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OVERVIEW
Explore Tofino and the majestic beauty of Clayoquot Sound on the west coast of Vancouver Island. The village of Tofino has a laid-back surfers vibe, with a wide selection of restaurants and lots of wildlife watching and storm watching opportunities. The surrounding area is made up of lush, old-growth forests and expansive white sandy beaches. This incredible area is the perfect starting point for exhilarating activities, like coldwater surf lessons or kayaking, or relaxing getaways.
Top things to do
Credit: Victor Wong
Surf or bike
Surf at Long Beach, a favourite surf spot for locals and surf schools, where beginners and experts adventure into the cold shallow waters of the Pacific to catch a wave. You can also bike along the beach.
Relax in natural hot springs
Take a tour whale-watching or bear-watching, or to Hot Springs Cove to soak in rock pools where the ocean salt water meets hot, natural mineral pools. Spot eagles and herons on your way, and see grey whales migrating during March and April.
Taste local beer
Try local beer at the Tofino Brewing Company, just outside the village, and taste Tofino's delicious West Coast cuisine at a wide variety of village restaurants.
Enjoy beach activities
Beachcomb, sunbathe and relax at Chesterman Beach during calm weather, storm watch Mother Nature’s spectacular display during the winter months.
Credit: Destination Canada/Brian Caissie
Hike local trails
Hike along dedicated local trails in Pacific Rim National Park and the Wild Pacific Trail, stroll along a variety of sandy, unspoiled beaches, and kitesurf, windsurf, and surf in shallow waters.
Explore activities
Tofino Resort and Marina Whale Watching Tour
Take in the scenic vistas as you sail through the West Coast waters to the whale-feeding grounds near Flores, Vargas and Long Beach. On the way, spot cetaceans, and learn about the ecosystems of the region. You might encounter, orcas, grey whales, or humpback whales, as well as other wildlife such as sea lions, seals, sea otters, porpoises, bald eagles, blue herons, or even puffins.
Tour Highlights:
- Enjoy a scenic boat ride in a Zodiac or covered vessel
- Knowledgeable guides onboard to answer all your questions
- See orcas, grey whales, or humpback whales in their natural habitat
- Keep an eye out for other wildlife like seals, sea lions, eagles, sea otters, porpoises and more
- Open-concept boats allow for the best wildlife viewing opportunities
Vessel type may vary due to weather.
Available to experience between March to October.
Tofino Resort and Marina Hot Springs Tour
Get ready for an epic hot springs adventure! Take a scenic 1 hour boat ride past stunning coastal scenery and wildlife, followed by a short 1.5km hike along a rainforest boardwalk to arrive at the remote Hot Springs Cove located on the Peninsula in the Western Clayoquot Sound region. Soak and relax in the healing pools fed by the geothermal waterfalls before your return trip back to Tofino.
Tour Highlights:
- Enjoy a scenic return trip boat ride and lookout for wildlife
- Walk through a majestic old-growth forest on a 30-45 minute one-way boardwalk trek
- Soak for up to 2 hours in the hot springs
- Changing areas and an undercover shelter available at the hot springs
- If you are feeling brave enough, dip into the refreshing ocean to cool off
Vessel type may vary due to weather.
Nearby cities
Ucluelet
Escape to Ucluelet to enjoy a quiet town on a peninsula adjacent to Pacific Rim National Park, and just 30 minutes from Tofino. You can explore the rainforest along the coast, watch wildlife like whales and sea lions swimming in the area, and visit nearby white sandy beaches.
Port Alberni
Drive to Port Alberni for a variety of activities and attractions. Close to Barkley Sound, Clayoquot Sound and the Pacific Rim National Park, Port Alberni is the perfect base for exploring the west coast of Vancouver Island.
Victoria
Visit the lush and beautiful oceanfront city of Victoria. The city is rich in British heritage, has the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and is home to the historic BC Parliament Buildings. You can enjoy lots of water and land activities, and taste a variety of craft beers and fresh seafood.
Known as the Garden City, Victoria is always in bloom and has one of the mildest climates in Canada—perfect for a trip any time of the year.
Cowichan Bay
The waterfront fishing village of Cowichan Bay sits at the head of a beautiful and natural harbour, which is the main focal point of the town, where shops, cafés, galleries and homes float on the water. Dine out on some of the best seafood in the area, relax in waterfront cafés, or take part in a variety of water activities.
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