What to do and see in Tofino, Canada: The Best Places and Tips

February 23, 2018 Hana Mouser

It's true: you can surf in Canada. And Tofino, on the west coast of Vancouver Island, is where you'll find exceptional surfing, Canadian-style. Busiest in summer, Tofino also fills up in winter when storm watchers descend upon this tiny town. Stay at an upscale inn and enjoy the town that affectionately calls itself The Tree Loving Capital of the World.
Restaurants in Tofino

1. Chesterman Beach

Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, British Columbia V0R 2Z0, Canada
Excellent
83%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

Chesterman Beach

Reviewed By CanadaQuackers - Canada

We visited various Beaches during our trip to Tofino. Chesterman Beach absolutely had it all!. Miles of smooth sand, rolling waves, surfers. We lucked out with beautiful sunny weather, took oodles of photos.

2. Pacific Rim National Park

Tofino, British Columbia V0R 3A0, Canada +1 250-726-3500
Excellent
80%
Good
16%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 1 reviews

Pacific Rim National Park

Unique park composed of three sections - Long Beach, the West Coast Trail and the Broken Group of Islands - that feature sandy Beaches, island archipelagos, temperate rainforests and important archaeological sites.

Reviewed By westcoastergirl11

Had a great time exploring the park. There is always endless Beaches, and rain forest to explore. We enjoyed Surfing one day and hiking the next. I can't wait to go back, being here makes you stop and take a moment to relax.

3. Clayoquot Sound

331 Neill St, Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Excellent
88%
Good
11%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 112 reviews

Clayoquot Sound

Clayoquot Sound is located on the west coast of Vancouver Island in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Major inlets include Sydney Inlet, Shelter Inlet, Herbert Inlet, Bedwell Inlet, Lemmens Inlet, and Tofino Inlet. Major Islands include Flores Island, Vargas Island, and Meares Island.

Reviewed By Salma56 - Broadbeach, Australia

An outstanding, natural waterway well used by locals and tourists, I spent three tranquil days observing this. The silent ferry transports locals to and from Tofino. It is also the hub of whale, wildlife and hot spring tour departures. Seaplanes, water taxis and a rescue helicopter pad are all to be seen. Beautiful sunrises and spectacular sunsets to sea kayaking as snow fell in three days. Enchanting. Thank you to those who continue to care for and preserve this pristine, World Heritage sanctuary

4. Cox Bay Beach

Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Excellent
82%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
1%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5 based on 193 reviews

Cox Bay Beach

Reviewed By Mumsieonthego - Bedford, Canada

We walked for over an hour on this lovely beach. Lots of surfers to watch. a little hike on a bluff gave good views looking back at the beach. Lots of beach combing here too. So pretty.
Great restaurant overlooking the beach at a resort. We had both supper and breakfast here. Amazing views.

5. Long Beach

2040 Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, British Columbia, Canada +1 250-726-3500
Excellent
75%
Good
20%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1 reviews

Long Beach

Long Beach, the longest beach of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, spans an extraordinary 16km (10mi) along the west coast of Vancouver Island. Described by locals to be magical, you will be astonished by the amount of life that call the tidal pools home. You will be sure to find crabs, shells, starfish, sea urchins and much more. As the surf comes crashing in, you will find surfers from around the world carving through the peaks of the waves. As the water settles, it gracefully rides up the beach with peaceful trickles and shimmering light from the breathtaking sunset crossing the colourful horizon. Long Beach is truly a rejunivating getaway for all ages. Whether you're looking to kickback, explore, adventure, hike, surf, or just take one of those long walks on the beach, Long Beach has it all.

Reviewed By Lyle P

What more can be said?! This isn't a place that can be described in words - seeing is believing. Beach combing, Surfing, astro photography... no matter what time of day, or what your taste for adventure includes, this place is sure to have it all.

6. Schooner Cove

2040 Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Excellent
75%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 346 reviews

Schooner Cove

Considered by many to be one of the best boardwalk hikes around, you will be immersed in the natural serenity of the temperate rainforest. You can take the easy stairs to the beach, where you can gaze at the gentle waves crashing in. During low tide, an inviting passage presents itself so you can make your way to a small island where you may find bald eagles soaring above. Schooners Cove is nothing less than invigorating and rejuvinating. Truly a picturesque adventure.

Reviewed By habs_68_08 - London, United Kingdom

Absolutely stunning.
The way we went there also helped making the walk to the beach so special. Please make sure you wear trainers. If you do not mind steps - a bit slippery - then please make sure you go there.
When the water tide is low, lots of anemones in the rock pools to look at.

7. Rainforest Trail

PO BOx 280, Ucluelet | 2040 Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino, British Columbia V0R 2Z0, Canada +1 250-726-3500
Excellent
70%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 688 reviews

Rainforest Trail

Rainforest Trail has two routes, A & B, both of which fully engulf you in the temperate rainforest full of gigantic western red cedars and western hemlocks. Sparking a sensation of zen, you will be overcome with the nostalgia of your childhood memories, ready to make more. Scan the upper canopy for birds, listen to the trickle of water and smell the life of this highly productive forest. Trail A is located on the opposite side of the highway from the parking lot. Trail B starts from the parking lot.

Reviewed By RyguyC - Alberta, Canada

This was one of the best 1km I've ever walked, there was so much beauty packed into such a small space. The boardwalk itself is rickety and charming, and the forest is beautiful. Unfortunately the north loop was closed so we only got to see the south loop. You have to stop here if you're in the area.

8. Tofino Brewing Company

681 Industrial Way, Tofino, British Columbia V0R 2Z0, Canada +1 250-725-2899
Excellent
70%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 323 reviews

Tofino Brewing Company

Reviewed By Laurene M - Calgary, Canada

I visited the Tofino Brewing Company in the summer of 2013 when they were just starting out and were in a big warehouse type of building. I did some sampling and then took a few bottles back to my campsite.
My partner and I had the pleasure visiting once more but this time, they've moved next door to a funky place where they have brand new brewing equipment that looks like it's not been used yet but will be soon. They're obviously doing well and thus the expansion. Busy, energetic but laid back vibe and we really enjoyed our brews and people watching opportunities. People of all ages, including kids and even dogs!
The beer was great - my partner loves IPA's and so he had the Cosmic Wave Double IPA and I had the Blonde Ale.
Definitely recommend stopping in for a cold one at the Tofino Brewing Company!

350 Campbell Street, Tofino, British Columbia V0R 2Z0, Canada +1 778-210-0377
Excellent
71%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 188 reviews

Eagle Aerie Gallery

Eagle Aerie Gallery is Roy Henry Vickers' artist-owned gallery located in Tofino, British Columbia. This stunning traditional Northwest Coast longhouse with a carved and painted cedar plank exterior and doors of beaten copper, is a recognizable Tofino landmark. Inside discover Roy's artwork of paintings, original prints, calendars, art cards, and reproductions hanging on hand adzed cedar walls among totem poles and carvings. As you enter the large main hall, you'll notice the soft lighting and restful music that creates an atmosphere of harmony and peace. The gallery is open free to the public seven days a week throughout the year. Built in 1986 with the help of Roy's family and legendary carver Henry Nolla, this gallery welcomes more than 500,000 visitors a year from all around the world. Please check the events calendar page to see when Roy is scheduled to be storytelling at Eagle Aerie Gallery - this is a not to be missed attraction! Guests gather around the centre pit in the main hall to listen to stories of Roy's life and times as well as inspiration of his work. Afterwards Roy is available to meet guests and autograph his reproductions.

Reviewed By Lynda D - Manitoba, Canada

We were hear a few years ago, and had the pleasure of hearing one of the story telling sessions. This time being so late in the season it was very quiet, thus a great opportunity to enjoy the incredible art. Besides the painting and carvings,...MoreThank you, Lynda. You are appreciated.

10. Tonquin Park

Tonquin Park Road, Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
Excellent
65%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 204 reviews

Tonquin Park

Reviewed By 186Steve - Epsom, United Kingdom

The walk through the forest is well set out and wooden stairs were a great help in places. Loved the beach at the end. We stood and watched porpoises in the bay.

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