Coastal Christmas Shopping at it's Finest

Last night Ucluelet, a quaint village that is usually fast asleep by 10PM, was buzzing with holiday shoppers, store hoppers, and lots of festive cheer.  It was the well-loved community tradition of Midnight Madness, a discount shopping event designed to keep Christmas shopping here in town.

There are so many unique and amazing gift ideas in Ucluelet, I though that people should be coming HERE from out of town to do their shopping.  So to all you east coast islanders, and those who live beyond the Georgia Straight, if you are looking for a cozy getaway this month you can couple it with getting all your holiday shopping finished too. 

The stores are decorated in their seasonal best.  Christmas trees stand at the end of bookshelves and garland is strung along clothing racks.  Even surf board racks are decaled with Christmas lights and last night, some lucky surfers were driving away with a brand new board at $100 off!

So besides the warm and fuzzy experience of shopping in Ucluelet - what are some gift ideas for the hard to buy for?

Christmas decorations!  Start a tradition with a loved one where you buy them a new decoration each year.  Ucluelet has so many Christmas ordaments strung in it's shops I am sure we can spare some for your Christmas tree!

A Japanese fishing float glass ball.  It is a rare find should you spot a glass float washed up on our shores from across the Pacific Rim.  It is easier to find in one of Ucluelet's gallery gift shops (and they make great decorations year round)

Locally designed and printed clothing.  Ucluelet is fortunate to be the home of many artists, especially the ones that design unique clothing with a vibrant west coast flair.

Books, books, books!  There are few things I love more than the smell of books and a fresh pot of coffee brewing.  Bring that bliss home with a book about west coast culture, legendary history, or with breath taking photography.

Something woolen and cozy!  Keep your ears and fingers warm from the west coast wintery air with a locally knitted toque, scarf, and mittens.  Everyone loves a stocking stuffed with all that warmth :)

If your loved one has been extra good this year, and if you have a LOT of wrapping paper, you could get them a new surfboard.  Ask about wet suits and accessories too.  When the surf shops are feeling an extra dose of the spirit of the holidays they usually throw in accessories like fins and leashes too!

Accommodation and activities packages.  EVERYONE loves the gift of a west coast experience.  Read the previous blog for details on awesome packages everyone on your list will go crazy for!

We hope to see you soon and happy shopping everyone!

Check out our photo gallery of a Christmassy Ucluelet Shopping Experience.

Amy Hancock