Hot Springs Cove Travel Guide

Tourist 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.

River Rock Casino Resort

River Rock Casino Resort

4 out of 5
8811 River Road, Richmond, BC
The price is AU$269 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
AU$269
1 Sept - 2 Sept
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! (9,515 reviews)
"Exceptional service."

Reviewed on 19 Aug. 2025

River Rock Casino Resort
Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina

Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina

4 out of 5
3500 Cessna Dr, Richmond, BC
The price is AU$506 per night from 7 Sept to 8 Sept
AU$506
7 Sept - 8 Sept
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! (2,632 reviews)
"Very"

Reviewed on 19 Aug. 2025

Radisson Blu Vancouver Airport Hotel & Marina
Fairmont Empress

Fairmont Empress

4.5 out of 5
721 Government St, Victoria, BC
The price is AU$523 per night from 1 Sept to 2 Sept
AU$523
1 Sept - 2 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa hotel in Victoria. Enjoy a full-service spa, 2 restaurants, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
9/10 Wonderful! (2,226 reviews)
"We stayed in 4 other hotels during our adventures on Vancouver Island and the Fairmont was the best for Cleanliness, helpful staff, bed comfort and amenities. It costs equivalent to a neighbouring property that we found disappointing. Walk to pretty much everything you want from here and the grounds ..."

Reviewed on 18 Aug. 2025

Fairmont Empress
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.
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 ...
7.2/10 Good! (1,443 reviews)
"Good"

Reviewed on 17 Aug. 2025

Divya Sutra Plaza and Conference Centre, Vernon, BC
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! (4,711 reviews)
"Loved it, but not necessary to put a hot tub next to the bed. Would have preferred the space. Otherwise terrific"

Reviewed on 17 Aug. 2025

Pinnacle Hotel Whistler Village
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! (2,993 reviews)
"Loved it will stay their again"

Reviewed on 16 Aug. 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.