Barkley Sound is the body of water that separates Ucluelet from Bamfield in the south, and is the entrance to the Alberni Inlet.  Covering approximately 800 square kilometres, Barkely Sound is a wonderland of wilderness made up of rocky shorelines, thick rainforest, hundreds of islands and inlets, and an abundance of breathtaking scenery and wildlife.  It is also the where you will find the protected Broken Group Islands, a unit of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

It is named after Captain Charles William Barkley who explored the area with the Imperial Eagle in the late 17 hundreds. He traveled with his young wife, Frances Barkley, who was the first European woman to ever visit British Columbia. Frances Barkley is now the name of a ferry that takes passengers through Barkley Sound from Port Alberni stopping in Bamfield, Ucluelet and even making a stop in the Broken Group Islands. It is a scenic option for visitors coming to Ucluelet from Port Alberni who wish to explore the beautiful Alberni Inlet and Barkley Sound by water.

It is also a popular draw for boaters from all over the world.  Sport fishing, although not allowed within the Broken Group Islands, is popular in Barkley Sound. Anglers often retreat from the offshore fishing grounds in sour weather, finding shelter and plenty of fish in it’s more protected waters.

Kayakers also visit Barkley Sound in droves. The Broken Group Islands are one of the most famous sea kayaking destinations in Canada and well known around the world. Paddlers can spend days exploring the islands with designated camp grounds located within an easy days paddle of each other. Ask Black Rock Oceanfront Resort about booking your multi-day kayaking adventure with Majestic Ocean Kayaking.

Kayaker in the Broken Group Islands

Barkley Sound is the traditional territory of the Nuu-chah-nulth people. There is archeological evidence of their people in this region that dates back over 4000 years. They lived part of the year in the protected islands and shores within the sound and the rest of the year on the more exposed islands. Stone fish traps, shell middens and remains of village sites still remain and can be visited to this day.

Barkley Sound can also be explored by land! The shoreline is dramatically rugged boasting sheer rock cliffs, long pebbled beaches, and short stretches of soft sand. Behind it an ancient forest grows wild, dripping with the dew of a temperate rainforest draped in ferns and moss.

You can find your way through the forest and to the shores by navigating a series of logging roads. Most are well maintained and regular two-wheel drive vehicles can easily access the main routes.  Access points to the shores of Barkley Sound include Mussel Beach and Salmon Beach. Please be aware that Toquart Bay Recreation Area is closed until further notice.

Shoreline of Barkley Sound

Barkley Sound is a very rich ecosystem and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Shore dwellers include mink, martens, river otters, raccoons, deer, and black bears. Marine life includes Gray and Humpback whales, California and Stellar sea lions, harbour seals, porpoises, and even six-gilled sharks in the depths of the Pacific. Look to the sky and see a soaring bald eagle, as this area is densely populated with eagles. Not to mention the shorebirds! The shorebird population increases dramatically during the spring and fall as Barkley Sound is along a great migration for distant breeding and feeding grounds.

Experience the power of the Pacific Ocean crashing into a pebbled beach during a swell, hike through the forest stopping to rest at a cliff top view point of the sea, or explore the calm waters of the Broken Group Islands by kayak or guided boat tour. Barkley Sound has an adventure waiting for you.

Until next time!

Amy Hancock

We are looking forward to spending some time exploring Barkley Sound, the Broken Group Islands and the offshore banks of the Pacific Rim region this summer.  It is a wild world out there, an ecosystem that is so special to this part of the country, and a real memorable experience whether you’re embarking out on the water for the first time or if you’ve been out a thousand times.  It’s truly a nature lovers delight, a haven for wildlife photographers, and an easily accessible wilderness that should be explored by every visitor to the west coast of Vancouver Island.

We have received another wildlife and whale watching report from our friend Brian Congdon at Subtidal Adventures.  Sea otters have become a regular sighting in the Ucluelet Harbour and recently Gray whales, including a mother and her calf, have been spotted just at the mouth of the harbour.  We are truly fortunate to share our backyard with these magnificent creatures.

Wildlife & Whale Watching Report

Playful sea lions

Whale Watching Adventures

When you book your Whale Watching Adventure through Black Rock Oceanfront Resort you will head out with Subtidal Adventures.  There are two options: a fast paced cruise and wildlife viewing ride on a Zodiac style boat called The Discovery or a slower cruise on board a cabin cruiser dubbed the Dixie IV.  Either option will bring you closer to Gray and Humpback whales, sea lions, sea otters, seals, bald eagles and a huge variety of sea birds.

I can’t wait to get back out on the water!  Thanks again to Brian for his report and photos.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Whale Watching with Subtidal Adventures

As we look out across the ocean we can see a change.  The once stormy abrupt sea has turned into a more welcoming and calming stage to welcome boaters, fishers, kayakers, paddlers and whale watchers.  The change in tides allows for longer and later walks along the beaches; summer is coming.  – Adele Larkin, General Manager of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

Summer in Ucluelet is a very special time to be in a very special place.  The natural world comes completely alive, renewed after a winter of incredible wind and rain storms.  The greenery of a flourishing rainforest, the sparkle of the Pacific Ocean, and a summer sun that shines longer (and more often) allowing the extra hours of coastal exploration in Ucluelet.

For many of us, May Long Weekend is usually the official kick off for summer.  How will you spend your first few days of the new season?

Cruise into Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands and observe the biodiversity of this areas marine wildlife.  We have had many positive reports from local wildlife and whale watching guides.  There are daily sightings of Gray and Humpback whales, playful sea lions, harbour seals, sea otters, bald eagles and even black bears on the beaches at low tide.

The Broken Group Islands is a part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.  They are only accessible by boat and included in most wildlife and whale watching packages from our friends at Subtidal Adventures.  The Broken Group is made up of hundreds of islands, is protected by the open ocean, and are rich in First Nations history as well as wildlife.  Learn more about your Whale Watching Adventure.

Before or after whale watching you could explore the Ucluelet Aquarium.  We are very proud of our local aquarium, a new and improved facility located on the waterfront of the Ucluelet Harbour.   Their staff and volunteers greet visitors from all over the world and treat them to a very personal view of the fish and invertebrates from our local waters in Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds.  Interactive displays, touch tanks and demonstrations are available every day.

When you visit the west coast you have to try our fresh seafood!  Float Lounge at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort as a new sushi menu! It’s available Wednesday to Sunday from 5:30pm – 9:30pm featuring sushi by Chef Kevin Kimoto.  Try the Ukee Roll, Long Beach Roll or get the Big Beach Platter.  Drink specials are also available.  Check out the full sushi menu.

With the days getting longer you can head out after dinner and take in a Pacific coast sunset.  The Wild Pacific Trail is literally located outside of the resort, in fact you can even see it from Fetch Restaurant!  This trail skirts the coastline on a cliff top trail and offers many benches and viewing platforms, perfect for watching the sun illuminate the sky with colour before sinking below the distant horizon of the open ocean.

There is so much to see and do during your long weekend stay at Black Rock.  We look forward to seeing you this weekend!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

We received a wildlife watching update from Brian Congdon of Subtidal Adventures.  It looks like the wonderfully diverse array of wildlife have come alive with the new season.  Book your wildlife and whale watching adventure package, head out on the water with Subtidal Adventures, and see these amazing creatures for yourself!

Thank you Brian for sharing this update and your awesome photos.

Good morning.

A few photos for your enjoyment.  All within the last week.  Bear sightings are not as regular as we would like.  Gray whales, four yesterday, have been seen for several days now in the same feeding area. That can change daily with the food supply.  This sea otter was sleeping two metres from the little beach at Waters Edge Resort.  The sea lion seemed to be showing off for us.  The eagle was quick to take advantage of several scrap rockfish discarded by a commercial dragger on its way in the harbour.

Cheers,

Brian

“Mothers hold their children’s hands for a short while, but their hearts forever.” – Author Unknown

Show your Mom how much you love her with a day of togetherness on the west coast.  Whether you come for an afternoon, a day, a weekend or a week, your visit to Ucluelet will be one she will always remember – especially if she gets to spend it with you.

With Mother’s being the guests of honour, Black Rock Oceanfront Resort invites you and your family to attend our Mother’s Day Breakfast at Fetch Restaurant on Sunday, May 12^th.  We will have a special menu full of breakfast favourites and new creations, showcasing the finest cuisine the west coast has to offer prepared by our Chef Louise Pickles and her talented team.  Sit back, relax, and take in the magnificent views of the wild Pacific Ocean through Fetch’s floor to ceiling windows.

Breakfast starts at 8AM and includes a special treat for Mom.

After breakfast you’ll be well nourished, energized and ready to explore the natural beauty of Ucluelet and the west coast.  There are many things you can do with Mom around town and in the Pacific Rim National Park, making her special day as memorable as possible.  Just don’t forget to bring your camera!

Take a walk on the Wild Pacific Trail.  This world class walking trail literally runs right beside Fetch Restaurant.  After breakfast you can get up, head out the door and hit the trail!  The Wild Pacific Trail offers breathtaking cliff-top views of the rugged, black rocky coastline from an easy, wide gravel pathway.

Your path will skirt along the shoreline viewing the open ocean, crashing waves and surges occasionally ducking in and out of an ancient rainforest twisted and gnarled from a lifetime of coastal weather.

There are three sections of the Wild Pacific Trail, all accessible from town.  The Lighthouse Loop, Big Beach Section, and the Browns Beach Section which includes several Artists Loops that lead even closer to the rocky shore.  All are suitable for all ages and abilities.  There are benches, viewpoints and artist perches at several points along the trail.

Visit the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.  No trip to Ucluelet is complete without a trip to the Long Beach section of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.  Known for its seemingly endless stretches of sand swept beaches; this national park is a national treasure!  Explore the forest trails and sandy beaches at Florencia Bay, Wickaninnish Beach, Long Beach, Combers Beach and Radar Hill.  Each section of the park offers something a little different – all are incredibly beautiful and worth a visit.

Take Mom shopping at Ucluelet’s galleries and shops.  The west coast of Vancouver Island is a very inspirational place and the hub for many Canadian artists.  Browse through locally produced art including: paintings, photography, pottery, tapestries, jewellery, First Nations weaving and carving.  There are several galleries in Ucluelet, all showcasing the region’s rich arts and culture community.

There are also many unique gift shops in Ucluelet.  Browse through eclectic home decor, west coast themed souvenirs, and informative books and stories about the Pacific Rim region.   You can also try out locally roasted coffee, local produce, cheeses, and other delectable delights.

Click here for a full listing of shops and galleries in Ucluelet, including pharmacy and grocery stores.

If you have more time you could consider a whale watching adventure, sport fishing, kayaking, and even a surf lesson.  All will bring out the adventurous spirit in your Mom and in yourself.  For more information on these west coast adventure packages, and other packages offered by Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, visit our Specials and Packages page.

Until the end of May we are also offering a mid-week special that will allow your family to play and stay even longer.  Take Mom out for a treat on Sunday and spend the week in Ucluelet.  You can enjoy a 3 night midweek stay and only pay for 2! Available on new reservations between Sunday and Thursday only.  Call us at 1-877-762-5011 for more information.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort would like to wish all Mother’s a very Happy Mother’s Day!!!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

“Fish on!!!!” I yelled as I grabbed the fishing rod out of it’s holder at the back of the boat.

The cord on the downrigger had snapped indicating a bite at the end of the line.  By the time I had the rod in my hands it’s nose was diving towards the surface of the water.  After a quick jerk to set the hook I started to quickly reel in the line, staggering my feet to try to keep my balance in the rocking boat.

After what seemed like forever, although it had only been 10 or 15 minutes, I could see the silvery flash and splash of the Chinook salmon that was on the end of my line.  My fishing partner stood behind me on the side of the boat ready to scoop up my catch in the net and bring it aboard.

The salmon weighed just under 20 pounds, which is a decent weight for a Chinook especially in early May.  As the summer months progress this species of salmon get bigger and bigger.  Much to any anglers delight it’s common to haul in a Chinook salmon weighing over 30 pounds during the summer.  In late July and August I have watched ecstatic fishermen and fisherwomen weigh in monster salmon, nearly breaking the scales at 45 to 50 pounds.  Now THAT is a big fish.

Over the last few years fishing has taken on a whole new energy in Ucluelet, BC.  The Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby, now entering it’s 4th season, has brought a new excitement to sport fishing in Ucluelet and has made the already enjoyable thrill of reeling in the catch of the day a must-do during any visit to our little fishing town.

With the chance to win thousands in monthly prizes, up to $60, 000 cash and prizes at a year-end Fish Off, and an opportunity to compete for the $250,000 Hidden Weight Grand Prize during the Fish Off, it’s no wonder anglers are choosing Ucluelet as their fishing destination.

“To participate, you just have to buy a derby ticket and go fishing!” said Lisa Brisco, who has been involved with organizing and running the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby since it’s first season in 2010.  Lisa continued, “Oh, and catch a big fish!”

Derby tickets are on sale online at www.uclueletsalmonladderderby.com and at participating vendors in Ucluelet and Port Alberni.  They are just $10 per day of fishing or $50 for the whole season (May 1- August 30, 2013).  You can participate in the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby when you book your Fishing Package with Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

The best part is, all net proceeds of this event is donated to local salmon enhancement projects on the west coast.  Over the 3 seasons the derby has already ran it has been able to donate over $12,000 to the Thornton Creek Hatchery as well as make donations to the Pacific Salmon Foundation and Central Westcoast Forest Society.  Your participation in this even helps raise funds and awareness for salmon enhancement!

When you book a Fishing Package with Black Rock Oceanfront Resort you will be fishing with Big Bear Salmon Charters.  This guided fishing company is very reputable for showing their guests high-yielding fishing grounds, providing the best equipment, and ensuring your comfort and safety throughout the entire trip.  Big Bear Salmon Charters prepares your catch, properly processing it and packaging it for safe transport home.  They’ll also help you capture the memories of your fishing adventure by taking and sending you photos of the trip.

Big Bear Salmon Charters are no stranger to the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby.  They are proud sponsors of the derby, supporters of salmon enhancement and their guest was the FIRST PLACE WINNER of the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby’s Fish Off in 2012.

Mike Tait wins 1st Place in the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby Fish Off, 2012.  Photo courtesy of the Ucluelet Salmon Enhancement Society

Start planning your fishing adventure with Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.  Book your fishing package, get out on the water and have a REEL good time.  Never been fishing before?  After you reel in your first fish we know you’ll be HOOKED!  Plus, by fishing in Ucluelet and participating in the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby you will be helping to raise funds and awareness for salmon enhancement and that is a very worthy cause.

Tight Lines!

Amy Hancock

Residents of St. John’s Newfoundland saw something they have never seen before…KNUCKLES THE GRAY WHALE!  He was actually spotted just outside of St. John’s at Signal Hill National Historic Site, looking off towards home and pointing west to Ucluelet.  He turned a few heads.  He made a few friends!

Photos courtesy of Tourism Ucluelet

On May 1^st Tourism Ucluelet embarked on an incredible journey, executing a brilliant marketing plan that will take them across the country over the next two months.  They started in St. John’s, Newfoundland and will carve a path through Canada ending back in Ucluelet on June 24th, promoting Ucluelet and the west coast of Vancouver Island all along the way.

The tour will include twenty six cities in all ten provinces of Canada.  The Tourism Ucluelet and Knuckles the Gray Whale are cruising in style in an RV decaled with images of Ucluelet and the breathtaking scenery, adventurous activities, and rich culture of the west coast.

Their goal is to share information about our region, specifically Ucluelet.  Along entire journey Tourism Ucluelet will share information through presentations, videos, local broadcasting opportunities, attending community events and festivals, and engaging Canadians with fun activities and contests.

If you see the Tourism Ucluelet RV in YOUR city make sure you take a photo and post it on their Facebook page.  Keep following them on Facebook and Twitter, visit their website www.kickbackandcoast.com,read their blog and you could win one of many prizes.  The grand prize package includes a ‘One Week Ucluelet Adventure Trip’ that will be customized with activities that suit your taste.  Airfare, activities like kayaking and surfing, dining, whale watching and accommodation are all included in your adventure prize.

In a press release posted on Tourism Ucluelet’s blog Ucluelet’s Mayor Bill Irving was quoted, “A journey may best be measured in friends, rather than kilometres.  From coast to coast, we look forward to making new friends, sharing our extraordinary region and inviting all of Canada to come stay in Ucluelet.”

Ucluelet truly is a unique corner of Canada.  Situated on a peninsula, Ucluelet is completely surrounded by the Pacific Ocean making it the perfect home base for west coast exploration.  Kayaking, sport fishing, sailing, whale and wildlife watching, surfing, beach combing, and hiking through an ancient old growth rainforest are some activities you will experience when you visit us here.  It is with great pleasure that Tourism Ucluelet, on behalf of our community, invites you to come and share it with us.  We hope you get the chance!

Click here to see when Kick Back & Coast will be cruising through YOUR city.  Snap a photo, follow them on Facebook and Twitter, and hopefully you can come visit us at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort when you’re in Ucluelet.  If you do see them, tell them we say hello…and give Knuckles a hug for us!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

*Header photo courtesy of Tourism Ucluelet

There will be several culinary events as part of the month long event including a Saturday Dockside Festival on May 25th in Tofino. Chef Louise Pickles of Fetch Restaurant has prepared a special Feast Menu. This is the perfect opportunity to experience the freshest seafood in a luxury setting overlooking the mighty Pacific Ocean from our dining room. This special set menu is priced at just $49 per person.

Feast Menu #1: May 1st – May 15th in Fetch Restaurant from 5:30 to 8:30pm

Feast Menu #2: May 15th- May 31 in Fetch Restaurant from 5:30 to 8:30pm

Chef Louise Pickles returns to Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

Chef Louise Pickles has returned to Ucluelet and Black Rock as our Executive Chef. Born in Hong Kong and raised in Vancouver, Louise Pickles is proud to once again call Ucluelet, British Columbia home. After starting out at the Pacific Institute of Culinary Arts on Granville Island Vancouver, Louise has spent the last decade cooking in some of the best restaurants, hotels and resorts that BC has to offer.

Some of the properties included in this list; Diva at the Met, Relais & Chateau property Sonora Resort, Rosewood Hotel Georgia and of course being part of the opening team at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort with Chef Andrew Springett. Her career has also taken her around the world to Australia where she spent time working in and exploring the culinary delights of the Margaret River wine region and then over to Sydney to work with Damien Pignolet at the Bistro Moncur before returning home.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort offers phenomenal culinary experiences at its ocean side restaurant, patio and lounge in Ucluelet, BC. Discover the essence of Vancouver Island’s West Coast as you savor fresh cuisine, Pacific Coast wines and spectacular ocean views. Feed your body and soul while you experience the most romantic restaurant on the west coast of Vancouver Island at Fetch Restaurant in Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

Our menus are carefully crafted using locally sourced Vancouver Island seasonal ingredients. Our passion and enduring West Coast spirit results in ever changing menus that will inspire your senses. Join us for breakfast lunch or dinner at Fetch Restaurant or for cocktails and light snacks in Float Lounge after 3pm.

Every year Earth Day challenges people around the world to participate in events, projects and a renewed ‘green’ way of thinking to address environmental issues locally and worldwide. More than 6 million Canadian’s join 1 billion people in over 170 countries in this giant celebration of our earth and to participate in the challenge of changing daily actions to help protect it.

Earth Day provides the opportunity for positive actions and results.  Here’s a great article we found offering 6 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day.

How We are Keeping it Green at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

Eco-Stay Program: Through contributing to carbon management projects through Ecostay, we’ve been able to balance all of our operational emissions into the environment.

This year to date, 94 tonnes of carbon offsets have been purchased from emission reducing products. That’s equivalent to taking 6,862 cars off the road for a day!

Green Key Rating 4: The Green Key Eco-Rating Program is a graduated rating system designed to recognize hotels that are committed to improving their environmental and fiscal performance. Our Green Key Rating shows that we have shown national industry leadership and commitment to protecting the environment though programs that involve management, employee, guests and the community. We’ve been able to reduce our utility and waste consumption and provide eco-friendly lodging to our guests. Learn more about Green Key.

Electric Car Chargers: Our Sun Country electric car chargers are Canadian made. They’re the safest and most reliable EVSE charge station on the market. They have a smart “reclosure” technology that self-tests, resets, and ensures your car will be charged. It’s a powerful charger that can charge up to 70 amps continuously. Plus, it uses a universal adapter so will compatible to any hybrid and electric vehicle.

SeaFlora Spa Products: Available in Drift Spa. Using wild seaweeds and ocean mud that are certified organic and demonstrating a solid commitment to sustainable harvesting and skincare manufacturing. Experience the richest seaweed skincare in the world…Experience Seaflora!

Ocean Wise: Fetch Restaurant at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort only uses sustainable seafood. Approved by Ocean Wise, you can be sure our seafood menu items are a good choice for keeping ocean life healthy and abundant for generations to come.

BeeKind Eco Amenities: Our in-room amenities are also available for sale in Drift Spa. With honey and certified organic extracts of red clover, calendula, lemongrass and chamomile, BeeKind is as soothing as it is stylish. A portion of the net profits of this product supports honey bee and sustainable pollination research.

The earth is our responsibility.  Anyone can make a difference by participate in Earth Day activities, make simple changes to daily tasks to reduce your footprint, and promote a sustainable and healthy environment.  Learn more about Earth Day Canada.

Happy Earth Day!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Two years ago a raft of sea otters were seen multiple times at Little Beach in Ucluelet.  At that time encountering sea otters was a very rare occurrence.  Sea otters had not been seen in the area for decades.  Brian Congdon has been running whale and wildlife watching tours in Ucluelet for over 30 years.  He shared that he saw his first sea otter 20 years ago.  This incident was included in the one or two times he had seen them since!  (Read that story…)

“There were two groups, a group of about 50 and another group maybe 60 or 70,” Congdon told the Westerly News in April 2011.

That Westerly News article also had quotes from local marine biologist Josie Osborne.  She explained that sea otters were nearly wiped out between 1700-1929 because of the fur trade, but since the 1970s sea otters have been slowly increasing in population.  She also predicted that in the next 3 to 5 years sea otters “will be everywhere!”

Photo: Brian Congdon

They might not be everywhere quite yet but they ARE definitely hanging out close to town, much to our delight.  Congdon has reported that a curious sea otter has been spotted several times this spring in the Ucluelet Harbour.

“Usually when someone tells me they saw a sea otter in the harbour I say ‘no, no, no, it’s a river otter’…but there really is a sea otter in our harbour!” shared Congdon.

Although there are numerous river otters that live in the harbour, as well as seals and sea lions, it seems sea otter has taken up a somewhat permanent residence in the Ucluelet Harbour too.  According to Congdon, it has been seen several times over the last year around the mouth of the harbour.  More recently it has been seen right inside the harbour sleeping, grooming, eating, and traveling.

“It was seen from shore a mere 5 metres away, rolling around and eating a sea star,”said Congdon.  “I am pretty excited to have one in the harbour because they are so much fun to watch.”

As much as we are excited to watch this curious little creature, it is unlikely he will stay in the harbour as the busy summer season progresses.  “The amount of boat traffic in our harbour will increase of course and I’m sure it will get frustrated with dodging traffic and move elsewhere, at least for the summer,” stated Congdon.

Congdon predicts the sea otter will find a quiet and safe place at the far end of the Ucluelet inlet to sleep.  It is likely we will still see it occasionally as it swims past the fish plants looking for a tasty morsel of food.  It will be a lovely surprise to observe our resident sea otter when we are able too.

Note:  If you plan on boating in and out of the Ucluelet Harbour please keep your eye out for sea otters.  Remember to give them space and enjoy them from a respectable distance.

Don’t miss your chance to see Ucluelet’s resident sea otter.  Book your whale watching adventure package before the summer season.  We hope to see you (and the sea otter) soon!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Photo: Brian Congdon

“The Kennedy Flats watershed in Clayoquot Sound holds 400 kilometers of salmon-bearing streams.  Decades of destructive old-growth logging left 70% of these once-vibrant streams in ruin, but the Central Westcoast Forest Society is helping to bring the salmon back.”

The Central Westcoast Forest Society (CWFS) focuses on restoration for damaged ecosystems on the west coast of Vancouver Island.  These ecosystems have been damaged from human activities like logging, mining, or urban development.

“As a secondary goal we try to restore people back to the land.” – Don McMillan, Chair of CWFS.  Excerpt from recent CWFS film.

Watch this video to learn more about the CWFS.  Learn how poor logging practices in the 60s and 70s damaged our forests, specifically our salmon bearing streams in Clayoquot Sound and the great work CWFS is doing to fix it!

Central Westcoast Forest Society from Central Westcoast Forest Society on Vimeo.

Fortunately, with research and further education of our natural environment logging practices have improved.  Another positive thought is knowing that forests will heal themselves naturally over time.  The CWFS are trying to set up so it will heal faster.  Instead of taking centuries to heal,  it will only take decades to become a productive stream.

CWFS is a charity based organization built of members from the communities on the west coast of Vancouver Island with good representation of local First Nations as well as elected officials from local communities on its board.  They promote stewardship by implementing local outreach activities, employment and education.  These community outreach programs include things like restoration tours, educational workshops, and fundraisers.

CWFS only has part time employees and runs on the hard work of volunteers and donations.  How can you help?

Support the Central Westcoast Forest Society at the 2013 Salmon to Sea Fundraiser on April 20th!

The 3rd annual Salmon to Sea Fundraiser will be held at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in Ucluelet on Saturday, April 20, 2013. The Fundraiser will include a silent auction with items donated from local businesses.

Enjoy live music from The Cumberland Brothers, a high energy brother harmony act with roots in Bluegrass and Old Country music, will be there to entertain the crowd.

Last year with your help CWFS raised $10,000 to put towards salmon habitat restoration. Join us this year to check out the CWFS 2012/13 Completion Report and see what your support helped to do. At the Fundraiser, learn about projects planned for the 2013 restoration season and help us raise more for salmon habitat restoration!

Come support local salmon and forest restoration efforts and the work of Central Westcoast Forest Society!

Interested in making a donation to this year’s silent auction? Click here to find out how .pdf

*All photos and video courtesy of the Central Westcoast Forest Society

Stay for 3 – Pay for 2

Who doesn’t LOVE getting more and paying less?  Better yet, who doesn’t LOVE spring?  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is offering three nights for the price of two.  Stay 3 nights in a suite of your choice (excludes premium suites) and pay for 2!  An extra night in Ucluelet’s luxury resort means an extra day of west coast exploration.   Offer is only valid until April 30^th so you’ll have to book soon.

What would you do with three days on the west coast of Vancouver Island?

Day One: 

Wake up to the sound of the mighty ocean waves crashing on the shore below your oceanfront luxury suite.  Cook yourself a hearty breakfast in your in suite kitchen OR treat yourself to a gourmet breakfast in Fetch Restaurant.

Head out for a walk along the Wild Pacific Trail.  The Browns Beach section starts right outside of the resort and winds along the rugged coastline.  Watch the waves surge into crevasses in the black cliffs, explore the rainforest and breathe in the fresh ocean air.  Take the same way back to the resort – the view is just as good on the way back!

In the afternoon visit the Ucluelet Aquarium.  This aquarium is in its new facility complete with a 300,000 gallon tide pool, dozens of touch tanks and displays, and interactive programming that gives young and old the opportunity to get up-close and personal with our local marine life.  The Ucluelet Aquarium is a must-see on any trip to Ucluelet.

Day Two

Spend the morning in town browsing through unique shops and artisan galleries.  The west coast of Vancouver Island has a vibrant local art scene and much of it can be seen in galleries and shops in town.  View local photography, painting, sculptures, pottery, carvings, glass art, weaving and jewellery.  There are also unique gift shops offering west coast inspired souvenirs.

In the afternoon book a kayaking package and take a guided kayaking tour through Ucluelet’s harbour.  Exploring the harbour by kayak allows you to view wildlife like bald eagles, sea lions, intertidal life and even black bears.  Your knowledgeable guide will teach you about the natural history and rich culture around Ucluelet’s working harbour.

Taste the best of west coast cuisine at Fetch Restaurant, a true fine dining experience with floor to ceiling windows that overlook the Pacific Ocean.  Your gourmet meal is carefully prepared by our amazing Chef Louise Pickles and her team.  Try the Wild “Pacific Provider” Coho Salmon, Seared Quadra Island Scallops or the Grilled Fraser Valley Pork Loin.  Check out the dinner menu.

Day Three

If you haven’t had breakfast at Fetch Restaurant, today is your day!  My favourite is the Black Rock Benny.  Check out the full breakfast menu.

After breakfast, head to a local grocery store or cafe and pick up a picnic lunch.  Today is the day you explore the beautiful beaches of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.

Start out at Florencia Bay.  This pretty little bay is a favourite among locals for its breathtaking scenery, sandy beach, interesting black pebbles and river mouth.  A walk through the forest and down a wooden staircase takes you to the beach.  Explore the beach by walking to the river and back, starting south of the trail staircase.

Wickaninnish Beach is where you’ll find the Kwisitis Visitor Centre.  This centre is like a museum of west coast nature, First Nations history and marine life.  You’ll find interpretive displays and interactive programming, along with educational videos in the theatre and outdoor programs too.  Ask a Parks Canada staff member for more information.

Both Wickaninnish Beach and the infamous Long Beach are great for beach walks, flying a kite, building sand castles and surfing.  Book a surfing package at the resort and learn how to paddle out and catch a wave.  Lessons are available for surfers of all ages and abilities and include gear rental.  By the end of the afternoon you could be standing up on a surf board and riding into shore!

If you have the time and aren’t in a rush to head back to the east coast of Vancouver Island, stay on the beach and watch the sun set.  Wickaninnish Beach is the best place to watch the sun set.

Your three days on the west coast will be three days you’ll never forget.  We hope you take advantage of our Spring Special and book today!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Did you know that a population of over 20,000 Gray whales migrate passed the west coast of Vancouver Island every spring as they head to their feed grounds near Alaska?  That means Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is perched along the migrating whale super highway!

Even walking along the Wild Pacific Trail you could potentially spot a blow hole spray or two as these gentle giants swim by.  Many whales don’t travel all the way to the Bering Sea and choose to stay near Ucluelet and Barkley Sound for the summer.  Some whales stay here season after season and we start to ‘get to know’ certain individuals.  These are called resident whales.

The spring is a good time to come whale watching, but it is not the ONLY good time.  It is just the kick off to whale watching season.  Humpback and Gray whales are spotted daily all summer and even into the fall.  It is this time of year that we start to see them return and we welcome them!

Brian Congdon of Subtidal Adventures has fully embraced the start of the whale watching season and has been out on the water with 100% success since March 1st.  He send us reports on whale and other wildlife sightings.  Here are some of his comments:

We are seeing some of the same individuals as in previous years.  As much as possible we are using the Salmon Beach area resident grays which are feeding on herring roe. 

The sea conditions are usually pretty good there compared to the open ocean so we would much rather go there.  One year ago today was the start of about three weeks of “friendly” encounters with a select few gray whales.  It didn’t happen every time, but on a lot of the trips it did.  It truly is amazing. 

We had a seven year summer resident Humpback show up in Mayne bay last week, the earliest I have ever seen her.  Of course, there are plenty of migrating Grays just off shore.  Yesterday we watched, in addition to migrants, three resident Grays in some of the usual summer feeding areas.  At least they think it’s summer.  I’m not so sure. 

The really cool thing about yesterday was the sea otter feeding by Hyphocus island at the mouth of the harbour and then later in the morning sleeping in Stuart bay.  It’s actually not the first time this year we’ve seen a sea otter at the harbour mouth. 

Photos below are one of the whales we saw, morning and afternoon, from yesterday as well as the otter.  Every whale has different white spots, that’s how we can identify individuals.

*Photography by Brian Congdon

We just finished the 27th Annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival last week.  During the week there were many educational events that taught us about the local marine biodiversity at the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, the Ucluelet Aquarium and out on the water including a special Marine Mammal Research Day.

On this trip local naturalist and marine mammal researcher Wendy Szaniszlo joined Brian Congdon to host an interactive research trip on the zodiac boat through Barkley Sound.  Brian is very knowledgable about the natural and cultural history of Barkley Sound and has been conducting local tours in Barkley Sound for over 30 years.  Wendy has been researching sea lions and conducting whale surveys for over 10 years.  Combined, these two provide an amazing learning experience as guests were introduced to identifying individual whales, discovering what they eat, and investigating sea lion movements.

If you missed this research event, don’t worry, there are plenty more like it coming up this summer!  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has teamed up with Brian and Subtidal Adventures for another year.  That means when you book a whale watching package with Black Rock you will experience the beauty of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands along with Brian’s extensive knowledge of marine wildlife and the west coast.

We hope to see you out on the water!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

The audience was captivated as Stephen Fearing performed at Barnacle Blues, an annual fundraiser event hosted by Black Rock Oceanfront Resort for the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.  All eyes were locked on  Fearing; and all ears eagerly anticipating the next lyric and bit of melody.  From folk, roots, blues to country western Stephen Fearing puts stories to song in a way that truly captures the essence of Canadian music and songwriting.

His 18 year long career with Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, along with a seven year solo career has enabled Fearing with clear musical talent and the ability to work the crowd.  Between every song he shared a story or humourous antidote, receiving chuckles and applause from an obviously entertained crowd.

“Has anyone seen how amazing the bathrooms are at Black Rock?”  He asked.  “You can park a car in there.  I am living the dream!”  The audience responded with laughter and applause.

Fearing won multiple Juno Awards in 2006 for his first solo album Yellowjacket.  He took a seven year break before releasing his latest album Between Hurricanes earlier this year.  Throughout his two sets at Barnacle Blues he played songs from his solo albums along with old time favourites from Blackie and the Rodeo Kings and his other project Fearing & White.  His lyrics are strung together like poetry, fastened by quick acoustic picking that showcases his obvious musical talent.

Opening for Stephen Fearing was Viper Central, an original bluegrass/roots band from Vancouver.  Viper Central is easily loveable with creative bluegrass style melodies that are both traditionally classic and authentically adventurous.  Viper Central played at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in November and we were pleased to welcome them back again.

It was easy to tap your toes as they played their original songs ranging from lively gospel to soulful (and sometimes sorrowful) folk/blues and barn-dancing bluegrass.  Stand up bass, acoustic guitar, fiddle, steel guitar and the occasional banjo combine to create a sound these local crowds keep coming back for.

Barnacle Blues is a fundraiser for the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, an annual spring festival in Ucluelet and Tofino that celebrates spring on the west coast of Vancouver Island.  There was a silent auction as well.   Proceeds from ticket sales and the silent auction go towards the festival every year.  Thank you everyone for coming out and participating in this amazing evening of music and fun.

For more photos visit Black Rock Oceanfront Resorts FACEBOOK page.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is proud to host ArtSplash! – an annual spring art show run by the Pacific Rim Arts Society.

This year’s ArtSplash! has over 200 pieces of art on display showcasing the local talent of nearly 75 artists, including a children’s section upstairs featuring art created by Ucluelet and Tofino’s young and aspiring artists. Paintings, photography, sculptures and carvings; you’ll find them all on display in Black Rock’s lobby until the end of the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.

I met a couple at ArtSplash! who were visiting from the United Kingdom. They were very impressed by the works on display and asked me if they were all produced by local west coast artists. I was proud to answer YES!

“The creativity of some of the pieces was so ingenious,” said the woman. “We couldn’t believe that such a small community had such talent!”

The Pacific Rim Arts Society (PRAS) is a volunteer-based, non-profit society that serves the communities on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Since 1970 PRAS has introduced thousands of local community members and visitors to the work of local and visiting artists including visual artists, actors, writers, film makers, dancers and musicians.

Over the years PRAS has encouraged a lively, diverse, and self sustaining arts sector that has become an integral part of our community here on the Pacific Rim. Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has been hosting ArtSplash! for several years and is proud to be a part of this effort to share local art and encourage others to participate in the art and culture of the west coast.

When we meet people visiting from abroad and see how excited they are to engage with our local art it makes us very proud to be a part of this creative and inspiring culture. There is something truly unique about the influence the west coast has on art and culture. It is exciting to share it with those visiting from other parts of the world.

“We love seeing things that are different when we are on holiday,” said my new friends from the UK. “We visit art galleries in the UK, but we don’t get to see the First Nations influence like here on the west coast of Canada. The carvings and paintings are so unique. They are so special.”

ArtSplash! is running daily during the Pacific Rim Whale Festival (March 16th-25th, 2013) in the lobby at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort. Members of the Pacific Rim Arts Society are on site to answer any questions you might have about the local art scene and PRAS. Treat yourself to some west coast art and support local talent!

For more photos visit Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s FACEBOOK page.

For more information visit www.pacificrimarts.ca or call 250-266-2094.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

“I caught a little crab that is going to be in the Ucluelet Aquarium!” a proud girl exclaimed to her mother. She pointed proudly at it in the red basin, perched on the sandy beach in her rubber boots.

The Ucluelet Aquarium hosts the Beach Seine Interactive Specimen Collecting at Terrace Beach every spring. As part of the Pacific Rim Whale Festival this event welcomes young and old to come learn about the life in our ocean and intertidal zones while collecting interesting specimens for the Ucluelet Aquarium.

It’s an opportunity to experience a few hours ‘in the shoes’ (or in the hip-waders) of Dave Hurwitz, the aquarium curator, and his enthusiastic team. Our biologist friends from the aquarium teach us about each colourful critter caught. After learning about its natural habits and behaviors on the beach, participants are instructed to either help return the specimen to the sea or that it will be a part of the aquarium display this season.

Ucluelet Aquarium Opens for the Season

The Ucluelet Aquarium opened its doors for the season on Saturday, March 16th. The brand new facility had its Grand Opening last June. This beautiful facility, located on Ucluelet’s waterfront across from the Village Green, is a world class centre of marine education and discovery! They thrive to provide up-close and personal encounters with marine life from under the sea and intertidal zones.

In its centre is a 300,000 gallon central tide pool filled with fish, anemones, a variety of sea plants and other local ocean dwellers. More than a dozen other display tanks are set up all around it including interactive touch tanks. Visitors have the opportunity to touch star fish, hold a sea cucumber, or participate in predator and prey demonstrations from aquarium staff.

Colourful critters, crawlers, and swimmers are all gathered from local waters for the displays each spring. At the end of the season all of the sea life is returned back into the wild during a Release Day event well attended by the local community. This means the marine life on display changes every year. This year you might see wolf eels, star fish, juvenile halibut and other flounders, colourful anemones, urchins, a variety of crabs, sea cucumbers, clams, scallops, and even a baby octopus!

The staff at the Ucluelet Aquarium are available to discuss ideas about marine biology, our relationship with the ocean, and to answer any questions you might have while observe the displays. You’ll also learn how the creatures are cared for during their stay at the aquarium. Through interpretive programming, live demonstrations, and educational activities for all ages a visit to the Ucluelet Aquarium is the best way to truly interact with the biodiversity of the west coast.

For more information visit their website at www.uclueletaquarium.org and stay up-to-date with Ucluelet Aquarium creatures, critters, news and events on their FACEBOOK PAGE.

Until next time!

Amy Hancock

Hanging out with Knuckles the Gray Whale

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort wins the People’s Choice for the Best Chowder at the Annual Chowder Chowdown!

More than 600 hundred people piled into the Ucluelet Community Centre this afternoon to indulge in the finest seafood chowders the west coast has to offer.  After receiving voting tokens and a wooden spoon the hungry crowds walked by the welcoming sign to the Chowder Chowdown.

“Are you HUNGRY?  You’ve come to the right place!”

Seven restaurants and cafes, including a few aspiring chefs from Ucluelet’s Youth Room, cooked up their finest chowder creations for this Pacific Rim Whale Festival favourite event.  The room quickly filled with chowder lovers, lined up to taste these concoctions and cast their vote for their favourite.

Chef’s busily stirred pots of steaming, creamy chowder.  Some garnished with bacon, smoked salmon, or fresh herbs.  Others confidently scooped out their chowders with no additions, handing it over to lip smackers and chow downers.  The mood was vibrant with live bluegrass music by the local Tofino band Poor Pistols.  Visitors and the local community filled the room with chowder chatter and lots of laughter.

Chowder Chowdown is the most competitive culinary event in the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.  Our very talented Chef Louise Pickles was up to the challenge.  Last year, the team at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s Fetch Restaurant took home the title for Best Chowder in both the People’s Choice and the Judges category.  With a few tricks up her sleeve, a dash of spice, and a whole lot of fresh seafood Chef Pickles was able to please the crowd.

Fetch Restaurant at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort took home the title, and a very nice trophy, for Chowder Chow Down Champion Chowder for the People’s Choice Award.  Their name will appear on the trophy right beside their name from 2012’s competition.

“It was a lot of fun!” said Chef Louise Pickles.  “We are excited to be able to take the trophy back again!”

Their winning chowder stole the show with full chunks of smoked halibut, salmon and lingcod.  All of the fish was smoked the day before the chowder was cooked up.  New potatoes, bacon, corn, cayan pepper and smoke paprika were perfectly combined to create delicious chowder that is true to west coast comfort cuisine.

Congratulations to Chef Pickles and her team at Fetch Restaurant for their victory!

In second place were Wildside Grill and Long Beach Lodge from Tofino.  New to the competition was the Barkley Cafe here in Ucluelet.  The Barkley Cafe won first place in the Judges category.  Congratulations to all of the competitors this year and thank you to the community for coming out to this tasty event!

Want to see more photos?  Visit our FACEBOOK page.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Having fun at the Pacific Rim Whale Festival!

Barnacle Blues now featuring Juno Award winner Stephen Fearing!

Barnacle Blues, a Pacific Rim Whale Festival Event, has become an annual tradition for Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, blues-loving locals and toe-tapping whale festival visitors.  Soulful melodies fill the room with blues/roots rough around the edges but drenched in smooth southern comforts.  This is an evening you will not want to miss!

The Music

Stephen Fearing

Performing this year is Canadian folk singer-song writer Stephen Fearing.  In addition to his solo career, Fearing was one of the founding members of Blackie and the Rodeo Kings along with Colin Linden and Tom Wilson.  He is also a member of the duo Fearing & White with Irish artist Andy.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is proud to present this multiple Juno Award winning artist to the Barnacle Blues stage!  Learn more about Stephen Fearing and his music in this YouTube video:

‘After keeping busy performing and writing with others (Blackie & the Rodeo Kings, Fearing & White), this talented Canadian songwriter returns with a wallop.  Between Hurricanes…features Fearing’s arresting voice, accomplished acoustic picking, and his ability to turn a phrase with ease. The storied songs invite you to grab a coffee, and sit and listen long.’  - Review of latest album ‘Between Hurricanes’ from www.nodepression.com 

Viper Central

Opening for Stephen Fearing is Viper Central, a six-piece acoustic string-band that takes that “high lonesome sound” to new places.

All six band members contribute original songs, but won’t hesitate to deliver up their take on an ages-old mournful waltz or bring the house down with a barn-burning bluegrass standard.

Listen to Viper Central’s Music.

The Event

Barnacle Blues is an annual fundraising event with proceeds going to the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.  Show your support by attending this amazing evening of music, food, prizes and whale festival fun!  Here are some photos from previous events:

Enjoy gourmet appetizers from Black Rock’s talented chefs and complimentary drinks.

This event is always well attended to be sure to get your tickets soon!  Tickets are $40 or $45 at the door.  Call 1-877-762-5011 or pick them up at the following locations:

• Black Rock Oceanfront Resort (Ucluelet)
• Murray’s Grocery (Ucluelet)
• Barkley Cafe (Ucluelet)
• The Mermaid Tails Bookshop (Tofino)
• Groovy Movie (Tofino)

Last spring a local Ucluelet whale watching tour had a special encounter with a Gray whale they will never forget.

The adventure started as most whale and wildlife tours do, with a scenic cruise through Barkley Sound.  Anxious whale watchers scanned the horizon for the sight of blow hole sprays.  When some whale action was spotted the engine was cut and bobbing in the Pacific Ocean, they waited to see what these whales were going to do.

“…suddenly one individual whale decided he wanted to play and swam right over towards us!”  Brian Congdon of Subtidal Adventures exclaimed when he was telling me the story last year.  “This hardly ever happens.  We were very lucky!”

The curious Gray whale came right up to the zodiac boat.  It turned on its side to reveal its eye.  This whale was people watching!  It didn’t stop there.  The whale actually came so close to the boat that the people were able to reach out and touch him!

Photo Courtesy of Brian Congdon

“Not only did the whale allow us to reach out and touch him, he kept coming back for more.  He was obviously aware of his position next to the boat and even rubbed against it a little bit to scratch the barnacles on his head!”  shared Congdon.

“Close encounters like these are just the icing on the cake for wildlife viewing.  We get a close swim by maybe once a year if that but to actually have a whale physically come over and hang out is pretty rare and it only happens every 5 years or so.”  Congdon continued, “We cut our engines at 100 metres and if anyone wants a closer look, it’s totally up to the whale!”

It is encounters like this that are cause for celebration!  As west coasters we embrace our culture and the sometimes enchanting perks of living by the ocean.  We also embrace the life actually LIVING in the ocean and the environment we share.  That is part of the reason we celebrate with the annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival.

The Pacific Rim Whale Festival commemorates the return of the Gray whales as they journey passed the west coast of Vancouver Island on their annual migration.  They are coming from the warm and protected lagoons of Baja, Mexico where they go each year to mate and bear their calves.  When their calves are strong enough they start their migration towards the Bering and Chuksi Seas near Alaska to feed.

Over 20,000 Gray whales make this journey each year.  It takes two to three months to reach the cold food-rich waters near Alaska, swimming an average of 120 kilometres a day.  Many of these whales stop to feed near Ucluelet.  Some stop for a rest and feed on the herring spawn we have each spring in Barkley Sound.  Some stop for the entire season, much to our delight!

The 27^th annual Pacific Rim Whale Festival is March 16^th to 24^th.  Events happen all week in both Ucluelet and Tofino and include:  pancake breakfasts, a parade, culinary events, live music, art shows, nature walks and educational talks about wildlife and the environment, fun contests, special children’s programming, dancing, and A LOT of WHALE WATCHING.

This week is an amazing time to visit Ucluelet and the west coast of Vancouver Island.  With multiple events happening every day of the festival in Ucluelet, the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and Tofino you will truly experience our coastal traditions, unique (and somewhat magical) environment, and more than your share of west coast wildlife.

Learn more about the Pacific Rim Whale Festival and check out their Events Calendar.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Hanging out with Knuckles the Gray Whale

Last spring, on a complete whim, I bought two kayaks.  I have always been an avid hiker and love connecting with nature while exploring the outdoors on foot.  It suddenly dawned on me the kind of exploration I could do, the diversity of flora and fauna I would encounter, and the distance I could cover if I could get on the water.

I had been kayaking on a few guided trips with local kayaking companies in Ucluelet in the past, so I had a taste of what I was about to gorge on.  I had already learned that kayaking is both a form of exercise as well as a form of relaxation.  I have built memories of kayaking in the Broken Group Islands and the Ucluelet Harbour that I will always cherish.  In my experience, kayaking had given me a great workout while enabling me to submerge further into nature and wilderness, discovering new things with every stroke of the paddle.

“It’s like hiking, but on the water.” I tell my friends.  “Instead of a viewpoint on a mountain top you can paddle under waterfalls and alongside porpoises.”

Around every bend in the shoreline is a new cove or inlet, a different wild animal, stream, waterfall or forest.  The perspective you get while in a kayak is completely unique to this type of watercraft.  You are lower than you would be in a canoe, almost as though you were a bird or a duck swimming along with half its belly in the water.  You can be silent, unlike a motorboat or skiff, and are not obtrusive to nature or the wildlife within it.  In a kayak, you can completely and quietly become a part of your environment.  To me, that is very exciting.

I am not the only one who feels this way about the abilities of a kayak.  They have been around for over 4000 years!  They were first created by the Inuit people who lived near the coasts of the Arctic Ocean, Bering Sea and both North Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.  They made them out of animal skins, usually seal, stretched over a frame made of wood or whale bone.

The word “kayak” means “hunter’s boat.”  Traditionally each boat was built by its owner, and was never used by anyone else.  In those days, kayaks were used for hunting on lakes, rivers and the ocean.  They were also used for transporting people or other goods.  Nowadays, kayaks are predominantly used for leisure and recreation.

Kayaking Year Round

The Ucluelet Harbour is a wonderful place to explore by kayak and is a great introduction to sea kayaking.  Your guide will take you across the harbour and up the coastline on the east side of the harbour.  At high tide you can paddle up to a breathtaking hidden waterfall and visit the local fish hatchery up Thornton Creek.  You’ll also get to see the rocky shorelines up close, view creatures like starfish on the rocks, and paddle under towering old growth trees.

As you cross back over to the west side of the harbour, turn your eyes to the sky and watch for soaring eagles.  Other wildlife can be spotted while you paddle by commercial fishing boats and fish plants, learning about the fishing industry that contributes to our economy on the west coast.

There are guided kayaking trips available year round out of Ucluelet.  Dependant on the weather conditions, you can book a half day kayaking trip in the Ucluelet Harbour.  Since these trips only go out on a trip to trip basis in the off season (November-March) it is important that you call in advance to book your trip.  Be aware that your trip can be cancelled if the weather does not corporate.

For more information contact our friends at Majestic Ocean Kayaking.  www.oceankayaking.com

Kayaking Marathon

This kayaking race is not for the faint at heart!  It is a high speed race around the Ucluelet Harbour taking place in June in conjunction with the Edge to Edge Marathon.  The race takes about 3 hours of hardcore paddling with prizes rewarded for a mens, womens, and doubles category.

There are limited spots available so if you’re keen to give it a try register online or head to the Paddle the Edge webpage.

I am looking forward to starting an early season of kayaking in Ucluelet, one of the best sea kayaking destinations in North America.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Big Beach is a beautiful sandy bay that is protected by rugged headlands and surrounded by rainforest.  It is located right in Ucluelet next to Black Rock Oceanfront Resort and across the street from the Ucluelet Community Centre on Matterson Drive.

With easy and close accessibility, stunning coastal scenery, unique marine wildlife, and many recreational activities, this beach is a local favourite.  It is a great place to pass a morning or afternoon during your stay in Ucluelet.

Things to do on Big Beach:

Explore the colourful and unique intertidal life that lives here.  You can see bright orange and purple starfish, sea stars, clams, crabs, sea anemones, fish and a variety of plant life.  Before you head out, make sure you check a tide table to ensure you are exploring at the lowest tide.  We are fortunate to have such an abundance of different species in our intertidal zones.  The rock in this area is a stable and secure environment with lots of nutrients for many marine invertebrates, algae, and plant life.

Beach combing.  Spends some time walking along the rocky and sandy shores of Big Beach finding treasures like sea shells, drift wood, colourful and smooth stones, and beach glass.  If you are very lucky, you might even find a very rare glass Japanese fishing float.

Have a picnic.  Big Beach is a great place to have a picnic or barbeque with your family and friends.  There is a covered eating area and barbeque pit along with close parking and public toilets.  Eat your lunch after a morning of exploration and enjoy this sandy bay that is surrounded by massive old growth rainforest.

Meander along the Big Beach section of the Wild Pacific Trail.  This section of trail is short, but goes up the south side of Big Beach, taking your through sandy sections, over giant drift logs, through tall beach grass and towards the rocky point directly across from Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

You can also take the trail in the opposite direction and discover a forested trail, boardwalk, and a viewing deck high in the trees.  This section is close to the very accessible Browns Beach section that passes around Black Rock Oceanfront Resort and continues up the breathtaking coastline.

Have a campfire.  Gather your friends and family, brings a few snacks, and do what us west coasters love to do on a mild evening in Ucluelet – have a campfire on the beach.  Fires are permitted on Big Beach, but everyone must do their part to ensure the fire is responsibly managed and put out afterwards.  Gather driftwood and build yourself a warm fire as you listen to the waves crash into the shore and watch the stars come out one by one.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is located on the Northern headland of Big Beach.  Many of our luxury suites are situated near the beach, offering spectacular views of this natural bay.  We are fortunate to call Big Beach our backyard, and with such easy accessibility you will be able to enjoy this beach as much as we do!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

This is your favourite scene.  She walks out onto the beach alone.  The sun is low in the sky, peering out through long wisps of cloud, allowing just bits and pieces of the sun’s light to shine onto her face.  She walks through the sand, kicking at beach glass and washed up sea shells with her head down.  Then he arrives.

He comes around the large rocks on the other side of the beach and sees her.  From his point of view she is the image of true beauty, easily melting into the breathtakingly beautiful landscape around her.  He starts to move towards her when she looks up and sees him.

They rush towards each other, leaving footprints in the sand, until they reach each other and stop.  Looking into her eyes, with nothing but the sound of waves coming into the shore, he takes both of her hands and pulls her in for a kiss just as the last of the sun sets below the horizon.

CUT!

This isn’t a movie.  This could be real life…and it could be this weekend!  The romantic beaches and legendary forests on the west coast of Vancouver Island make the kind of backdrop that encourages any kind of romantic notion.  Combine that natural force with wine, fine dining, gourmet desserts, and a luxury suite with stunning ocean views and you have a romantic weekend fit for the silver screen.

We want to give you the opportunity to surprise your lover with a Valentine’s Day getaway weekend this weekend, February 15^th and 16^th.  It’s not too late to book Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s Sweetheart Package and turn up the romance for Valentine’s weekend 2013.  It will be one you and your special someone always remember.

Arrive at your west coast inspired luxury suite and find handmade chocolates and a gift from Drift Spa, 100% natural bath salts for relaxing in your massive soaker tub…that like the rest of your room, has a view of the Pacific ocean.  The next day, walk hand in hand on the beach or on the Wild Pacific Trail and have the kind of experience I wrote about in the beginning of this blog.  With the kind of coastal scenery we have here in Ucluelet, it’s not uncommon for couples to be inspired for romance here!

Saturday night, February 16^th, you will be delighted with the Sweetheart’s Dinner at Fetch Restaurant.  This fine dining experience will introduce culinary wonders like you’ve never had before (unless you’ve eaten at Fetch before).  This dinner is for two, and is followed by the Chocolate Addiction Dessert Event in the Wine Cellar.  Wake up slow on Sunday morning and enjoy breakfast-in-bed delivered to your suite at a time of your choice.

Sweetheart Dinner

The Sweetheart Dinner is also available for those who are not staying at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort as part of the Valentine’s weekend Sweetheart Package.  The cost is just $75 per person and reservations are required.  Call 250-726-4800.

Dinner is February 16^th only from 5:30-9:00PM Check out this menu!

Sweetheart Dinner & Chocolate Addiction Dessert

Brioche and Whipped Butter

Salmon Caviar, Avocado Mousse,

Pomme Graufrette

Watermelon Caviar, Avocado Mousse

Pomme Graufrette

Two Rivers Pemberton Beef Tartare

Potato Rosti, Truffled Quail Egg

Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Roasted Red Pepper and Garlic Confit,

Potato Rosti, Truffled Quail Egg

Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Caramelized Sable Fish

Soy and Sake Marinade

Braised Shitake Mushrooms and Toasted Quinoa

Yuzu Citrus Reduction

or

Oven Roasted Fraser Valley Duck Breast

Barley Risotto, Baby Carrots and Cipolini Onions

Spiced Carrot and Orange Puree

Chocolate Jus

Parmesan and Mushroom Gnocchi

House Made Gnocchi Parisienne

Cultivated BC Mushrooms and Kale

Creamy Parmesan Emulsion

Palate Cleanser

Chocolate Addiction Dessert Buffet in the Wine Cellar

Guests move from Fetch to Wine Cellar after dinner for dessert course

Chocolate Fountain

Marshmallows, Strawberries and Fruit Skewers

Hot Chocolate Station

Espresso, Fresh Chili, Maple Whipped Cream

Dulce De Leche

Chocolate Dessert Selection

Le Bar, Chocolate Mousse, Chocolate Eclairs

The Banana slug is a somewhat gooey creature that leaves a delightfully interesting trail of slug ooze behind it.  If you have never come across a Banana slug you have come to the right place to see one!  They can be spotted in the forest, on any trail, and even front yard here on the west coast.

The Pacific Banana slug is a native species that thrives in our mossy, damp, rainforest floors.  This coastal territory isn’t the only place you might encounter a Banana Slug.  They can also be found inland in forested slopes of coastal mountains as far south as San Diego, California and as far north as Alaska.  A small and isolated population of these slugs also live in the ‘wet belt’ of BC’s interior near Revelstoke, but are almost always living in the dampest of these areas near creeks and gullies.

They are usually a bright yellow colour like a banana, but can also be green, brown, white, or even spotted.  Our Pacific Banana slug is the second largest species of slug in the world!  They can grow up to 25 centimetres long and weight up to 115 grams.  They are very slow and only move about 15cm per minute.

Why are they so slimy?  Dehydration is a major problem for these little guys and can be fatal.  Therefore, they secrete a thick coating of mucus around their entire body.  If the weather is hot and/or dry the slug will secrete this protective coating of goo and put themselves beneath layers of soil and leaves and aestivate.  Aestivating is a form of hibernation.  They’ll stay in this state until it’s safe to come out!

This slime also has pheromones in it, and it helps them attract a mate.

In my research I also learned that Banana slugs are a key ingredient to the forests ecosystem.  They are decomposers.  They consume animal droppings, dead plant material, and leaves and recycle them into a stable organic matter that helps soil retain moisture and nutrients, promoting growth of vegetation.   Our sluggish friends love to process mushrooms, spread the spores and seeds, and expel a nitrogen rich fertilizer.

Racoons, geese, and ducks are on the list of usual predators for the Banana slug.  Surprisingly enough, they aren’t the only ones who like slugs for lunch!  Banana slugs were also eaten by indigenous people of the North coast and by German immigrants in the 19^th century.  There is also a festival held in California that holds a slug recipe contest.  I would not like to be a judge at that competition.

The next time you are walking on the Wild Pacific Trail, or exploring the trails in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, keep your eyes to the ground and watch for Banana slugs.  If you move a hand near their head they will perk up their antennae, sensing the motion of your hand.  Although they may seem a little slimy (and gross), they are a very interesting creature and a vital part of our unique ecosystem.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Our local photographers will tell you that the west coast of Vancouver Island is a dream to photograph. From monstrous and wild winter waves to mysterious and giant rainforests, and unique wildlife; Ucluelet, British Columbia calls photographers to the coastline, both amateur and professional.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is excited to present this years West Coast Photo Showdown on March 16th, 2013 as part of the Pacific Rim Whale Festival. Formerly known as the winter wave photo showdown, this photography contest has been tweaked and expanded to include several categories for all levels of photographers.

The evening of the West Coast Photo Showdown will be a blast! We will have live music by Ucluelet’s own Left at the Junction. Plus, there will be door prizes, wine and beer tasting stations, drink specials, and the top 40 photo entries up on disply for your enjoyment.

It will be in the Rainforest Ballroom with doors opening at 7:00pm.  The contest is People’s Choice, so you will get a ballot for each category and will be able to vote for your favourite in each.  The winners will be announced at 9:00pm.

Good luck and we hope to see you on March 16th!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Here are the West Coast Photo Showdown Categories:

1. Winter Wave: show us this years biggest, most bad A$% wave from our local area (with or without surfers) * Must be taken between January 1, 2012 and March 1 2013.

2. West Coast Whales & Wildlife: We are surrounded by some amazing creatures. Share with us your close encounters with West Coast whales and wildlife – open dates

3. West Coast Nature & Scenery: define our local area by showcasing our natural wonders- beaches, trees, sunsets, storms and so much more – open dates, so send us what you’ve got!

4. *New Professionals ONLY Category: if you are a professional photographer we are looking for your best local photo! This can be waves, wildlife, scenery or whatever you think best shows our local area. Professionals are those with a photography based education, those who have a photography business and actively sell their own photos or services… you know who you are and we can`t wait to see your amazing west coast photos.

Winning Photo’s for each category will be announced at the event as voted by the guests. 1 ballot per person, 1 entry per category.

Make sure you read the fine print (rules and regulations) below:

Time is limited and all photographs must be entered by March 1st, 2013 (less than a month away!). Send them to dstothers@blackrockresort.com or bring in digital high resolution copies and entry fee to the Black Rock front desk. The entry fee is $5 per photo with a maximum of 5 photos submitted per category per photography.

Top 40 photo’s will be printed and entered into the event- all photo`s are entered into the contest upon receipt of payment. Cash payment only. Contest entry form and photo release waiver form required to be sign for submission. Paper copies available at front desk or print it out here (coming soon)

Photo submissions can be physical prints, or digital copies in jpeg format. If photo gets chosen in Top 40 Finalists, high resolution digital copy is required.

Image must include date, location, the name of photographer, and 50 words or less to describe and distinguish the photo

All photos must be taken within the Ucluelet and Tofino boundaries

All photos must be original

The judging panel for the Top 40 finalist will be made up of local representatives- to be announced soon

Option for finalists to be included in local tourism calendar and on other local marketing materials!

When it rains, it pours.  When it pours it seems to come at us from all directions, pushed by fierce winds that create intense waves.  We don’t mind this kind of weather; in fact, we delight in it and look forward to it.  Winter storms in Ucluelet bring in waves like giant monsters reaching 10-15 feet into the sky.  They crash with such fury into our rugged, rocky shoreline it sends out a BOOM and sounds like someone has turned up the bass during this wet and wild performance.

Storm watching has become a very popular activity on the west coast.  There are plenty of safe places outdoors to take in the raw power of a winter storm, and for those who would rather stay inside; there are lots of cozy places that offer dry front row seats to the storm as well.  Fetch Restaurant, Float Lounge, and nearly every room at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has floor to ceiling windows to watch the winter weather out of.

What Causes these Winter Storms? 

Ucluelet is located in British Columbia’s South Coast region.  The general flow of the land makes us vulnerable to a lot of westerly winds and most wet weather systems are carried over the Pacific Ocean right to our coast, especially in the winter.

Even though it may seem icy cold, the Pacific Ocean actually supplies heat and that is why we have such moderate temperatures year round compared to inland BC.  Because of these moderate and mild temperatures we have both warmer and colder air interacting with each other.  When they mix they create a low pressure system.  In the winter months, a low pressure system approaching the coast starts to draw even colder air down from the north.  This makes the system rapidly increase and intensify and as the pressure falls the waves get bigger and the wind speed increases.

The mountains on Vancouver Island provide more of a shelter for this kind of weather, and as a result the east coast of Vancouver Island doesn’t get storms quite as gnarly as the ones we get.  As the storms approach the coast they are lifted up the slopes and a lot of the precipitation occurs up there, usually in the form of snow much to the delight of snow sport enthusiasts near Mount Washington, before reaching the east coast cities with buckets of rain.  These mountains actually make a huge difference in blocking the weather for our east coast neighbors.  Ucluelet and Tofino see about 3,000 millimetres of precipitation each year while Nanaimo sees just 1,150 millimetres.

Storm Watching with Black Rock Oceanfront Resort

The storms are coming in fresh, raw, and wild and we just happen to have the best seats around.  This kind of weather is a nature photographers dream.  Whether you dress up in rain gear and go trekking along the Wild Pacific Trail, or sit cozy by the fire in your luxury suite, you are sure to enjoy the weather this time of year.

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort offers a Storm Watching Package that includes a minimum of two nights’ accommodation, $75 food and beverage credit to use at Fetch Restaurant or Float Lounge, a special Black Rock Umbrella and back by popular demand Black Rock travel mugs.

It looks like I’ll be hanging out on the Wild Pacific Trail near the Amphitrite Lighthouse taking photographs of this rapidly falling low pressure system.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock