What to Do in Tofino | Discoveringly

Tofino, British Columbia, is a coastal paradise on Vancouver Island that offers Canadians a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From surfing to scenic hiking, Tofino has something for everyone. Each season brings a different experience, making Tofino an all-year destination. Let’s dive into the many things you can do in Tofino to make your visit unforgettable.

1. Explore Tofino’s Pristine Beaches

Tofino’s beaches are known for their natural beauty, attracting beach lovers, surfers, and photographers. Long Beach, Chesterman Beach, and Cox Bay Beach each offer unique experiences that highlight Tofino’s coastal charm.

• Long Beach: At 16 kilometers, Long Beach is the largest and most famous beach in the area. Visitors can walk along its endless shoreline, soak up the views, or watch surfers riding the waves. During low tide, beachcombing reveals unique treasures like seashells, driftwood, and fascinating marine life. For Canadians interested in marine biology, Long Beach provides opportunities to see sand dollars, sea anemones, and more up close.
• Chesterman Beach: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Chesterman Beach is a favorite spot for those looking to relax. The gentle waves make it ideal for beginner surfers, and the stunning sunset views are an unforgettable experience. For couples, a sunset walk along Chesterman Beach offers a romantic escape, complete with picturesque rock formations and tidal pools that teem with life.
• Cox Bay Beach: Cox Bay is a hub for surfers due to its consistent waves and vibrant surfing community. This beach offers a thrilling atmosphere where experienced surfers showcase their skills. For newcomers, it’s a fantastic place to learn the ropes by observing seasoned surfers or joining a surf lesson with one of Tofino’s many surf schools.

2. Discover the Magic of Surfing in Tofino

Surfing is a huge part of Tofino’s culture, and this Canadian surf capital offers perfect conditions for all skill levels. Surf schools like Surf Sister and Pacific Surf Co. provide lessons that include wetsuit rentals, surfboards, and patient guidance.

For those who want to try surfing independently, surf shops around town offer rentals with all the gear needed for a great session. The cold Pacific waters can be challenging, but wetsuits ensure surfers stay warm while riding the waves. Winter brings bigger swells for experienced surfers, while summer offers milder waves suitable for beginners.

Pro Tip: Book your surf lesson in advance during peak summer months to secure a spot with popular instructors.

3. Embark on a Whale Watching Tour

One of Tofino’s most thrilling experiences, whale watching draws nature enthusiasts every year. Between March and October, the waters off Tofino become home to migrating Gray whales, Humpback whales, and even Orcas. With Tofino Whale Watching and Ocean Outfitters, visitors enjoy expert-guided tours, ensuring a safe and informative experience.

These tours aren’t limited to whales; visitors often spot harbor seals, sea lions, and sea otters. Some tours provide hydrophones, allowing guests to hear the underwater songs of these majestic creatures. Booking a whale-watching tour at the right time ensures the best possible sightings and maximizes your chance to witness a rare Orca pod passing through.

4. Soak in the Hot Springs at Hot Springs Cove

Hot Springs Cove offers a unique relaxation experience for visitors willing to journey off the beaten path. Located 27 nautical miles from Tofino, this secluded spot features naturally occurring hot springs surrounded by lush forests.

To reach Hot Springs Cove, visitors can book a boat tour or even a floatplane ride, both of which offer scenic views of the coastline and Clayoquot Sound. Once there, a 30-minute hike along a boardwalk through the temperate rainforest leads to the springs. The mineral-rich pools offer warm, therapeutic waters, perfect for unwinding after an active day.

5. Kayak Through Clayoquot Sound

Kayaking in Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, immerses visitors in Tofino’s stunning coastal environment. This kayaking experience is perfect for nature lovers who wish to explore quieter, more remote parts of Tofino.

Guided tours with companies like Tofino Sea Kayaking or Remote Passages introduce visitors to the area’s ecological richness. Kayaking through Clayoquot Sound provides close encounters with sea otters, bald eagles, and occasionally even seals. The stillness of the water allows for a peaceful journey, with stops along secluded islands and beaches.

Pro Tip: For the ultimate kayaking experience, opt for a sunrise or sunset tour. The light transforms the landscape, offering prime photography opportunities.

6. Hike Tofino’s Scenic Trails

Tofino offers a range of hiking trails that showcase its diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to rugged coastlines.

• Rainforest Trail: This easy boardwalk trail is perfect for families and those new to hiking. It winds through an old-growth forest, featuring giant cedar and hemlock trees that are centuries old. Informative signs along the way explain the area’s unique flora and fauna, making it both an educational and awe-inspiring experience.
• Tonquin Trail: This moderate trail features breathtaking coastal views and access to quiet beaches. The path takes hikers through dense forest before opening up to expansive views of Clayoquot Sound. Tonquin Trail is also an excellent spot for birdwatching, as it attracts a variety of coastal species.
• Lone Cone Mountain: For adventurous hikers, Lone Cone Mountain offers a challenging but rewarding climb. The trail is steep and requires a full day to complete, but the views from the summit, which include Clayoquot Sound and surrounding islands, are unmatched.

7. Savor Local Cuisine and Craft Beer

Tofino has become a culinary destination, especially known for its fresh seafood and creative dishes that celebrate local ingredients.

• Wolf in the Fog: This award-winning restaurant is known for its innovative dishes inspired by the West Coast. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Wolf in the Fog offers a true taste of Tofino. Signature dishes include seasonal seafood plates, creative salads, and unique desserts that blend local flavors with global inspiration.
• Shelter Restaurant: With a cozy atmosphere, Shelter Restaurant offers a diverse menu that highlights the region’s produce and seafood. Popular dishes include seafood chowder, wild salmon, and locally harvested oysters. The restaurant also features a warm, rustic interior with an outdoor patio perfect for summer evenings.

For craft beer lovers, Tofino Brewing Company is a must-visit. Their locally brewed ales, including the popular Tuff Session Ale and unique Kelp Stout, offer a true taste of Tofino. The brewery’s laid-back atmosphere provides a welcoming space for visitors to relax and chat with locals.

8. Immerse Yourself in Indigenous Culture

Tofino is situated on the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. Embracing Tofino’s Indigenous culture adds depth and meaning to any visit. Through guided experiences with the Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, visitors learn about local history, environmental stewardship, and traditional knowledge.

Local art galleries, like Eagle Aerie Gallery, showcase Indigenous art that reflects the area’s heritage. Visitors can admire or purchase unique pieces crafted by Indigenous artists, bringing a piece of Tofino’s cultural richness home.

9. Recharge with Tofino’s Wellness Offerings

Tofino’s serene natural setting is perfect for wellness experiences that rejuvenate the mind and body.

• Coastal Bliss Yoga: Located near the water, this yoga studio offers classes with scenic views that enhance relaxation. Coastal Bliss Yoga offers a range of classes, including oceanfront sessions that combine movement and meditation. Yoga in Tofino is especially popular among visitors seeking a calm start to the day.
• Ancient Cedars Spa: For those looking to indulge, Ancient Cedars Spa at the Wickaninnish Inn provides luxurious treatments inspired by Tofino’s surroundings. Signature treatments include massages using locally sourced essential oils and hot stone therapy that draws inspiration from the coastal environment.

10. Experience the Thrill of Storm Watching

Tofino’s winter months offer one of Canada’s most unique activities: storm watching. Between November and February, the Pacific coast sees some of its most powerful waves. Many visitors come to Tofino specifically to experience these storms.

Cox Bay Beach, Long Beach, and the Wickaninnish Inn provide ideal storm-watching spots. Equipped with raincoats, visitors can stand on the beach and watch the waves roll in, feeling the raw power of the ocean. For a cozier experience, many Tofino hotels offer oceanfront rooms with panoramic views, allowing you to enjoy the storms from the comfort of your room.

11. Spot Local Wildlife in Tofino

Tofino’s unique coastal ecosystem supports a rich variety of wildlife. Guided wildlife tours offer the chance to spot black bears, bald eagles, and more.

• Tofino Bear Watching: This tour takes visitors to areas where black bears forage along the shoreline. Observing these animals in their natural habitat is a rare and unforgettable experience, and guides ensure that the experience remains safe for both visitors and wildlife.

Bird watchers also have much to see in Tofino, which attracts migratory birds throughout the year. Annual events like the Pacific Rim Whale Festival and Tofino Shorebird Festival celebrate local wildlife and offer guided activities for families.

12. Capture Tofino’s Beauty Through Photography

With its diverse landscapes, Tofino is a photographer’s paradise. Tonquin Beach offers views of the coastline framed by forest, ideal for landscape photography. Meanwhile, Long Beach’s vast shoreline provides the perfect setting to capture waves against the open ocean.

Even novice photographers find Tofino inspiring. The area’s natural beauty makes it easy to capture breathtaking shots, from misty forests to vibrant sunsets. Don’t miss out on photographing the rainforest after rainfall, as the mist and rich greenery create an otherworldly scene.

13. Explore Tofino’s Art Galleries and Shops

Tofino’s art scene reflects the community’s deep connection to nature and Indigenous culture. Eagle Aerie Gallery, for example, showcases the work of Roy Henry Vickers, an Indigenous artist whose prints and carvings reflect Tofino’s landscapes and stories. Visitors can take home unique souvenirs, including handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and locally made surf gear.

Shopping in Tofino offers more than souvenirs. Many shops feature eco-friendly and locally sourced products, providing visitors with sustainable shopping options that align with Tofino’s environmental values.

Plan Your Perfect Tofino Getaway

Tofino is more than a destination; it’s an experience that captures the hearts of Canadians. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of surfing, the tranquility of a hot spring, or the adventure of whale watching, Tofino promises unforgettable memories. At Discoveringly, we believe every Canadian deserves to experience the magic of Tofino. So, pack your bags and prepare for an adventure that reflects the very best of Canada’s West Coast!