While 'beach-view suites' might conjure up scenes of the white-sand, palm-fringed variety, these are a little different. Think stormy ocean swells as you watch from the comfort of your double soaker bath or glass-enclosed shower, with all rooms and suites looking over the ocean or beach and adorned with slate-tiled balconies, underfloor heating and fireplaces – some with wet bars – and furnished with local art. The Pointe Deluxe West rooms in particular are fantastic for watching the sunset.
With winter bringing surging Pacific storms and summer driftwood-speckled beaches, The Wick was made for adventure. Head on hikes through old-growth forests to watch for foraging black bears and, in the surrounding waters, witness breaching humpbacks, orcas and sea lions from a kayak. There's plenty of time for more relaxing pursuits, too, from natural sulphur hot-spring soaks and nature walks through the moss-draped rainforest trails to local beach ambles and self-guided art tours, as well as complimentary bike rental and a fitness room. Storm watching is particularly spectacular from the inn, with Helly Hansen wet weather gear included for each guest (and beach blankets in summer). After action-packed days, the luxe spa awaits, where, from treatment rooms overlooking the pristine waters, you'll enjoy the likes of seaweed body polishes, invigorating mud therapies and aromatic massages.
Dining is, as expected from a property of this calibre, world-class, with The Pointe being one of the best restaurants on the island. With the surrounding waters and forests at the core of the innovative menus on offer, expect everything from charred albacore tuna and pan-seared scallops with crab velouté to elk tartare, taken among the sprawling wood-clad ceiling and panoramic windows. The five-course tasting menu is extra special, expertly paired with wines from the world's most acclaimed regions. It's all a perfect prelude to after-dinner signature cocktails or local beer at the On the Rocks Bar. If you're out exploring, a gourmet lunch can be delivered in a backpack for the next day’s activities, or for something more relaxed, the Driftwood Café offers beach-front or fire-side dining for home-made smoothies and excellent coffee alongside daily-baked flaky pastries, hot-pressed sandwiches and ultra-fresh smoked salmon.
