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Working with our West Coast weather
By Brent Baker
When we plan a vacation, we look to many resources to decide where to go, what to do and exactly when is the best time to do it.
Regardless of which resource you choose, there will always be great photos and descriptions of all the activities during the best possible conditions.
Let's face it, though; how often do we have ideal weather for every day of our travels?
It's always a good idea to have at least a couple of ideas in your back pocket as your "plan B" activities.
Having a toddler of my own now, I also recognize the importance of knowing what there is for children to do as well. Here is my "plan B" list for those that like to be prepared:
Indoor Climbing
The Alternative is Tofino's indoor climbing gym. Located at 681 Industrial Way on the outskirts of town, The Alternative is simply one of the best ways to kill a few hours, burn off some energy and perhaps fall in love with a new sport.
Owner Johnny Robson has put much careful consideration into each of the routes on the 30-foot vertical wall and approximately 1,500 sq-ft of space for bouldering and top roping.
The Alternative has everything you need for climbers of all ages and skill levels, including rentals and lessons from experienced climbers.
With a full range of hours and specials for children under 12 years or families climbing together, The Alternative ranks at the top of the list.
Ucluelet Aquarium
There are very few activities out there that can pack in as much fun and education as the Ukee Aquarium.
For under $6 per person, this small space is filled wall-to-wall with amazing creatures as well as entertaining, educated and passionate individuals to make the most of your visit.
One of the very best features is the touch tanks, offering everyone the chance to have a respectful interaction with our local marine life.
The aquarium is in operation from early spring until Thanksgiving, at which time both the community and visitors are invited to take part in the release of all of the exhibits.
All season long this attraction is a huge hit with individuals of all age.
Eagle Aerie Gallery
The Eagle Aerie Gallery is located at 350 Campbell St. The Gallery is the home of Roy Henry Vickers' world famous artwork. Best known for his limited edition prints, Roy is also an accomplished carver, design advisor of prestigious public spaces and public speaker.
Roy's gallery is perfectly lit and filled with original paintings, original prints, calendars, art cards and carvings rich with culture and history. For special events, Roy is on hand while guests gather in the centre pit to listen as Roy shares stories of his life as well as the inspirations behind his work.
The gallery is free to the public and open seven days a week throughout the year.
Swimming and Hot Tubs
Since every day can't be a beach day and you may not have the time to go to Hot Springs Cove to take the chill out of your bones, take advantage of the local accommodations that open up their facilities to the public for a small fee.
In Ucluelet, visitors can squeeze in a workout or a few laps in the heated indoor pool or a blast of heat in the sauna at the West Coast Motel. The staff are friendly, the motel is very well kept and the price is reasonable.
If you find yourself in Tofino for the day, make a stop at Ocean Village Resort on MacKenzie Beach for an equally great pool and a jacuzzi as well. Ocean Village has limited pool hours available to the public and is lifeguard supervised.
For those that want a salt water pool instead, just a few hundred metres down the same beach you will find MacKenzie Beach Resort. For a couple of dollars more you get longer hours of operation. MacKenzie Beach Resort also has a hot tub.
Spa Day
For those looking for relaxation or rejuvenation, a rainy West Coast day is the perfect time to get to the spa. There are several to choose from with all the standard spa options, each with their own unique treatments as well.
The two that top the list for me are Drift Spa in Ucluelet or the Ancient Cedar Spa in Tofino. Both provide the best in care and attention to your needs with an unbeatable view at the same time.
As each spa is a part of an established resort, you will often have access to food or beverage items to enhance your experience.
There are many things to see and do in Ucluelet and Tofino when the weather is less than perfect. It's also important to remember that three of the West Coast's most popular activities (surfing, whale watching and bear watching) are also equally great when it rains—as long as you are prepared for it!
