Travel by boat, logging road or freight ferry from Port Alberni to this tiny hamlet nestled in a picturesque harbour on the edge of Barkley Sound and the open Pacific. Best known as the terminus of the West Coast Trail hiking route, Bamfield is home to teachers, researchers and students specializing in marine biology.
A great base for kayaking, canoeing and diving excursions, Bamfield’s appeal includes stores, restaurants, galleries, accommodations and boardwalk strolls.
Things to do in Bamfield
*Note: Some activities and locations may be temporarily closed due to COVID-19. Please check with the businesses or local visitor centres prior to ensure their availability.
- Scenic beauty aplenty is one of the rewards of trips to Bamfield by freighter, boat, floatplane, or after taking a logging road from Port Alberni or Cowichan Lake.
- The Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre (closed for 2020) provides year-round research facilities and technical assistance to marine scientists from Canadian universities. Participate in hands-on public programs, including school and group education. Take summer day trips focused on birds, mammals and the coastal rainforest. And register for all-inclusive immersion weekends.
- Tour galleries and artisan studios in Bamfield, which is home to several acclaimed artists.
- Explore the living traditions of the Nuu-chah-nulth people of Barkley Sound at village sites, maddens, fish traps, culturally modified trees, lookouts and fallen longhouses.
- Stroll out to Brady’s Beach or get a good work-out on longer hiking trips to Cape Beale Lighthouse and Keera and Tapaltos beaches.
- Kayakers utilize the old whaling hamlet of Sechart (now serving as a lodge/resort) as a home base when exploring Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands.