Ucluelet exists upon the traditional territories of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ – Ucluelet First Nation, people who have lived in harmony with these precious lands for millenia.
The name of this small but mighty coastal town derives from the Nuu-chah-nulth word Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ, meaning “people of the safe harbour”. Beautiful rugged shoreline, dense forest, and a peaceful sheltered harbour create Ucluelet. The protected harbour and surrounding ecosystems are brimming with life, providing the perfect landing ground for countless species of birds, both local and migratory.
Explore the epic coastlines and lush old-growth forests to catch a glimpse of bald eagles, great blue herons, kingfishers, oystercatchers, osprey and many more species. For you hardcore birders, you might even be able to see a tufted puffin! Misty old growth forests, rugged shorelines, abundant beaches and the open ocean irresistibly pull thousands upon thousands of birds each year.
“Ukee”, as the locals affectionately call it, really is a small town with a big heart. Gear up for a day of birdwatching with a coffee and treat from a locally owned and operated cafe, or finish off with a cheeky pint from the brewery for an incredible view of the harbour. In the summer months (through to the end of September), be sure to join one of the free daily Naturalist Walks at the Wild Pacific Trail.
Ucluelet
The name of this small but mighty coastal town derives from the Nuu-chah-nulth word Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ, meaning “people of the safe harbour”. Beautiful rugged shoreline, dense forest, and a peaceful sheltered harbour create Ucluelet. The protected harbour and surrounding ecosystems are brimming with life, providing the perfect landing ground for countless species of birds, both local and migratory.
Explore the epic coastlines and lush old-growth forests to catch a glimpse of bald eagles, great blue herons, kingfishers, oystercatchers, osprey and many more species. For you hardcore birders, you might even be able to see a tufted puffin! Misty old growth forests, rugged shorelines, abundant beaches and the open ocean irresistibly pull thousands upon thousands of birds each year.
“Ukee”, as the locals affectionately call it, really is a small town with a big heart. Gear up for a day of birdwatching with a coffee and treat from a locally owned and operated cafe, or finish off with a cheeky pint from the brewery for an incredible view of the harbour. In the summer months (through to the end of September), be sure to join one of the free daily Naturalist Walks at the Wild Pacific Trail.
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1Ucluelet, BC, CA
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.
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2Ucluelet, BC, CA
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 Reserve but near the Esowista First Nations reserve. Please respect the seasonal dog ban, from April 1 to October 1 every year. Remember to check the tides. At high tide, beach access can be cut off.
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3Ucluelet, BC, CA
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!
Florencia Bay is located within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. You’ll need a Park Entry Pass for access to all beaches and trails within the National Park Reserve.
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42201 Pacific Rim Hwy, Ucluelet, BC, CA, V0R 3A0
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.
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51119 Pacific Rim Hwy, Ucluelet, BC, CA, V0R 3A0
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-tech 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.
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62460 Willowbrae Rd, Ucluelet, BC, CA, V0R 3A0
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.
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72791 Pacific Rim Hwy, Ucluelet, BC, CA, V0R 3A0
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.
