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Welcoming back whales at Pacific Rim Whale Festival
Photo by Sander Jain
Have you ever sat in a gently rocking boat and watched a pod of whales splash in the distance, flipping their tails and blowing fountains into the sky? What about 20,000? This March you can. But this is no ordinary whale watch.
The whales are coming. Every Spring, Pacific Rim Whale Festival celebrates the arrival of about 20, 000 grey whales on their northbound migration from Baja Peninsula. Thousands of eager spectators, locals and tourists alike, gather in Tofino, Ucluelet and the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to celebrate these ocean giants' return.This year, the annual festival marks its 25th anniversary. March 19 to 27 kicks off official whale season.
This eight-day party is for all ages. It's a wonderful opportunity for children (and adults) to learn more about grey whales and other marine mammals. Tourists can learn about locals' coastal lives through interpretive walks and informative talks. Also, they have a chance to learn about First Nations' culture through workshops. With a small donation of two dollars, one can get a small souvenir like a We Heart Whales button. Learn more here. And check out all festival events here.
For a fantastic, luxurious Whale Festival vacation, stay at the beautiful Blackrock Ocean Front Resort in Ucluelet, BC or kick back at the cozy and inexpensive Ocean Village Resort on a Tofino beach. VO wholeheartedly recommends them both. Say "VO" when you check in and get a smile.
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