Wickaninnish Beach
Cox Bay Beach
Long Beach
Long Beach is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, one of the longest sandy beaches in this area and the longest beach on Vancouver Island. As the name suggests, it is the longest beach in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The park has an upper section, which includes Long Beach. That is why it is known as Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - Long Beach Unit. Take your ticket and ready up for walking hours from the north of the beach to the south.
You will experience an incredible journey, starting from magical anemones, starfishes, crabs, and much more aquatic creatures saying hi from the low tides to the soft sands under your feet and the cool breeze touching your skin. You'd realize that it's indeed a never-ending beach. You've bettered prepared because it is a rainforest just over the ocean, making the area unique.
Like other beaches on the island, surfing and kayaking are so popular here. You can feel the constant swarm of surfers buzzing and strolling around. In this spectacular stretch of sand at the wild pacific, everyone can enjoy their way of interest. Sometimes, you can see the tracks of animals on the sands that make the adventure complete. Don't miss out on visiting this picturesque spot; you would live here if you could!
The beach is extended on the west coast of Vancouver Island, 23.3 km (14.4 miles) west of Kennedy Lake. It has about a one-kilometre distance from the Tofino-Long Beach Airport and is reachable by taking Pacific Rim Hwy. The southern part of the beach starts from Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in front of the Wickaninnish Beach extend to the Tofino-Long Beach Airport. The place includes ample parking lots, washrooms, and campsites, close to the local amenities. There are surfing shops and clubs in Tofino offering lessons with storefronts for renting any gear you need.
From Nanaimo:
Getting to Long Beach from Nanaimo is via BC-4 W. It is about 190 km (118 miles). Head west on Fitzwilliam St towards Wesley St; after 800 m (2624.6 ft), continue onto Third St. Drive 1.9 km (1.1 miles) more and continue onto Jingle Pot Rd. After 650 m (2132.5 ft), turn right onto BC-19 N (signs for Campbell R). You have to drive 41.2 km (25.6 miles) to take exit 60 towards Port Alberni. After 1.5 km (0.9 miles), merge onto Memorial Rd/BC-4 W. Continue to follow BC-4 W. 128 km (79,5 miles) drive and turn right onto Pacific Rim Hwy/BC-4 W. On the route after 15.3 km (9.5 miles), you will reach Long Beach.
From Victoria:
You may make your way from Vancouver Island's southern end (Victoria, the capital of BC). The fastest choice is to enter the Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-4 W. It is 300 km (186.4 miles) long and takes about 4 hours.
Take Government St to Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N for 1.2 km (0.7 miles). Follow Trans-Canada Hwy/BC-1 N and BC-19 N to Memorial Rd/BC-4 W in Nanaimo G. Take exit 60 from BC-19 N. Go on your way for 155 km (96.3 miles). Drive to Pacific Rim Hwy/BC-4 W in Alberni-Clayoquot C. After 144 km (89.4 miles), you will reach Long Beach.
1. When you decide to get on foot and explore, there are plenty of various trails around overlooked Long Beach. We recommend starting from the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve south of the beach. 8.2 km (5 miles) of hiking trail allows you to hike and relax along the beach.
2. Another trail on the north is "Schooner Cove Trail," not as long as the previous trail, but it would be a pleasant hike from the beach's northernmost point.
3. "Combers Beach Trail," located in the middle of the beach, will attract your attention. You might want to take a walk through the rainforest trail south of the beach. Although the trail won't end on the beach, taking a hike in these two loop-shaped trails both at the west and east of the Hwy. If you want to explore both sides, cross the highway with caution. You'll pleasure the wildlife under the tall trees resembling pillars of the forest and feeling mudflats littered by stumps under your shoes. Don't forget to bring rain gear during the winter. You can't get enough of it.
Throughout history, Long Beach Resort has been popular for professional surf competition series in Tofino, Canada. The area was popular among first nation people for its significant fish resources.
Far before European explorers find the place. Europeans settled it in 1909. From the time that driving became possible to the Tofino, the population increased. In the 1980s and 90s, the beach turns into a well-known tourist attraction. Now, Long Beach is part of Pacific Rim National Park. People come to this oceanfront spot to get a taste of the beauty made over history.
On this well-kept sandy beach, there is entertainment for everybody. From water activities such as surfing and kayaking to storm watching, walking, or sandcastle building. Great place for experienced surfers and newbies alike.
Walking from north to south and reverse has its fans here. Some people prefer relaxing and gazing at the peaceful floats between the ocean and people strolling around. Others who seek adventure may choose outdoor exploring in the area; in that case, fall trees and rain forests are excellent choices around the beach.
There are plenty of luxury cafes and restaurants to visit for those who are fans of tasting food. Whale watching, kiteboarding, and going deep-sea fishing are other activities to spend in Long Beach.
