By Erin Linn McMullin

Dreaming of the ocean this long weekend? Wrap yourself up in a cozy coastal cocoon in načiqs (Tofino) within ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht) Tribal Parks. The alchemy of midwinter break magic encompasses a big dose of Vitamin Sea, meaningful time together, and the enchantment of Vancouver Island’s west coast. Deepen your relationship whether you’re here for a romantic Valentine’s Day getaway or BC Family Day (Feb. 16).

Consider these 5 ways to rekindle coastal magic:  

• DEEPEN YOUR OCEAN CONNECTION 

Your home-away-from home awaits. Oceanfront Tin Wis Resort, an Original Original and Authentic Indigenous, is deeply connected to this place and to the Pacific Ocean which the Nuučaanuł Peoples used as a highway. The resort and tinwis (calm beach) are situated within ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ Tribal Parks, which now includes ḥačx^wiqaq (Deep Ocean) Tribal Park, reflecting the stewardship of these lands and waters since time immemorial. 

Learn more about ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ Tribal Parks and take the ʔiisaak pledge Here.

• EXPERIENCE A HYDROTHERAPY CIRCUIT

At the unique beachfront Nordic spa at tinwis, immersion in Nature is even more profound than the health benefits and addictive sense of euphoria (dopamine and serotonin) causing sauna culture to heat up. The wet sauna with 600 pounds of rocks and a live fire inside, plus outdoor showers is nestled between the rainforest and the world’s largest saltwater lounge, the Pacific. At Allied partner, Tuff City Saunas, an experience only amplified by the hush of winter.

With dusk falling between 6–6:30 p.m. from mid- to late February, you can experience the starscape through the deck’s translucent roof and when you dash across the sand to the surf for a cold plunge. 

Book a private sauna or social session (daily 9 a.m.–9 p.m., Adults only) Here.

• EMBRACE WINTER SURF

Nothing is more invigorating than challenging coldwater surf in the surf capital of Canada where legends have carved the waves, not to mention that lingering surf stoke and scent of saltwater on your skin. In February, the outer reefs buffer tinwis Beach from huge winter swells creating perfect conditions for surfing and boogie boarding. From their beachfront surf shack, Allied partner Tofino Paddle Surf offers local knowledge, rentals, and lessons, along with sessions at North Chesterman Beach and Cox Bay when the swell is favourable.

Book a surf lesson or rental or call us for an updated surf report (daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m.) Here.

• EXPLORE THE CO-MANAGED PACIFIC RIM NATIONAL PARK RESERVE

Year-round the Indigenous co-managed Pacific Rim National Park Reserve offers access to over 22 kms of beaches, including world-renowned Long Beach, and 12 kms of hiking trails. Stroll the white sand beach past C̓ašiiwa (Incinerator Rock) as the centrifugal current whips the surf into a frenzy. Watch a storm break from the deck of K^wisitis Visitor Centre overlooking Wickaninnish Beach. Glimpse a fleeting shadow dissolving into the rainforest near Green Point as sunset erupts in a blaze of glory.      

Check winter trail conditions and tides ahead.

Plan your visit Here. Admission fees include family rates.

• ENJOY HIŁAAYIŁ (SKY) GAZING

wiiqsi?is (stormy weather) is only one phenomenon in the winter hiłaayił (sky). Don’t miss the pre-show of tangerine-tinted łiw̓aḥmis (clouds) or the double ƛiniiḥak (rainbow) arcing over tinwis afterwards.

February’s sunny days bring blue moods from the electric blue of a clear sky to an indigo-rimmed sunset foreshadowing twilight’s cobalt.

Winter’s dark skies are an astro-tourist’s delight whether you’re gathered around a beachfront bonfire or enjoying the panoramic view from the fireplaces on the enclosed patio at Allied partner Tofino Browns Social House.

Orion’s Constellation sparkles in the starscape while peak solar activity hints at Aurora Borealis. The new moon (Feb. 17) waxes towards the big finale: a planetary parade (Feb. 28), when Mercury, Venus, Neptune, Saturn, Uranus, and Jupiter march across the velvet night.

Reserve your window seat Here.

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