Tofino

Tofino, a small coastal village on [Vancouver Island](/ca/vancouver-island)'s western edge, is known for its calm atmosphere and stunning natural surroundings. This remote outpost attracts surfers, hikers, and wildlife watchers. In Tofino, you can observe grey whales migrating along the coast, walk through old-growth forests, or try surfing in the chilly Pacific waters.

Where is Tofino?

Tofino sits at the tip of the Esowista Peninsula on [Vancouver Island](/ca/vancouver-island)'s west coast, within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. The village borders Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and looks out over Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its biodiversity. This remote location, about a 4-5 hour drive from Victoria, gives Tofino its distinctive character.

Surfing and Beach Life

Tofino is considered Canada's surf capital, with consistent waves year-round at beaches like Cox Bay, Chesterman Beach, and Long Beach. Water temperatures hover around 10°C (50°F), so wetsuits are essential. Several local surf schools offer lessons and equipment rentals for beginners, while experienced surfers can get tips on the best spots from local shops. Even if you don't surf, you can enjoy long walks on the expansive sandy beaches, go beachcombing, and watch colorful sunsets.

Whale Watching and Wildlife

From March to October, some 20,000 grey whales migrate past Tofino, making it an excellent whale watching location. You can join boat trips to spot these large creatures, along with humpback whales, orcas, sea lions, and sea otters. For land-based wildlife viewing, you can take guided bear watching tours to coastal inlets where black bears forage for food at low tide. Birdwatchers will find plenty to observe, from bald eagles to tufted puffins.

Hiking Through Ancient Forests

The area around Tofino contains some of the last remaining old-growth temperate rainforests on [Vancouver Island](/ca/vancouver-island). In Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you can explore these dense ecosystems up close on boardwalk trails like the Rainforest Trail and Schooner Cove Trail. For a more challenging hike, take a water taxi to Meares Island and trek the Big Tree Trail, home to massive Western Red Cedars, some over 1,000 years old.

First Nations Culture

The Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation has called this area home for thousands of years. You can learn about their culture and history at the Kwisitis Visitor Centre in Pacific Rim National Park. In Tofino, galleries showcase work by local Indigenous artists, including intricate wood carvings and vibrant paintings. Some tour operators organize cultural experiences led by First Nations guides, giving you deeper insights into their traditions and connection to the land.

Local Cuisine

Tofino's food scene is surprisingly varied for a small town, with an emphasis on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Seafood naturally takes center stage, from salmon and halibut to Dungeness crab and spot prawns. You can try the popular Tofino fish taco, available at food trucks and upscale restaurants alike. For a special meal, book a table at Wolf in the Fog, known for its innovative Pacific Northwest cuisine. Don't miss sampling locally-made products like Tofino Brewing Company's craft beers or Chocolate Tofino's handmade confections.

When to Visit

Tofino's climate is mild year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Summer (June-August) brings the warmest, driest weather and is ideal for beach activities, but it's also the busiest and most expensive time. Spring (March-May) is great for whale watching. Fall (September-November) sees fewer crowds and still-pleasant weather. Winter (December-February) is storm watching season, when powerful Pacific systems create large waves and cloudy skies – a unique spectacle best viewed from the comfort of a cozy oceanfront lodge.

Getting There

Most visitors reach Tofino by car, taking the ferry from Vancouver to Nanaimo, then driving about 3 hours across [Vancouver Island](/ca/vancouver-island) on Highway 4. The route passes through ancient forests and over mountain passes, with Cathedral Grove's giant Douglas firs a popular stopping point. For a quicker but pricier option, small planes fly to Tofino Airport from Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle. Once in Tofino, you can explore the compact village on foot, but a car is useful for accessing beaches and trails further afield.