Ucluelet

Markus trotting along the beach at Long Beach

We all know about Tofino and its gorgeous beaches and surfing, but we're diving into the laid-back and picturesque vacation spot of Ucluelet, situated off the stunning west coast of Vancouver Island and about 35 minutes from Tofino. Compared to Tofino, Ucluelet is smaller and tends to be less busy, but still within driving distance to the beaches and hikes.

Where We Stayed in Ucluelet

Location: Black Rock Oceanfront Resort
Resort Pet Fee: $50/pet per stay

The Black Rock Oceanfront Resort stands as a stunning and contemporary retreat that captivates guests with its modern elegance nestled along the coast. Our stay at this beautiful resort was nothing short of remarkable, offering a delightful blend of comfort, convenience and natural beauty.

Markus standing on the black rocks outside the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

Upon entering our spacious room, we were greeted by a stylish and well-appointed space that was both modern and luxurious. The room had all the amenities we needed, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. From cozy beds to furnishings, every detail was carefully curated to create a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere.

Adding to the allure of the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort was its proximity to the beach. The resort's convenient location allowed us to embark on delightful morning walks along the beach, which was absolutely wonderful with our dog. The gentle waves lapped at the shore as we strolled, basking in the refreshing sea breeze and immersing ourselves in the beauty of the coastline.

For reactive dogs, the one thing of note is that our room had a door that could be opened so that it joins with the next door's unit to create one large unit. Obviously, it was closed and locked while we were there because we didn't know our neighbours, but it's worth mentioning because it shows that the rooms are within close proximity to the others. If your dog is sensitive to voices or noises from outside, this would be good to know. All that said, our room had a separate room/suite within the room with its own door, which kept the sounds to a minimum (and our neighbours weren't noisy to begin with).

We absolutely loved our stay at the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort and we're looking forward to our next stay there!

Things to do in Ucluelet

Between the stops driving into Ucluelet, discovering Ucluelet and driving up to Tofino, there are plenty of things to do. Whether you're a foodie or you're just there to enjoy the ocean and the coast life, there is something for everyone at Ucluelet.

DRIVING INTO UCLUELET

The drive to Ucluelet from the ferry terminal is both long and windy. With a dog in the car, we decided to break up the drive by stopping a few times along the way. Fortunately, there were a few scenic spots and short hikes that were well distanced from each other and made for natural stopping points.

Sitting with Markus on the bench at the dock at the Alberni Harbour Quay

Our first major stop was at Port Alberni. Depending on the time of day, Port Alberni's the last major town to pick up food, gas or even a washroom break. On our pit stop, we discovered the delightful Alberni Harbour Quay. This charming waterfront area tempted us with irresistible doughnuts that satisfied our sweet tooth and provided a delightful treat during our journey. We walked along the docks on a windy day and felt the ocean spray on our faces as we sat on the benches.

Our next stop - just past Port Alberni - were the intriguing Petroglyphs just at the edge of Sproat Lake. At the end of a short walk and when you go down to the docks, you will find a historical landmark with markings along the rock walls. The markings were a little faint, but you can make them out. There is very little known about these images and how old they might be! These ancient rock carvings offer a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the area and served as a reminder of the deep connection between past and present.

The last stop we made on the drive in was at Wally Creek. This beautiful hidden gem is easily missed since there's no parking lot or any signs indicating that it's coming up. As you're heading towards Ucluelet, Wally Creek is on your right just as there's a bend on the road. There are some concrete barriers where some cars might be parked next to and that's likely your only sign. However, if you park and walk beyond the concrete barriers, you'll discover an amazing view of rocks immersed in the beautiful blueness of the water. Take the camera out at this spot, because it is spectacular.

Amphitrite Point Lighthouse Trail

Markus stopping for a pose in front of the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse

Discover the picturesque Amphitrite Point Lighthouse and the trail, a charming coastal adventure that showcases a taste of the Pacific Northwest. Start your journey with a pause at the lighthouse itself before taking the trail, spanning approximately 2.6km, which an enjoyable walk with paths leading down to the beach, where you can enjoy the ocean.

Read about our experience on the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse Trail.

Rainforest Figure Eight

Experience a peaceful detour into nature's embrace with the Rainforest Trails, just off the Pacific Rim Hwy near Tofino. These two loops offer a serene walk through lush greenery, enhanced by the convenience of wooden walkways that keep you above the muddy terrain. While the elevated paths limit exploration for dogs, the Rainforest Trails provide a tranquil and nature-filled experience for those seeking a peaceful walk surrounded by vibrant greenery.

Read about our experience on the Rainforest Figure Eight Trail.

Pluvio

Prepare to be dazzled by an extraordinary dining experience that rivals the best meals we've had during our globetrotting adventures, and it's right in our own backyard! Pluvio is a restaurant has taken the art of handcrafted cuisine to a whole new level, leaving us with a dining experience that will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

From the moment we stepped through the door, we knew we were in for something truly exceptional. As we were seated by the window of the kitchen, we had the perfect vantage point to witness the culinary magic unfolding. The sight of the chefs working in perfect harmony, their skillful hands dancing and the meticulousness filled us with anticipation for the feast to come.

Markus trying to decipher the Petroglyphs

What made this dining experience truly exceptional was the opportunity to engage with the mastermind behind these culinary creations — the head chef and owner of the restaurant. We couldn't resist striking up a conversation and picking his brain about the inspirations and stories behind the dishes. It was an enlightening and delightful experience to gain insight into his creative process and hear about the passion that fuelled each dish.

We don't consider ourselves foodies, but if you're a food enthusiast and seeking a dining experience that transcends the ordinary, make sure to visit Pluvio. Prepare to be transported on a gastronomic adventure that will ignite your taste buds and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the artistry of handcrafted cuisine. But be warned, Pluto requires reservations well in advance!

Food Trucks

Let us tell you about two fantastic food trucks that will take your taste buds on a delicious journey. First up, we have Tacofino, a beloved local food truck turned chain in Vancouver. If you're in the mood for some mouthwatering tacos and burritos, this is the place to be. We couldn't get enough of their fish tacos, which were a perfect balance of fresh flavours and satisfying crunch. Tacofino has truly mastered the art of crafting delectable Mexican-inspired street food that will leave you craving more, but be prepared to line up!

Now, let's talk about Ravenlady, a food truck that knows how to tantalize your palate with its seafood delights. If you're a fan of oysters, you're in for a treat. We had the pleasure of sampling both their raw oysters, which were incredibly fresh and brimming with flavour, as well as their fried oysters, which were a crispy and delightful. To top it off, we're soup monsters, so we couldn't resist trying their smoked tuna chowder and it was a bowl of pure comfort and smoky goodness. Ravenlady certainly knows how to showcase the best of the sea with their delectable offerings.

Whether you're in the mood for some tasty tacos and burritos or craving a seafood feast, Tacofino and Ravenlady are two food trucks that won't disappoint. Make sure to swing by and indulge in their mouthwatering creations. Your taste buds will thank you!

Long Beach

Picture yourself on the longest sandy beach on the west coast of Vancouver Island — Long Beach. This stretch of shoreline is a haven for surfers, kayakers, swimmers and all beach enthusiasts alike. It's a place where the rhythmic crashing of waves and the vast expanse of sandy shores create an atmosphere of relaxation and inspiration.

Long Beach is not just a destination for water activities, but a playground for all sorts of beach-related fun. One of the perks of Long Beach is its sheer size, especially at low tide. The beach seems to stretch on endlessly, providing ample space for you and your dog roam freely. With so much room to explore, you can maintain a comfortable distance from other beachgoers and their four-legged friends. Although there may be several off-leash dogs enjoying their time in the sand, the vastness of the beach allows for easy avoidance.