This magical coastal spot in BC with endless beaches is one of 'best small towns to live in'
People want to move to this little town! 🌊
A small town on Vancouver Island, BC with beaches.
Tucked away on a picturesque island in B.C. is this little town, surrounded by thick forest, soft sandy beaches, and scenic coastline. The abundant nature here is balanced out with a lively town center, with local businesses and award-winning restaurants.
It's as idyllic as it sounds, which is how it got named among the best small towns in the province to live in, on a Narcity poll.
This little oasis is Ucluelet, a community nestled along the water just 30 minutes from the famous tourist hotspot of Tofino. While Tofino tends to be where visitors head, Ucluelet is more low-key, slightly hidden from the crowds and offering a different pace for a trip.
While you still have access to some of the most renowned spots in the area (Long Beach, the town of Tofino, and rainforest trails), staying in this little town is a bit of an escape from the crowds that usually come with them.
To get here from Vancouver, you'll take BC Ferries over to Nanaimo, a perfect city for a lunch pit-stop before making the two and a half hour drive to Ucluelet.
The long journey is rewarded with the cozy streets of this place, lined with cute boutiques, local coffee shops, and breweries.
Ucluelet Brewing Company is a great spot to grab a drink and enjoy the view while at it. There are also food trucks in town, making it easy to grab a bite while exploring.
It all overlooks a calm harbour with rolling mountains in the distance. You can spend a whole trip just wandering around town here and won't be disappointed.
The natural beauty of this place is begging to be explored though. The jagged black rocks along the shore melt into velvety sand, framed by lush rainforest, creating a scene like none other.
The Wild Pacific Trail’s Lighthouse Loop is a go-to here that takes about an hour, and winds you through the rainforest and past sparkling ocean views.
The Ancient Cedars Loop is perfect if you want to see towering trees (some of which are over 800 years old) and breathe in the refreshing forest air.
It's hard to go to this area without at least attempting a surf. It's famous for it, and at most beaches you'll see people bobbing out in the waves. Grab a board from Relic Surf Shop and head to the nearby Wickaninnish Beach or Long Beach.
If you want to keep the adventure going, you can head out for kayaking tours, wildlife adventures, or endless hikes through the Pacific Rim National Park.
You don't have to work hard to find beauty here — it's around every corner of the area.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.