06 Nov BC’s Best Storm Watching Stays 2015-2016
Storm watching season is upon us and it’s not only locals flocking to these lavish locations, but global travelers who know just what we have here in BC. Vancouver Island happens to have most of the best spots because of its very wild far west coast. Because of it’s long exposed West coast, our focus will be on the best Island spots both near and remote.
I wanted to highlight a few other spots that are not so well known to a lot of folks here in BC since Tofino usually takes the spotlight when it comes to storm watching. After living on the Island for 5 years, I’ve come to know a few other hotspots that are easier to get to and well worth the visit for not only the waves, but also the accommodations.
1) The Wickanninish Inn
I know this is usually the place people think of when the words “storm watching” and “Tofino” come into the same sentence and it’s for good reason. The Wick Inn is one of my favorite hotels on the face of this planet and there’s no better place to take in storm watching than from in your room.
They have an amazing storm watching package and you can watch the waves crash on the rocks, and even into the forest, all day long. I’d book now as this place is always very busy and there are a lot of people wanting to watch waves crash in luxurious surroundings. I’ll be heading up next month to get my fill so check back for my photos and video and hopefully I won’t get too wet.
2) Wild Coast Cottages In Port Renfrew
Port Renfrew is just about to explode on the global destination scene as it is starting to become a place where tourism is on offer. While it’s just the beginning, this place is magical and my favorite spot in all of BC, and not just form storm watching. There’s so much outdoor fun to be had here and – since it’s pretty much untouched – you don’t get crowded beaches or hiking trails, which is just superb.
Wild Coast Cottages are pretty much brand new and offer a more intimate luxury escape with glorious views of the ocean right from the living/dining areas. You can also easily get to a few beaches to take it all in or – better yet – walk to the pub and watch with a delicious local beer in hand.
3) Black Rock Oceanfront Resort In Ucluelet
Ucluelet is obviously right on par with Tofino for storm watching and they have an amazing culinary scene to make the trip even better. I’ve stayed at the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort a few times and that is why they’re being mentioned in this post. There are a lot of oceanfront options in Ucluelet but the accommodations and food scene at this resort are downright amazing. They have a storm watching package starting on October 30th and if you like storm watching from a private soaker tub, then give them a call.
4) Points West Oceanfront Resort In Sooke
Sooke is another great spot, not only because it has beautiful views and perfect storm watching, but it’s such an easy and quick drive from Victoria. You don’t have to spent half a day driving here yet it still feels like a million miles away from any major city. What I love even more is that Points West Oceanfront Resort isn’t a hotel and you’re going to get a more cozy and intimate experience.
5) Orveas Bay Resort In Shirley
Not too many people know where Shirley, BC is even though they have driven right through it. Shirley is just an hour and a bit away from Victoria and is an amazing place to relax and watch the winter storms. There are just a few getaway options here and the Orveas Bay Resort is a beautiful spot, but what caused it to make the list? The fact that you can do some storm watching right from their covered hot tub overlooking the Pacific Ocean.