Hot Springs Cove

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Destination BC/Dave Heath
Photo provided by Destination BC/Stay & Wander
Photo provided by Destination BC/Stay & Wander
Photo provided by Destination BC/Andrew Strain
Photo provided by Destination BC/Kari Medig

Geothermally heated waters bubble up through the rocks before tumbling into the sea at one of Vancouver Island’s most remarkable natural attractions.

Nature becomes a luxurious spa at Hot Springs Cove, a secluded corner of Vancouver Island’s coastline where thermal waters cascade into the ocean. This wilderness waterfall is not only a geothermic marvel, but also a scenic natural escape. Dip into the heated pools and gaze out at the open ocean views.

The water here flows through a fissure deep underground, where it is heated to temperatures as high as 228 F (109 C) before being forced back to the surface. Once back in the open it gets cooler in natural pools of about 122 F (50 C). Watch the steam rising off the river, giving an immediate impression of the water’s warmth.

Stroll along a boardwalk through the woodland to find a swimming spot. The walk, which takes about 30 minutes, leads through a grove of green cedar trees and runs alongside the river as it cools.

Soak in one of the still pools and sit beneath the torrent of the waterfall for a powerful natural shower. The consistent warm water temperatures ensure comfortable visits at any time of year.

Although the springs are popular, local authorities have resisted the temptation to turn the cove into a tourist hotspot and the area remains largely undeveloped. Relax and enjoy the uninterrupted scenery along the other side of the cove. Watch for the whales that frequent the waters around Clayoquot Sound.

Beat the crowds to the springs by staying nearby. Accommodations are available near the cove, which allows visitors regular access to the geological phenomenon.

Hot Springs Cove is not an easy destination to find. Join a tour group from Tofino, which is about 30 miles (50 kilometers) southeast of the springs. Guides will then take you by boat or seaplane to this exclusive spot on the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island. Combine your trip to the springs with whale watching or a longer exploration of the island’s beautiful shores.

Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina

Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina

4 out of 5
3500 Cessna Dr, Richmond, BC
The price is ¥18,635 per night from Oct 27 to Oct 28
¥18,635
¥21,833 total
Oct 27 - Oct 28
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury hotel in Richmond. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a free airport shuttle. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (3,083 reviews)
"Very nice place."

Reviewed on Sep 27, 2025

Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina
River Rock Casino Resort

River Rock Casino Resort

4 out of 5
8811 River Road, Richmond, BC
The price is ¥16,813 per night from Oct 13 to Oct 14
¥16,813
¥22,188 total
Oct 13 - Oct 14
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star luxury resort in Richmond. Enjoy a full-service spa, 5 restaurants, and a marina. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (9,842 reviews)
"Loved it"

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

River Rock Casino Resort
Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront

4 out of 5
1133 Hastings St W, Vancouver, BC
The price is ¥28,107 per night from Oct 28 to Oct 29
¥28,107
¥33,917 total
Oct 28 - Oct 29
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 4-star business-friendly hotel in Vancouver. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a fitness center. Our guests praise the breakfast and the ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (7,416 reviews)
"Clean and had a nice smell throughout the public areas. Staff were neat and friendly. Location is awesome and our room had a great view to the harbour on the 16th floor. Will sure come back and stay here."

Reviewed on Sep 24, 2025

Pinnacle Hotel Harbourfront
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Pinnacle Hotel Whistler Village

Pinnacle Hotel Whistler Village

3.5 out of 5
4319 Main St, Whistler, BC
Stay at this aparthotel in Whistler. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 restaurants, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (4,815 reviews)
"Great!"

Reviewed on Sep 23, 2025

Pinnacle Hotel Whistler Village
Divya Sutra Plaza and Conference Centre, Vernon, BC

Divya Sutra Plaza and Conference Centre, Vernon, BC

4 out of 5
4801 27 St, Vernon, BC
Stay at this 4-star ski aparthotel in Vernon. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
7/10 Good! (1,612 reviews)
"The pool was the perfect temperature and clean. Staff were very helpful. Carpet in our room had a spill but the one in our son’s room next door was fine. Good value for the price."

Reviewed on Sep 22, 2025

Divya Sutra Plaza and Conference Centre, Vernon, BC
The Parkside Hotel & Spa

The Parkside Hotel & Spa

3.5 out of 5
810 Humboldt Street, Victoria, BC
Stay at this 3.5-star spa aparthotel in Victoria. Enjoy free WiFi, a full-service spa, and a rooftop terrace. Our guests praise the pool and the helpful staff ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (3,081 reviews)
"Beautiful hotel in downtown, all major attractions are walkable distance, big rooms with all amenities. Very humble and helpful staff. Recommended."

Reviewed on Sep 25, 2025

The Parkside Hotel & Spa
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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