Wickaninnish Inn
The Wickaninnish Inn, Tofino Canada, has become a landmark – the enchanting and critically acclaimed destination on the awesome western edge of beautiful British Columbia. No trip to BC – and indeed, Canada – should be made without experiencing this remarkable Tofino destination.
Another season of legendary Tofino stormwatching is upon us, and we can’t wait to share the thrill of listening to our howling gales of wind, or watching those 20-foot breakers, right in front of the Inn! We enjoyed our first Tofino winter storm on Tuesday, November 14th, where everyone rushed to the Pointe restaurant for the spectacular ocean view! We look forward to welcoming you this season to the original stormwatching destination, the Wickaninnish Inn.
The Wickaninnish Inn story began in January 1955 when Dr. Howard McDiarmid first moved to Tofino and assumed responsibility for the Tofino General Hospital . Over the years, he recognized the unique nature of the area and was instrumental in the creation of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in 1971.
The establishment of the national park eventually resulted in the conversion of the original Wickaninnish Inn to a marine interpretive centre. The Inn ‘s closure sparked Howard’s vision to someday recreate the rustic elegance of its former namesake in a modern context. Inspired by their parents’ foresight, the McDiarmid family joined with a group of long time Tofino residents to make the vision a reality. The vision was realized in August of 1996 with the opening of the new Wickaninnish Inn and its Pointe Restaurant . The natural appeal of Tofino as a destination and the quality experience provided by the Inn brought a steady growth in Canadian and international visitors particularly after the opening of the Ancient Cedars Spa in 1998 .
To fulfill its long term plans and meet this growing demand, the Inn added its ‘On-the-Beach’ building in July 2003. Major features of this beautiful addition include a lobby with sweeping panoramic views down Chesterman Beach through 20 foot tall windows, a spacious mezzanine level ‘Look-out Library’ area, fully equipped boardroom and a comfortable fireplace-warmed room called the Driftwood Lounge and a workout room with beach views.
Any mention of art at the Wickaninnish Inn must begin with Henry Nolla. Nolla lived for over twenty years on the very land adjacent to where the Inn now sits. His work is intrinsic to the character and history of this retreat, first evident in the hand-adzed cedar entranceways and carved entry doors.
Maxwell Newhouse, another BC artisan, is known for his sinuous driftwood furniture. Entering the foyer, one of his masterpieces takes the form of a large coffee table, a three-dimensional sculpture of weathered driftwood and Japanese glass fishing floats. No room is left untouched by his hand. Each guestroom has a signature hand made driftwood chair nestled next to the desk. These and many other local artists and artisans are integral to the overall look, feel and character of the Inn .
The Wickaninnish Inn began with a vision to reflect the essence of this rugged, wild and untamed destination in combination with the ultimate in modern creature comforts all without making a huge impact on the environment. Architecturally, it has succeeded in defining an archetypal North West Coast style utilizing the natural elements of cedar, fir, driftwood and stone together with expansive windows inviting in the awe inspiring ocean vistas. The Inn truly embodies its commitment to, ‘Rustic Elegance on Nature’s Edge’.
