Hot Springs Cove

Tofino’s Hidden Natural Spa

Steam, salt air, and the sound of the forest nature’s spa day, the Tofino way.

A Journey Worth the Adventure

There’s no road to Hot Springs Cove — and that’s exactly what makes it magic. Tucked deep inside Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, the natural geothermal springs bubble up along a rugged coastal inlet about an hour northwest of Tofino by boat or floatplane.

The trip itself is half the fun  whales, sea otters, eagles, and forested islands dot the way and the payoff is a string of steaming rock pools overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Bring your sense of wonder… and maybe a towel.

How to Get There

Most tours leave from Tofino Harbour, just minutes from Rhino Coffee House.

By Boat (1.5 hours each way)

Glide through Clayoquot Sound, past wildlife and remote islands. You’ll dock at a boardwalk trail a 2 km rainforest walk leading to the springs.

By Floatplane (20–25 minutes)

Take off from the water and soar over the coastline — rainforest, coves, and islands below you. The view alone is worth it.

At the Springs

You’ll find a natural cascade of geothermal pools flowing from a waterfall down to the ocean. The water cools as it moves so you can pick your perfect temperature and soak surrounded by ferns, rock, and sea spray.

What to Bring

  • Swimsuit, towel, and water shoes (the rocks are slippery)
  • Warm layers for the return trip
  • Snacks or lunch — there’s no food service at the springs
  • Reusable water bottle
  • A good camera — or better yet, just your eyes

Fuel Up Before You Go

You’ll be gone for several hours so start your trip right with breakfast or takeout from Rhino Coffee House.

Pre-Trip Picks

Packable Snacks

Why People Love It

“The boat ride alone was worth it — whales, eagles, mist… then the springs felt like another world.”
Leah (Visitor from Seattle)
“You can feel the heartbeat of Tofino out there — steam, salt, forest, and sky.”
Tom (Local Guide)
“We always pack Burritos for the ride — hot coffee + cold sea breeze = perfect balance.”
Maya (Team Rhino)

Perfect For

  • Adventurous travelers looking for something off the beaten path
  • Couples and photographers chasing unforgettable views
  • Wellness lovers craving natural hot pools in the wilderness
  • Anyone who needs a digital detox — no signal, no noise, just nature

Best Time to Visit

Hot Springs Cove is open year-round.

  • Spring to early fall: calmer seas and whale sightings on the ride over
  • Winter: moody weather and steamy springs make for dramatic photos (and quieter crowds)

Find It Downtown

Steam rising, waves crashing, and coffee in hand — that’s the Tofino way. Fuel your adventure with Rhino Coffee House before soaking at Hot Springs Cove.