The Four Cedars is located on the traditional, unceded territory of the Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ - Ucluelet First Nation. We are privileged to live, work, and gather on these lands that were occupied and cared for by the Nuu-Chah-Nulth nations for thousands of years before us.
THE PROPERTY
The land here has a long and rich history. For thousands of years, Nuu-Chah-Nulth people have called the west coast of Vancouver Island home. More specifically to here is the Yuułuʔił people. Ucluelet (pronounced You-Clue-Let) is the english way of saying Yuułuʔił, meaning “people of the safe harbour”. We encourage you to learn more about the histories, and support the businesses of the local first nations. We have listed several first nations owned businesses in our Ucluelet Guide.
In more recent history, this property was home to Majestic Ocean Kayaking, a tour group that ran here for over 30 years. Gabe acquired the property in 2021. In 2023 Majestic officially closed its doors, and he began imagining what the next chapter could be. The Magestic owners had built a large double-bay garage on the property hoping to run a mechanics shop along side the kayak shop, but unfortunately due to zoning restrictions, it was never allowed to legally operate. Not being a master kayaker himself, and knowing how thriving and important tourism has become in Ucluelet, Gabe reimagined the shop into our five room hotel and began renovations in 2024.
The name “The Four Cedars” came from the four old growth cedar tree’s that sit between our property and our neighbours near the water. They have grown atop a protruding piece of Vancouver Island, making a striking pose. In the 1890’s Emily Carr, an important Canadian painter from Victoria BC, stayed in an indigenous village near Ucluelet, her time in the area had apparently made quite an impact on her. While we were renovating the property, a family friend told us that he had thought Emily had spent time in this neighborhood and that the four old cedars was a site she would paint from. Although we have not been able to verify this claim, we thought it was a whimsical notion, and the name “The Four Cedars” stuck.
During your stay we encourage you to make use of our outdoor complimentary amenities.
We are currently working on building a fire pit in our upper forested zone, which we expect to have completed by the end of 2026.
WATERFRONT DECK & SAUNA
Start or wind down your day just above the tide line at our waterfront deck and sauna. It’s incredible how much wildlife we have spotted from here. Seals, sea lions, eagles and herons are our regulars on and around the property, however many shore birds visit seasonally, and the occasional whale will make its way by. In summer and fall, bears are often seen feeding at the beach across the bay, we recommend always having your binoculars handy!
Our handcrafted cedar barrel sauna has a 7 ft diameter with an 8 ft interior length and a 2 ft covered deck to hang your towels. Equipped with an electric heater for ease of use and a bubble window looking out into the harbour so that you can watch the boats and wildlife while you lounge. A cold water shower is available for you to cool off between sauna sessions, or you can brave a dip in the harbour if that is your perogative.
BIRD WATCHING
Easy to spot are the eagles that plunge between the tree’s, herons fishing at low tide and humming birds darting about. For those who have a great love of birds, you will find this area abundant in all types, each season showing off verities of local and migratory flocks. The birds particularly love the large tree’s on the property and low tide at our beach.
KAYAK LAUNCH
One of the special features of our property is access to a small harbour-side boat launch. Guests are welcome to bring their own kayaks, paddle-boards, or canoes to enjoy the surrounding waters. We do recommend that only experienced and properly equipped boaters venture out, as local conditions can change quickly with tides, currents, and weather.
Kayak racks are available for guest use. Access to the boat launch and kayak racks is via a gravel path and a set of wooden stairs. While not steep, guests should be prepared to carry their watercraft a short distance to reach the launch and storage area. Please be aware that this area is not gated or locked and although we consider ourselves to be in a safe area with low-risk of theft, we do not take any responsibility for the loss or damage of any equipment left unsupervised.
Use of the boat launch and all water activities are undertaken at your own risk. By choosing to access the water, guests accept responsibility for their safety and equipment.
ROOTED IN THE WEST COAST
GABRIEL
Transplanted in BC from Northern California to pursue higher education, Gabe found himself in and in love with Ucluelet. Building community at the surf breaks and skate park, he made roots by purchasing the property where The Four Cedars sits.
Having some previous construction knowledge, and with the help of many friends and family, Gabe renovated what was previously a large garage, office, and an apartment into the five room hotel you see now.
His passion for adventure and his knack for bringing people together is contagious and that energy is what fuels The Four Cedars.
JILLIAN
A fourth generation Ucluetion, daughter of tree-fallers and fishermen, Jill spent her youth working in the local hospitality industry before transitioning to construction excavation.
Being included in the this endeavor has been a dream for her. She takes pride in creating a welcoming and impeccably maintained space and is delighted to share the beauty and her knowledge of the area with our guests.