Hot Springs Cove is one of those places that still feels a little unreal, even when you’re standing in it.
Yes, Vancouver Island has hot springs, and if you’re dreaming of a truly unforgettable soak, Hot Springs Cove is the one people talk about for a reason. Tucked away on the remote west coast of the island, this natural geothermal oasis can only be reached by boat or floatplane, making the journey just as memorable as the destination.
The reward? Steaming hot pools carved into the rocks, old-growth rainforest all around you, and waves crashing against the shoreline steps away. It’s the kind of place where time slows down, and the outside world feels very far away.
Hot Springs Cove is located within Nism̓aakqin Park and lies in the traditional territory of the Hesquiaht First Nation. Visiting with respect adds another meaningful layer to the experience, connecting this wild and beautiful place to the people who have stewarded it for generations.
Location
Hot Springs Cove is located in Nism̓aakqin Park (formerly called Maquinna Marine Provincial Park), about 30 kilometres northwest of Tofino on the remote west coast of Vancouver Island. Surrounded by old-growth rainforest and rugged coastline, it’s completely disconnected from the road system, which is part of what keeps this place feeling so wild and special.
This isn’t somewhere you stumble upon by accident. Visiting Hot Springs Cove requires a bit of planning, but the sense of remoteness is a big part of the experience.
Getting There
Nismaakqin Park is only accessible by water or air, making the journey to Hot Springs Cove an adventure in its own right.
Most visitors travel from Tofino with a licensed tour operator, either by boat or floatplane:
- Boat tours take just over an hour each way and often include opportunities to spot whales, sea lions, and other coastal wildlife.
- Floatplane trips take approximately 20 minutes and offer incredible aerial views of Clayoquot Sound.
Several floatplane and boat tour operators run trips from Tofino, making Hot Springs Cove surprisingly accessible once you’re on the west coast. Here are a few great options:
What to Expect
One of the best parts about visiting Hot Springs Cove is that the journey itself feels like an adventure. Many of the tours pass through prime wildlife territory, so it’s not uncommon to spot whales, sea otters, harbour seals, sea lions, or even bears along the shoreline on the way to and from Nism̓aakqin Park. In many ways, it feels like a whale or wildlife tour, with the added bonus of soaking in natural hot springs at the end.
It’s worth knowing that Hot Springs Cove is a popular destination, especially during peak season. When multiple tour boats arrive at the dock around the same time, the pools can feel busy. The experience is still special, but timing can make a big difference.
If you’re hoping for a quieter visit, arriving by floatplane can be a smart choice. Seaplanes are the fastest way to reach Hot Springs Cove, and early morning flights often arrive well before the boats. The flight itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views of the rugged coastline and Clayoquot Sound from above.
When we visited for our anniversary a few years back, we took a floatplane over and returned by boat. It gave us the best of both worlds. We had early access to the pools, a peaceful start to the experience, and a scenic, wildlife-filled journey back.
Once You Arrive
No matter how you reach Nism̓aakqin Park, there’s one last step before you can sink into the hot springs — a scenic walk through the rainforest.
From the dock, a 2-kilometre boardwalk leads you to Hot Springs Cove. The walk takes about 20 to 30 minutes one way and includes several sets of stairs, so it may not be suitable for everyone. That said, the walk is very much part of the experience.
As you make your way along the boardwalk, you’ll pass through lush forest with plenty of chances to stop for photos. There’s a distinct historic and artistic feel to this stretch of trail, and many visitors find the journey just as memorable as the soak itself.
One small but helpful tip: the hot springs are located at the very end of the boardwalk. You may notice steam rising from the ground along the way, but if you’re still walking on the boardwalk, you haven’t reached the pools just yet.
Insider Tips to Make Your Visit More Enjoyable
Most tour companies allow several hours at Hot Springs Cove, so there’s no need to rush. Once you’ve had your soak, take some time to explore the surrounding area. It’s quieter and just as beautiful as the pools themselves.
If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to enjoy a picnic lunch, follow the path to the left of Hot Springs Cove. Just below the wooden change rooms, you’ll find a small trail that leads to a series of rocky coves with incredible ocean views.
We climbed along the shoreline to the top of the rocks and found the perfect place to sit. It was just us, the crashing surf, a vast blue sky, and a few birds soaring overhead. It’s one of those moments that stays with you.
When entering the hot spring pools, keep in mind that you’ll need to manoeuvre around both large and small rocks. They can be sharp and slippery, so water shoes or sturdy sandals are a must for comfort and safety.
FAQ: Visiting Hot Springs Cove
What should I bring to Hot Springs Cove
Pack as if you’re heading out for a full day in a remote area. A small backpack with a swimsuit, towel, water, snacks or a picnic lunch, and a dry bag works well. Sturdy footwear is important as the boardwalk can be wet, and water shoes or sandals are very helpful for navigating the rocky pools.
How hot are the hot springs?
The geothermal water at Hot Springs Cove emerges deep from the earth and flows down a small rock face into a series of naturally formed pools along the shoreline. While the water is extremely hot at its source, the pools themselves vary in temperature depending on their location.
Pools closer to the source are the warmest, while those farther down, especially near the ocean, are significantly cooler. During high tide, incoming seawater mixes with the lower pools, creating a more comfortable soaking temperature. This natural mix makes it easy to find a spot that feels just right, whether you prefer a hotter soak or something more moderate.
How do I avoid the crowds?
As mentioned, the hot springs can get very busy, especially during the summer. To truly enjoy this location, follow in our footsteps and get there before the boats do with a float plane ride, or consider staying overnight. Visiting outside peak season can also mean fewer people on the boardwalk and at the pools.
Are there toilets and change rooms?
Yes. Open-pit toilets are located near the start of the boardwalk and again near the hot springs at the end of the trail. Wooden change rooms are also available near the pools.
Are there any important park rules I should know about?
Yes — and most of them are about protecting this special place and keeping the experience enjoyable for everyone.
– Camping and open fires are not permitted in the hot springs area or the southern part of the Peninsula.
– Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk or in and around the pools.
– Alcoholic beverages and glass containers are not permitted.
– Soap, shampoo, or any cleaning products are prohibited in or near the pools.
– Nudity is not permitted. Visitors must wear appropriate bathing attire.
Is Hot Springs Cove suitable for everyone
A wide range of visitors can enjoy Hot Springs Cove, but it’s important to know what to expect before you go.
Reaching the pools requires a 2-kilometre boardwalk walk with several sets of stairs, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility or anyone who struggles with uneven surfaces.
Once you arrive, accessing the pools involves stepping over rocks that can be sharp and slippery, particularly when wet. There are no handrails or formal entry points into the pools, so good balance and sturdy footwear make a big difference.
For those who are comfortable with a moderate walk and uneven terrain, the experience is absolutely worth it. Just be sure to plan accordingly and take your time.
Why you should go
Visiting Nism̓aakqin Park and Hot Springs Cove is about so much more than the soak itself. It’s an experience that brings you deep into Vancouver Island’s wild west coast, where dense rainforest meets rugged shoreline, and the pace of life naturally slows.
From the journey by boat or floatplane to the quiet boardwalk walk through the forest, everything about this place feels intentional. Soaking in naturally heated pools beside the ocean, all while waves crash nearby and steam rises into the air, is something you don’t soon forget.
If you’re looking for a Vancouver Island adventure that feels remote, grounding, and genuinely special, Hot Springs Cove is one of those rare places that truly lives up to the hype.
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Thanks for the information! I am looking to plan a trip with 3 other people up here in August. I noticed that you went with one company by float plain then returned by boat with another. From checking out the companies you listed, I noticed that a lot of companies actualyl offer a “sea-to-sky” tour where you can do just that. I am wondering if there are any advantages to booking with separate companies each way?
Great question! We decided to do that to beat the rush of the tours. The float plane got us there before any of the tours arrived, which allowed us to have the place to ourselves (other than one other couple). And then in order to stay longer (as well as cut down on a bit of the cost), we opted to go home with a tour company. I hope that helps!
Hot Springs Cove is one of my favourite places in the world. We camped on Maquinna for 3 days, so once the day tours emptied out again, we had the pools to ourselves. One of the rare things about these natural hot springs: they are filled up and emptied out with the changing tides. The sulfur Creek falls into the top pool and meanders into the lower tide pools, down into the ocean. The top pool is my favourite (I like burning hot water). Then it gets slightly colder in temp until you reach the ocean and are in the Pacific.
Although we lucked out with only having to share with a few other couples while we were there, I can only imagine how amazing it would be to have the pools to yourself. And yes, I love how the pools are ‘self-cleaning’. We’ve been to a few other Hot Springs around BC, and these are the only ones so far that haven’t left me feeling a squeamish.