’s the most memorable storm you’ve ever experienced on the coast?

The most memorable storm I’ve experienced would have to be the first one I had ever been in. I moved here from Victoria on the other side of Vancouver Island, and these west coast storms took Victoria’s “ocean” to a whole new level.

We went to the lighthouse and the waves were towering over and breaking beyond the structure. You could stand leaning into the wind and be held up entirely by the constant blow. But every storm that we get on the coast becomes my favourite.

Q. How should you prepare for storm watching on the coast?

GEAR UP! Your thin little city rain jacket won’t stand a chance in the West Coast rain. You’ll need rubber rain gear from boots to pants to jacket, and be sure to have warm wool or fleece layers underneath. Leave your umbrella at home, as these winds will tear it apart!

I definitely recommend waterproof housing for your camera, phone or other electronic equipment you might use out there.

Also, you should keep an eye on the tide and know when it is coming in or going out. The waves and storm surges will change with the outgoing, slack, and incoming tides. High tide will bring in the biggest waves because the deeper water produces more energy for the waves to grow and break on the shore.

Q. Any other advice for someone coming for storm watching in Ucluelet and Tofino for the first time?

Be safe and keep a respectable distance from the water. Never climb on rocks or headlands to get a better view because that ocean can change in an instant and pull you out. If you’re storm-watching along the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet, stick to the trail and stay off the rocks. Those fences around the lighthouse area are there for your protection.

There are lots of safe and amazing spots to watch and photograph the waves. Enjoy!

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The Complete Guide to Storm Watching in Ucluelet

Ucluelet is situated on a rocky peninsula on the edge of Vancouver Island. This end-of-the-road town meets winter storms head-on and has a rugged coastline to enhance the drama of those thundering crashing waves. There are several places to watch the winter waves, indoors and out, including the world-renowned Wild Pacific Trail.

The word Ucluelet means “people of a safe harbour” or “people with a safe place to land” in the local Nuu-chah-nulth language. So, while the Pacific Ocean rages, Ucluelet remains offers a safe and comfortable place to take it all in.

When to go?

The best time to go storm watching in Ucluelet is between November and March. During those winter months, warm and cold fronts start brewing, colliding, and moving low-pressure systems toward the coast. With those frontal waves come wet weather, wild winds and surging waves.

What to wear?

As mentioned, it’s essential to dress appropriately for the weather. That means waterproof rain jackets with hoods, rain paints, toques, rubber boots or waterproof hiking shoes, and insulating layers beneath. The wind is often too strong for umbrellas, so leave those at home. Many hotels can provide rain gear, so be sure to ask. Lastly, ensure your phone and camera are protected from the rain.

Where to watch the waves in Ucluelet?

Amphitrite Lighthouse: The best place to go storm watching in Ucluelet is the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse. This vantage point provides sweeping views of the open ocean and plenty of safe places to watch the ocean kick into a frenzy against the rocks. If you’re lucky, you might see waves crash into and over the lighthouse itself! Directions to Amphitrite Lighthouse.

Wild Pacific Trail Viewpoints: You can also find numerous viewing spots along the Wild Pacific Trail. This well-maintained trail weaves through the rainforest and along the wild rocky coastline of the Ucluelet Peninsula. It has several access points and viewing benches along the trail. Remember to stay on the trail, behind fences and barriers, and off the rocks! Read more about storm watching on the Wild Pacific Trail.

Oceanfront Hotels and Restaurants: Ucluelet has oceanfront resorts, cabins, and vacation rentals that offer incredible views of the ocean and the storms. In addition, Fetch Restaurant and Float Lounge in Blackrock Oceanfront Resort have floor-to-ceiling windows, epic coastline views, and an open ocean if you’d rather stay out of the weather, cozy up, and watch the storm from indoors. View more accommodation in Ucluelet with an ocean view.

Where to watch the waves in Tofino?

Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay: Though Tofino’s shoreline is more sandy than rocky, Chesterman Beach has rocky outcrops on its north end that help create the dramatic displays of crashing waves and sea spray. Cox Bay will offer a similar show, with the fury happening against Pettinger Point.

Oceanfront Hotels and Restaurants: The Wickaninnish Inn offers luxury accommodation at Chesterman Beach. You can also take in the storm in your hotel room or The Pointe Restaurant. Long Beach Lodge Resort on Cox Bay also offers sweeping views from its Great Room.

Pettinger Point Trail: This well-maintained boardwalk is on the private property of Pacific Sands Resort and is open to resort guests only. It offers impressive ocean views and has several viewing benches to watch the winter waves. Remember, stay on the trail and off the rocks!

Storm watching in Pacific Rim National Park

The Pacific Rim National Park is located between Ucluelet and Tofino. It offers kilometres of windswept, sandy beaches, rocky headlands, and several ideal viewing points for winter storm watching!

Kwisitis Visitor Centre: The interpretive centre at Wickaninnish Beach offers an outdoor observation deck and a cozy indoor space with large windows overlooking the ocean. It is a safe place to watch the waves and offers interpretive displays and programs about the area’s unique ecosystem, wildlife and natural and cultural history. Directions to the Kwisitis Visitor Centre.

South Beach Trail: From the Kwisitis Visitor Centre, take the South Beach Trail to the Totem Pole at Lismer Beach. This area offers good views and has rocky outcrops that create more foamy sprays than the sandy beaches. Stay on the trail, watch for driftwood and never climb on the rocks!

Florencia Bay Lookout: On Wickaninnish Road, turn right into Florencia Bay. Near the parking area, there is a wooden lookout deck that offers a bird’s-eye view of the ocean, sandy beach, and rocky outcrops below. It’s a safer place to take in the storm than down on the beach at Florencia Bay, as that area gets a lot of heavy driftwood coming in with the surges!

Safety First! Be Coast Smart

Storm-watching in Ucluelet and Tofino can be a memorable experience. These massive waves are truly unforgettable, but they’re also powerful and unpredictable. Safety is paramount. Remember that a rocky perch that looks like an excellent place for a photo can be under 6 feet of rushing water in seconds. It’s essential that storm watchers follow Coast Smart principles.

Here’s how to be Coast Smart:

• Check the local weather forecast and conditions before you go
• Check the swell forecast, tide table, and Park Canada’s Wave Hazard sign before walking on the beach.
• If you’re on a trail along the coast, stay on the trail
• Never climb on the rocks and stay within barriers
• Stay off drift logs during high tide or a high swell
• If you’re going to a beach, observe conditions closely
  • High tides and storm surges can make beach access treacherous
• Respect beach and trail closures

Where to stay in Ucluelet?

In the winter, you’ll find cozy accommodation in Ucluelet and enjoy being surrounded by natural beauty in a laid-back, oceanside town. Ucluelet offers a wide range of accommodation types and options, with several offering views of the wild Pacific Ocean or the protected and pristine inlet. From luxurious oceanfront resorts and Bed and Breakfasts to beachside guest houses, cabins, vacation rentals, motels and budget hostels.

Here are some of our favourite places to stay in Ucluelet:

• Blackrock Oceanfront Resort: Perched on the edge of rocky headlands, this stunning oceanfront resort offers sweeping ocean views, luxurious spa, world-class dining and top-notch hospitality.
• Water’s Edge Shoreside Suites: On the inlet side, these one—and two-bedroom condo units are suitable for families. They offer inlet and marina views, and some have private hot tubs.
• Anchor’s Inn: This inlet-facing property offers two cozy waterfront cabins steps away from the water’s edge. It is also within walking distance of downtown Ucluelet’s restaurants, shopping and services.
• The Cabins at Terrace Beach: These family- and pet-friendly oceanfront or rainforest cabin-style accommodations offer a comfortable stay nestled in nature.
• West Coast Motel: This upgraded motel near the Small Craft Harbour offers an indoor swimming pool, sauna, and fitness centre, making it an affordable, family-fun stay in Ucluelet.
• C&N Backpackers Hostel: For a budget-friendly stay, choose this clean and comfortable hostel-style accommodation on the Ucluelet inlet. They offer dorm-style and private family rooms.

Find more accommodation in Ucluelet, BC.

Where to stay in Tofino?

Just up the road, on the other side of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Tofino offers several world-renowned oceanfront resorts and hotels. In addition to these luxury accommodations on the beach, you’ll also find rainforest retreats, cabins, vacation rentals, motels and in-town hotels.

Here are some of our favourites:

• Wickaninnish Inn: Certainly the most famous hotel on the west coast of Vancouver Island, the elegant Wickaninnish Inn is right on the water on Chesterman Beach. It features comfortable, high-end accommodations with ocean views, luxurious amenities and gourmet dining.
• Long Beach Lodge: Enjoy oceanfront accommodation on Cox Bay Beach, with lodge rooms and self-contained cottages steps from the sand. This adventure resort offers both casual and fine dining, surf lessons and rentals, spa treatments and more.
• Hotel Zed: Considered the new kid in town, Hotel Zed offers 1970s vibes. It’s minutes from the beach, on a paved bike path, and offers a mini disco, ROAR restaurant, rec room, bike-through lobby and an all-ages playground.
• Tofino Motel Harborview: Tucked into town, Tofino Motel Harbourview offers views of the marina and is walking distance to shops, restaurants and amenities in town. Enjoy water views from every room.
• Tofino Hostel – HI Whalers on the Point Guesthouse: Located on the inlet, this HI hostel offers dorm-style, private rooms and suites. It’s an excellent option for an affordable winter stay in Tofino.

Getting to Ucluelet and Tofino

Driving

If you’re driving from the mainland, you have two options for ferries. You can take a ferry from Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay in Nanaimo or from the Tsawwassen terminal to Duke Point, just south of Nanaimo. We recommend making a ferry reservation in advance. Visit https://www.bcferries.com/.

From Nanaimo, head north on Highway 19 until you come to the exit for Highway 4, with signs pointing to Port Alberni. Follow this winding and scenic road through Port Alberni and beyond to the Ucluelet-Tofino Junction. Turn left for Ucluelet and right for Tofino.

Flying

You can catch a flight from Vancouver to the Tofino/Ucluelet Airport (TAZ), also known as the Long Beach Airport, via Pacific Coastal Air and Harbour Air. Tofino Air offers flights from Victoria. You can also take a chartered or private flight to the Long Beach Airport.

Check the weather before booking your flight. Flights are often delayed in foggy or stormy weather.

Start planning your storm-watching trip to Ucluelet! You can find all the resources you need to plan your trip at https://www.discoverucluelet.com/.