The 15 Best Things to do in Tofino, B.C. 2026

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INTRODUCTION

It took me a little while to figure out what that gentle drum beat was that I was waking up to each morning. It would start as a dull, distant thudding, hit a crescendo, and then recede.

Only once I meandered down to the beach to enjoy my morning coffee did I realize that what I was hearing was the sound of bare feet on sand, as avid surfers ran down the beach path behind our cottage to greet the morning swell. It was something I would hear again and again over the course of the week.

It’s moments like this that have made Tofino feel so special to our family. Over the years, we’ve taken many trips to this small village on the edge of the Pacific, trading city life for a few serene days on the wild west coast of British Columbia.

From long beach walks and storm watching to world-class surfing, wildlife tours, and unforgettable sunsets, Tofino has a way of slowing everything down and reminding you why you came.

In this post, I will share with you all of our favourite things to do in Tofino, where to stay, where to eat, and many other helpful tips so you can have the best possible visit.

TOFINO HIGHLIGHTS VIDEO (1 MIN.)

Before I get into the details, here’s a quick peek to give you a feel for what Tofino is like in this short video.

ABOUT TOFINO

Tofino is located on a small peninsula, roughly half way up Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. It is situated within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation within the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Region. It is home to roughly three thousand full time residents.

Tofino is known for it ancient forests, gorgeous sand beaches, year-round surfing, fishing, wildlife and eco tours. For a small town, it also has an abundance of great restaurants, often featuring a bounty from the sea.

THE 15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN TOFINO

It’s the sheer, striking beauty of the west coast that keeps us returning to Tofino, BC again and again. We never seem to tire of it. But if it’s your first visit, here are the best things to see in Tofino, BC, along with our favourite experiences and activities.

1. TOFINO BEACHES

Did you know that Tofino has no less than 6 beautiful sandy beaches close to town to choose from? Further south towards the neighbouring town of Ucluelet there are even more!

Whether you are looking for a lively surf scene (Cox Bay), gorgeous tide pools (North Chesterman & Cox) or a secluded spot to watch the sun go down on the west coast (Tonquin), there is something for every mood and day of the week.

NOTE: As we are talking about the wild west coast, be sure to pay attention to posted advisories (and be rip tide aware). The water is also very chilly year-round. If you plan on going in further than your ankles, you better be wearing a wet suit (available for rent at all the surf shops).

2. SURFING

Tofino is Canada’s most popular surf destination and it’s not hard to see why. It has a year-round break and several great beaches to choose from – depending on whether you are new to the sport or a more advanced surfer.

For those just getting started, the gentle whitewash of Cox Bay is the perfect place to learn. Join a lesson with Pacific Surf Co., Tofino Surf School or Surf Sister.

The Long Beach Lodge Resort (Cox Bay) has their own Surf Club for lessons and rentals right on the property. The Pacific Sands Beach Resort (also at Cox Bay) offers lessons and rentals from their Surf Shack. Speaking from experience, having lessons and rentals available right at your hotel property is a very nice perk (especially for an exhausted newbie).

3. VISIT HOT SPRINGS COVE

One of the most memorable things to do in Tofino, is to take a trip to Hot Springs Cove, located about 27 nautical miles north of town inside Maquinna Marine Provincial Park.

Most visitors reach Hot Springs Cove Tofino by boat or seaplane, often combining the trip with wildlife viewing along the way. After arriving, a scenic 1.5 km boardwalk trail through old-growth rainforest leads to a series of natural geothermal pools tucked into the rocks along the ocean’s edge.

TIP: The hot springs Tofino excursion has become extremely popular. If possible, I would recommend booking the earliest trip of the day, so that you don’t have to overlap with too many other tour groups.

→ Reserve your Hot Springs Cove trip from Tofino (6 hrs)

4. THE FLOATING SAUNA EXPERIENCE

The Tofino floating sauna is one of the most unique ways to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the West Coast. After a short boat ride through the calm waters of Clayoquot Sound, you’re dropped at a secluded floating dock where a wood-fired sauna overlooks endless ocean and forest views.

From there, you can alternate between warming up in the sauna and invigorating cold plunges in the sea, then relax on the dock or in hammocks as you take in the quiet, remote surroundings.

→ Reserve your floating sauna escape in Tofino (4 hours)

5. CYCLING

Tofino is the perfect place to get around by bike. The 8.8 km Multi-Use Path (MUP) runs parallel to Highway 4, linking the town centre with many of the area’s beaches and accommodations. At low tide, the hard-packed sand along Chesterman and Cox Bay Beaches can also make for a memorable ride right along the shoreline.

From there, the route connects to the newer 25 km ʔapsčiik t̓ašii Trail. Named in the language of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, it begins near Cox Bay and winds through Pacific Rim National Park to the Visitor Centre. From here, you can continue toward Ucluelet.

This makes it possible to cycle between Tofino and Ucluelet almost entirely on a dedicated paved path—just over 40 km one way. There is only one short section where you share the road.

See the full route from this Tourism Tofino map.

TOFINO BIKE RENTALS

For a wide variety of cruiser bike rentals (including kids bikes and accessories), see Tofino Bike Co. (2 locations). For electric bike rentals, see Tofino Electric Bikes in town and T-Bird E-Bikes at the Tin Wis Resort.

Bike tours can also be an excellent way to explore the area. You can find Tofino bike tour options with Tofino Bike Co. and Nomad Adventure Guides.

→ Prefer to book in advance? Check out this great option: 

• Bike and Hike Coastal Adventure (3 hrs)

6. WALK AMONG GIANTS

One of the most unique things about Tofino is that ancient forests almost meet the ocean. You can stroll among 1000 year-old trees with the roar of the ocean as your soundtrack.

Most Tofino hikes are considered easy to moderate (think more of a nature walk than an endurance activity). Some of the most beautiful trails include the Tonquin Trail (from Tofino town to Middle Beach) and the duo of Rainforest trails (A & B) just south of town in Pacific Rim National Park.

Learn more on the Tourism Tofino website.

Although a little harder to access, there are several unique hikes on nearby Meares Island. The Big Tree Trail, reached via a short water taxi ride, is a popular self-guided walk through old-growth forest. For the much more challenging Lone Cone Mountain Trail, advance booking through Ahous Adventures is recommended.

→ If you’d prefer to explore Tofino’s trails with a guide, see the following options:

• Private Boat Trip and Hike on Meares Island (4.5 hrs)
• Easy Hike and Hidden Hot Springs Tour (6 hrs)
• Bike and Hike Coastal Adventure (3 hrs)

7. INDIGENOUS CULTURE & WILDLIFE TOURS

Tofino sits on the traditional territories of the Tla-o-qui-aht and Ahousaht First Nations, part of the Nuu-chah-nulth peoples who have lived along this coastline for thousands of years. Taking part in an Indigenous-led experience is a meaningful way to better understand the culture, history, and deep connection between the people and this extraordinary landscape.

One of the best ways to do this is by joining a tour with Ahous Adventures, an Ahousaht-owned company offering bear watching, whale watching, and boat trips through Clayoquot Sound. Along the way, guides share stories and traditional knowledge about the land and waters their people have called home for generations.

The Tin Wis Resort, owned by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation and operating under the Best Western Plus brand, is another special place to experience this connection to the land. Set on Mackenzie Beach, the hotel hosts cultural programming throughout the year.

Find a full list of Indigenous-owned businesses and experiences on the Tourism Tofino website.

8. LOCAL SHOPPING & EVENTS

Beyond the beaches and surf culture, Tofino has a thriving local arts scene that is well worth exploring. Be sure to spend some time browsing the town’s galleries and small shops, where you’ll find everything from surf gear to handcrafted jewelry and coastal-inspired art.

Two galleries that are particularly worth visiting are the House of Himwitsa Gallery, which showcases Indigenous carvings, prints, and jewelry from Northwest Coast artists, and the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery, known for its beautiful prints and storytelling rooted in coastal culture.

TIP: Check for events! My daughter and I were once lucky enough to sit in on a storytelling session with Roy Henry Vickers himself!

If your visit falls on a Saturday between mid-May and mid-October, be sure to stop by the lively Tofino Public Market on the Village Green. With live music, food trucks, local artisans, and handmade goods, it’s one of the best places to get a feel for the town’s creative community.

Just down the road from the Village Green is a lovely store called The Factory, run by two local artists and featuring their own work alongside pieces by many other talented artisans. Surf culture is a big part of life in Tofino, so it’s also worth popping into a few of the town’s iconic surf shops like Storm Surf Shop (Tofino’s original surf shop) or Pacific Surf Co.

TOFINO COMMUNITY EVENTS

Tofino hosts numerous annual festivals and community events throughout the year. If your travel dates happen to line up, they can add a fun local dimension to your visit.

• Pacific Rim Whale Festival (March)
• Shorebird Festival (May)
• Tofino Jazz Festival (June)
• Tofino Lantern Festival (August)
• Queen of the Peak Women’s Surf Championship (September)
• Clayoquot Sound Oyster Festival (November)

See all upcoming Tofino local events on the Tourism Tofino website.

9. WILDLIFE VIEWING TOURS

Tofino is one of the best places in Canada to experience wildlife on the Pacific coast, and getting out on the water is where it really comes to life.

From March through October, whale watching is at its peak. Gray whales migrate along this stretch of coastline in the spring, while humpbacks are commonly seen throughout the season. Orcas do make occasional appearances, but sightings are less predictable.

Bear watching is a completely different (and equally memorable) experience. These tours are timed with the tides, when black bears emerge along the shoreline to forage for rock crabs and other sea life. Watching them from a boat, just metres away, is something you don’t forget.

→ Want to see Tofino’s wildlife up close? These highly rated tours make it easy:

• Tofino Whale Watching Boat Trip (2.5 h)
• Tofino Bear Watching Boat Trip (2.5h)
• Clayoquot Sound Wildlife Boating Safari (3h)

See all Tofino whale watching and wildlife tours at Tourism Tofino.

10. STORM WATCHING

While summer may be the most popular time to visit Tofino, winter brings a dramatic beauty of its own. From roughly November through March, powerful Pacific storms roll in, sending massive waves crashing along the coastline. (To be honest, I think this is my favourite time of year to visit!)

Storm watching has become one of the area’s most iconic cold-weather experiences. Bundle up and head to beaches like Cox Bay or Chesterman Beach to watch nature put on a show, or enjoy the spectacle from the comfort of one of Tofino’s oceanfront lodges.

And for surfers, it doesn’t make that much of a difference. The water is always cold anyway, you just need your head and hands covered too.

11. VISIT UCLUELET

If you have a little extra time, it’s well worth making the 40-minute drive south to Ucluelet for a day trip.

Start with a walk along the Wild Pacific Trail, an easy coastal path with spectacular ocean views and a stop at the Amphitrite Lighthouse. Afterward, spend a little time poking around the small shops and galleries in town or visit the charming Ucluelet Aquarium, which showcases the marine life found in these local waters.

And if your timing lines up with dinner, consider booking a table at Pluvio Restaurant + Rooms, one of the most memorable dining experiences on Vancouver Island.

12. KAYAKING AND SUP

The relatively calm inner harbour off Tofino is surrounded by islands and provides a wonderful place to explore by sea kayak. Morning and afternoon guided tours are offered by various local operators. There is also the option of full-day guided kayaking tours, taking paddlers a little further afield.

→ Reserve your Guided Kayak Tour into Clayoquot Sound (2hrs)

SUP lessons are typically offered in the calm waters off Mackenzie Beach or as part of a Tofino inner harbour tour. For the more advanced paddler, SUP surf lessons are also available. See Tofino Paddle Surf and Swell for options.

13. TOFINO FISHING CHARTERS

Tofino has a booming charter fishing business with day trips heading offshore for salmon, halibut, lingcod and rockfish. These fishing trips are usually full day affairs (6-10 hours). For those just learning, and for families with young children, shorter trips in calmer waters can be arranged.

See charter fishing boat options on the Tourism Tofino website.

14. NAA’WAYA’SUM COASTAL INDIGENOUS GARDENS

The Naa’Waya’Sum Coastal Indigenous Gardens (formerly Tofino Botanical Gardens) are a beautiful place for a stroll and to learn about the unique characteristics of the Pacific Coast’s temperate rain forest.

There are 12 acres of garden, forest and shoreline to explore. In the immediate area surrounding the cafe and carving studio, visitors can enjoy the ornamental gardens, which include a totem pole, medicinal plants, modern sculptures, and water features. Learn more at Clayoquot Campus.

15. RECORD THOSE MEMORIES

When do you have time to get perfect vacation photos? I know that I for one, as the photographer in our family, am almost never in the photos.

To remedy this situation, I have used the company Flytographer on several occasions to get some great family shots while on vacation.

Here’s how it works. You head over to the Flytographer website and select a photographer whose style suits you. You then choose a suitable photoshoot package (starting from $325 USD for a 30 min. photoshoot).

The whole process is super easy and I can’t imagine a better backdrop than the wild Pacific Coast of British Columbia. 

HOT SAVINGS! Click HERE to receive $25 off your first Flytographer booking or gift card purchase. 

TOFINO WITH KIDS

I wanted to include this section because my first trips to Tofino were with young kids, back when I was creating content for my family travel site, Pint Size Pilot. Tofino quickly became one of our favourite places to visit as a family (dog included). In fact, the hours-upon-hours we spent inspecting tide pools on Tofino’s gorgeous beaches are honestly some of my favourite all-time family memories.

Most of the activities mentioned above can absolutely be enjoyed with kids. That said, here are a few additional notes for families:

As noted earlier, Tofino Bike rents kids’ bikes as well as a variety of attachments for families. Tofino Electric Bikes also offers Chariot-style trailers, which are great for younger children.

Most surf schools set a minimum age of 12 or 13 for group lessons. For younger kids (usually 6+), a private one-on-one lesson is the best option. You can also book a family group lesson with Surf Sister or Pacific Surf Co.

In the village of Tofino, you’ll find a great playground and the Tuff City Skate Park, both located beside the Village Green. This is also where the very family-friendly Saturday Market takes place from spring through fall.

While it’s about a 30-minute drive away, we’ve always loved visiting the Ucluelet Aquarium. It showcases only local marine life and operates more like an educational facility than a traditional attraction, with specimens carefully collected, kept for a season, and then released back into the ocean by the community. (See also my full post on things to do in Ucluelet.)

WHERE TO EAT IN TOFINO

One of the things that makes Tofino so attractive to visitors is the excellent dining options. Whether you are looking for a multi-course sit down dinner, or something more casual from a food truck, the quality of the ingredients is generally superb (think organic,wild or foraged). Seafood naturally features prominently on menus, coming straight off the boats to local kitchens.

BEST TOFINO RESTAURANTS – CASUAL DINING

For casual dining, Tacofino simply shouldn’t be missed (but be prepared to wait). Don’t want to line up? Check in with Long Beach Golf Course, which has served Tacofino from its clubhouse on select days during recent seasons.

Other popular casual spots include Wildside Grill for excellent fish tacos and burgers, and The Shed Tofino, a laid-back local favourite known for tacos, bowls, and great margaritas, and The Schooner, a relaxed pub-style spot serving seafood, burgers, and local drinks.

If you’re spending time near Cox Bay, Sandbar Bistro  is a great option for casual bites and drinks with beautiful ocean views. Surfside Grill, previously located at Pacific Sands, is now operating at Tsawaak RV Resort & Campground along the Pacific Rim Highway, serving fish tacos, burgers, and relaxed surf-town fare.

TIP: Most of these spots let you place orders ahead online or by phone—highly recommended during the busy summer months!

If you’re looking to elevate your beachside dining game, Picnic Charcuterie in town offers excellent takeaway charcuterie boards that are perfect for a sunset picnic.

BEST TOFINO RESTAURANTS – FINER FARE

For finer dining, the award-winning Wolf in the Fog in town is a must—be sure to make reservations early. Also worth visiting are Jeju, a Korean-inspired restaurant that has become a standout addition to Tofino’s dining scene, and Ombré, a newer spot from the team behind Wolf in the Fog.

If you’re looking for waterfront views, great options include The Pointe restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn, The Great Room at Long Beach Lodge Resort, and Shelter restaurant in town.

Worth the Drive: The award-winning Pluvio Restaurant in Ucluelet (a 30 minute drive from Tofino) is one of the best dining experiences on the west coast, with beautifully prepared seasonal dishes that highlight local Vancouver Island ingredients. Be sure to make reservations in advance.

CAFÉS & SWEET TREATS

Tofino has plenty of great spots when you’re craving a good coffee or something sweet.

For organic soft-serve ice cream, head to Tofino Licks in the Container Park in town (open seasonally, typically spring through fall). Along with classic cones, they’re known for their creative sundaes and toppings.  Chocolate Tofino is another must-stop, serving delicious handmade gelato along with artisan chocolates.

TIP: If you know what you want from Chocolate Tofino, you can often skip the long line by calling in your order at +1 (250) 725-2526. We once ordered from the back of a long line outside and our gelato in hand within 5 minutes!

If you’re in the mood for something baked, look no further than the Savary Island Pie Company, famous for its fresh fruit pies and flaky crusts. The Tofitian cafe is another great stop for pastries and coffee.

You’ll also find excellent donuts and strong coffee at Rhino Coffee House, while Tacofino’s churros are a local favourite after a day at the beach.

WHERE TO STAY IN TOFINO

There are some incredible places to stay in Tofino. The challenge is demand. Tourism to this remote beach town has grown steadily, and so have room rates, which can sometimes feel a little absurd. Availability can also be surprisingly limited in peak summer unless you book at least 6 months in advance. (This is one of the reasons I often choose to visit in the shoulder season or during winter storm season.)

The places I recommend below are my personal favourites, but I recognize that some may be out of reach or already fully booked. The good news is that you really can’t go too wrong location-wise. Tofino is quite compact, and part of the experience is moving between the beaches. Exactly where you stay isn’t all that critical. (For example, we don’t usually stay in town, but we head in for dinners.)

Rather than getting too focused on location, I’d suggest spending a bit more time reading recent reviews to make sure the property is the right fit—whether it’s a hotel or a vacation rental.

BEST HOTELS IN TOFINO

Here are all of my favourite hotel properties in Tofino, each offering a slightly different take on the West Coast experience!

1. WICKANINNISH INN

If you’re going to splurge in Tofino, this is the place to do it. Set right on Chesterman Beach, the Wick is all about quiet luxury—storm watching from your room, long beach walks, and one of the best dining experiences on the coast.

→ Check rates for The Wickaninnish Inn.

2. LONG BEACH LODGE RESORT

Located on Cox Bay, this is one of Tofino’s most popular upscale stays. The Great Room overlooking the beach is a standout, and the overall feel is relaxed but still polished.

→ Check rates for The Long Beach Lodge

3. PACIFIC SANDS BEACH RESORT

Set on Cox Bay, Pacific Sands is one of Tofino’s most popular beachfront stays, especially for surfers and families. The spacious, well-equipped suites and beach houses (many with full kitchens and direct beach access) make it easy to settle in and fully enjoy the coastal setting.

The property also features two beautiful barrel cedar saunas (extra fee), as well as a beautiful private forest trail reserved exclusively for guests. (It is one of my favourite walks in all of Tofino!)

→ Check rates for the Pacific Sands Resort

4. COX BAY BEACH RESORT

A great option for families or anyone planning to spend time in the surf, with direct access to Cox Bay. The spacious, condo-style units (with full kitchens) make it especially easy for longer stays, especially for those who prefer to self-cater.

→ Check rates for Cox Bay Beach Resort

5. DUFFIN COVE RESORT

A smaller, quieter property just a short walk from town, known for its incredible oceanfront setting. The rooms and the hotel amenities are fairly simple, but the views more than make up for it.

→ Check rates for the Duffin Cove Resort

6. HOTEL ZED

If you’re looking for something a little more fun and budget-friendly, Hotel Zed is a great option just outside of town. It has a playful, retro vibe with lots of personality and tends to appeal to families and younger travellers.

It’s not on the beach. In fact, it’s just off the main road, but you’re only a short drive or bike ride from all of Tofino’s main beaches. Beautiful Chesterman Beach is also about a 10-minute walk from the hotel.

→ Check rates for the Hotel Zed Tofino

TOFINO VACATION RENTALS

If you are looking for other types of Tofino accommodations for longer (or more budget-friendly) stays, you may wish to consider a Tofino vacation rental. Sites like VRBO offer hundreds of properties in the area.

I know I said above that location doesn’t matter that much, I’ll admit that I am very partial to vacation rentals that are within easy walking distance of Chesterman Beach or Cox Bay Beach (ideally to the west side of the Pacific Rim Highway).

→ Find Tofino Vacation Rentals on VRBO

TIP: In a pinch, if you can’t find anything suitable in Tofino and you have a car, I’d suggest extending your search to the neighbouring village of Ucluelet. We’ve stayed there several times when Tofino was fully booked, and it makes a great alternative base.

GETTING TO TOFINO

Like many incredible places, Tofino takes a bit of effort to get to—but I can promise you, it’s absolutely worth it. Most visitors arrive by car, but there is also the option to fly from Vancouver or elsewhere on Vancouver Island.

DRIVING TO TOFINO

Most visitors reach Tofino by personal car or rental car from Vancouver. This journey usually takes about 6 hours and includes a 90-120 minute ferry crossing, depending on your route. It’s also the easiest way to get around once you’re there, as many of Tofino’s best beaches, trailheads, and viewpoints are spread out along the coast.

TIP: Be sure to reserve your BC Ferries sailing in advance, especially in peak season. (Key holiday weekend sailings can book out months in advance.)

There is new passenger-only ferry option between downtown Vancouver and Nanaimo with Hullo. With this, you could hop in Vancouver for the 75 minute ride and pickup a rental car on the other side for the 3 hour drive to Tofino. If you choose to rent from National, you can pick up the car right from the Hullo parking lot. (You will need to contact National directly to confirm pick up location after booking. See Getting Around on the Hullo site.

If you are instead driving in from Victoria, it’s a straightforward (and very scenic) 4.5-hour drive up the island to Tofino.

For detailed driving directions and the latest flight options, visit the Tourism Tofino website.

NOTE:  When making the drive, be sure to make a short stop at MacMillan Provincial Park’s Cathedral Grove where you can stretch your legs on a trail amongst towering Douglas Fir trees up to 800 years old.

FLYING TO TOFINO

You can fly directly into Tofino Airport (YAZ) from Vancouver International Airport South Terminal (YVR) with Pacific Coastal Airlines, and Harbour Air. Seasonal flights to Tofino are also available from Victoria with Tofino Air. 

Another memorable option is to arrive by floatplane. Seasonal Harbour Air flights operate to Tofino Harbour (YTP) from downtown Vancouver and from the South Terminal at YVR in Richmond. 

A third option is to fly into Victoria or Nanaimo on Vancouver Island and then continue to Tofino by rental car.

NOTE: Arrivals into Vancouver International Airport (YVR) will need to make a terminal change, but the YVR South Terminal and the seaplane terminal are located very close by.

GETTING AROUND TOFINO

Once in Tofino, you can rent a car (if you didn’t arrive with one) or opt for a bike or e-bike to get around town and along the coastline. (Both cars and bikes are in limited supply in Tofino so you may wish to reserve ahead of time.)

In the summer months, a free shuttle runs between Tofino and the main beaches, making it relatively easy to get around without a car. Outside of summer, a paid bus service connects Tofino and Ucluelet, though service is limited and not very frequent. Taxis and private shuttle services are also available.

See all options on the Tourism Tofino website.

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