Tofino Beach Lodge starts construction early this year on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. The lodge will be within UNESCO Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve and on the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.

© Notion Workshop

Located in Tofino, British Columbia, it will be immersed in stunning surroundings where guests can enjoy shoreline tide pools and listen to numerous songbirds in the busy canopy of the coastal rainforest. The 15,000-square-foot lodge and 39,000 square feet of hotel space will float on elevated concrete piers with views through the forest of spruce, cedar and fir trees.

A tapestry of native plants will flow under the buildings, encouraging natural surface water patterns to nourish the shoreline wetlands. Hidden within the 10.3 acres of rainforest will be a secluded wellness retreat that will include a sauna and hot pool.

© Notion Workshop

Designed by Washington State-based Eerkes Architects, the materials used in both the lodge and hotel will be drawn from the surrounding forest and ocean shoreline. In the glass-enclosed lodge, a polished concrete floor will be inspired from beach sand, while exposed beams and wood paneling add a sense of warmth. Fireplaces will feature thin, vertical concrete flutes forming a bark-like texture. Above the fireplace, Shou sugi ban paneling, a traditional Japanese technique that preserves wood by charring it with fire, will mirror tones of the shadowy forest. This process also gives the wood a unique, charred finish that is both beautiful and long-lasting. Guestrooms and suites will be rendered in lighter shades that draw from the nearby beach.

Guestrooms include light-stained oak floors with exposed wood paneling and beams, with white oak cabinetry complemented by neutral-toned linen. Moss green color accents will appear throughout, melding beautifully with the island’s surrounding nature.

© Notion Workshop

Tofino (population about 2,500) and Vancouver Island are known for many recreational activities. Between the sea, surf and shore, there are year-round opportunities for outdoor adventures. Visitors can walk or cycle along trails and boardwalks that weave through the rainforest, use floating docks for saunas and cold plunges, hit the surf for paddle and board fun, cycle the path from Tofino to Ucluelet, head to the ocean on a fishing excursion, or join a group for an exciting whale-watching trip. Tofino Beach Lodge is expected to open in mid- to late 2026.