Quick answer
Hot Springs Cove is a natural hot spring north of Tofino that you can reach only by boat or floatplane. From the dock, a 2 km boardwalk through rainforest leads to the pools. Most visitors go on a tour from Tofino. Floatplanes take about 20 minutes each way, and one boat operator lists a 5.5-hour round-trip tour.
A new name: Nism̓aakqin Park
The provincial park formerly called Maquinna Marine Park was renamed Nism̓aakqin Park on March 31, 2025. The name comes from the Ahousaht and means “our land that we care for” (BC Geographical Names). According to BC Parks, the hot springs area is operated by the Ahous Business Corporation.
How to get there
| Option | Details |
|---|---|
| Floatplane | About 20 minutes each way. Tofino Air lists $415 per person (May 2027 to April 2028), plus stewardship, park and tribal park fees and GST. |
| Boat tour | Ahous Adventures lists a 5.5-hour tour from CA$259. Other Tofino operators also run trips. |
Boat routes pass wildlife areas, so whales, sea otters or bears are possible but never guaranteed.
The boardwalk and the springs
A roughly 2 km boardwalk runs from the dock through old-growth rainforest to natural pools where the hot water flows toward the ocean. BC Parks calls the springs mux̣ʷšiƛa. There are composting toilets and change huts but no drinking water (per Tofino Air), so bring your own.
Park rules
From BC Parks:
- No camping or fires in the hot springs area
- No alcohol in the park
- No glass at the pools
- Pets are not allowed beyond the start of the boardwalk
- There are no lifeguards
Tides and swells
BC Parks advises avoiding visits during high tides and high swells. During winter high tides the pools fill with cold sea water, and rough water and floating wood can cause injury. Check tide tables and ask your operator before you go.
What to bring
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
- Water shoes with grip (rocks are slippery)
- Drinking water and snacks
- Rain jacket and a warm layer for the boat
- A dry bag for your phone
Before you go, check the BC Parks page for advisories. It listed none when we checked on November 13, 2026.
Travel rules, prices and product details change. Check official government, airline and manufacturer sources before you book or buy.
