A cruise around the otherworldly Pacific Rim Highway

While you’re in Port Alberni, take a hike along the banks of Rogers Creek to see a massive man-made hole in a cliff. This “nature” oddity was created in as a shortcut for the city’s water line. Wooden signs guide you to the hole-in-the-wall and it should only take about 15 minutes to hike it. You’ll probably hear it before you actually see it, as the hole allows the river water to cascade over rocks forming a small waterfall.

After all that hiking, you may be tempted to stop again, which is why Bare Bones Fish & Chips is conveniently close by in Port Alberni. Get your cod, salmon, or halibut any way you like it, but it should probably be beer battered and fried (it is called Fish & Chips for a reason). Even if you aren’t big into fish, this is a must stop since the restaurant is located in a decommissioned wooden church.

You can’t do a coastal drive and not stop at a lighthouse, and since the Amphitrite Lighthouse in Ucluelet, is the only lighthouse that you can get to by car be prepared to make a pit stop. The actual lighthouse itself is closed to the public, but by accessing the Wild Pacific Trail that loops by this lighthouse you can get a great look at it during your coastal hike. The lighthouse is a formidable structure as gale-force winds, tidal waves, and being in a tsunami zone threaten to rip it to shreds.

If you want to see more ancient trees, stop at the Ancient Cedars Loop on the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet. This 15-minute walk is packed with lots to see - like Sitka spruces, western hemlock, and the giant red cedars. But don’t go too deep into the woods just yet, you’ll want to also hike the Rocky Bluff trail to see the coastal shoreline. Be on the lookout for sea lion pool behind a barrier reef of the trail. Just be sure to stay on the trail, as the Pacific Ocean holds no mercy against the rocks on the shoreline.

In Tofino, make a stop at the Schooner Cove Hiking Trail for a rainforest to ocean trail experience. This trail is another quick one, coming in at 2 km (roughly 1.2 mi) in length. You’ll begin in the lush rainforest on a gravel path that quickly turns to forest floor covered in green moss. Stairs and boardwalks will lead you throughout the terrain, crossing over a few creeks. You’ll even cross through a valley by way of more steps and continue through the last bit of the rainforest trail until you arrive at a flat boardwalk that will lead you to the coast. You’ll probably hear the roar of the Pacific Ocean before your eyes have the chance to see it.

If you’re ready to do some surfing, or just watch, Cox Bay is a must stop. Home to most of the surf competitions in this area, Cox Bay is a surfing haven. For you non-surfers, there’s still plenty of beach to explore and relax on. During low tide, this is a great spot to see all kinds of marine life - like sea stars, sand dollars, and barnacles.

For a more relaxed beach adventure, head to Mackenzie Beach. This part of the coastline is protected by large tidal rocks, keeping the wind low and allowing for calmer waters. This spot is popular for families due to its swim-ability and it also has an entrance ramp allowing access for all. Since you’ll find calmer waters here, this is a great spot to try some stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking.