Luxury Suites Amid Lush Pacific Rim Scenery

The Pacific Rim puts on a show during storm season: 30-foot waves batter the coastline, exploding against craggy bluffs like fireworks. Every year the phenomenon draws an increasing number of spectators, who watch from the area’s natural vantage points. Nearby, on Vancouver Island’s western coast, Water’s Edge Resort looks onto the calmer waters of the Ucluelet Inlet. Clusters of dense conifers surround this picturesque cove, which is best enjoyed beside a roaring fireplace or neck-deep in a jacuzzi—standard features in the hotel’s luxury suites.

The luxury one-bedroom suites come furnished in a contemporary West Coast style, which juxtaposes glass and cement with natural elements such as wood and stone. All feature scenic views of the water through tall windows. You can also take in the cove and its sea lions and otters while soaking in the jetted tub on the private patio. The separate kitchens come fully appointed for making homemade dinners.

To further indulge in the tranquil atmosphere, an onsite Aveda spa administers soothing massages and other treatments using plant-based skin- and bodycare products.

Ucluelet, British Columbia: Gateway to Pacific Rim National Park and Untapped Natural Bounty

Tucked between the ocean and a protected bay on the edge of Canada’s Pacific coast, the small town of Ucluelet is in a remote spot where visitors can see nature at its rugged best. Like nearby Tofino, the town began as a logging and fishing community. But unlike its neighbor, Ucluelet has not yet experienced a big boom in tourism, making it a more laid-back destination for the area’s kayaking, fishing, and whale watching. Head to He-Tin-Kis Park to hike the short trail that wends through a coastal rainforest and ends at a rocky beach. The park is a part of the larger Wild Pacific Trail, which skirts the craggy shoreline all the way up to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

As the only national park on Vancouver Island, this extensive strip of old-growth forests, fjords, and sandy beaches has long been a playground for outdoors enthusiasts. Stretches of deserted coastline draw surfers in the summer, and miles of elevated hiking trails pass through small coves and mossy natural bogs with close-up looks of the ocean’s fury. Daring visitors can reach any of the hundreds of secluded forested isles scattered just offshore by hopping on a kayak or pole-vaulting across lily pads with a pool cue.

Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.