Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about Ocean Wilderness Inn, including accommodations, amenities, local attractions, and how to make the most of your stay on Vancouver Island’s Southwest coast.
FAQs
People visit us from all over the world and sometimes they are not sure what to expect on arrival. We want you to be as happy and comfortable as possible. So we would like to make sure you know what to expect. If you have any questions that are not answered here, please fill out the form below and send it to us. We will respond directly to you.
Can we drink the water?
Yes, all the tap water at Ocean Wilderness Inn comes from a deep water aquifer more than 100 metres below the surface. The water is tested regularly. In addition we filter the water and expose it to UV light which ensures safe clean water for all our guests.
Do we get free WiFi?
Fast, free, reliable internet. Our WiFi connection to the Internet is 1TB. This means your WiFi connection will be as fast as your device can receive.
Do you have cell phone service?
We do have cell service here, but it can be unpredictable. Once connected to our WiFi you can call via WhatsApp, Facetime, or similar without issue. We do also pick up some service from the cell towers in Washington State, just across the Strait of Juan De Fuca. Be sure to get on our WiFi if you do not have a USA roaming package.
Do you provide coffee and tea?
You will find a coffee maker and a tea kettle in every room. Complimentary coffee and tea are included, sugar and creamers as well.
Do you have a laundry service?
We do not have a laundry facility on the property, but we do recommend the Sooke Laundromat, 250-352-2212 or http://www.sookelaundromat.ca/
Cancellation Policies
Payment & Peace of Mind
To secure your sanctuary, a 50% deposit is required at the time of booking. The final balance is automatically processed 14 days before your arrival.
Cancellations
We understand that plans can change. Because we are a small boutique inn with limited inventory, we maintain the following policy:
- 14+ Days Notice: Your deposit is refundable, minus a seasonal administrative fee ($125 Oct–April / $225 May–Sept).
- Extended & Group Stays: For bookings of 7+ nights or multiple rooms, cancellations made outside the 14-day window are subject to a fee of 15% of the total stay
- Within 14 Days: At this stage, all reservations are final and non-refundable. This includes no-shows or early departures.
Travel Protection
Because we cannot make exceptions for weather, emergencies, or travel disruptions, we strongly recommend travel insurance. This ensures you are protected even when the unexpected happens.
Pets
To preserve the comfort, safety, and tranquility of the Inn for all guests, pets are not permitted on the property.
We appreciate your understanding.
Children
To maintain a peaceful environment for all travelers, we accommodate guests aged 18 and older.
Guests traveling with younger children are welcome exclusively through our Full House Buyout option, which grants your private group full access to the entire property and all suites.
Getting Here
To reach Ocean Wilderness Inn via BC Ferries, take a sailing from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay , then drive approximately 1.5 hours west through Victoria and Sooke. If traveling from the U.S., the Coho Ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria or the Clipper from Seattle will dock in downtown Victoria. From there, a scenic 1-hour drive along Highway 14 leads you through Sooke to the inn, nestled in the lush coastal wilderness.
Reservations are highly recommended, as travel and traffic fluctuate greatly by season.
For detailed ferry fares and schedules, please visit the following links:
BC Ferries Fares & Schedules
Coho Ferry Fares & Schedules
Victoria Clipper Fares & Schedules
West Of The West Coast
Perched on the edge of the Pacific, Ocean Wilderness Inn sits west of the West coast, where rugged shorelines, ancient forests, and endless ocean horizons create a true escape into nature’s wild beauty.
Adventure In The Forest
Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Vancouver Island’s West coast, where moss-draped forests, towering old-growth trees, and hidden waterfalls invite endless exploration. Wander along winding trails, breathe in the fresh cedar-scented air, and discover the magic of nature at every turn.
Visit Local Spots
Discover the charm of Vancouver Island’s West coast by visiting its hidden gems, from local cafés and artisan shops to scenic parks and rugged coastal viewpoints. Explore nearby trails, stroll through quaint communities, and experience the welcoming spirit of this breathtaking region.
Explore The Beaches
Wander along the wild beaches of Vancouver Island’s West coast, where crashing waves, driftwood-strewn shores, and hidden tide pools create a stunning coastal escape. From the cascading waterfall at Mystic Beach to the rich marine life of Botanical Beach, every shoreline offers a new adventure.