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Thermal spring · Tofino, British Columbia
Hot Springs Cove
Natural hot springs that cascade down to the sea in Maquinna Provincial Park, about 40 km from Tofino, reachable only by boat or seaplane.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Hot Springs Cove
Hot Springs Cove is in Maquinna Provincial Park, in Clayoquot Sound, about 40 km north of Tofino. You can only reach it by boat, a crossing of about 1½ hours, or by seaplane from Tofino. On the way, boats often pass areas with whales, sea lions and eagles.
From the dock, a wooden boardwalk of about 2 km crosses the temperate rainforest to the springs. The hot water emerges from the rock, flows down a small waterfall and forms natural pools among the stones, which cool as they mix with seawater at high tide.
The site is on Hesquiaht First Nation territory. There are no services at the springs, and the pools are small and fill up at common boat arrival times.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day, including the crossing.
Best time
From May to September, when the sea is calmer. Tours depend on the weather.
How to get there
By tour boat or seaplane from the Tofino dock; from the cove dock it’s about 2 km on foot along the boardwalk.
Tip
Wear sandals with firm soles in the pools: the rocks are slippery.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Hot Springs Cove
How do you get to Hot Springs Cove?
Only by boat or seaplane from Tofino, plus about 2 km on foot along the boardwalk.
How long does the Hot Springs Cove trip take?
A full day, with about 1½ hours by boat each way.
Are the Hot Springs Cove springs natural?
Yes, the hot water emerges from the rock and forms pools among the stones at the edge of the sea.