There’s the West Coast, and then, there’s the west of the West Coast. That’s where you’ll find Tofino, a small, outdoorsy town on the western edge of Vancouver Island, British Columbia. If you’re looking for a girlfriends’ getaway, a romantic couple’s weekend, a wild outdoor adventure, or some R and R, a trip to Tofino might be your next getaway.
Tofino is close to the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, a temperate rainforest known for its beaches, surfing, hiking, and storm watching. It’s no wonder that Tofino made Time’s list of The World’s Greatest Places in 2022.
Best Time To Visit
Any time is a good time to visit Tofino. Because of its temperate climate, you can enjoy Tofino’s forests and beaches year-round. October to February is the time for storm watching. And May to September is a good time to dip your toes (and maybe a bit more) in the ocean, camp, surf, paddle board, and lie on the beach.
via Colleen Ellis
What To Do
The beaches are a good place for pretty much anything: taking a long barefoot walk in the sand, watching the surfers (or taking a surfing lesson), flying a kite, or simply sitting on a log, gawking at the wildness of the ocean in front of you. Long Beach, part of the Pacific Rim National Park, is over 16 kilometres and, as its name hints, is the longest beach on Vancouver Island.
via Dave Ellis
If you need a break from your sandy explorations, take a hike in the rainforest. Hiking trails are everywhere and suitable for beginner and advanced hikers. Tonquin Trail connects the edge of the town to Tonquin Beach, Third Beach and Middle Beach. Drive through the town to access the trail head at the end of Tonquin Park Road, or start the hike at the access point in town, near the Tofino Community Hall.
via gotofino.com
While you’re in town, browse the shops or galleries. Visiting Roy Henry Vickers Gallery is one way to learn about the local history, experience some of Tofino’s Indigenous culture, and admire the art of Roy Henry Vickers, a well-known Canadian First Nations artist. The House of Himwitsa Native Art Gallery also has plenty of First Nations artwork, including baskets, masks, and jewellery.
Where To Eat And Drink
When the adventure begins to tire you out, refresh yourself with a beer at the Tofino Brewing Company or a taste of organic spirits at the Tofino Distillery. Even though Tofino is small, it has some big offerings of restaurants, pubs, and grills in town.
via craftdistillers.ca
via bcaletrail.ca
As you leave the town of Tofino and head back towards Long Beach, look for Tacofino, possibly one of the best taco food trucks on the west coast. Be patient. This food truck is one of the more popular places to grab a bite. It’s worth the wait.
via Colleen Ellis
ROAR, located in the lobby of the Hotel Zed is another place to find delicious bites. Enjoy your sandwich, flatbread, soup, or salad in the sunken living room while playing one of their many board games—‘70s style! You don’t have to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy its retro lobby.
via hotelzed.com
Where To Sleep
There’s so much to do in Tofino, you won’t spend much time in your hotel room! Tofino accommodations can be costly, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Less expensive hotels, motels, and guest houses can be found in the town and nearby. Check on availability before you leave. Reservations might be needed. During the low season, some of the hotels, like the Tin Wis Resort located on Mackenzie Beach, have offered reasonable rates.
cia tinwis.ca
Camping might be one of your least expensive options. The Bella Pacifica Campground has oceanside camp sites, firepits, flush toilets, and showers.
What To Pack And Wear
Even in the summer, you’ll want to pack some warm clothing. One moment you might be comfortable wearing shorts and a tank, and the next moment, you’ll be pulling on your hoodie and sweatpants. The rainforest weather and temperatures can be unpredictable. Pack a raincoat, boots, hat or toque, and a sweater or hoodie. Always expect some rain.
Whatever you choose to do in Tofino, you’ll be taking in the town’s laid-back vibe. And as you drive away at the end of your time there, you might feel a sense of sadness, like you’re leaving something special behind. And that’s because you are. Tofino and its culture are unique. And worth another trip.
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