Canada's Up-And-Coming Nature Destination Is Trending In 2026, According To Data

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With miles of wild, storm-lashed coastline circling its forested shores, Vancouver Island on Canada's west coast draws millions of visitors every year. Exploring the vast wilderness of temperate rainforest and sandy shores in this beautiful landscape provides a welcome escape from city living, as well as a wellness-filled immersion into nature. While many tourists flock to the popular surf town of Tofino for fun beach adventures, interest is slowly spreading south along the coast, to the equally pretty and appealing village of Ucluelet. Like another other up-and-coming Canadian destination, this small, laid-back fishing community of around 2,500 inhabitants is currently seeing an increase in visitors. While the coastal waters and giant waves draw in surfers and other water sports enthusiasts, Ucluelet also sits right on the doorstep of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, making it an ideal spot for hikers and wildlife lovers all year round.

Recently named one of Expedia's trending destinations for 2026, the booking platform has seen a 44% increase in search volume for accommodation and flights to Ucluelet. For the first time, Expedia is basing their list on its Smart Travel Health Check, which evaluates destinations focused on long-term sustainability solutions, and aligns with the World Travel and Tourism Council's Destination Management Report. 

Ucluelet is a roughly 180-mile scenic drive across Vancouver Island from Victoria. The route follows Highway 4, cutting through dense rainforest and past freshwater lakes, before reaching the Pacific Coast. If you visit during the colder months, winter tires are required. The nearest airport to Ucluelet is Tofino-Long Beach Airport (YAZ), about 15 miles away.

Ucluelet, meaning "people of the safe harbor" in the Nuu-chah-nulth language, is the exact kind of coastal wilderness destination that outdoor adventurers are drawn to. The Nuu-chah-nulth have lived along the west coast of Vancouver Island for thousands of years. Living in secluded villages along the bay, the ocean was their main source of food, providing them with salmon, shellfish, and whales. Inland was just as important, with the rainforest supplying the cedar wood needed for building canoes, houses, and tools. Walking along the beaches, coastal paths, and nature trails that surround the village, it's easy to see why they made a home here. 

Easy access to Pacific Rim National Park Reserve makes Ucluelet especially appealing for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Divided into three units, entry to the reserve's Long Beach Unit and its miles of sandy beaches, is only five miles away. It also makes a great starting point for an epic Canadian national park road trip. As well as being drawn to the relaxed atmosphere of the village, travelers also come to get out in the Pacific Ocean. Popular with surfers hoping to ride strong swells in the summer, the same crashing waves attract storm watchers in the winter. One of the best ways to witness this impressive storm symphony is on the Wild Pacific Trail. With plenty of viewpoints along the way, wildlife enthusiasts will have lots of opportunities to spot animals and birds both in and out of the ocean.

The Wild Pacific Trail is a 5-mile trail network made up of two main trails. One is the Lighthouse Loop, a gentle coastline walk with spectacular views over Barkley Sound and Amphitrite Lighthouse. With interpretive signage explaining the area's natural and cultural history, optional beach access points, and the chance to do a spot of whale watching, the trail is a photographer's dream and suitable for all levels of hikers. It also has wheelchair-accessible paths near the lighthouse. Whales aren't the only wildlife seen along the coast. Harbor seals, sea lions, and a variety of seabirds are frequent visitors, with sea otters making an occasional appearance. More fascinating marine life can be seen at Ucluelet Aquarium, Canada's first collect-and-release aquarium, meaning the animals are only temporary residents before they're returned to the ocean at the end of the summer.

As Vancouver Island is one of the best destinations in Canada for wildlife watching, it's worth joining a guided tour. The locally owned Cameron Ocean Adventures run whale-watching tours at Ucluelet, with the promise that if you don't see whales, you can go again for free. They also do a bear-watching tour, with a chance of seeing black bears as they come to the shoreline to munch on shellfish. The best viewing times are around April and May. Kayaking in Ucluelet is the perfect way to relax on the water as you take in the stunning coastal views. Venture into the sheltered waters of the Broken Group Islands and you'll discover secluded coves, hidden beaches, and sea caves.

For a two-in-one restaurant and accommodation experience, head to the award-winning Pluvio. The Canadian-inspired dining makes the best of seasonal ingredients, many of which are foraged in the surrounding forests and coastline. Rooms are located right next door and are pet-friendly, a convenient option if you're traveling with your dog.