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.

This 2.5-hour course explores the intertidal and pelagic ecosystems of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds, highlighting the incredible diversity of seaweeds, invertebrates, marine mammals, and more. Participants will also learn about local oceanographic conditions and the vital role this rich marine environment plays in sustaining life along this coast.

Beyond education, this course is about connection, helping people develop a deeper appreciation for this beautiful space and equipping them with the knowledge to advocate for its protection against the threats of ignorance and overuse. Through our exhibits, we facilitate in-depth conversations and hands-on activities that illustrate how every part of the ecosystem interacts, fostering a greater understanding of the intricate balance that sustains marine life.

Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.

Join the Raincoast Education Society's West Coast Ambassador Program and learn how to be a responsible resident of this incredible place and how to share that knowledge with visitors.

The courses are open to all local residents, including seasonal staff, newcomers, and business owners. They focus on Tofino and Ucluelet, their past, present, ecologies, vibrant business communities, festivals and events, opportunities, and much more. 

Participants of the Ambassador course will receive an Ambassador Card. Show your card for discounts and benefits at many local businesses!

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.

Join the Raincoast Education Society to learn about the dynamic coastal temperate rainforest ecosystem! From the forest floor to the top of the canopy, this course will explore the many interactions that make up the fabric of this iconic habitat.

This course is part of the West Coast Ambassador Program. Join Raincoast Education Society and explore questions and ideas on the Yellowgate Trail in Tofino (across from Pacific Sands Resort).

This course is in 2 different locations depending on the date: The Ancient Cedar Trail on the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet & the Yellowgate Trail in Tofino.

Register HERE for this session (required). 

Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.

Dates In Ucluelet: Thursday May 7, 21 & June 4

Dates in Tofino: Thursday May 14, 28 & June 11

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce,  Tourism Ucluelet, and Tourism Tofino.  The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.

This 2.5-hour course explores the intertidal and pelagic ecosystems of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds, highlighting the incredible diversity of seaweeds, invertebrates, marine mammals, and more. Participants will also learn about local oceanographic conditions and the vital role this rich marine environment plays in sustaining life along this coast.

Beyond education, this course is about connection, helping people develop a deeper appreciation for this beautiful space and equipping them with the knowledge to advocate for its protection against the threats of ignorance and overuse. Through our exhibits, we facilitate in-depth conversations and hands-on activities that illustrate how every part of the ecosystem interacts, fostering a greater understanding of the intricate balance that sustains marine life.

Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.

Join the Raincoast Education Society's West Coast Ambassador Program and learn how to be a responsible resident of this incredible place and how to share that knowledge with visitors.

The courses are open to all local residents, including seasonal staff, newcomers, and business owners. They focus on Tofino and Ucluelet, their past, present, ecologies, vibrant business communities, festivals and events, opportunities, and much more. 

Participants of the Ambassador course will receive an Ambassador Card. Show your card for discounts and benefits at many local businesses!

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.

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 us for a community gathering featuring interactive booths, snacks, and prizes. Meet local organizations working in biodiversity and conservation. Learn how to use iNaturalist and get ready for the BioBlitz. It will be a welcoming space to connect, ask questions, and get inspired for the days ahead!

Join the Raincoast Education Society to learn about the dynamic coastal temperate rainforest ecosystem! From the forest floor to the top of the canopy, this course will explore the many interactions that make up the fabric of this iconic habitat.

This course is part of the West Coast Ambassador Program. Join Raincoast Education Society and explore questions and ideas on the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet.

This course is in 2 different locations depending on the date: The Ancient Cedar Trail on the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet & the Yellowgate Trail in Tofino.

Register HERE for this session (required). 

Small Town, Big Picture is a suggested prerequisite for this course.

Dates In Ucluelet: Thursday May 7, 21 & June 4

Dates in Tofino: Thursday May 14, 28 & June 11

The West Coast Ambassador Program is a joint initiative of the Raincoast Education Society, the Tofino-Long Beach Chamber of Commerce,  Tourism Ucluelet, and Tourism Tofino.  The Raincoast Education Society is responsible for course curriculum, registration, and program delivery.

Tofino, in the Ḥaaḥuułi of the ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ / Tla-o-qui-aht Ḥawiiḥ

An introductory session with ƛaʔuuk, Gisele Maria Martin. Guests of ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ / Tla-o-qui-aht territory are invited to learn about local history, Indigenous cultural lifeways, language, protocols, laws and the ancestral teachings encoded in totem poles which continue to protect this beautiful place and its residents today.

Gisele is a Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Guardian, artist, storyteller, dugout canoe guide, cultural lifeways & language educator.

Other Dates: June 4, June 18

Nuu-chah-nulth Lands & Waters course is a part of the West Coast Ambassador Program. The West Coast Ambassador Program is 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 by Gisele Maria Martin.

As a part of the Biodiversity Discovery Days Kick-Off Party, join this presentation from Mark at Whales of Clayoquot and Barkley to learn how science and technology are combined to support real conservation work. Mark will bring the fieldwork to life with compelling footage and stories from the water. 

** Attend the Kick-Off Party along with this fascinating talk to enter a draw for a chance to win youth tickets for the Youth Whale & Wildlife Watching Boat Tour on May 22.

Big Beach Exploration with Wild Pacific Trail 

• 10 - 11:30 AM 
• Meet at the Big Beach picnic shelter
• Free event

Join Tanya, Wild Pacific Trail Naturalist, for a relaxed shoreline walk exploring tide pools, driftwood, coastal plants, and seasonal wildlife. Discover how this dynamic coastline is always changing and full of small surprises. Open to all ages, rain or shine. Wear sturdy footwear and bring your sense of curiosity. 

Bioblitz Alert: Be sure to bring your device to help catalogue local species during the guided walk. To participate in our coast-wide BioBlitz during Biodiversity Discovery Days, simply download the free iNaturalist app and join our Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region project. Help catalogue local species while contributing to real community science. You could win prizes for your observations!  

In partnership with the Wild Pacific Trail Society and Tourism Ucluelet.

Photo credits: Wild Pacific Trail 

In partnership with Jamie's Whaling Station and facilitated by Mark of Whales of Clayoquot & Barkley. 

Step out of the presentation and onto the water. Take what you learned in Drone Monitoring of Coastal Giants and experience it firsthand on an open zodiac, fast, immersive, and right at the surface of the action.  This youth-focused whale and wildlife tour will travel along the wild coastline of Barkley Sound to active feeding areas, where whales can be seen spouting, diving, and even breaching.  You’ll learn how to read the water, understand whale behaviour, and experience ocean conservation in real time. Open zodiac tour restrictions and requirements apply.  

Contact Jamie's Whaling Station to buy your tickets at 250-725-3919 or reach out to carla@westcoastnest.org for more details.

Win Your Tickets

A few spots foryouth ages 13–18 will be up for grabs by draw at the Drone Monitoring of Coastal Giants session the night before (Thursday, May 21) at the Redd Fish Supply Co. Café during the Kick-Off Party. Come by for your chance to win!

Photo credits: Jamie's Whaling Station

Join us for this free naturalist-led guided walk around Tofino, ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ territories, in celebration of Biodiversity Discovery Days! 

Learn how small habitats support a wide range of species and ecological relationships. Take part in hands-on activities that highlight how nature is woven into daily life. A new way to see familiar places. Fun for all ages!      

Bioblitz Alert: Be sure to bring your device to help catalogue local species during the guided walk. To participate in our coast-wide BioBlitz during Biodiversity Discovery Days, simply download the free iNaturalist app and join our Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region project. Help catalogue local species while contributing to real community science. You could win prizes for your observations!  

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

Discover new marine life and natural treasures brought in daily by the ocean, from seaweeds and shells to signs of wildlife. Learn about coastal ecosystems and the connections between land and sea. This walk invites close observation and a fresh way of seeing local biodiversity. 

Bioblitz Alert: Be sure to bring your device to help catalogue local species during the guided walk. To participate in our coast-wide BioBlitz during Biodiversity Discovery Days, simply download the free iNaturalist app and join our Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region project. Help catalogue local species while contributing to real community science. You could win prizes for your observations!

This free event is held as a part of Biodiversity Discovery Days by West Coast NEST in collaboration with the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.   

Photo by Parks Canada

Beginning with a guided walk exploring keystone species, relationships, and Indigenous perspectives on biodiversity stewardship. Followed by light refreshments at the čukʷaa haʔuk Café and conversation with the Naa’uu group focused on truth-telling and cultural representation. A grounding and meaningful experience we are honoured to be part of. 

Click HERE to secure your spot by registering on Eventbrite.

Costs are covered for youth (18 & under) attending the event. Adults are required to pay the garden entrance fee of $28 (+ GST) upon arrival at the Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens to participate.

If you’re able, we also warmly encourage an additional donation to Clayoquot Campus in support of this programming.

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