Clayoquot-Orca Resort Lodge

Zed is a place I’ll keep in mind for another trip. I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and service. They welcomed our puppy with a little care bag, including his own towel, poop bags, and treats. Such a simple, kind touch. There’s a hot tub, a lovely sauna looking out at the woods, games in the lounge, an arcade, a coffee bar, and a cool restaurant that looked nhami, though we didn’t eat there.

The staff were incredible, always smiling and ready to help. Manager miles was especially friendly and gave us great service at checkout, even with the hotel full. There’s a lot to do, from private-feeling dance rooms and car rooms to a huge sunken living room packed with board games and a great restaurant. The rooms are created, and the architecture is thoughtfully done. I hadn’t seen a retro dial phone in 100 years. It’s an extraordinary hotel with a happy atmosphere.

Customer service and amenities were great, and the attached surf shop was handy, with good prices and a warm shower. I didn’t use the hotel amenities because it was so busy and there were lots of kids around, which made it feel more like a family hotel than a couples’ getaway. Room 327 had an extremely loud, rumbling HVAC, like being beside a ferry’s engine room. I’d never heard anything like that at a hotel and had to ask to move. They did it without a fuss, which was good, but the room they moved me to, 226, was only one floor down and one room farther away, and I could still hear the rumble. It was much quieter and tolerable, but still annoying. I’d looked forward to this stay for a long time, so it’s a shame I don’t see myself coming back.

Jerin at the front desk set a welcoming tone right away, with friendly, professional hospitality. The property itself has plenty to explore, from hidden paths through the trees to the sunken living room. The cedar barrel sauna, with its glass back looking into the forest, was a highlight, and following it with a dip in the swim spa was a great way to unwind. It feels like a playground for adults and families, with so much attention to detail. Hotel Zed Tofino has a funky retro feel alongside a high-end experience, and more character than an average hotel. We’ll definitely return.