Plan Your Trip
The year-round population of Bamfield and surrounding Anacla Communities is approximately 300, but during the summer months this area sees up to 10,000 visitors all seeking the rugged, natural beauty of this super natural landscape. The setting features a temperate rainforest with protected inlets and an exposed Pacific Coast, and is the home of the Huu-ay-aht First Nations.
Getting Here
Whether you plan to get here by boat, air, or road we have all the info to help you make the most of your trip. Read the details on our ‘Getting Here‘ page.
Weather
Bamfield is a remote location on the west coast of Vancouver Island, next to the Pacific Rim National Park. This area can see a variety of weather systems depending on the time of year, so it’s important to remember to bring appropriate gear.
Peak season summers are warm and beautiful, but weather can fluctuate from rain and wind to sun and fog.
Rain and waterproof clothing will be essential year-round but especially in the shoulder seasons. Warm layers for cooler nights will also help ensure your comfort.
Hours and Seasonal Closures
There are many things to do in and around Bamfield, and most local businesses are open year round. There are some important seasonal dates to bear in mind:
Pachena Bay Campground: Open between May 1 – September 30.
Centennial Park Campground: Open June 1 – September 30.
West Coast Trail: Open between May 1 – September 30.
Eco Tours & Fishing Charters: Seasons can range anywhere from March 1 – Oct 31, but please check in with individual companies or businesses for up-to-date seasonal info.
What to Bring
If you’re coming to Bamfield to take advantage of some of the best fishing excursions in the world, you’ll want to make sure you have a salt water fishing license. Be sure to add a salmon tag. Annual and day licenses can be purchased online via the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.
A portable cooler can also be a good item to bring along for storing fish. Many places in Bamfield offer freezer rentals with fish cleaning stations for all your fishing needs.
Other items to remember:
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Bug spray
- Binoculars
- Camera equipment
- Day pack
- Snacks & drinks (sometimes store hours can be inconsistent)
- Medication (if needed)
- Cash. There is no bank in Bamfield but there is an ATM at the market, the Hacas Inn and the Bamfield General store.
Local Amenities and Services
Centennial Park Visitor Information Centre
Visit the Centennial Park Visitor Information Centre and receive friendly service from knowledgeable staff. Arrange via the centre rentals for kayaks or small boats, diving, charters and more.
Phone: 250-728-3006
Email: info@bamfieldparks.com
Bamfield Chamber of Commerce
The Bamfield Chamber of Commerce offers excellent maps of Bamfield with local business listings, community events and more.
Email: info@bamfieldchamber.com
Bamfield Health Centre
The Bamfield Health Centre is located at 353 Bamfield Road and is open from Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm. An on-call Nurse is available 24/hrs for after hours.
Health Centre Phone: 250-735-1151
On-call Nurse Phone: 250-728-3312
Gas Station
The nearest gas station in Bamfield is located on Hull Rd., at the bottom of Ostrom’s Hill
Docks
- Bamfield East Dock offers 850 ft. of safe, year-round moorage with dock lighting and garbage facilities.
- Harbour Authority dock in East Bamfield. This dock offers public moorage and reservations are recommended during the summer: 1-250-720-7548.
- Upnit Lodge
- West Government Dock – limited recreational boat moorage.
- Bamfield Mercantile & Marine dock – the white allocated space is for store trips only, while red allocated spaces indicate private, reserved parking.
- Awis Guesthouse.