Brady’s Beach & the Bamfield Blowhole are some of the most underrated gems on Vancouver Island!

Tucked away in the remote community of West Bamfield, this spot is likely off most travellers’ radar simply because of how wild the journey is to get there — but if you’re up for an adventure, it’s absolutely worth it.

Here’s how to find it:

• Start with a 2-hour drive from Port Alberni down Bamfield Main (this way is fully paved. If you take the road via Lake Cowichan, it is gravel road and very washed out).

• Then hop a water taxi ($10 per person, each way) across to West Bamfield — there’s no road access here!

• From the dock, stroll along the iconic boardwalk and hike a 20-minute gravel road trail (well signed!) to Brady’s Beach.

When you arrive, it feels like something out of a dream. Soft sand, turquoise water, towering sea stacks, and distant mountain views. One of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen.

And if you’re craving more adventure, hike down the beach to find the Bamfield Blowhole. This 3.4-km out-and-back trail takes about an hour and is rated moderate — use AllTrails to follow the route!

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Much of this area can only be explored at low tide. Always check the tide tables before you go. Rising tides can leave you stranded with no way out.

AllTrails hike link: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/british-columbia/brady-beach-and-bamfield-blowhole