About this experience
Discover the hidden gem of Hot Springs Cove on a serene journey from Tofino. Enjoy a scenic 30 nautical mile boat ride, offering sightings of coastal wildlife, before embarking on a picturesque 1.5 km walk through ancient old-growth forests via a well-maintained cedar boardwalk. Immerse yourself in the natural geothermal pools fed by cascading waterfalls, where you can unwind amidst the stunning wilderness. This intimate tour accommodates up to 12 guests, ensuring a personal experience while exploring the unspoiled beauty of the Pacific Northwest coast.
- Scenic boat ride with wildlife viewing opportunities
- 1.5 km easy walk through majestic old-growth forest
- Relax in natural geothermal pools for two hours
- Intimate experience for up to 12 guests
At a glance
- Duration: 6 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 6 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What is included
- Local Knowledgeable Guide
- Wildlife Viewing Opportunities
- Ahousaht Stewardship and Land Access Fees
- Restroom on board
- Tea/Coffee available at Adventure Centre
Not included
- Lunch
- Optional
Itinerary and highlights
Visitors from around the world are drawn to to Nism̓aakqin Park in Clayoquot Sound to soak in the mux̣ʷšiƛa (mahkw-shith-ah) hot springs.
The natural mineral hot spring pools are a unique feature. The geothermal hot springs cascade down a waterfall into six rocky pools. The pools flow from one level to the next becoming gradually cooler as the fresh spring water is cooled by ocean swells. mux̣ʷšiƛa, which means “steaming from rock”, is the ʕaḥuusʔatḥ (Ahousaht) name for the hot springs. ʕaḥuusʔatḥ knowledge and culture keepers consider the spring water in the pools to have healing properties.
Formerly known as Maquinna Marine Park, the area was renamed in 2025 as Nism̓aakqin Park. Nism̓aakqin (nis-mock-kin) means “our land that we care for” in nuučaańuł. There are many places of important cultural, historic and spiritual significance to nuučaańuł (Nuu-chah-nulth) First Nations within Nism̓aakqin Park.
After a 1–1.5 hour boat ride with wildlife viewing opportunities along the way, there’s a 30–45 minute walk along the boardwalk leading into the hot springs. You can enjoy the hot springs and the view for two hours, and then you have the return walk back to the dock for pick-up and another boat ride back home.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- The Marine Adventure Centre
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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