Hidden Behind A Roadside Rest Area Is Vancouver Island's Secret Swimming Hole With Vivid Caribbean Blue Waters

Vancouver Island is speckled with numerous creeks, rivers, and lakes set between contrasting mountain and beach landscapes. Its temperate climate provides the ideal living conditions for a diverse array of animal and plant life, while its varied topography and warm weather create the perfect environment for outdoor adventurers seeking a break from big city life. The island provides numerous opportunities to hike and bike through mountains, climb unique rock formations, kayak through its many waterways, and even snorkel through shipwrecks, over sponge reefs, and alongside giant octopuses.

With so many unique and diverse destinations to explore, the last thing most people want to do is spend significant time at a roadside rest stop. However, tucked off Highway 4, behind the Taylor River Rest Area, lies a secret, must-see swimming hole that demands a stop on any road trip itinerary. Approximately 35 miles from Port Alberni and 4 hours by car from Vancouver (including the ferry ride), it's a jaw-dropping natural pool with crystal-clear, blue-green water. It looks like it belongs in the warm, sunny Caribbean island rather than off the cool, rocky shores of Canada.

The spot is the perfect place to swim, paddleboard, and fling yourself into the chilly depths from the pool's well-used rope swing. Visitors can also snap Instagram-worthy pics from several locations and elevations around the pool, have a picnic at one of the provided tables, or even charge their electric vehicle while exploring the forests and rock formations surrounding the pool.

While it might look like a secluded tropical atoll, don't be fooled; the water temperatures are anything but warm. The natural swimming pool is glacier-fed, and therefore cold most of the year. This makes the warmer summer months the best time to visit if you want to take the plunge into its picturesque depths. There is limited cell service, but free Wi-Fi is available in the rest area. Pets must be leashed and under control at all times, and, as always, you must clean up and remove any waste created during your visit. 

Taylor River's swimming hole is also a crucial spawning and rearing ground for coho and sockeye salmon, as well as two species of trout. The forests surrounding the swimming hole are densely populated with Douglas fir, red cedar, and various species of flora along the forest floor. This makes the area an ideal habitat for black bears, moose, beavers, and other native animal species. Because of its environmental importance, visitors are encouraged to make as little impact on the area as possible and be vigilant of any animal life that could be roaming nearby.

The Taylor River Rest Area and its namesake swimming hole make the perfect pit stop for anyone traveling along Highway 4 to Vancouver Island's many coastal destinations, including the underrated Tofino, home to some of the world's best beaches. Although activities at the swimming hole are limited due to its remote location, numerous interesting and unique attractions are located nearby.

Approximately 15 minutes south lies Wally Creek. Also part of the Taylor Creek system, Wally Creek's mountainous terrain and placement along the Kennedy River Falls create cascading waterfalls, natural swimming pools, and rolling rapids. There's even a Love Lock Fence along the riverbank where couples can leave a token commemorating their visit. Before diving in, be aware of the potential dangers of swimming in the fast-paced, churning waters throughout the park's waterways. Water flow and force are higher in spring and early summer months due to glacial melt, and there have been several instances where swimmers have had to be rescued from the creek's rapids.

After getting your fill of swimming and hiking, head another 15 minutes south to West Coast Wild, an adventure park with zip line courses, river paddling, and floatplane tours. For an all-in-one destination with secluded beaches, winding trails, and scuba diving near shipwrecks, head about 100 miles southeast to one of Vancouver Island's best-kept secrets, Bamfield. Located just outside the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, this charming small town is packed with outdoor adventures, water-based activities, and several restaurants and lodges.