Bamfield, BC, camping: Pachena Bay Beach
Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada

Pachena Bay Beach

Pachena Bay Beach is located near the community of Bamfield, BC on the west coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. The sandy beach is a popular local beach destination neighbouring the Huu-Ay-Aht First Nations Village. The Huu-Ay-Aht people operate and maintain the beach campground.

The Pachena Bay Beach is a white sandy beach. There are large driftwood logs scattered along the coastline. Many thrown a shore by winter storms. At low tide the ocean waves retreat revealing a much larger beach with freshly pressed wet sand.

Pachena Bay Beach enjoys many activities. Some of the outdoor activities include camping, beachcombing, sightseeing, wildlife viewing, picnicking and hiking.

There is a boardwalk hiking trail, with towers, leading through the rainforest from Pachena Bay to the trailhead of the West Coast Trail. Many backpackers use Pachena Bay Beach as a staging point before or after hiking the long haul trail.

Neighbouring the beach is a campground run by the First Nation people. The campground includes hot showers, bathrooms, picnic tables, running water, fire pits, a picnic shelter, tenting and RV campsites - some powered, some waterfront.

From Pachena Bay the views are both marine and wildlife. Some days there are large barges and cruise ships passing by on the horizon. Yachts and sailboats sometimes moor in protected bay.

There is wildlife in the area. Some of the wildlife opportunities include whales, bears, eagles, seals, osprey and cougar. Whales can be spotted best during migration season. Bamfield is bear country so be bear aware.

How to Get to Pachena Bay Beach

Travel to the community of Bamfield, BC on Vancouver Island. Prior to entering Bamfield look for a large sign on your left directing visitors to the Huu-Ay-Aht First Nation's Pachena Bay Campground. Turn here. Follow the road tot he end, past the village to a campground office entrance.