For a small town in a relatively remote natural setting, Tofino has much to recommend it. To the south are truly spectacular beaches which seem to stretch on forever. Elsewhere in the world, beaches of this calibre might be backed by hotels jostling for space, but it’s a little wilder here. Yes, there are a few hotels and holiday homes along the beaches close to town, but these are more cosy oceanside lodges than all-singing, all-dancing, all-inclusive resorts. Further south, it’s mainly old-growth rainforest that flanks the wide, long and sweeping bays.
When Tofino residents mention ‘The Beach’, it’s likely they’re referring to Chesterman Beach, one of the closest to town and the most built-up in the region. This year-round surfers’ paradise is also a favourite with sun-seekers, kayakers, paddle-boarders and families looking to explore tide pools throughout the warmer months of late spring, summer and early autumn. We recommend walking out along the sand spit to Frank Island at Middle Chesterman for a unique perspective of the beach and its mountain backdrop. Continue southwards and you’ll reach the world-renowned Long Beach, which is part of the Pacific Rim National Park Preserve. The Tofino-Ucluelet Highway runs largely parallel to the beach, allowing you to stop at various points and enjoy the ever-changing views. To see the coast at its very best, visit early in the morning when the low cloud and mist hang over the trees; or in the evening for a classic Pacific sunset.
Tofino is also the gateway to the islands and inlets of the spectacular Clayoquot Sound. The waters and rainforest-covered lands of this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve are teeming with wildlife including whales, orca, sea otters, black bears and spawning salmon (depending on the time of year). You can explore by boat or on a kayaking trip. If you like to get out on the water, Tofino is heaven. Many trips visit Meares Island, which is the largest of the Clayoquot islands and home to some of the oldest and tallest trees in British Columbia. Hot Springs Cove is a popular day trip destination when the weather is a little cold or overcast, thanks to its naturally heated pools overlooking the sea.
Most people visit Tofino in the summer to soak up the sun and head out on whale-watching cruises, but winter brings its own attractions. From November until the end of February, wild storms roll in across the Pacific and bring gale force winds, rain and huge swells. This inclement weather isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but for some there’s nothing quite like cosying up in a charming oceanside lodge with a hot drink and watching huge waves roll in and crash over the rocks. Storms aren’t guaranteed, but hit the island quite regularly and it’s definitely worth having a front row seat to see Mother Nature at her most tempestuous.
As if the striking landscapes and ocean activities weren’t enough, Tofino is also something of a festival town. The festivities begin each year with the two-week Pacific Rim Whale Festival in March, which honours the annual migration of thousands of grey whales along the coast of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Other wildlife celebrations include the Tofino Shorebird Festival in April and the Salmon Festival in September; while there are also a number of cultural events such as the Pacific Rim Summer Festival, Carving on the Edge Festival and Tofino Jazz Festival. For foodies, there’s Feast Tofino in spring and the Tofino Food and Wine Festival in June.
Tofino isn’t the sort of place you come to for ultra-modern, ultra-luxury accommodation. The style here is much more rustic and cosy, yet still incredibly classy. Waterfront hotels are peppered along the shore, offering a traditional Canadian lodge experience and making the most of the views. Wickaninnish Inn, affectionately known as ‘The Wick’, is the birthplace of storm-watching and one of the region’s most popular places to stay at any time of the year. Each room has views of the ocean and you can even soak in the bath as you soak up the views.
The region’s only airfield is Tofino/Long Beach Airport, which is located approximately 15 minutes to the south of town. Simply contact our team and we’ll arrange everything you need to charter a private jet to Tofino.
