Open Daily | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Free by donation | All Ages Welcome

Daily Interpretive topics can be explored from the new Interpretive Centre overlooking the iconic Amphitrite Lighthouse. Learn about the Wild Pacific Trail, Ucluelet, and the array of ecosystems on the Pacific Rim!

Step inside and discover the wonders of the Wild Pacific! The interpretive centre is open to all ages for drop-in exploration, where you can learn about local marine life, coastal ecosystems, and Ucluelet’s natural history.

Monday–Friday: Hosted by the Raincoast Education Society
Saturday–Sunday: Hosted by Wild Pacific Trail Society

Bring your curiosity and your nature questions! Friendly naturalists will be there to share stories, point out fascinating wildlife, and help you connect with the incredible biodiversity of the region. No registration required; come anytime between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. Souvenir items are for sale.

Storm Watching from the shelter of Amphitrite House is a new attraction.

Join the Raincoast Education Society and Paddle West Kayaking on a paddle with a knowledgeable birding guide!

Cost: $177.20/person (includes taxes & fees)

A unique birding experience by kayak. Paddle through the sheltered waters and tidal flats of Lemmens Inlet or Browning Passage on a 6hr guided shorebird paddle and explore one of Tofino’s richest shorebird habitats. Travelling by kayak allows you to get close to this rich feeding habitat in a quiet and respectful way, and expert bird guides joining the trip help bring the experience to life with species identification, insight, and local knowledge. All tours are fully guided by professional certified sea kayak guides.

Bring your binoculars and questions about birds and nature!

*these trips may be changed to 4 hours for inclement weather reasons

Book a Day of Birding by Kayak

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

In partnership with BC Nature and Hotel Zed, the Raincoast Eduacation Society will be hosting a ‘Birder in Residence’.

Free Drop-By Event

Join their expert birder, Liam Ragan of B.C. Nature,  on the mudflats behind Hotel Zed, to experience the spring shorebird migration at its peak! Whether you are a keen birder or a casual nature-lover, don’t miss the chance to observe and learn more about the incredible diversity of shorebirds (and other species) passing through on their way north. The mudflats in Jensen’s Bay directly behind Hotel Zed offer some of the best viewing opportunities anywhere in BC. This public event is open to one and all at no cost!

Find fellow birders, spotting scopes, and bird guide Liam Ragan from BC Nature!

This is the best opportunity to spend some time down on the Tofino mudflats to view flocks of shorebirds foraging and resting during their annual migration north. The mudflats at this location offer some of the best and most accessible high-quality shorebird habitat in Tofino. Bird viewing on the mudflats is tide relevant – the rising tide when birds are pushed up towards the upper mudflats for a better view.  This is a great event for both new and experienced birders, as well as anyone interested in learning more about the Tofino Mudflats Wildlife Management Area.

Bring your binoculars or spotting scope, or else the RES will have a couple to share. No dogs please.

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

Join filmmaker Isabelle Groc and Raincoast Education Society’s Mark Maftei as they share insights from their shorebird research.

Cost: $10

The story of a tiny shorebird's long-distance migration powered by biofilm, an invisible mud-based superfood that supports the species' survival.

SANDPIPERS’ LAST SUPPER sheds light on shorebirds — one of the fastest disappearing groups of birds in the world; reveals the beauty and ecological value of under-appreciated intertidal mudflats; and supports a call to action for the conservation of these vital habitats that have starkly declined around the world.

Taking part in the sandpipers’ journey, three individuals cross paths on the mudflat. As they discover the unsuspected life force of biofilm that feeds the shorebirds in the mud, they also find the invisible threads that connect different pieces of the ecosystem — and each other in a way that transforms their own personal connection with the natural world.

See Isabelle Groc and Mark Maftei’s bios on the Shorebird Festival page.

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

This summer, let a naturalist guide you on the Wild Pacific Trail! You'll learn about the history and ecology of the region, with different themed walks throughout the season. 

The Wild Pacific Trail is a unique outdoor classroom that offers incredible opportunities to connect people to nature. 

Stay tuned for the 2026 schedule. Make sure to check back here regularly for updates!

The Raincoast Education Society's West Coast Ambassador Program “aims to build a strong and healthy community, encouraging a positive attitude among responsible citizens, improving community relations with visitors, and growing support for the diversity and well-being of area businesses.”

2026 Dates TBA

Who is the program for? All local residents including seasonal staff, newcomers, and business owners. All local residents new and old are welcome to participate in this great, free initiative to expand their knowledge of the area and increase their participation in the communities of Ucluelet and Tofino.

How do I register? It’s simple! Once current course dates are confirmed, click the course topic you wish to attend, complete the online registration form and mark your calendar!  You will receive an email confirmation from the Raincoast Education Society.

This FREE program is offered as a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce,  Ucluelet Chamber of Commerce,  Tourism Ucluelet, and Tourism Tofino,  The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

Open Daily | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Free by donation | All Ages Welcome

Daily Interpretive topics can be explored from the new Interpretive Centre overlooking the iconic Amphitrite Lighthouse. Learn about the Wild Pacific Trail, Ucluelet, and the array of ecosystems on the Pacific Rim!

Step inside and discover the wonders of the Wild Pacific! The interpretive centre is open to all ages for drop-in exploration, where you can learn about local marine life, coastal ecosystems, and Ucluelet’s natural history.

Monday–Friday: Hosted by the Raincoast Education Society
Saturday–Sunday: Hosted by Wild Pacific Trail Society

Bring your curiosity and your nature questions! Friendly naturalists will be there to share stories, point out fascinating wildlife, and help you connect with the incredible biodiversity of the region. No registration required; come anytime between 9:00 am and 4:00 pm. Souvenir items are for sale.

Storm Watching from the shelter of Amphitrite House is a new attraction.

Join the Raincoast Education Society and Paddle West Kayaking on a paddle with a knowledgeable birding guide!

Cost: $177.20/person (includes taxes & fees)

A unique birding experience by kayak. Paddle through the sheltered waters and tidal flats of Lemmens Inlet or Browning Passage on a 6hr guided shorebird paddle and explore one of Tofino’s richest shorebird habitats. Travelling by kayak allows you to get close to this rich feeding habitat in a quiet and respectful way, and expert bird guides joining the trip help bring the experience to life with species identification, insight, and local knowledge. All tours are fully guided by professional certified sea kayak guides.

Bring your binoculars and questions about birds and nature!

*these trips may be changed to 4 hours for inclement weather reasons

Book a Day of Birding by Kayak

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

In partnership with BC Nature and Hotel Zed, the Raincoast Eduacation Society will be hosting a ‘Birder in Residence’.

Free Drop-By Event

Join their expert birder, Liam Ragan of B.C. Nature,  on the mudflats behind Hotel Zed, to experience the spring shorebird migration at its peak! Whether you are a keen birder or a casual nature-lover, don’t miss the chance to observe and learn more about the incredible diversity of shorebirds (and other species) passing through on their way north. The mudflats in Jensen’s Bay directly behind Hotel Zed offer some of the best viewing opportunities anywhere in BC. This public event is open to one and all at no cost!

Find fellow birders, spotting scopes, and bird guide Liam Ragan from BC Nature!

This is the best opportunity to spend some time down on the Tofino mudflats to view flocks of shorebirds foraging and resting during their annual migration north. The mudflats at this location offer some of the best and most accessible high-quality shorebird habitat in Tofino. Bird viewing on the mudflats is tide relevant – the rising tide when birds are pushed up towards the upper mudflats for a better view.  This is a great event for both new and experienced birders, as well as anyone interested in learning more about the Tofino Mudflats Wildlife Management Area.

Bring your binoculars or spotting scope, or else the RES will have a couple to share. No dogs please.

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

Join filmmaker Isabelle Groc and Raincoast Education Society’s Mark Maftei as they share insights from their shorebird research.

Cost: $10

The story of a tiny shorebird's long-distance migration powered by biofilm, an invisible mud-based superfood that supports the species' survival.

SANDPIPERS’ LAST SUPPER sheds light on shorebirds — one of the fastest disappearing groups of birds in the world; reveals the beauty and ecological value of under-appreciated intertidal mudflats; and supports a call to action for the conservation of these vital habitats that have starkly declined around the world.

Taking part in the sandpipers’ journey, three individuals cross paths on the mudflat. As they discover the unsuspected life force of biofilm that feeds the shorebirds in the mud, they also find the invisible threads that connect different pieces of the ecosystem — and each other in a way that transforms their own personal connection with the natural world.

See Isabelle Groc and Mark Maftei’s bios on the Shorebird Festival page.

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

Join the Raincoast Education Society and Paddle West Kayaking on a paddle with a knowledgeable birding guide!

Cost: $177.20/person (includes taxes & fees)

A unique birding experience by kayak. Paddle through the sheltered waters and tidal flats of Lemmens Inlet or Browning Passage on a 6hr guided shorebird paddle and explore one of Tofino’s richest shorebird habitats. Travelling by kayak allows you to get close to this rich feeding habitat in a quiet and respectful way, and expert bird guides joining the trip help bring the experience to life with species identification, insight, and local knowledge. All tours are fully guided by professional certified sea kayak guides.

Bring your binoculars and questions about birds and nature!

*these trips may be changed to 4 hours for inclement weather reasons

Book a Day of Birding by Kayak

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

Join the Raincoast Education society and birder expert, Ian Cruickshank from the Pacific Rim National Park!

The event is free (though entry to the park is required), and pets are not permitted.

Bring your binoculars and questions about birds and nature!

Ian Cruickshank (Parks Canada interpreter, bird biologist, and experienced birder) will lead this guided interpretive birding hike starting at the Combers Beach parking lot in Pacific Rim National Park. The hike is at a moderate and mostly level pace from the parking area along the beach toward Greenpoint Campground, exploring prime beach habitats used by migrating shorebirds. Along the way, you’ll look and listen for shorebirds and other coastal bird species while enjoying the dynamic beach scenery. 

Ian’s walks focus on:

• Identifying local and migrating birds, especially shorebirds

• Sharing natural history and behaviour insights

See Ian’s bio on the Shorebird Festival page.

Learn more about the Raincoast Education Society's Shorebird Festival

Photo credits: Raincoast Education Society

Join the Tofino Community Food Initiative for our annual celebration of local growing! They will share seeds, gardening tips, Tofino's first seed library, and more.

Check back in for more details closer to the date! 

Biodiversity Discovery Days | May 21-24

Join West Coast NEST, the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, and local partners for a four-day celebration in honour of the 2026 International Day for Biodiversity.

Explore local ecosystems through guided walks, cultural experiences, creative workshops, and restoration activities. Take part in the coast-wide BioBlitz using iNaturalist and help document the incredible species around us. All events invite curiosity, connection, and participation in caring for place.

Most events are free, with select ticketed sessions.

Take Part in the iNaturalist BioBlitz

You can take part in our BioBlitz at any time during the four-day event! Explore the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region at your own pace and contribute to our iNaturalist BioBlitz project (linked here). Whether you're in the forest, on the shoreline, attending one of the guided walks or in your own backyard, every observation you submit helps build a clearer picture of local biodiversity. Be part of a region-wide citizen science effort and you could win prizes for your observations! We’ll be celebrating the rarest find, the most observations, and the funniest photo.

You Could Win a Trip to Hot Springs Cove!

We’re excited to invite youth ages 11–18 to take part in the Biodiversity Discovery Days Event Passport Challenge for a chance to win a trip to Hot Springs Cove with Ahous Adventures, an incredible West Coast experience for two youth (ages 11-18), along with one lucky accompanying adult. 

Collecting stamps at events is your path to entering the draw: 
• 4 stamps = 1 entry into the grand prize draw 
• The more events you attend, the more stamps you collect, and the more chances you have to win 
• Maximum of 2 entries per person 

Completed passports can be submitted once full at any event or at the closing event before 5 PM, or you can email them directly to carla@westcoastnest.org. You do not need to be present at the final event to win. 

Photography

We will be taking pictures throughout the events. Please let a staff member know if you do not wish to be photographed.

Click here to see the full 4-day event schedule!

Thanks!

The events are made possible in partnership with NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada PromoScience program), Tourism Ucluelet, Tourism Tofino, Ucluelet Aquarium, Wild Pacific Trails Society, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Redd Fish Restoration Society, Clayoquot Campus, ISAAK Olam Foundation, Association of Wetland Stewards for Clayoquot & Barkley Sounds, and Whales of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds.

Photo credits: Ocea Green

Join this ticketed event as part of Biodiversity Discovery Days!

In partnership with Tourism Tofino and the Ucluelet Aquarium.

Experience the art of Gyotaku, a centuries-old technique where real fish are used to create detailed, one-of-a-kind prints. Participants will be guided through the process by artist Paula Nishikawara, leaving with several finished pieces that reflect both the beauty of the fish and your own creative expression. The workshop connects coastal ecology with artistic expression. 

No experience necessary. Ages 6+ (with supervision). All materials provided. If you’d like a wearable print, feel free to bring a t-shirt!

• This is a ticketed event | $65/person
• Click HERE to secure your spot!

This event is part of Biodiversity Discovery Days. To learn more about all the events happening May 21-24, check out the link below!

Biodiversity Discovery Days

Come join Aeriosa's team of tree dancers and riggers and let them guide you on an unforgettable journey into the forest canopy. Immerse yourself in nature, creativity, and adventure as you explore an interspecies dance experience with big trees. 

Aeriosa instructors will introduce you to rope and harness safety systems and checks while you have fun learning new movement skills, in a supportive environment. This Tree Dance Workshop is suitable for participants of all levels. No previous dance or climbing experience is needed. For the family class, please register all participants separately.

• Age Restriction: 7 to 14
• Fee: $75 + tax
• Secure your spot HERE

About Aeriosa Dance Society

Dance on earth, in air. Aeriosa creates dance in unexpected places, in unusual ways. Aeriosa’s artistic direction merges choreography, environment, and theatre with elements of rock climbing and contemporary performance art. Dancers are empowered to fly, yet remain anchored to the wild and natural landscape of the seashore, forests, mountains, crags, and sky. Our innovative choreography also explores the urban world of high-rises, historical buildings, public architecture, theatre venues, and botanical gardens. Aeriosa was founded to explore the transformative potential of vertical dance in collaboration with performers, musicians, and visual artists. By working with diverse local and international peers, tracing connections between traditional and contemporary practices, Aeriosa contributes to the worldwide impact and relevance of the vertical dance art form.

Photo credits: Aeriosa Dance

Come join Aeriosa's team of tree dancers and riggers and let them guide you on an unforgettable journey into the forest canopy. Immerse yourself in nature, creativity, and adventure as you explore an interspecies dance experience with big trees. 

Aeriosa instructors will introduce you to rope and harness safety systems and checks while you have fun learning new movement skills, in a supportive environment. This Tree Dance Workshop is suitable for participants of all levels. No previous dance or climbing experience is needed. For the family class, please register all participants separately.

• Age Restriction: 19+
• Fee: $75 + tax
• Secure your spot HERE

About Aeriosa Dance Society

Dance on earth, in air. Aeriosa creates dance in unexpected places, in unusual ways. Aeriosa’s artistic direction merges choreography, environment, and theatre with elements of rock climbing and contemporary performance art. Dancers are empowered to fly, yet remain anchored to the wild and natural landscape of the seashore, forests, mountains, crags, and sky. Our innovative choreography also explores the urban world of high-rises, historical buildings, public architecture, theatre venues, and botanical gardens. Aeriosa was founded to explore the transformative potential of vertical dance in collaboration with performers, musicians, and visual artists. By working with diverse local and international peers, tracing connections between traditional and contemporary practices, Aeriosa contributes to the worldwide impact and relevance of the vertical dance art form.

Photo credits: Aeriosa Dance

Come join Aeriosa's team of tree dancers and riggers and let them guide you on an unforgettable journey into the forest canopy. Immerse yourself in nature, creativity, and adventure as you explore an interspecies dance experience with big trees. 

Aeriosa instructors will introduce you to rope and harness safety systems and checks while you have fun learning new movement skills, in a supportive environment. This Tree Dance Workshop is suitable for participants of all levels. No previous dance or climbing experience is needed. For the family class, please register all participants separately.

• Age Restriction: 14 to 18
• Fee: $75 + tax
• Secure your spot HERE

About Aeriosa Dance Society

Dance on earth, in air. Aeriosa creates dance in unexpected places, in unusual ways. Aeriosa’s artistic direction merges choreography, environment, and theatre with elements of rock climbing and contemporary performance art. Dancers are empowered to fly, yet remain anchored to the wild and natural landscape of the seashore, forests, mountains, crags, and sky. Our innovative choreography also explores the urban world of high-rises, historical buildings, public architecture, theatre venues, and botanical gardens. Aeriosa was founded to explore the transformative potential of vertical dance in collaboration with performers, musicians, and visual artists. By working with diverse local and international peers, tracing connections between traditional and contemporary practices, Aeriosa contributes to the worldwide impact and relevance of the vertical dance art form.

Photo credits: Aeriosa Dance

Come join Aeriosa's team of tree dancers and riggers and let them guide you on an unforgettable journey into the forest canopy. Immerse yourself in nature, creativity, and adventure as you explore an interspecies dance experience with big trees. 

Aeriosa instructors will introduce you to rope and harness safety systems and checks while you have fun learning new movement skills, in a supportive environment. This Tree Dance Workshop is suitable for participants of all levels. No previous dance or climbing experience is needed. For the family class, please register all participants separately.

• Age Restriction: 19+
• Fee: $75 + tax
• Secure your spot HERE

About Aeriosa Dance Society

Dance on earth, in air. Aeriosa creates dance in unexpected places, in unusual ways. Aeriosa’s artistic direction merges choreography, environment, and theatre with elements of rock climbing and contemporary performance art. Dancers are empowered to fly, yet remain anchored to the wild and natural landscape of the seashore, forests, mountains, crags, and sky. Our innovative choreography also explores the urban world of high-rises, historical buildings, public architecture, theatre venues, and botanical gardens. Aeriosa was founded to explore the transformative potential of vertical dance in collaboration with performers, musicians, and visual artists. By working with diverse local and international peers, tracing connections between traditional and contemporary practices, Aeriosa contributes to the worldwide impact and relevance of the vertical dance art form.

Photo credits: Aeriosa Dance

Join this ticketed event as part of Biodiversity Discovery Days!

In partnership with the Ucluelet Aquarium.

Experience the art of Gyotaku, a centuries-old technique where real fish are used to create detailed, one-of-a-kind prints. Participants will be guided through the process by artist Paula Nishikawara, leaving with several finished pieces that reflect both the beauty of the fish and your own creative expression. The workshop connects coastal ecology with artistic expression. 

No experience necessary. Ages 6+ (with supervision). All materials provided. If you’d like a wearable print, feel free to bring a t-shirt!

• This is a ticketed event | $65/person
• Click HERE to secure your spot!

This event is part of Biodiversity Discovery Days. To learn more about all the events happening May 21-24, check out the link below!

Biodiversity Discovery Days