Pacific Rim Whale Festival
The grey whales are returning north. One week in March to be there when they pass through Clayoquot Sound.
About the festival
Each spring, an estimated 13,000–14,500 Pacific grey whales travel 16,000–22,500 km round-trip between their Baja California breeding lagoons and Arctic feeding grounds. The west coast of Vancouver Island sits directly in their path.
The Pacific Rim Whale Festival — co-organized with the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation — marks the whales' return through the lens of Nuu-chah-nulth ʔiisaak: respectful coexistence with the natural world. Events span both Tofino and Ucluelet, with science talks, Indigenous cultural programming, shore spotting, and evening celebrations.
2026 festival dates: March 14–21.
What to expect
The festival blends science, Indigenous culture, family activities, and celebration. Days are filled with shore-based whale spotting, guided history walks, aquarium beach events, and an educational speaker series — including drone research presentations and DFO scientists presenting the latest migration data.
Evenings feature trivia nights at the Ucluelet Brewery, film screenings, and the closing Baleen Bash concert. The vibe across both towns is enthusiastic and outdoorsy. Rubber boots are appropriate attire.
Parks Canada and Ocean Wise staff the shore spotting stations at Amphitrite Point and the Kʷisitis Visitor Centre throughout the week. Button-holder discounts apply at participating whale watching boat operators.
Key events
- Shore spotting — Amphitrite Point (Ucluelet) and Kʷisitis Visitor Centre (Pacific Rim National Park). Staffed by Parks Canada and Ocean Wise. Free.
- Maritime Kids Days — Tofino (March 17) and Ucluelet (March 19). SEA DOME planetarium, face painting, hands-on marine education. Button event.
- Beach Seine — Ucluelet Aquarium. Hands-on net sampling of the intertidal zone. Free.
- Thornton Creek Hatchery Open Day — Behind-the-scenes look at salmon restoration. Free.
- Nuu-chah-nulth Teachings — Cultural session on Indigenous relationships with grey whales. Free.
- Speaker Series — Scientists and researchers on grey whale biology, drone monitoring, and marine mammal ecology. Button event.
- Marine Mammal Research Zodiac Tours — Small-group boat tours with researchers. $119–$149 per person. Separate booking.
- Baleen Bash — Closing night concert at Tofino Community Hall. Separate ticket (~$30–$40). Headliner: Shred Kelly (2026).