Nestled amidst the pristine beauty of Tofino on Vancouver Island, Tin Wis Resort stands as a beacon of transformation and reconciliation in the world of tourism. This Indigenous-owned resort not only offers visitors a tranquil escape but also plays a pivotal role in rewriting the narrative of tourism in Tofino. Today, we explore the remarkable journey of Tin Wis Resort, the profound significance of Orange Shirt Day in Canada, and the importance of supporting Indigenous communities when visiting Tofino.

Tin Wis Resort: A Journey of Reclamation

Tin Wis Resort, though now a haven of relaxation and natural splendor, holds a poignant history deeply intertwined with the Indigenous communities of the region. The resort is situated within Tla-o-qui-aht Ḥaaḥuułi and the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, marking the ancestral home of the Tla-o-qui-aht people. For tens of thousands of years, this land served as the site of their ancestral village.

However, the land’s history also bears the scars of a painful past. Tin Wis was once the site of an Indian Residential School (IRS), specifically known as Christie Residential School (Tofino). In the Truth and Reconciliation Final Report, this institution is identified as a place where Indigenous children endured the harsh realities of forced assimilation and cultural erasure. The Christie Residential School was relocated to this site after the closure of Kakawis on Meares Island, making it the last IRS to close in British Columbia, though not the last in Canada (Saskatchewan, 1996).

The process of reclaiming this sacred ancestral site began in 1981 when a hostel and campground, operated by Tla-o-qui-aht, were established. This marked the early steps in the transformation of Tin Wis into a symbol of resilience and cultural preservation. Over the years, the resort has evolved into a space that not only provides employment opportunities for Tla-o-qui-aht citizens but also welcomes Nuu-chah-nulth workers from surrounding territories.

Orange Shirt Day: A Day of Remembrance and Healing

Orange Shirt Day is an annual event in Canada that carries profound significance in the journey towards reconciliation with Indigenous communities. It originated from the experiences of Phyllis Webstad, who, as a young Indigenous girl, had her brand new orange shirt taken from her on her first day at a residential school. This traumatic event left a lasting impact on her life and inspired the orange shirt as a symbol of the harm inflicted on Indigenous children and the need for healing.

Orange Shirt Day, observed on September 30th each year, serves as a reminder of the dark chapters in Canada’s history, particularly the residential school system. It is a day to honor survivors and their families while acknowledging the painful legacy of colonization. By wearing orange shirts, Canadians express their commitment to reconciliation and a brighter future for Indigenous communities.

Supporting Indigenous Communities in Tofino

When visiting Tofino, especially the Tin Wis Resort, tourists have a unique opportunity to contribute to the ongoing process of healing and reconciliation. Here are some meaningful ways to support Indigenous communities in Tofino:

1. Stay at Indigenous-Owned Accommodations: Opt for accommodations like Tin Wis Resort and Tsawaak RV Resort, which are owned and operated by Indigenous communities. Your stay directly benefits the local economy and provides employment opportunities.
2. Respect Cultural Protocols: Learn about the cultural protocols of the Indigenous communities in the area and respect them. This includes seeking permission before entering certain areas and understanding the significance of sacred sites.
3. Participate in Cultural Experiences: Engage in cultural tours with Ahous Adventures, support Indigenous owned businesses like TBird EBikes, and attend events offered by Indigenous organizations. This not only enriches your experience but also supports the preservation of traditions and knowledge.
4. Buy Indigenous Art and Crafts: Purchase authentic Indigenous art and crafts from local artisans. It’s a wonderful way to take home a piece of Indigenous culture and support Indigenous artists.
5. Educate Yourself: Take the time to educate yourself about the history, culture, and issues facing Indigenous communities in the region. Awareness is the first step towards understanding and empathy.
6. Support our Allies: Meet our Allies here. Every Ally here has agreed to support the Tribal Parks by collecting a 1% Ecosystem Service Fee on behalf of the First Nation.
7. Take the ʔiisaak Pledge: We invite you to take the ʔiisaak pledge, carrying these words in your heart as you travel.

Tin Wis Resort in Tofino, British Columbia, stands as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of Indigenous communities to reclaim their ancestral lands and heritage. This Orange Shirt Day, as we remember the dark history of residential schools in Canada, let us also celebrate the progress made in the journey towards reconciliation.

Supporting Indigenous communities when visiting Tofino is not just about experiencing natural beauty; it’s about embracing a shared history and working together for a more inclusive and equitable future. By choosing to stay at Indigenous-owned accommodations, respecting cultural protocols, and engaging with Indigenous culture, we can contribute to the healing process and help rewrite the narrative of tourism in Tofino. Tin Wis Resort serves as a shining example of how tourism can be a force for positive change, honoring the past while embracing the future.

Tin Wis is the ancestral home of Tla-o-qui-aht and has been stewarded by the people since time immemorial. To learn more about its history, please read, “Rough seas calming: Tin Wis, past, present, and future: https://tinwis.ca/rough-seas-calming-tin-wis-past-present-and-future/

Welcome to Ahous Adventures, where eco-cultural adventure tours in Tofino are not just about exploration, but also about immersion into the rich heritage and stewardship of the Ahousaht Nation. Owned and operated by the Ahousaht Nation, Ahous Adventures offers a unique opportunity to explore Ahousaht territories, their culture, language, history, and storytelling. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey through the lens of the Ahousaht people, showcasing the beauty of their land and the depth of their traditions. Tin Wis Resort, known for its commitment to sustainability and Indigenous cultural experiences, is excited to partner with Ahous Adventures.

Connecting with Ahousaht Culture:

Ahous Adventures invites visitors to connect with Ahousaht territories in a profound way. The Ahousaht people have inhabited and nurtured these lands and waters since time immemorial. By sharing their knowledge and traditions openly, they offer a window into the heart of this remarkable ecosystem. Through their tours, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the land’s sacredness and a chance to engage in a guest-host relationship rooted in traditional Ahousaht values: respect and reciprocity.

Humble Beginnings and Exclusive Access:

Ahous Adventures had humble beginnings but carries a profound mission. Managed by the Ahousaht Ḥaẁiiḥ through the Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Enterprises Inc. (MHEI) and Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society (MHSS), it is a core component of Ahousaht’s economic development plan in the tourism sector. Historically marginalized from this industry, Ahousaht seeks to build a sustainable conservation economy, promote self-determination, create training and employment opportunities for community members, and establish partnerships with non-Ahousaht businesses and crown governments.

One unique aspect of Ahous Adventures is their exclusive access times to Hot Springs Cove, located in Ahousaht territory. This exclusivity ensures a more intimate connection and a quieter experience for their guests. Imagine soaking in the natural hot springs, surrounded by the pristine beauty of Ahousaht lands, with the knowledge that you are not just a tourist, but a welcomed guest on these sacred grounds.

In 2022, MHEI also acquired the Tofino Wilderness Resort, which works in conjunction with Ahous Adventures. Together, they provide visitors with a range of Ahousaht-led tour offerings and access to destinations within the haḥuułii, such as Lone Cone Mountain, the Wildside Trail, Nismaquin Park (Maquinna Marine Park), culture and healing programs, and more. These ventures are not just about tourism but about fostering cultural exchange and environmental preservation.

Exploring Nature with Ahous Adventures:

• Bear Watching: Imagine observing black bears in their natural habitat, a pristine wilderness known as Clayoquot Sound. This region has been the home of the Nuu-chah-nulth Nations for millennia. With Ahous Adventures, you can embark on a black bear tour that promises a profound encounter with these majestic creatures in their native environment.
• Whale Watching: The west coast of Vancouver Island is renowned for its biodiversity. Ahous Adventures takes you on a journey through Pacific Ocean waters to witness gray whales, humpback whales, and occasionally transient orcas. Their experienced crew ensures you have an educational and awe-inspiring experience.
• Hot Springs Eco-Tour: Explore the power of geothermal energy in the midst of a temperate rainforest alongside the Pacific Ocean. Ahous Adventures offers eco-tours to the natural hot springs at Hot Springs Cove on Vancouver Island. This experience combines the relaxation of the hot springs with the marvel of pristine nature, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Ahous Adventures is more than a tour company; it’s a bridge between cultures and a commitment to preserving the environment. Owned and operated by the Ahousaht Nation, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of Ahousaht territories while immersing yourself in their culture, history, and storytelling. By choosing Ahous Adventures, you not only embark on unforgettable journeys but also support the Ahousaht people in their pursuit of self-determination and sustainable economic development. So, whether you’re seeking adventure, cultural enrichment, or simply a deeper connection with nature, Ahous Adventures is your gateway to an extraordinary experience. Book your tour today and embark on a journey of a lifetime, with exclusive access to Hot Springs Cove, ensuring an even more intimate and tranquil experience for you and your fellow guests!

Get in touch with Ahous Adventures here – https://ahousadventures.com/contact-us/

When you stay with us, receive $20 OFF Ahous Adventures tour offerings listed above. Reservations can be made online or over the phone with code TINWIS.

As you venture to the picturesque West Coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, you are stepping into the traditional territories of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations. Huu-ay-aht First Nations, Toquaht Nation, Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, and Tla’amin Nation collectively call this breathtaking region home, and they are eager to share their rich culture and experiences with respectful travellers like you.

#IndigenouscoastBC is your exclusive invitation to immerse yourself in the beauty of these lands and to engage with the vibrant Indigenous tourism opportunities they offer. From campgrounds nestled amidst the ancient forests to hotels with stunning oceanfront views, your journey here promises to be nothing short of transformative.

Supporting Indigenous Businesses: Preserving Language and Culture

By choosing to explore Indigenous-owned businesses in these world-renowned destinations, you play a crucial role in supporting the preservation of language and culture deeply rooted in the land. The Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations have a profound connection to their territories, and through #IndigenousCoastBC, they extend an invitation to share their traditions, wisdom, and stories with travelers like you.

To fully grasp the beauty and significance of this land, we invite you to visit the #IndigenousCoastBC website hub, presented by our esteemed media partner, ZenSeekers. Here, you’ll discover a wealth of information about the remarkable experiences that await you on this journey of cultural immersion.

Discover the Unifying Spirit of #IndigenousCoastBC

As you embark on this extraordinary adventure, we encourage you to enjoy and share your experiences, joining the thousands of others who aspire to see a unified Canada. Becoming a traveler who supports the rise of the Indigenous creative class is more than just a journey; it’s a meaningful contribution to preserving language, culture, and lands for generations to come.

Exploring the Rich Tapestry of History

Through the #IndigenousCoastBC search, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of inspiration and education, linking us all together on a road trip that delves into history spanning thousands of millennia. As you venture from one First Nation’s territory to another, you’ll be mesmerized by the intertwined threads of tradition and innovation, shaping the vibrant tapestry of Nuu-chah-nulth culture.

Embark on Your Nuu-chah-nulth Adventure Today!

Are you ready to be enchanted by the captivating landscapes, ancient forests, and the warmth of Indigenous hospitality? The Nuu-chah-nulth First Nations await your arrival, eager to share the wonders of their homelands. Start planning your #IndigenousCoastBC adventure and embrace the opportunity to connect with nature, immerse yourself in the stories of the past, and forge unforgettable memories that will linger in your heart for a lifetime.

Join us as we celebrate the union of culture, land, and people in a journey that transcends time and boundaries. Together, let’s honor the Nuu-chah-nulth heritage and create a legacy of respect and appreciation for the land, its inhabitants, and the wonders of #IndigenousCoastBC.

Unleashing the Power of #IndigenousCoastBC

Welcome to #IndigenousCoastBC, where the power of the hashtag connects travellers like you with a community of like-minded individuals sharing their unique stories and experiences. Use this hashtag to share your own journey, capturing the essence of your encounters with the First Nations’ traditions, natural wonders, and heartwarming hospitality.

Video Credits : Tristan Hinder-Hohlweg / ZenSeekers

On the site of this former village, the Nation-owned Tin Wis Resort offers guests a unique opportunity to travel and stay ethically, immersing themselves in the rich history and vibrant culture of this place. It’s time to embark on an Indigenous journey and become a part of something truly extraordinary.

The Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation warmly welcomes visitors who are seeking a special place to slow down, reconnect with nature, and show respect for the land and its people. When you choose to stay at the Tin Wis Resort, you are embarking on a journey that will enrich your soul, open your mind, and allow you to experience the profound stories that have shaped this incredible land. It’s an invitation to embrace Indigenous culture, support vital preservation efforts, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to be a part of something truly transformative.

For thousands of years, the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation has been hosting visitors, sharing their traditions, and offering a glimpse into their way of life. The Tin Wis Resort stands as a legacy, serving as a cultural bridge that connects past and present, but it is also an economic pillar that fuels the Tla-o-qui-aht’s future. “Proceeds from the operations of Tin Wis go towards our new longhouse, gymnasium, and much-needed youth-focused programs, leading to the survival of our culture and Tla-o-qui-aht language,” shares Saya Masso from Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks. By choosing to stay at the Tin Wis, you are not just enjoying a memorable vacation, but also contributing to the preservation and empowerment of the Tla-o-qui-aht community.

Staying at the Tin Wis Resort opens doors to Indigenous culture, providing you with a rare opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic experiences while enjoying the breathtaking beauty of Tofino’s paradise. It’s time to unlock the magic, support preservation efforts, and embark on a journey that will forever leave a mark on your soul. From Indigenous Art to exploring the surrounding nature and connecting with the land, every moment spent at the Tin Wis Resort is an opportunity for personal growth and transformation.

Supporting the Tla-o-qui-aht’s rise in Tofino’s visitor economy is both meaningful and effortless. By simply choosing to book your next stay in Tofino at the Tin Wis Resort, you become a vital part of the collective effort to preserve Indigenous culture, support sustainable practices, and empower the local community. Get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime as you immerse yourself in the beauty of Tla-o-qui-aht Lands. The adventure awaits!

The Tin Wis also champions the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Allies program in the accommodation sector. To learn more about the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Alliance and how you can make a difference, visit tribalparksalliance.com today.

As you plan your trip, keep in mind that the Tin Wis Bonus Card awaits you, offering exclusive benefits and unlocking a world of unforgettable experiences. Whether it’s exploring the pristine beaches, participating in cultural activities, or connecting with the local community, your journey at the Tin Wis Resort promises to be like no other.

Be sure to inquire about our Indigenous rates when making your reservation. The Tin Wis Resort proudly accepts status cards, making it even more accessible for everyone to experience the magic of this special place.

Looking for a job that breaks the mold of the traditional office? Look no further, because Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation’s magnificent Tin Wis Resort is hiring, offering you an office like no other. Imagine working in a stunning oceanfront setting, surrounded by the vibrant community of Tofino, British Columbia, on the breathtaking Vancouver Island.

At Tin Wis Resort, your office isn’t confined within four walls; it expands into the limitless expanse of the ocean. This isn’t your average “office job” – it’s an opportunity to connect with adventure, community, and an extraordinary lifestyle. If you’re ready to bring your smarts and professionalism to the table, the Tin Wis Resort team wants to talk to you.

Joining this remarkable team comes with incredible perks, starting with a surf pass that opens up endless opportunities to ride the waves. Just a three-minute stroll from the front desk, you’ll find yourself immersed in the power and beauty of the ocean, letting the rhythm of the surf fuel your soul. And did we mention that every room in this resort boasts a mesmerizing ocean view? Your workspace will be a daily reminder of the incredible environment that surrounds you.

But it doesn’t stop there. By working at Tin Wis Resort, you become an integral part of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation community, a rich heritage that spans thousands of years. You’ll experience a sense of belonging and purpose, knowing that your work is making a difference in supporting this ancient community’s presence in Tofino.

Alie Mancuso, a Tin Wis employee, understands the power of community. She finds meaning in her work by being part of something greater. “You are part of a community (working) for a greater cause,” she says. Imagine spending your days riding the waves, then transitioning seamlessly into work, where you contribute to the uplifting of the Tla-o-qui-aht presence in the community. It’s a fulfilling and transformative experience that uplifts you both on and off the waves.

Tin Wis Resort is hiring in various departments, from housekeeping and front desk to maintenance and landscaping. Share this incredible opportunity with your loved ones because, at Tin Wis, you’re not just joining a team – you’re becoming part of a family. Curtis Mason, a Tin Wis Employee, highlights the sense of unity among the staff. “We all lift each other up any way we can; co-workers at work but family outside of work. Those that come work here, they start out friends and they become family really quick.”

Besides the deep sense of purpose and belonging, the perks at Tin Wis are off the charts. As a team member, you’ll receive a surf pass, granting you access to the exhilarating world of surfing right outside your office. Tofino Paddle Surf, located on Mackenzie Beach in front of Tin Wis Resort, offers surf lessons that will have you shredding the waves with confidence.

Picture this: pick up your free board rental, head to the beach, conquer the waves with a smile on your face, drop off your board, and walk to work with a heart full of joy. It’s as simple as that.

Experience the indescribable spirit and vibrant atmosphere that fills the air at Tin Wis Resort. Where else can you ride the waves to work and feel a sense of belonging and purpose like no other? Your dream office awaits, and the ocean is calling your name.

Submit your application here https://tinwis.ca/careers/

You are not a drop in the ocean. You are the entire ocean in a drop.

Rumi

The prelude to a west coast winter storm builds like improvisational jazz: those first haunting blue notes of whistling wind, the percussive Pacific backbeat as ocean rewrites shoreline, that elusive frisson of electricity as you catch its cadence. There is a unique quality to the winter light here with the kaleidoscopic sky shaded from tangerine to indigo as a child’s kite soars above the beach, its fabric snapping like a riff. A pod of neoprene-armored surfers leapfrog waves just offshore, paddling out to play amidst the action, alongside SUPs and surf kayaks.

West coast winter paradise is the protected cove of MacKenzie Beach where the dramatic panorama of the Pacific is as ever-changing as its diurnal tides: from zero and even negative tides stretching the beach out to tidal pools in rocky outcroppings, to king tides racing back onshore, inviting wave play.

All only steps from your oceanfront suite at Indigenous-owned Tin Wis Resort in Tofino, BC, perched high above the dunes — the perfect vantage point for storm watching up close or from the comfort of your cozy suite.

Rain sashays in like a soft jazz brush across drums, releasing a petrichor potpourri: Cedar and Sitka rainforest, salty kelp, and freshwater rivulets. A wave of silvery sanderlings chases syncopated surf.

Further downshore, a family in colour-coordinated raingear splashes delightedly through puddles swinging their matching yellow and bright pink pails and shovels.

Tin Wis means “calm waters” in the Tla-o-qui-aht language and is the true name for this place. Once an ancestral village site, this long-stewarded oasis offers everything you need to reconnect with nature and breathe in rhythm with the ocean.

His-shuk-nish-tsa-waak. Everything is one. Everything is interconnected.

When winter skies clear, a rainbow arcs above the resort against the snow-capped Insular Mountain range in the distance.

You can choose both comfort and adventure, especially when you have the benefit of local knowledge. Tin Wis Resort’s staff can give you directions to Tofino’s best beach cruiser rentals (Tofino Bike Co), best Hot Chocolate Elixir (Chocolate Tofino) and favourite takeout options, while the homegrown pros at Tofino Paddle Surf onsite offer gear and guidance mere steps away from “Mack Beach” action. Or simply bundle up with a good book and curl up in a bright red Adirondack chair to watch the show.

Après storm or après surf, the resort’s hot tub offers a ringside seat for glowing winter sunsets and to reconnect with your own circadian rhythm. Extend your beach-time with a bonfire under the amphitheatre of the sky as sunset time-lapses into a zillion stars and a supermoon casts its milky wash across the sand while a barred owl calls from the rainforest.

Next morning, warm mist blankets the beach as a distant foghorn solos, spring teasing its melody.

Tin Wis Resort is within Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks which includes nearby co-managed Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Let its epic beaches and rainforest trails renew your sense of wonder and respect within this place the Nuu-chah-nulth call home.

Learn more about the history of Tin Wis: https://tinwis.ca/rough-seas-calming-tin-wis-past-present-and-future/

-Erin Linn McMullan

While the town itself offers a charming collection of boutiques, restaurants, and cafes, Tofino is famed for the natural wonders around it. So, we think it only makes sense to start your trip in nature — because how often do you have the opportunity to walk through a rainforest, catch an idyllic sunset on the beach, and see a whale or two in the same day?

Located on the chiefly territories of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations, the nature surrounding the town of Tofino is nothing short of awe-inspiring. With plenty of expansive beaches and rainforest trails to choose from, you can easily fill a weekend trip to Tofino with the best the west coast has to offer. What’s more, there’s an abundance of opportunities to catch wildlife in action — just walking along the beach is often enough to spot seals, shorebirds, and maybe even the occasional otter if luck is on your side. 

Explore the Beaches

Tofino is known for its beaches. Whether you’re in for a surf or a leisurely stroll, your perfect beach is no more than a 15 minute drive away. 

Unsurprisingly, our personal favourite is Mackenzie Beach. Its uniquely calm waters make it the ideal place for boogie boarding or SUP boarding (there are even on-site rentals from our pals at Tofino Paddle Surf)… and the coziness of its nightly beach fires is a truly Tofitian experience (more on this later). 

But there’s always more to see. Some of the most noteworthy beaches in the area are Long Beach and Cox Bay. Long Beach lives up to its name, with a 8km stretch of shoreline that’s popular for bird watching and nature walks. It is also the home of incinerator rock, a famous landmark in the area, as well as many mischievous sea lions. 

Long Beach and Cox Bay are both sought-after surf destinations. Even if you aren’t interested in taking a lesson yourself, you can still get some secondhand thrills by watching all the action happening on the water. 

Go for a Hike

The magic of Tofino radiates from its rich, rainforest ecosystem. Hikes in the area tend to be short yet utterly captivating, and brimming with ecological diversity. 

The beautiful Rainforest Trail is just a short drive away from Long Beach. It’s a great place to explore anytime, but it’s a particularly good option for rainy days as the overhanging trees also provide shelter from the rain. 

Meare’s Island, just north of Tofino, is a fun 10-minute water taxi ride away and boasts some of the island’s oldest trees, some up to over 1,000 years old. The island’s large trees are both incredibly breathtaking and humbling. 

Spot Wildlife

Wherever you might find yourself around Tofino, you’re sure to spot some wildlife. There are beautiful birds everywhere you go, and if you’ve made your way to the water you might even catch the occasional otter waving at beach goers on the shore. 

Don’t mind splurging a little? You can budget for an activity whale watching or kayaking tour. There are several companies in town that offer some amazing guided tours, and they know where to go to find whales, eagles, bears, and more! 

It’s time to reconnect with nature…

Some of the most memorable experiences you can have in Tofino are those you have in nature. It’s truly a privilege to step away from the noise and reach a level of relaxation that only nature has to offer. 

The team at Tin Wis looks forward to sharing more about the area with you on check-in! 

— Mel McDonald (Tin Wis Guest Service Agent)

On the day the world begins again
will it be the strongest animal
the swiftest bird
or the tiniest insect
that carries the news to humankind
announces rebirth in a roar
in a squeak or maybe silence?
On the day the world begins again
will luminous light
rise from parting clouds
in unquestionable power
and refract a miraculous prism of colour
while the tallest white pine announces peace
in a sprinkling of communion?

—Armand Garnet Ruffo¹

For me, one of the first signs of hope for our community is when neighbouring Indigenous-owned Tin Wis Resort removes the gates barring access to its beachfront buildings and to the beach itself. For months, Tofino, BC had been shut down to tourism with only the most essential services available to locals in the early days of the pandemic – groceries, gas, pharmacy, and carefully screened healthcare. While I absolutely love where I live with my dog Okami and we are able to seek solace at Mackenzie Beach via another more meandering route, stir-craziness quickly sets in.

In early June 2020, as BC transitions into Phase 3 reopening, I am invited to be amongst the early guests during that first week when Tin Wis Resort reopens. Only 20 of us in total. Every precaution has been considered to help maintain safe social distancing, minimal contact, and cleanliness. Empty rooms buffer occupied ones, breakfasts are Grab and Go, and streamlined check-in procedures help keep guests and resort staff – all wearing PPE – safe. When Rachel greets me at the front desk with a pink flower playfully tucked into her mask, it sets the tone.

From the moment I arrive at Tin Wis Resort, my two-day locals’ staycation becomes a play-cation. Cocooned in the westernmost building, the sliding glass doors of our pet-friendly ground-floor room open out onto a patio and a front-row seat to the rolling green lawn, grassy dunes, and Mackenzie Beach itself spread out in all its magnificent glory with seasonal low tides.

As a friend once pointed out, this place – Tin Wis (aka Mackenzie Beach) has my heart.

Tin Wis meaning “calm waters” is the Tla-o-qui-aht name for this protected cove on traditional land once used for whaling. The resort and Tofino itself are located within the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation Tribal Parks. Later this week, when Long Beach reopens in the TFN-co-managed Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, visitors will be greeted by a Tribal Parks Guardian along with Park staff and instructed that that their access ends at Incinerator Rock. The neighbouring communities of Esowista and Ty Histanis will remain sequestered to keep the people safe.

Living here, I have learned how important it is to understand that this west coast region is not a wilderness, but a deeply storied place for the Tla-o-qui-aht people.

“Calmer waters” is what the generous Tla-o-qui-aht people offer through Tin Wis Resort at this time when an oasis is especially precious. Staying so close to the ocean resets my circadian inner rhythm so that I breathe deeper and slower, sleep better, and rise at dawn eager to start our day.

On that first early morning as my world begins again, the beach, mirror-slick with the receding near-zero tide (0.2 m), stretches all the way out to the rocky headlands. I walk out barefoot in the sand for this rare opportunity to explore tidal pools tucked into the rock. Okami joyfully bounds up for a better view atop the outcropping. Normally, these headlands are surrounded by waves where paddleboarders and kayakers come out to play. Those dramatic clouds overhead soon give way to blue sky and sunshine.

As we turn back towards the resort, the isthmus of sand seems infinite. The last time I remember the tide being this low was during a Supermoon when I walked out here after a New Year’s fireworks display and bonfire jointly hosted by all the resorts on this beach. So many memories are made here.

When I am not on the beach, the patio is my little paradise: with a Keurig-brewed tea to accompany a book of poetry, really, from my first sip of morning coffee to toasting the rising Strawberry Moon as the stars begin to flicker in the sky. The ocean breeze carries hints of music and laughter, BBQ and bonfires as small groups of friends and families gather after a day of bocce ball and building sandcastles. Okami rests at my feet, content.

For my sociable Shepherd-cross Okami, that patio door is an all-access pass to his favourite playground. In just one day, we visit the beach 7 times to play with his pals, splash in the pool that forms where the tides meet the creek, peek curiously into tidal pools, and follow rainforest trails over to Middle Beach and beyond via the Tonquin Trail extension.

That magnetic pull of the ocean and the Roy-Henry-Vickers sunset (in Tofino every sunset is an event) draws us back to the shoreline splashing bare feet and paws in the surf. Grounding ourselves again.

Like the last lone paddleboarder stroking his way languidly towards shore in twilight, I want to make the most of every moment. Now is ephemeral but infinitely powerful.

Okami and I follow the bonfires back towards the resort where I witness a galaxy of stars mirrored across the glass of this oceanside resort where every room overlooks this beach.

Tonight, after my bubble bath in the deep tub, I will drift off to the ocean’s lullaby on a bed that feels like falling asleep on a cloud. As I close my eyes, I will marvel at the way the reflected light from the fireplace appears to shoot stars up across the hearth and onto the ceiling-sky. Noticing everything, Okami will open one eye to gaze at me from his cool spot on the floor next to the patio door, anticipating tomorrow’s adventures.

But first, I will linger a moment longer, here on the beach with my dog, in this place that has my heart.

—Erin Linn McMullan

1“On the Day the World Begins Again”, ndncountry, a joint issue of CVS and prairiefire, 2018.