Storm Season Directory

Storm season is part of the adventure on the West Coast — where waves crash, gale-force winds roar, and mother nature commands the stage. Storm watching at the Wickaninnish Inn was officially recognized as a Canadian Signature Experience in 2011, but its legacy reaches back long before the Inn was built. The McDiarmid family, whose cabin still stands nearby, would bushwhack to the shoreline of the future Inn during storms to watch the waves break, trace their reach into the forest, marvel at the spectacle and ponder how close they could build while keeping well above the reach of the largest waves. Those moments inspired the very design of the Inn, ensuring that since day one, it has established itself as North America’s premier storm-watching destination.

We provide full rain gear in every guest room, and rubber boots are available for cruising the beach and braving the whistling wind and rain. A dedicated gear and boot dryer is available in the Driftwood Cafe closet in the Beach Building.

    • A storm-season power outage is a chance to lean into the unique character of the coast:

    • Cozy up with a blanket by the fire and listen to the wind and waves.

    • Take in the storm from the safety of your balcony or one of our lounges.

    • Join us for a cocktail, glass of wine, or hot cocoa as the storm rages outside.

    • Indulge in board games, books, and conversation in the Lookout Library, Driftwood Café and Shoreline Terrace - simple pleasures that shine brightest when the world slows down.

    • Stay well back from the tideline - rogue waves and shifting logs are dangerous.

    • Avoid rocky foreshores during storms.

    • Be mindful of forest trails in high winds (falling branches/debris).

    • The Inn is prepared to keep you safe and comfortable:

    • Generator: Keeps essential operations and the kitchen running.

    • Guest Rooms: Fireplaces for heat & light; candles & flashlights provided.

    • Water: Hot and cold water always available.

    • Dining: The Pointe Restaurant, On the Rocks Bar, & Driftwood Café remain open.

    • Connectivity: Wi-Fi/TV may pause - the perfect excuse to unplug.

  • Visit Tourism Tofino for their list of businesses that remain open during a power outage.

    *Please note that this information is subject to change.  Tourism Tofino strives to keep this list as up to date as possible.