“That is a Humpback whale,” said Brian Congdon of Subtidal Adventures.  “Humpbacks will usually breathe 3 or 4 times before diving down again to feed and when they do we’ll usually see then arch their back and then if we’re lucky they’ll show us their tail!”

It did just that.  Another spray is shot into the air followed by an arching grey back and then a gigantic tail as the whale dove into the water again.

I was on a whale watching tour with Subtidal Adventures, a whale watching and wildlife tour company that has been in Ucluelet for over 30 years; and the whale watching partners of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

We started the tour with a cruise through the Ucluelet Harbour.  There we saw bald eagles perched high in a tree on an island in the middle of the harbour.  Following the barks of California sea lions, we found ourselves at the fish plant docks where the sea lions searched for dropped fish scraps for lunch!

When we left the Ucluelet Harbour we went straight out to sea lion rock.  There we saw the crowds of Stellar sea lions basking in the sun shine.  The larger ones let the other’s know who was boss by throwing their heads back and letting out a throaty growl.  Several sea lions dove off the rock into the water and congregated together, floating with their fins out of the water watching our boat as it slowly passed by.

“Let’s go find a whale!” said Brian as he pointed us out to open waters and headed offshore.  It was then that we saw that first blow hole spray and whale’s tail, but that wasn’t the last.

It wasn’t long before another spray signaled the arrival of a second Humpback whale.  We watched as the two whales swam next to each other, taking turns diving.  After 3 or 4 breaths each would give us a steep arch of its back before plunging its body towards the ocean floor in hopes of gathering a mouthful of lunch.

“Humpback whales feed on krill and other baitfish,” said  Brian.  “They take in giant mouthfuls of water and food and then filter the water back out through their baleen.”

Baleen is like a long comb that hangs off of the whale’s top gums in the front and sides of its mouth.  It allows the whale to ‘lunge feed’ by taking in water, and keeping in all the nutrients and food as the water is pushed out.  In one lunge a whale can take in enough water to fill a city bus!  Once the water is filtered out they are usually left with about 11 kilograms of food.  Whales usually feed all day long!

After about half an hour we left our new Humpback whale friends and headed straight for the Broken Group Islands.  This archipelago of over 100 islands, inlets, and rocky outcrops is part of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.  It is nestled in Barkley Sound and provides sheltered waters for boating and kayaking…it is also offers some of the most breathtaking coastal scenery you can find and is truly a gem on the west coast of Vancouver Island.

The water was calm as we traveled through the islands.  We were able to get close to some of the rocky shores to view bald eagles and the thick forests that have grown from these scattered islets.  Since they are only accessible by boat, and are protected by Parks Canada, the Broken Group Islands display truly beautiful, remote, west coast wilderness.

We cut left the Broken Group and drove towards the western shores of Barkley Sound.  Nearing the mouth of the Ucluelet Harbour we stopped at another rock to see some harbour seals.  They are much smaller than sea lions, lighter in colour, and seem fuzzier with puppy dog eyes watching our boat as we coasted by.

                                                

As the boat slowed into the harbour I thought about what I’d seen out on the water that morning.  The new afternoon sun shone warm as we glided through still waters into the inner boat basin.  Bald eagles, Stellar and California sea lions, Humpback whales, harbour seals, and the pristine wilderness of the Broken Group Islands; this trip was one I’ll always remember.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

*Photo Credits:  Eagle & Seal Photos by Brian Congdon*

The Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby has now entered into its third year giving anxious anglers the chance to “Fish to Win” and raise funds and awareness for salmon enhancement projects on the west coast.  When asked if this season’s derby will prove to be as successful as the first two, Brian Clarkson from the Ucluelet Salmon Enhancement Society said, “The proof is in the pudding!”

Photo courtesy of the Ucluelet Salmon Enhancement Society

Here’s how it works:  Every fish caught and registered in the derby is placed on the official Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby Ladder.  The ladder is open for fish May 1^st to September 3^rd.  The top 15 fish caught each month, along with the top 50 of the summer, will qualify for the big Fish Off on September 7^th-8^th.  Huge cash prizes are rewarded to the top fishers each month and over $60,000 in cash and prizes are rewarded throughout the season including the BIG grand prizes rewarded after the Fish Off.

“We hope to have a $10,000 grand prize at the Fish Off this year,” said Clarkson.  “We also hope to match that $10,000 and donate it to the Thornton Creek Hatchery.”

All net proceeds of this summer long fishing event go towards salmon enhancement projects on the west coast.  Specifically, money raised will benefit the Thornton Creek Hatchery and the Pacific Salmon Foundation.

The Thornton Creek Hatchery hatches, raises and releases hundreds of thousands of salmon into local waterways each year.  Last spring Thornton Creek released over 500, 000 Chinook and around 600, 000 Chum. Coho is raised in holding tanks for a year and around 50,000 are released in April/May.  So far, the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby has been able to donate $7000 to the Thornton Creek Hatchery.

New for 2012:

There are two available $250,000 Hidden Weight Grand Prize.  Each day of the final Fish Off, September 7^th and 8^th, participating anglers will enter their names into the draw.  A name will be randomly drawn each day.  If your name is chosen you have to choose one weight out of the 2 salmon you’ve caught that day.  After the weigh-in stations close, on each day of the Fish Off, we will call out a hidden weight provided by the Grand Prize Promotions (GPP).  On Sunday, September 9^th we will be announcing all of our derby winners, including the quarter million dollar winner(s)…should there be one, or even two!  Exciting or what?!

Also new this year is the chance to WIN your way into the Fish Off through the Fish Off Draw, even if you didn’t catch a fish over the summer that ranked in the top 15 for that month.  You are eligible for this draw if your fish is in position 16 to 50 on the ladder at each month’s cut off time: midnight May 31st, June 30th or July 31st. Five Fish Off positions (invitation only) will be announced at a draw made at noon, Sunday, August 19th 2012. To enter into the draw participants have until the 15th of the following month to forward their name, ticket number, fish size and date caught.

Fishing Reports for Ucluelet

Ucluelet has become a world class fishing destination.  The nutrient rich waters in Barkley Sound and at popular locations further from shore like the “Big Bank” attract spawns of herring and other bait fish.  Where there is bait there are feeding salmon!

Chinook, coho, chum, sockeye, and pink salmon can all be found in these waters.  However, your best bet for catching a trophy fish and for landing yourself a profitable seat on the derby ladder would be to reel in a TYEE.  Tyee is the word given to salmon, usually Chinook salmon that weighs over 30lbs.  It is a coastal First Nations word meaning “The Chief”

“All of the predictions from the experts and the sport fishing advisory board say that this is going to be a fine year out on the water,” said Clarkson.

“The Chinooks are returning and they should be bigger than last year.  We expect to see a lot of fish weighing 50lbs or more and might even see some in the 60lbs range!” exclaimed Clarkson.

Now that is something I would love to see!

Quick Links for more information

Registration & Ticket Sales

Event Itinerary

View the Ladder

For more information on fishing in Ucluelet or to book your Fishing Package through Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, just give us a call at 250-726-4800 or book it online.

Tight Lines!

Amy Hancock

I spent the afternoon walking up and down the beach looking for perfectly round, flat, smooth, and dark coloured stones.  There are natural beaches along the west coast near and even right in the village of Ucluelet.  When I found one lying in the sun on top of the sand; I picked it up, brush it off, and touch it to my face to test its smoothness.  The stone had retained the heat of the sun and was warm on my cheek.  Perfect.

“I’ve got one!” I shouted to my friend down the beach.  She is studying therapeutic and hot stone massage and that afternoon we were collecting the perfect set.

It made me think I was overdue for a Hot Stone Massage at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s Drift Spa.

What is Hot Stone Massage?

The idea of a hot stone massage is to use an iron-rich type of rock that holds heat and can transfer it to certain parts of the body.  It improves the circulation of the nervous system, encourages healthy blood flow, and helps relax those tired, stressed out muscles.

The stones are usually heated to the right temperature by an electrical heater unit.  Implemented with the right pressure and in the right places these hot rocks ensure a state of pure, soothing relaxation.

The Physical Benefits of a Hot Stone Massage:

Well obviously, it feels awesome!  Stiff muscles relax while stress and tension subside.  With the right amount of heat and pressure from the stones you’ll feel well rested and rejuvenated after the massage.

Just like any kind of massage, hot stone massage will give you better joint flexibility and range of motion and can enhance athletic performance.  It also improves circulation of blood and movement of lymph fluids, reduces blood pressure, and helps relieve tension-related headaches and effects of eye-strain.

Beyond that it can actually enhance the health and nourishment of your skin, improve your posture, strengthen your immune system and even treat musculoskeletal problems.

The Mental Benefits of a Hot Stone Massage:

Did I tell you it feels awesome!?  More specifically it helps relieve mental stress and fosters a real peace of mind.  You’ll feel your anxiety slip away and your worries fade.  It enhances your capacity for calm thinking and creativity.

It also creates real body awareness and increases your mind-body connection.  Your body will come alive again with more energy and your mind will be strong, ready to think clearly and take on new challenges.

Drift Spa also does Hot Stone Facials

With this 90 minute hot stone facial you will experience the ultimate in peace and relaxation while melting away tension and fatigue with this unique facial. Warm smooth stones are used to gently massage the face and neck as circulation is stimulated and toxins are eliminated.

Book your Hot Stone Massage, Hot Stone Facial, or even a Hot Stone Couples Massage at Drift Spa today.

It’s all-natural wellness using elements from the most powerful and rejuvenating force on earth, the ocean.  Fortunately for Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, and for you and I, it is right in their backyard!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

We all know the price of gas is going up and Ucluelet is a destination worth driving to! Black Rock Resort is offering a fuel credit to reservations staying a minimum 3 nights, as a way to help ease the costs of getting here. Book any room type of choice, stay for a minimum of 3 nights and receive a $50 credit- stay 4 nights receive a $60 credit- Up to $100 off!

Call us for more details at 1-877-762-5011 or reservations@blackrockresort.com

Package available from May 1st to Sept, 4th, 2012.

Today is Earth Day!  Earth Day is the largest, most celebrated environmental event worldwide.  Earth Day Canada exists to provide Canadians with the practical knowledge and tools they need to support a healthier environment.  Earth Day celebrates the birthday of the first Earth Day event that launched in 1970.

By organizing, initiating, and supporting events and programs that encourage Canadians to embrace their environmental responsibility Earth Day Canada has been able to teach Canadians of all ages the easy-to-accomplish actions everyone can do!

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort holds its environmental responsibility very highly.  They have eco-friendly: lighting, amenities, heating and cooling systems and recycling and waste reduction programs.  Plus, they have organized a beach and trail clean up on this Earth Day, inviting the community to help do their part taking care of this incredibly beautiful part of the earth.

More for a Greener West Coast

Black Rock’s Environmental Mission has helped streamline eco-friendly initiatives throughout our hotel. These initiatives include:

Eco-Stay Program: Black Rock Resort reduces water, detergent use, offsets carbon emissions and limits garbage by taking part in this Canadian environmental initiative.

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.

Vivreau Clean Water: Available in Fetch Restaurant, Float Lounge and for meetings and special events. Vivreau’s Designer bottles create an environmentally-friendly purified drinking water that is clean, green and free! Still and sparkling available.

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!

Two Rivers Meats: Sustainable, ethical, hormone free, delicious Canadian meats. Available in Fetch & Float.

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.

Celebrate Earth Day

Discover how simple actions can make a big impact on our world.  Learn more about Earth Day, Earth Day Canada has an organization, and about what simple actions you can take to contribute to environmental responsibility, sustainability, and celebration!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

- Below image from *Earth Day Canada

They could see the blow hole spray off in the distance indicating there were Gray whales feeding in the area, just as they expected.  The engine of the whale watching zodiac boat is cut well over 100 metres from where the first whale was spotted.  Excited to have spotted these feeding whales in Barkley Sound near Ucluelet on the west coast of Vancouver Island, these keen observers sat back and got ready to enjoy the show.

They were about to get a lot more of a show than they had ever anticipated.

“We were whale watching near the western shores of Barkley Sound, said Brian Congdon of Subtidal Adventures.  He has been operating whale and wildlife tours in Ucluelet for over 30 years.  “Then suddenly one individual whale decided he wanted to play and swam right over towards us!”

Photography by Brian Congdon

There he stayed, up close against the zodiac turning his head upwards so his giant eye could look at the people on the boat.  I guess you could say this curious and friendly Gray whale was ‘people watching’.  Weighing over 35 tonnes and measuring over 15 metres, this magnificent creature came close enough for his new friends to reach out and touch him.

Photography by Brian Congdon

“This hardly ever happens,” shared 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!”

It was just after the Pacific Rim Whale Festival when Congdon and other local whale watching operators started to be approached by the whales.  Congdon mentioned it is always the same whale that comes to the boat and sometimes he brings a friend.  These whales acted this way for several weeks after that first encounter.  His experience in identifying individual whales allows Congdon to think he may have seen this friendly Gray whale before.

“We had an experience like this one about 15 years ago and I think it might actually be the same whale,” said Congdon.  “It was the same time of year and this individual kept swimming up to our boats.  I will have to look at my old photos and see if I can identify him.”

Gray whales are migratory animals.  Each spring 20,000 Gray whales migrate from the warm breeding and nursing grounds in Baja, Mexico towards the nutrient rich seas near Alaska and beyond where they feed.  Many of these whales stop for the season in Barkley Sound to feed on spawning herring and other food sources.  Several individual whales are identified year after year as resident Gray whales.  Sometimes these identified whales are not spotted for a couple of seasons, but as it seems, this friendly individual may have returned to our little piece of coastline.

Photography by Brian 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!”

The whale was so close to the boat that passengers could see barnacles that were living on the whale’s skin opening and closing as they fed on microscopic plant life in the water.  Little hairs could be seen on its wet, cold skin and that mysteriously warm eye, tilted upward to make contact with its admirers, gave them the experience of a lifetime.

“People are so incredibly moved by this experience,” exclaimed Congdon.  “It is just amazing.”

Book your Whale Watching Adventure Package with Subtidal Adventures today!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Visitors and local community members gathered on Big Beach this Easter Sunday, right next to Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, to participate in a favour Easter tradition:  the Big Beach Easter Egg Hunt.  There was a great turn out and everyone was enjoying the sunshine!

“We had a lot of donations from the community that helped us provide approximately fifteen-hundred chocolate eggs for the hunt,” said Adele Larkin, General Manager at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

Big Beach is a favourite in Ucluelet.  It is right in town, making it easily accessible for picnicking, evening campfires, and it is connected to the Wild Pacific Trail system.  Big Beach, and all its natural beauty, is responsible for many of the breathtaking coastal views experienced by Black Rock’s guests.  Visits to this pretty little cove are easily enjoyed, but this particular afternoon at Big Beach is one we will all remember!

“We saw a helicopter circling overhead and we thought they were looking at all of the eggs on the beach,” shared Larkin.  “But then they landed!”

The hoards of egg seekers on the beach stopped looking behind rocks and drift logs and turned their attention to the helicopter that was crashing their Easter party!  Was it an emergency landing?  Was there something happening at the resort?  What was going on!?

“It was a private helicopter from Qualicum Beach.  They landed and went into Black Rock for Easter Brunch!” exclaimed Larkin.

We always knew that chef always prepares a mean spread for any occasion, and that Easter Brunch is a particular delight for everyone’s taste buds, but the reputation of Fetch Restaurant has gained further reach than we thought!  I mean, anticipating diners are literally falling from the sky to get into the buffet line.  A little baby helicopter ride is nothing compared to the pleasure of tasting the best smoked-salmon eggs benny on the west coast!

The excitement settled and the Big Beach Easter Egg Hunt continued.  It was a great event and we thank everyone for coming out.  Here is a comment we got from a friend on our Facebook page:

Thanks for the great Easter egg hunt! Our girls loved it! I have some nice pictures of all the eggs on the beach, will have to post soon. – Denise

Things to Do at Big Beach, Ucluelet

Explore the tide pools at low tide:   the rocky outcrops that create the little cove and Big Beach itself, also hold an abundance of ocean life!  Learn when low tide will be by checking your local tide guide, available at any Visitor Centre, or online.  Walk out onto the headlands and keep your eyes peeled for pools of water that are left in the rocks.  Be careful not to slip, and not to step on any little critters!

You could see purple and orange star fish, juvenile Dungeness crabs, bright green sea anemones, hermit crabs, morning sunrise star fish, small silver fish swimming in the shallow pools, and all kinds of sea weed and plant life.  The best thing is that low tide happens every day, so you can always fit a little sea creature discovery into your itinerary while staying at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

Have a picnic:  Big Beach is accessible from Marine Drive just at the base of Matterson Road.  Bring your cooler full of goodies, park and walk down.  There are public toilets and a sheltered picnic area should the weather bring rain.  I suggest you find a nice drift log to sit up against and unpack your picnic right on the beach!  Watch the waves come into the little bay, stare into the open ocean, and after lunch do a little beach combing.  You could find sea shells, smooth beach glass, stones, and other natural treasures.

Watch the sunset:   One of my favourite things to do at Big Beach is to have a campfire with friends in the evening and watch the sun set.  The sun sets just behind the northern headland at Big Beach and your spot around the campfire give you the best seats in the house!  Watch as the sky turns from blue to purple, pink, and orange until the sun finally sinks down below the horizon.  Then it will be time to gaze at the stars!

Enjoy your trip!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

It’s like the entire west coast is opening its mouth for a gigantic YAWN, spreading its arms way out for a rejuvenating stretch, and blinking contently into the sun shining twinkles on the ocean after a stormy (yet exciting!) winter.  Spring has arrived and with it all the vibrant sights and sounds of this wild landscape urge us to get out there and start enjoying this fantastic coast!

This weekend is Easter.  Take advantage of the long weekend and head out to Ucluelet for a well deserved mini-break at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.  We have a line up of Easter delights that are sure to entice you, if spending a few days watching the wave’s crash into Ucluelet’s dramatic coastline from your luxury suite wasn’t enticing enough!  We can also make a few suggestions that will add a little adventure to your holiday.

Join us Easter Sunday for a special Easter Brunch at Fetch Restaurant.  Gather with your friends and family before a stunning ocean view and eat the finest cuisine the west coast has to offer.  Brunch is served from 8:00AM to 3:00PM.  Shall I be more specific?

The Easter Brunch buffet features an omelette station operated by our chef.  Build our own omelette selecting cheese, onions, sweet peppers, ham, smoked salmon, onions and other veggies.  Fill up your plate with a stack of blueberry banana pancakes, double smoked bacon, roasted garlic thyme potatoes, smoke salmon eggs benny, and a few treats from our selection of fine pastries.

Late to rise?  No problem!  Enjoy all of the decadent foods above and specialty lunch items added to the buffet after 12 noon.  Penne pasta carbonara with grilled chicken, baked Pacific Halibut, tomato cauliflower curry and more.

Light eater?  The buffet is stocked with fruit served fresh, dried and stewed.  Enjoy Black Rock granola, a selection of cereals, toast, pastries, hot cross buns, yoghurt, Black Rock parfaits and the ever flowing supply of rich Black Rock coffee.

Join an Easter Egg Hunt on the beach!  Gather your friends, family, and bring your kids to the Big Beach Easter Egg hunt at 12:00PM.  Meet at Big Beach, just outside Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, or if it is raining we will meet in the lobby of the resort.  Explore the beautiful beach, over drift logs and under rocks as you search for those tasty chocolate Easter eggs.

This free event is open to everyone, young and old, visitors or Ucluelet locals.  Hot chocolate will be provided too!

Things To Do in Ucluelet:

Spend the rest of the afternoon walking along the Wild Pacific Trail.  This world class trail skirts along the western, rugged shoreline of Ucluelet and is accessible right from Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.  Walk around the twisted roots and under the warp branches of the hearty trees that grow along the edge of the wild Pacific Ocean.

Stop at one of the many benches or viewpoint areas and watch the force of nature push the waves into the black rocks that make up this piece of shoreline.  Take your time and gaze out towards the horizon.  Look for the spouts of passing Gray and Humpback whales as these magnificent creatures have been seen right from the Wild Pacific Trail often.

Take a whale watching tour! Just this week Subtidal Adventures has reported phenomenal encounters with the Gray whales that are currently feeding on a herring spawn in Barkley Sound, near Ucluelet.  These whales have been dubbed “the friendlies” as they are swimming right up to the boats!  In fact, passengers have been able to reach out and touch their cold, wet skin.  One whale in particular has been spotted several times as he turns his head in the water to reveal his gentle eye and make direct contact with the people in the boat.

Photo by Brian Congdon. "Friendly Gray Whale in Barkley Sound"

Keep reading this blog for more details and photos on this story.  They are coming soon!

Go surfing!  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort send guests to Relic Surf shop right here in town for gear rentals, surf lessons, and surf reports.   These guys are the pros and can give you the basics of surfing plus safety instructions and wave reports.  The Pacific Rim National Park is known for its extensive beach system that offers surf for every level of surfer.  No matter what your ability we can get you standing on a surf board riding a wave this Easter long weekend.

We hope you have a wonderful visit to Ucluelet this weekend.  Remember to turn your face into that fresh ocean breeze and take a deep breath of that new spring air!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

The crowd was smitten.  A riff on his guitar or a soulfully sung lyric evoked sporadic cheers, hearty applause, and too many tapping toes and nodding heads to count.  Jim Byrnes, a two time Juno Award winning blues musician shared his songs with us for another successful Barnacle Blues: a well attended, annual fundraising event for the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, hosted by Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

Both Headwater and Jim Byrnes performed at last year’s Barnacle Blues event.  This year’s event had more in attendance and the excited energy in the room foreshadowed an unforgettable evening.   We were in for a real treat!

To kick off the evening Black Rock Oceanfront Resort welcomed Headwater, a lively acoustic roots group from Vancouver.  With a steel guitar, stand up bass, mandolin, an occasional banjo, and a smooth sounding acoustic guitar keeping a driving rhythm, Headwater’s playful attitude and tremendous talent did more than just warm up the crowd.

“I love seeing these guys play.  I have seen them playing on the ferry from the mainland,” shared a guest at the event.  “They just pulled out their instruments and started playing right from their seats.  I’ve never seen a line so long when people found out they were selling albums!”

Then it was time for Jim to sing us a song.

His first set was compiled of a mixture of roots, sounds of the deep south, comforting country melodies, and folk music; weaving it all together with a receptive crowd and his rough-around-the edges, but still always so smooth, barnacle blues.

“Coming to Ucluelet is like coming home to me,” said Jim Byrnes.  “I actually lived in Ucluelet in 1970 and 1971…and man, those were the days.”

The crowd responded with chuckles and a warm applause, happy for his connection with the community.   “When it was time to go it was time to go, but I’ll always remember that time in my life and I thank you for having me back here again,” said Byrnes.

For the last set of the evening Jim Byrnes was joined by Headwater.  This musical combination was a match made in heaven.  Headwater followed his lead, accompanying his music, and showcasing their amazing abilities with solo after solo.  The crowd went wild for the rapid picking of the mandolin and the seemingly effortless performance on the steel guitar.  I had goose bumps and no one could wipe the smiles off their faces.

“How about a sing along?” smiled Byrnes.  “Come on now, we’re going for a ride!”

The room full of energized fans didn’t hesitate to belt out the lyrics to Folsom Prison Blues and Like Rolling Stone.  They were singing, some were harmonizing, and a few came just short of actually going on stage and singing back up.  This iconic Canadian blues performer and his freewheeling back up musicians completely captured the room.  The songs were finished but the audience was not.

After a shout for an encore Jim Byrnes and Headwater finished off a perfect evening with  Whole Lotta Shakin’ Going On.

Jim left us with this:

“Whatever you do and wherever you go, like my mama always says, try to be good to each other.  Go in peace.”

Jim Byrnes will be releasing a country-western inspired album later this year.  Headwaters new album will be available this May.  We thank them both for sharing their music with us and for continuing to increase the success of the Barnacle Blues.  Come back soon fellah’s.  We adore you.

Headwater will be performing tonight at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s Float Lounge at 9:00PM.

This event is presented by the Pacific Rim Arts Society, an organization that has promoted arts and culture in Ucluelet and Tofino in British Columbia for over 40 years.  With a vision to celebrate and honor local artists, and to weave a lively and diverse arts culture into west coast life, the Pacific Rim Arts Society has introduced hundreds of locals and visitors to the visual artists, actors, writers, film makers, dancers, and musicians who live on, or are inspired by the west coast.

Many of the pieces on display were created by artists I recognized, having seen their work in Ucluelet for many years.  I felt proud to see new pieces, showcasing landscapes, imagery and designs we are all inspired by, living on this breathtaking coast.

Around the corner, facing a window and completely bathed in sunlight were the works of Katsumi Kimoto, an artist whose family story is written in Ucluelet’s history, and whose inspiration is as local as it gets.

The Kimoto’s at Spring Cove

The Kimoto family first settled outside of Tofino in Clayoquot Sound in 1923.  They were expert fishermen and played a major role in the west coast’s growing economy and the fishing industry.

After the bombing of Pearl Harbour during World War II the Canadian Government was worried that Japanese people living in Canada might try to help Japan’s war efforts.  Despite being born in Canada, families were shipped to internment camps.  Like the other Japanese families on the coast, everything the Kimoto’s owned was taken away and they were forced to move into an internment camp on the mainland.

Most families never returned to their homes here, but the Kimoto family came back to the west coast after the ban was lifted.  Tommy Kimoto, Katsumi’s Grandfather, was the first to buy property in Spring Cove, outside of the Ucluelet Harbour after WWII.  He enjoyed Spring Cove as a recreational area before the war and had fond memories of the place.   He moved there with his wife and two sons in 1950 and was joined soon after by his brother Bobby and his family.  The Kimoto family has been active in Ucluelet’s economy, history, and culture ever since.

“He wanted to come home to the coast which he always loved…he knew the Japanese were good fishermen and that the fishing companies would support them,” said Katsumi Kimoto.

Katsumi’s Aunt Isabel and Grandmother Mary still live at Spring Cove and his Uncle Doug Kimoto has been a well known and respected salmon troller all of his life.  Other members of the Kimoto family are spread around the west coast.  Katsumi currently resides and paints in his studio in Vancouver.

Katsumi Kimoto Becomes an Artist

Katsumi Kimoto grew up in the village of Ucluelet on Eber Road near the fuel dock and fish plants.  “I remember listening to the hum of the fish plants as I feel asleep as a kid,” said Kimoto.  He graduated from Ucluelet Secondary School in 1994.

In 1996 Kimoto moved to the lower mainland to attend Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Surry, British Columbia.  It was in a general studies program that Kimoto promptly became interested in humanities and the arts.

“I quickly noticed that I loved making art.”  Kimoto continued, “…it came easy and I got good grades, so eventually I switched all of my courses over until I was in full-time arts.”

On the advice of one of his professors, Kimoto made the decision to further explore his arts education at Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec.  Finding his niche in his education and in the culture, and showing his art in exhibitions, Kimoto adored Montreal.  In 2001 he graduated from Concordia with a Bachelor of Fine Arts and moved to Vancouver.

After taking a New Media Design program at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, Katsumi Kimoto started working in art galleries in Vancouver.  He directed the Douglas Udell Gallery from 2002 to 2005 before becoming a curator and lead sales associate at the Ian Tan Gallery until 2011.  Since his return to BC, Kimoto has been a curator and manager of major art collections, working with galleries and collectors.  Most dear to his heart is the desire to make and show his own art.

“Painting is like breathing to me, I dare not stop, because I cannot stop,” said Kimoto.

Memories with Marla Thirsk

Marla Thirsk is a local  artist whose creative murals and award winning event posters have painted Ucluelet for decades.  She is known locally as the “Town’s Artist”.  Her art is cherished on the Pacific Rim and has almost become a visual brand for the west coast.  Her works have also sold and gone worldwide.

“I used to watch Marla paint,” said Kimoto.  He was friends with her son Aren, and was fascinated that she was an artist.  Although he never visited her studio, he would see her painting murals around Ucluelet and would always stop to chat.  Kimoto got to know Marla as he developed as a young artist.

“Sometimes I wasn’t sure if I was inspiring her or if she was inspiring me!” shared Kimoto.  “One thing was clear and that was we were always encouraging each other to paint no matter what.”

“Today, I recognize the fact that art wouldn’t be what it is in Ucluelet without Marla Thirsk.”

The Works of Katsumi Kimoto

Using natural colours that evoke west coast images like the ocean and forest, Kimoto’s changing colour palette is most currently inspired by the place he calls home.   The mood of his paintings is set by his vibrant colour choices and with letting paint flow and bend almost as naturally has the subject matter it reflects.

His creations come together naturally.  Kimoto has said he likes “the paint to be paint…while guiding it along the way”.  Viewers can relate the results to something only found and experienced outside in nature.

Fortunately for all of us, and thanks to the Pacific Rim Arts Society, we can have this experience during ArtSplash 2012 (March 17-25^th) at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

By Amy Hancock

Find more information about Katsumi Kimoto at www.katsumikimoto.com.

Package includes:

•  2 nights in a comfortable suite of your choice: studio or one bedroom suite
• Spa Treatment of choice: (limit one per package, add second treatment of massage or seaweed wrap for $120+ tax)
• 60 Minute Aroma Balancing Massage - A custom aromatherapy blend
  combined with a 60 Minute Massage designed to balance energy pathways,
  relieve tension, mental fatigue, aches and pains while improving
  circulation and flexibility. (60 min)
  or
  Detoxifying Seaweed Gel Wrap - Local Wild Organic Seaweeds and natural
  oils create this highly therapeutic treatment to help detoxify,
  stimulate circulation, and heal.  This treatment provides an extra
  boost of essential nutrients for the body and skin and is excellent
  for skin disorders, dehydration, swollen areas, and cellulite. (60 min)

• Immune Boosting Fruit Smoothie- enjoy post spa treatment in the Drift Spa Lounge (limit one per package)
• All Natural Bath Bomb Spa Gift- enjoy in the soaker tub in your suite or bring home for an extended spa experience (limit one per package)
• Access to outdoor, ocean view hot tubs & plunge pool and 24 hour fitness centre

Package starts at $227 per night, based on 2 night package (mid season rate)

*Price includes one spa treatment & one smoothie per package, add a second treatment (aroma massage or seaweed wrap) for $120 and book together in Drift Spa.

Available from April 1st to June 15th, 2012

Call toll free (877) 762-5011 to make your reservation.

* Spa Treatments MUST be made prior to arrival
** Gratuities not includes

Details:
Float Lounge, 19+ only
7pm to 9pm Phillip’s Beer Tasting
$50 per person

Limited Tickets available at Black Rock Resort Front Desk or call 250-726-4800

About Phillip’s Brewing Company:

This Vancouver Island brewery is responsible for the local favourites you might recognize (and love if you do!): the rich Longboat Chocolate Porter, Dr. Funk Bavarian Dark Lager, Phoenix Gold Lager, Slipstream Ale, Hop Circle IPA, and the famous Philips Blue Buck.  They have over a dozen deliciously brewed beers available.  Check out what’s in their beer fridge!

The brewery was started by Matt Phillips in 2001 and had humble beginnings with production being in his apartment!  After a few years, many struggles and a whole lot of creativity Matt found small success with his beer and Phillips Beer was able to move into the William Street brewery in Victoria.

By 2005 Phillip’s classics like the IPA and Draught Dodger, Phoenix Lager, the Longboat Porter, and Amnesiac IPA won gold, silver, and bronze medals at the Canadian Brewing Awards.  In 2006 the BC chapter of CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) voted Phillips the BC Brewery of the Year.  In 2007 the Canadian Brewing Awards gave Phillips gold for Blue Buck, 2 silvers for the Amnesiac and Raspberry Wheat ale and bronze for the Surly Blonde…which is my personal favourite.

In 2008 Phillips moved into another larger facility on Government Street and has continued to win awards year after year, and continued to carry the label of BC Brewery of the Year.  Visit them online at www.phillipsbeer.com.

Live Music with The Stolen Lighters:

Photo from the Ucluelet Salmon Ladder Derby

The Stolen Lighters are Ucluelet’s own and responsible for filling our concert venues, festivals, fundraisers, lounges, and living rooms with their funk, jazz, hip hop, and rock sounds!  This group has been known to rip it with guitar solos, show up with saxophones and a brass section, scratch a few records…there is no telling what kind of sound they’ll get us dancing to on St. Patrick’s Day but we WILL be dancing and it WILL be awesome (as it always is with these guys)

We can’t wait!

We hope you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with us.  It is going to be an awesome night.  There are limited tickets available so make sure you get your soon!

Ask for your tickets at the Black Rock Resort Front Desk or call 250-726-4800.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

What’s the cause for celebration?

Every spring over 20,000 migrating Gray whales make their way by Ucluelet on their way to the nutrient rich feeding grounds near Alaska and even further.  They are coming from Baja Mexico where they birth and nurse in calm, warm lagoons.  As these magnificent creatures return, many find food and shelter in Barkley Sound near Ucluelet and Clayoquot Sound near Tofino.  This marks the start of a memorable whale watching season and is something to get excited about!

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is proud to be hosting several official Pacific Rim Whale Festival Events.

Art Splash – March 17-25th

A Pacific Rim Whale Festival Art Show – Black Rock Resort will display a collection of fabulous local art including paintings, sculptures and much more. Come see these fine works of West Coast art in our lobby and mezzanine. Art is available for purchase.

Barnacle Blues – March 22, 7:00pm

As part of the Pacific Rim Whale Festival, this fundraising event will take place in the Rainforest Ballroom featuring acclaimed musician Jim Byrnes with opening act Headwater.

Jim Byrnes is a two time Juno Award winner with a third nomination for “Blues Artist of the Year.” His deeply woven blues combine grit and gruff with the smooth sounds of soul.  This is a favourite event!

Raffle-style auction with lots of amazing prizes; ticket includes gourmet savouries & 2 drink tickets. Ticket sale locations and price to be announced.

*photo from www.jimbyrnes.org

Headwater at Float Lounge – March 23rd

Hearing Headwater play live is like listening to the West Coast of Canada in song. Freewheeling, fierce, sentimental and sexy, the Vancouver, B.C., quartet has earned its reputation as one of the finest acoustic roots groups around… more about Headwater at www.headwater.ca

To learn more about the Pacific Rim Festival visit their website:  www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com

Have you found the Black Rock Oceanfront Resort YouTube Channel yet?  Click on the YouTube icon and subscribe to it.

We have videos posted on there of last years events as part of the 25th Anniversary Pacific Rim Whale Festival.  Check it out for a sneak peak at what might be in store for this year!

We hope to see you there!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

*

Every hotel stay has a carbon footprint.  Carbon dioxide emissions from using lights, appliances, heating, and air conditioning all contribute to climate change.  By supporting projects that reduce carbon emissions we can ‘balance’ the carbon emitted during your stay at the resort.

By contributing to carbon management projects through Ecostay we have been able to minimize the carbon footprint of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort!  Click here to read more about the projects we’ve contributed to through Ecostay!

Next time you stay at Black Rock you can rest at ease knowing the carbon footprint of your stay is offset and neutralized!

All Ecostay carbon offsets are purchased from Livclean Carbon Offsets and meet the following standards and criteria:

Canadian Project Standards
All participating Canadian Hotels purchase Canadian Projects listed below, which meet these standards.

• ISO 14064‐2 Compliant
• Independently verified to ISO 14064‐3
• Registered on CSA GHG CleanProjects Registry
• Serialized by CSA to avoid double counting
• Realized emission‐reduction
  (i.e. they are Ex‐Poste, NOT Ex‐ante)

Adventure seekers zip up their head-to-toe rain gear and push their way through the winds and rain to get a better view of this tremendous display of nature along the Wild Pacific Trail.  Conveniently located outside of Black Rock Oceanfront Resort’s doorstep, this trail winds along the western shoreline of the Ucluth Peninsula and can take you to the best storm watching perches on this side of Vancouver Island!

Imagine this:  through the downpour of rain (and the west coast gets about 4 metres of precipitation a year, mostly during the winter months), and standing tall against the winds (which can range between 70-100km an hour during a storm), you see the swell coming in towards the shore like a monster, stalking the rocky beaches.

It rolls in and turns into a 10 foot wave before smashing into the rugged shore with a BOOM!  You’ll feel the base of this beauty right through the soles of your rubber boots!  As a result of the collision, what’s left of the wave shoots high into the air creating a fireworks display of white water and sea spray.  Feel free to cheer at this point…oh, and take pictures with your water proof camera.

Don`t worry, you don`t have to be this hardcore to join in the storm watching fun.  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has many cozy, indoor hideaways to watch the ferocity of this winter weather.  Perched right on the edge of the ocean, the resort has floor to ceiling windows in all of their ocean view rooms, in the Float Lounge, Fetch Restaurant, Drift Spa, and even in the foyer.

In fact, I`m pretty sure you can get a pretty good view of the water from the hot tub.  Warning:  you will still get wet when viewing waves from the hot tub (with or without rain).

You`ll feel warm and cozy with your coffee or cocktail, snuggled up next to a warm fire watching the ocean put on a show from luxury front row seats.  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort truly is planted in the middle of the best west coast wilderness and is your destination for storm watching…or storm warming.

Storm Watching (Warming) Package

Rates starting from $197 per person

Our unique Storm Watching Package includes:

• Minimum two night`s accommodation in a Studio, One Bedroom, or Two Bedroom Suite
• Black Rock umbrella, to help you weather the storm
• Back-by-popular-demand Black Rock travel mugs
• $75 food & beverage credit

BOOK NOW

For more information or to make a reservation directly, please contact us at:

Phone: 1-877-762-5011
Email: reservations@blackrockresort.com

-  Add ancient forests made up of giant trees and a thousand shades of green, webbed with trails for walking hand in hand.

-  Include gourmet west coast cuisine shared in candle light and paired flawlessly with fine wine and the loveliest of company.

-  Finish it off with the glow of flickering flames from the fireplace in a luxury suite and the sound of the ocean’s waves just outside the window.

Wrap it all together at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, add the love of your life, and you have the most memorable Valentine’s Day retreat of both your lives.

Valentine’s Day:  Love Affair Package

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has a deluxe Valentine’s package that will make your Valentine’s Day truly unique and incredibly special.  (It definitely helps that Black Rock is located in some of the most stunning natural beauty in Canada!)

Upon arrival enjoy sparkling wine and a customized chocolate plate in your suite while you settle into your luxury, oceanfront suite.  Take your time to enjoy the view and relax before heading down for your romantic dinner for two.

You and your loved one will then marvel over the culinary wonders on the “Sweetheart” menu in Fetch restaurant for dinner on February 11th.  This special menu will feature the best west coast cuisine, with every plate being a culinary work of art from the first course to the last.

Following dinner, you will be escorted to the Wine Cellar for a unique and romantic Chocolate Addiction Wine Cellar Dessert.   This event features a chef-in-action chocolate station and a variety of chocolate desserts for a heavenly end to your dining experience.

The next day, enjoy the comfort of your suite and each other with a gourmet continental breakfast in bed, delivered to your room at the time of your request.

Package includes:

• 1 Night Accommodation in a comfortable Lodge Suite
• Dinner for 2 –Sweetheart 5 course Fetch Restaurant Dinner: Feb 11^th only*
•    2 Tickets to Chocolate Addiction Wine Cellar Dessert Event: Feb 11^th only
•   Customized Chocolate Plate in room upon arrival- Max 50 charters (i.e I love you  Lisa, love Graham)
•   Sparkling Wine in room upon arrival
•   Continental Breakfast in-Bed – Sunday, Feb 12^th only

Starting at $196 pp

Book additional nights at $99 for Studio Lodge Suites and $119 for One Bedroom Lodge Suites! 

*Taxes and gratuities are not included*

When you get the Black Rock Resort Booking you’ll also be alerted of current news and events at the resort and in Ucluelet and special giveaways.  Check it out!

More about SocialBooker Facebook Booking App

According to Appnostic CEO Brian Dass, “SocialBooker is a Facebook app that delivers a completely integrated booking solution, from room availability through payment transaction, all from within the Facebook environment. Furthermore, hotels can customize their unique booking paths to deliver a fully branded, immersive, and socially connected room-booking experience,” he explained.

It’s true that over 500 million people are on Facebook and use apps or other social plug ins.  It’s becoming a must-have marketing platform for any business.  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort has already dived right into the social media scene, with our Facebook and Twitter page growing every day, offering deals and giveaways and an opportunity for people to connect with their west coast community.

Here’s what it looks like.  Click the image to be redirected to the App page on Facebook.

Don’t forget that our Facebook Contest is still well underway.  Join our Facebook Page, help us reach landmark membership goals, and you AND your referral friend can win night stays, gift certificates, vacation packages and more from Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.  The prizes get bigger as our Facebook population increases.  The next draw will be at 3000 members!

Happy App-ing

Amy Hancock

LET’S CELEBRATE!

Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is celebrating its third year in Ucluelet by throwing Local’s Appreciation Night anniversary party at the Float Lounge on January 28^th.  Everyone is invited to join us for drink and lounge menu specials, enter the draw for a night’s stay at the resort, and other great prizes.  Ucluelet’s local performing artists, Left at the Junction, will be playing at 9:00pm with no cover charge!

Although I’d heard of them prior, I didn’t get my first real taste of their rich folk roots flavour until I heard Left at the Junction play at the Ucluelet Salmon Festival in 2010.  The band has been playing together for about 5 years and is made up of Ucluelet residents Rob Thoms, Bill Morrison and Dave Hurwitz. Performing their own material, this trio can get any party started with their blue grass/country/deep roots feel.  They’re known locally for their stand-up bass, mandolin, and guitar combination and have become a west coast favourite.  They just released their first album in December 2011 called Dark Rainy Night.

Get a sneak preview from this live performance on Long Beach Radio Jan 2011:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a43g23H_ZPc

The Local’s Appreciation doesn’t end on Saturday night!  Black Rock is extending their heart felt gratitude for all your support by extending the Local Appreciation celebrations!  Join us this Sunday for Local’s Appreciation Brunch.  Come into Fetch Restaurant on Sunday, January 29^th, served from 8:00am-1:00pm.  Enjoy a gourmet spread of your favourite breakfast foods and the finest of west coast cuisine before a gorgeous ocean view.

The special brunch price for this Sunday is $20 per adult, $10 for kids 12 and under, and kids under 5 eat free.  Don’t forget to take off the 15% local’s discount!

A birthday celebration isn’t complete without birthday cake.  Make sure you visit the lobby at noon for FREE birthday cake, coffee, and tea.  There will also be a draw for a night stay and Lunch for Two at Fetch Restaurant using your receipt purchases from brunch so make sure you hang onto them.

The staff and management at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort would like to sincerely thank you for your continued support.  We feel fortunate to be a part of such an enthusiastic and welcoming community, and part of this amazing west coast culture.  Thanks again and we can’t wait to see you this weekend!

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Before that day I had never been in a kayak, sea kayak or otherwise, and I will admit to being a little bit nervous.  I walked into the office at Majestic Ocean Kayaking stoked about my kayaking tour of the Ucluelet Harbour, which is available year round.

The smiling staff quickly made sure I had everything I needed for the trip.  Life jacket, spray skirt, paddle jacket, and even lent a quick dry top to wear.  “Cotton is rotten!” they told me, as it absorbs water and doesn’t dry, giving you a chill that can put a damper on the experience.

They kayaks were all lined up along the shoreline at Majestic’s launching beach right in the harbour.  Our guide gave us the ‘how to get into these things’ instructions.

“Okay, straddle the kayak with one leg on each side.  Lower your hips down into the kayak and put your bum in the seat first, then put your legs in one at a time.”  He said.  After a few lessons on paddling techniques, how to steer with the foot pedals, and safety procedures we were on our way to discover the natural beauty that is in Ucluelet’s inlet.

The water inside the inlet is sheltered from the waves and choppy waters of the open Pacific Ocean.  The water rippled gently as we moved quietly along the shoreline in the still morning, enjoying the fresh ocean air under sunny skies.  My paddle cut through the water effortlessly and I was getting the hang of steering with the foot pedals.  Sitting up straight, I took a deep breath of satisfaction, and of relief…it’s easier than I thought!

Photo care of Majestic Ocean Kayaking

There are so many amazing things to see just inside of the harbour.  As we paddled past the fish plants, with massive steel commercial fishing boats unloading their catch and sea lions barking and swimming anxiously around the docks looking for someone to accidentally drop them some lunch, our guide explained a little bit about Ucluelet’s fishing industry.  An old wooden salmon troller went by and its skipper waved at us.  I wonder what stories he could tell from decades spent out at sea!

A few curious sea lions left the dock area and swam over towards us.  One popped his head out, twitched his wet whiskers, and took a good long look at our kayaking group before diving back down into the water and swimming out of site.  Sorry bud, no fish here!

We crossed the harbour and kayaked along the other shoreline.  The rocks along the shore were rugged, beaten weather and sheltered by ancient forests.  We saw a massive eagle’s nest high in the trees.  The eagle was spotted soaring far away towards the inside of the inlet, but it slowly made its way back to its nest.  Finally, it was right above us, flapping its huge wings just a couple of times before letting the wind catch him, soaring above our group in high circles.

We paddled up towards Thornton Creek and since the tide was high, we were able to travel up the creek to the beautiful waterfall that is near the Thornton Creek Hatchery.  Ferns and moss grew up the banks on both sides of the creek and the sun poked through the canopy the trees made above.  From there we crossed the harbour again and headed back towards Majestic’s launching beach.

Majestic Ocean Kayaking offers tours of the Ucluelet Harbour during the winter months, weather depending of course, and is definitely something you should add to your holiday to Ucluelet.  Black Rock Oceanfront Resort can help you put together and accommodation and activity package and help you maximize your west coast experience while you’re visiting.

For more information, or to make a reservation, call Black Rock Oceanfront Resort at 250-726-4800 or check out their reservations and availability on the Home Page.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Christmas Day has come and gone and you might be feeling the ‘after Christmas blues’.  Well, fear not because at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort they are just getting the holiday party started!  Determined to bring in the New Year with more than just style, these guys have put together some amazing packages that include fine ocean view dining, live entertainment, fireworks, and an overflow of the bubbly.

Start out with a gourmet 4-course New Years Eve dinner at Fetch Restaurant, prepared by Black Rock’s own Chef Morne VanAntwerp and his culinary team.  Dine to the sweet sounds of Paul O’Brien, playing live in the dining room.

Paul O’Brien is a singer, song-writer, instrumentalist with a gift for taking his listeners into the story of his heart-felt lyrics and releasing a creative and  forgettable energy at every performance.  People have referred to his performances as “musical story telling”, with melodies and poetry that captivates the audience from start to finish.

But wait!  There is more!

After your New Years Eve feast head into the Float Lounge for more live music!  The Roland Barrett Band will take the party into the night.  Roland’s musical influences are many and his style ranges from 1970′s rock, modern alternative, to even Motown and soul classics.  His powerful vocals and toe tapping band will have you raising your glass and dancing all the way to the countdown (and afterwards too!)

After the 3…2…1…, and your New Years kiss, enjoy fireworks and champagne.  This is a New Years Eve party you will always remember and the perfect way to welcome the year 2012.

But wait!  It gets better!

Imagine waking up on the first day of the New Year to the sounds of the Pacific Ocean crashing into the rocky shores below your bedroom window.  The fireplace is on, the illumination from the flickering flames create a glow in the low lights of morning.  Welcome to 2012.  You sip your coffee, watch the ocean, and then get ready for the day.

Black Rock’s annual New Years Day brunch is on at Fetch Restaurant until 3PM.  Enjoy the best of west coast cuisine, heart breakfast foods, seafood, and decadent treats all enjoyed while watching the ocean.  Maybe you’ll go for a walk on the Wild Pacific Trail (with access right beside the resort) or maybe you’ll head back to your room and relax in front of the fire.

For more information on your all-inclusive New Years package Click Here.

May the New Year bring your joy and prosperity, from the staff and management at Black Rock Oceanfront Resort, Ucluelet, BC.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Wake Up to Waves

An article was written about Black Rock Oceanfront Resort in the DailyXY, an online magazine for men with the tag line “guy stuff”.  It’s a very descriptive article that explains the details of our luxury resort.  If you haven’t been to visit us yet this will give you a good idea of what you are in for.  Although, you will have to come visit us to get the true experience of waking up in a ‘room with a view’…the best view, I think, in Ucluelet.

Don’t forget you can WIN your stay, packages, and more by joining our Facebook Page.

The author, Cassandra Anderton, did a very nice job.  Thanks a lot!

Remember to keep us in mind for New Years.  Entertainment, food, fireworks, and champagne bubbling over all wrapped up in an all-inclusive New Years package! Read more.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

Image courtesy of John Biehler.

A Room with a View

The coast with the most, including rooms with an oceanview

Written by:  Cassandra Anderton in the Daily XY

“I feel like I have just walked into a Christmas card,” I said to the man at the front desk.

And this was not a card you’d pick from the 200 cheap cards that came in the $3.99 box from the dollar store. This one was carefully designed, sealed and delivered, signed: Happy Holidays from Black Rock Oceanfront Resort!

I am writing metaphorically, of course it wasn’t actually a card – it was the front lobby at the resort.

Clusters of decorated Christmas trees filled the space with the spirit of the season. The room was decorated with white and red poinsettias, wreaths, and garland. Beside the floor to two-story-high ceiling window was a ginger bread house village, complete with general store, church, toy train, and a red and white lighthouse. I stood for a moment in front of the fireplace in the lobby, memorized by the licking flames, breathing in the smells of pine, gingerbread, and fresh coffee being served in Float Lounge.

I love this time of year!

With much to do in Ucluelet and limited hours of daylight to do it in, I left Black Rock’s holiday wonderland and started my day. With only two weeks until Christmas I had to get some shopping done. Ucluelet has a lot of galleries and artisan-style gift shops. I was able to find hand crafted jewellery, locally made pottery and home decor, floral arrangements, and decadent treats for those on my list.

Lunch was seafood chowder at Fetch Restaurant back at Black Rock. Pacific coho salmon and halibut smoked right there in-house, with clams, roasted corn, fennel, potato; my mouth is watering remembering it. I watched the Pacific Ocean make its way to the rocky shoreline right outside the restaurant window. Feeling inspired after my visit to chowder heaven, I changed my plans for the afternoon and decided to go for a walk on the Wild Pacific Trail.

The Wild Pacific Trail runs right passed Black Rock. I headed north up the Brown’s Beach section because I wanted to hike on the Artist Loops that were just added to the trail earlier this year. These newer loops take walkers even closer to the ocean, with benches and artist perches put in some of the most inspirational places on the coast!

I sat on a cliff-top bench watching the sea surge into the dramatic shoreline. The afternoon air was fresh and salty and it made my cheeks rosy. A jogger ran by on the trail behind me. I thought about how fortunate we were, the jogger and I, to experience nature so intimately on this beautiful December afternoon in Ucluelet.

Start a tradition and visit Black Rock Oceanfront Resort for the holidays. It’s not too late to book your Christmas and New Years vacation in Ucluelet, British Columbia.  Here’s what they have in store:

Follow our blog for more west coast experiences, special events, and vacation packages with Black Rock Oceanfront Resort.

Until next time,

Amy Hancock

The 13th Annual Edge 2 Edge Marathon, Half Marathon and Relay held on Sunday, June 10th, 2012 offers a natural route, surrounded by old growth forests and crashing ocean waves through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve from Tofino to Ucluelet.

Rates starting from $219 per person.

The Edge 2 Edge Package includes:

• Two or more nights accommodation in a studio, 1 bedroom, or 2 bedroom suite
• A $50 Food & Beverage credit for use in Float Lounge or Fetch Restaurant* (Try one of our new Breakfast Smoothies)
• A $50 Drift SPA credit* (Try a 30 Minute Massage or a Seaweed Soak)
• Complimentary resort parking