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Ucluelet
Highway 4 from Port Alberni travels west around Sproat Lake through stunning mountain scenery and
along Kennedy Lake to the west coast of the Island and the community of Ucluelet, which means "safe
harbour" and pronounced "yew-kloo-let". Nature cruises, diving, and whale watching draw visitors from
around the world as well as fishing for salmon, cod and halibut in Barkley Sound or deep sea fishing on
the open ocean.
The Pacific Rim Whale Festival is held each year in mid-March, when Pacific grey whales migrate from
Baja, Mexico along the West Coast of Vancouver Island, to the Arctic Ocean. An estimated 19,000
whales travel close to the shoreline, providing excellent viewing opportunities from the rocky headlands
on the outer coast. Close-up views of these magnificent creatures are offered by local charter boat and
float plane operators. The towns of Ucluelet and Tofino along with Pacific Rim National Park Reserve,
work together to offer over ninety-six fun family events and educational activities including dinghy races,
Chowder Chow Down, and the annual Art Show.
Ukee Days, in July of each year, features a weekend of fun for the whole family! The festivities of Ukee
Days kicks off with a scrumptious Salmon Bake and an all-ages Street Dance. The next morning begins
with a pancake breakfast and parade. Enjoy two event-filled days of Logger Sports, kids games, face
painting, live entertainment, great selections of food and crafts, contests and prizes.
A famous local landmark, Amphitrite Point Light House and Coast Guard Station is the only easily
accessible lighthouse on the notorious "Graveyard of the Pacific". The adjacent Coast Guard Vessel
Management Control Centre monitors all ocean-going traffic on the west coast of Vancouver Island and
welcomes visitors.
The Long Beach unit of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a pleasant 10-minute drive north of
Ucluelet. The most famous attraction of the Park is its 30 kilometers or so of sandy beaches. In addition
to beachcombing, surfing, tide pool and sand dunes exploration, visitors can learn about the open ocean
through films, exhibits and displays at the Wickanninish Centre. There are nine short self-guided walking
trails in the Park, two of which are wheelchair accessible. Most trails offer brochures explaining the
cultural and heritage of the area.
Half Moon Trail and Gold Mine Trail lead walkers and hikers to the beautiful beaches of Florencia Bay.
The He-Tin-Kis-Park Trail, a 30 min walk, with an easy grade along a boardwalk provides good views for
storm watching and access to beach.
There are many fine restaurants in the area and accommodations range from full service hotels and
resorts to quiet and intimate bed and breakfasts. Browse through the many shops to explore and find just
the right souvenir or gift to take home.
Whale watching and fishing charter outfits as well as back country guides are
available.
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