The hype
The spa and endless tapas are phenomenal, but the rooms are a bit tired and rustic.
Tigh Na Mara Resort
$150-250/ night
Book this if You want a rustic, nature-immersed coastal getaway with direct beach access and a world-class spa experience.
Why People Love It
- The award-winning Grotto Spa and its restorative mineral pool
- Endless tapas dining in your bathrobe at Treetop Tapas & Grill
- 22 acres of forested property right on the stunning Rathtrevor Beach
Quick Take: It's marketed as a luxury spa resort, but the accommodations lean more toward cozy, dated log cabins than modern five-star opulence.
Reviewed by @as_wediscover: Our weekend at Tigh-Na-Mara was the ultimate romantic escape. We loved waking up to the ocean right outside our cottage, soaking in the incredible Grotto Spa, and just relaxing by our private fireplace with pizza and wine. It was exactly the peaceful getaway we needed.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
Don't expect ultra-luxury; the vibe is more 'upscale summer camp' with visible wear and tear on some furniture.
- You love a rustic cabin aesthetic nestled in the woods
- You're here specifically for the Grotto Spa treatments
- You're traveling with kids who want easy beach access
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8
- Housekeeping: Generally clean and well-maintained, though some guests note missed daily cleaning and un-restocked toiletries.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean and functional, but some bathrooms feel 'a tad tired' with older fixtures.
- Maintenance: Mostly good, but visible staining on some furniture and worn lounge chairs in the spa waiting area.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and cozy, with amazing beds reported in the Spa Bungalows.
- Odors & scents: Fresh forest air and ocean breeze, completely non-smoking property (including balconies).
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Footsteps from upper floors in multi-level units
- Kids playing in the family-friendly areas
- Occasional loud groups in the mineral pool
Before you book
Good to know
- There are no resort fees, and parking and Wi-Fi are completely free.
- The Grotto Spa is 14+ only and requires advance booking.
- You can rent a BBQ kit for $23.95 if you're staying in a Spa Bungalow or Rustic Cottage.
What to pack
- Blundstone boots or waterproof walking shoes for West Coast weather
- A swimsuit for the Grotto Spa and indoor pool
- Layers, as evenings get chilly by the water even in summer
Room Genie
Best picks
- Oceanview Suites for stunning views of the Strait of Georgia
- Spa Bungalows for a cozy, quiet stay close to the Grotto Spa
Rooms to avoid
- Jedidiah Studios, which are located in the middle of the resort, feel dated, and 12 of them lack A/C
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“Hi team, I'm hoping to request an Oceanview Suite on a top floor to avoid foot traffic noise from above, preferably away from the main family playground areas. Thank you!”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a resort fee?
No, Tigh Na Mara never charges a resort fee, and parking and Wi-Fi are complimentary.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome in specific rustic cottages for a flat $35 fee per reservation (not per night).
Is the Grotto Spa included in the room rate?
No, spa access and treatments cost extra and must be booked well in advance.
Are the rooms air-conditioned?
Most are, but 12 rooms in the older Jedediah building do not have A/C.
Is there room service?
No, there is no room service, but you can get takeout from Cedars Restaurant.
Is the beach private?
The resort has private access to a beautiful stretch of sand connected to Rathtrevor Beach.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Book the Treetop Tapas & Grill 'endless tapas' experience where you dine in your spa robe.
- ✨
Pace yourself at the tapas dinner—it's about 10 small dishes, and you want room to re-order your favorites.
- ✨
The hotel's indoor pool is free for all guests, but the stunning mineral pool you see in photos is exclusive to Grotto Spa guests.
5 things to know before you go
💡The resort is spread out over 22 acres, so you might have a bit of a walk from your cabin to the beach or restaurants.
💡There are no elevators on the property, which can be a hassle if you have heavy luggage on an upper floor.
💡The ocean water here is usually too cold for swimming without a wetsuit, even in summer.
💡Some of the furniture in the rooms has visible staining and wear, detracting from the 'luxury' price tag.
💡The entire property is strictly non-smoking, including all balconies and patios.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Tigh Na Mara Resort is located and what's nearby.