A Guide to Spring in Ucluelet

As the mist begins to lift and the rainforest greens turn impossibly vibrant, it can only mean one thing: spring has arrived in Ucluelet. While we love our winter storm-watching season, there is a unique magic to “Ukee” in the springtime. It’s a season of transition where you might start your morning in a raincoat and end it in sunglasses.

If you’re looking for a spring getaway that balances outdoor adventure with cozy coastal comfort, here is how to make the most of the season in Ucluelet.

Witness the Great Migration

Spring is the “Grand Opening” of whale watching season. Every year, over 20,000 Gray whales migrate past our shores on their way from Mexico to Alaska.

The Experience: Hop on a cruiser or a zodiac with local experts like Subtidal Adventures, Cameron Ocean Adventures, or Jamie’s Whaling Station.
Land Based Viewing: Keep your eyes peeled along the Wild Pacific Trail for blows along the horizon! It’s not uncommon to see marine wildlife from the shores of town.
Spring Bonus: In March, the Pacific Rim Whale Festival celebrates this migration with community events, making it the perfect time for families to visit.

Walk the Wild Pacific Trail (In Every Light)

The Wild Pacific Trail is world-famous for a reason. In spring, the forest floor is waking up with fresh moss and the first wildflowers.

The Lighthouse Loop: This 2.6km trail is a must. The mist often clings to the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse in the morning, creating a moody, ethereal atmosphere that is quintessentially West Coast.
Rainy Day Tip: The trail’s thick canopy acts as a natural umbrella. If it starts to drizzle, head to the Ancient Cedars section—the massive boughs provide excellent shelter, and the smell of wet cedar is the best aromatherapy on earth.

Visit the Ucluelet Aquarium

Spring marks the seasonal reopening of the Ucluelet Aquarium (March 1st). As Canada’s first “collect-and-release” aquarium, the exhibits are filled with creatures gathered from local waters each spring.

Why now: It’s the best time to see the “new” residents before they are released back into the wild in the fall.
Indoor Fun: This is the ultimate rainy-day activity. It’s fully indoors, educational, and features touch pools that are a hit with kids and adults alike.

Spring Storms & Beachcombing

We aren’t quite done with the waves yet! Spring still brings the occasional “mini-storm,” but with much more daylight to enjoy them.

Big Beach: Head here after a windy night to see what the Pacific has washed ashore. Spring tides often reveal hidden treasures like sea glass or unique driftwood.
Storm-Watching with a View: If the rain picks up, grab a window seat at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s Currents Restaurant. You can watch the swells roll in while staying perfectly dry with a local craft beer or a hot coffee.

Pedal the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii Path

The newly completed multi-use path connects Ucluelet to Tofino through the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Spring’s mild temperatures are perfect for a long ride without the summer heat.

Rentals: Grab an e-bike from Indigenous owned T-Bird E-Bike Rentals (T̓iick̓in), or Ukee Bikes to breeze through the rainforest and stop at local beaches.
The Route: It’s a 25km paved path that takes you past some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, including Long Beach and Wickaninnish.

Cozy Up in Town

When the “spring showers” turn into a downpour, Ucluelet’s local shops and cafes are ready to welcome you.

Fuel Up: Stop by Foggy Bean Coffee Co. for a locally roasted brew or The Break Cafe & Bistro for all day brunch and homemade pastries.
Browse: Explore local art at the galleries downtown. It’s the perfect time to find a piece of the West Coast to take home while waiting for the clouds to part.

Take to the Water: Spring Kayaking

Spring is one of the best times to see Ucluelet from the seat of a kayak. The “safe harbour” that gives Ucluelet its name provides protected waters even when the outer coast is feeling the spring breeze.

Harbour Paddling: For a relaxing morning, take a guided tour through the Ucluelet Harbour. You’ll glide past fishing boats and bald eagles, often spotting seals and sea lions lounging on the docks.
The Broken Group Islands: For the more adventurous, spring marks the start of the season for the Broken Group Islands. With over 100 islets to explore, the waters are much quieter in May and June before the summer rush begins.
Pro Tip: In spring, the water is still chilly! Operators like Hello Nature Adventure Tours or Paddle West Kayaking provide all the gear you need, including dry bags and spray skirts, to keep you warm and dry.

Pro Travel Tip: Pack in layers! A waterproof shell, a warm fleece, and a pair of sturdy boots are your best friends. In Ucluelet, we don’t let a little rain stop the fun—we just call it “liquid sunshine.”

Ready to plan your spring escape? Check out our local accommodations and start counting down the days until you’re on the edge of the world.