Key Tips for Visiting Tofino
- Respect the Land: Tofino sits on the unceded traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. When visiting, remember to respect the land, local culture, and communities.
- Pack For The Weather: Tofino’s coastal weather is unpredictable. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy or sandy. Even in summer, it can be chilly near the water.
- Book Tours in Advance: Popular activities like whale watching, hot springs tours, and surf lessons fill up quickly, especially in peak season (June to September).
- Start Early for Hikes & Sunsets: Trails like Cox Bay Lookout and Tonquin Trail get busier later in the day. Early mornings or late afternoons give you quieter paths and better lighting for photos.
- Respect Nature & Wildlife: Stick to marked trails, avoid disturbing wildlife, and pack out all trash. Tofino’s beaches and forests are fragile ecosystems.
- Check Tides & Ocean Conditions: Beaches, tide pools, and some coastal hikes are affected by tides. Know the timing so you don’t get cut off or miss photo opportunities.
- Camera & Binoculars: From whales offshore to birds and seals on the coast, Tofino’s wildlife is spectacular. A camera or binoculars will help you make the most of it.
- Plan Downtime: Between hiking, surfing, and tours, leave a bit of time to explore downtown Tofino or just relax on the beach. The town’s charm is part of the experience.
How To Get To Tofino
Click here for travel details and directions!Where to Stay (Before It’s Fully Booked)
Best Things to Do in Tofino
1. Take a Hot Springs Tour
We've been coming to Tofino for years before we ever did the Hot Springs Cove Tour. It always felt like the kind of thing tourists did with their vacation budget while we were camping, trying to keep costs down, and spending our days lounging on the beach.
But on our last trip, we were there for our sister's birthday, so we decided to book a tour to make the trip more memorable, and it worked like a dream. The ride out to Hot Springs Cove showed us a whole other side of Tofino that we'd never seen on our previous trips.
I don't like to sell anyone too hard on anything with this blog, but I think this tour deserves an exception. It's well priced, but it's definitely pricer than lounging at the beach for free, so I feel I need to explain why it justifies the price.
I've wasted a lot of money over the years on sub-par tours, so I feel experienced enough to claim that the Hot Springs Cove Tour is completely worth it. The boat ride itself is an adventure, and soaking in the warm waters while surrounded by untouched wilderness is an unforgettable experience. So if you're going to splurge on anything during your trip, I would suggest you consider a tour to Hot Springs Cove.
Check out the link below for more information on the tour: what to expect, what's included, and how to book with a discount. Full disclosure, we have no affiliation with Ahous Adventures. We just did our tour with them and had an incredible time.
2. Hike The Tonquin Trail
Our first walk along this trail is still one of the most magical experiences we've ever had in Tofino, but I suggest you set your expectations much lower. And I know magical is a bit over the top, but let me explain.
This trail was the first activity we ever did together in Tofino. It was a clear blue sky day at the end of August, and there was absolutely no wind, no clouds, fog, wildfire haze, or anything but sun. We had literally just arrived for the first time, so we had no clue that these conditions were so rare in Tofino.
We walked the trail a bit before sunset, so we got about an hour of golden reflections on the calm water as we went from beach to beach, and we finished the hike and just couldn't stop going on and on about how beautiful Tofino is and how incredible the rest of the trip is going to be.
The next morning, clouds blew in, and for the rest of that trip, and every trip since, we've never seen those conditions again.
We've done this trail a few times since. Sometimes in decent weather and sometimes in awful conditions, and unfortunately, it doesn't quite live up to the 'magical experience' in my memory. But I will say that it's still one heck of a nice walk in any weather.
It's an easy-to-moderate hike that starts at a parking lot near the town. The trail winds through mossy coastal forest and opens onto small rocky coves with tide pools and driftwood scattered along the shore. Keep an eye out for eagles, herons, and maybe even sea lions or whales offshore.
Towards the end of the official trail, you’ll reach Third Beach, a quieter spot that’s perfect for a snack, picnic, or a quick dip.
From there, you can loop back to the parking lot or continue along the trail (which gets a bit less maintained from this point) toward Middle Beach, a serene stretch of sand framed by forest and crashing waves.
You can also pass through a series of roads and pathways belonging to the resorts to go all the way to Tin Wis Beach. I'm not sure if you're supposed to do this, but we have twice, and no one seemed to mind.
This hike is ideal for photographers, casual walkers, or anyone wanting to experience Tofino’s rugged coastline without the crowds of Long Beach. Bring layers, as coastal winds can whip up quickly, and don’t forget your camera; there are stunning landscapes in every type of weather.
| Distance | Elevation | Time | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.2 km | 88 m | 1 h | out and back | easy |
3. Walk or Surf at Long Beach
This is generally our first stop on the ride in for 2 reasons. One is that the views are stunning in every weather, and they have pretty solid and consistently clean washrooms in the parking lot!
Long Beach is Tofino’s most iconic beach. It’s easy to see why. The beach runs for miles, backed by dense rainforest. It’s perfect for a long stroll, beachcombing for driftwood and shells, or just relaxing while watching surfers ride the waves.
Speaking of surfing, Long Beach is one of the best beginner-friendly spots in the area. There are plenty of local surf schools offering lessons and board rentals. Even if you’re not surfing, the expansive shoreline makes it a great place for a sunset picnic, a game of frisbee, or simply taking in the feeling that you’ve arrived at the end of the Earth. Don’t forget a windbreaker; the ocean breeze can get chilly, especially in the evening.
4. Rainforest Trail in Pacific Rim National Park
This is our go-to hike for a rainy day. You are mostly protected by the forest from the rain unless it's really coming down, and a little mist adds a great little cinematic touch to the whole scene. But to be honest, I wouldn't use up a rare sunny moment for this hike. It's a great walk and an amazing tour of a legit rainforest, but the trail itself is one long boardwalk loop with no grand finale viewpoint. There are better hikes for a clear day (like Lone Cone or Cox Bay), and there will be a rainy day for this one soon.
The Rainforest Trail offers an easily accessible tour of Tofino’s temperate rainforest. This easy loop trail winds through towering western red cedars, moss-draped trees, and fern-covered forest floors; it's a perfectly iconic Pacific Northwest ecosystem.
The trail is suitable for all skill levels, making it perfect for families or anyone wanting a calm, immersive nature walk. If you’re driving in, be aware there’s a small entrance fee per vehicle. And don't forget to always stay bear aware and safe.
The national park is free to visit for those with a Parks Canada Discovery Pass; otherwise, it is $11 CAD per adult. Kids are free. Pay as you park.
5. South Beach Trail in Pacific Rim National Park
It might be a stretch to call this a hike. It's essentially just a long walk from the parking lot to the beach. We brought a little bag of snacks, books, and a light camp stove for coffee. The beach is a great place to spend some time, but don't pack too much to bring with you because there are still a few sections both ways with quite a bit of elevation gain.
As for South Beach itself, there is not much to say. It's another amazing white sand beach in Tofino with incredible views. 11/10 picnic spot, and it's never crowded, so it's a perfect spot to visit alone to romanticize your life and snack on a baguette.
The trail winds through old-growth forest before opening up onto a long stretch of sandy shoreline, making it a great spot for a peaceful stroll, tide pooling, or a picnic. It’s relatively easy compared to some of the steeper hikes in the area, so it’s ideal for families or anyone looking to enjoy the park without pushing their limits.
The national park is free to visit for those with a Parks Canada Discovery Pass; otherwise, it is $11 CAD per adult. Kids are free. Pay as you park.
| Distance | Elevation | Time | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.9 km | 81 m | 1 h | out and back | easy |
6. Clayoquot Sound Kayak Tour
We haven't gotten out on a Kayak ourselves yet, but we did see a group out when we were aboard a much bigger ship that required less effort to move, and it looks incredible. Being out on the water is an incredible feeling, even on the bigger boats, and looking back at the Tofino coastline is very literally a side of Tofino that you probably have only seen in photos.
The view from the tour boat was great, but on our next trip, we will definitely be signing up for our own Kayak (or maybe a tandem so I can slack off). The tours take you through Clayoquot Sound and out onto calm inlets surrounded by old-growth forest, rocky islets, and the occasional curious seal.
Guides know the tides and sheltered routes, so it’s a beginner-friendly adventure with just enough excitement to feel like you’re off the beaten track. Plan for a half-day tour and bring a camera (and a dry bag).
7. Chesterman Beach
This was our favourite beach for swimming, but that's likely just because we visited during a heat wave and the temperature was in the high 30's all day. But in any weather, Chesterman Beach is a favourite among surfers, walkers, and photographers. The wide flat shoreline stretches for miles, making it perfect for long walks, beachcombing, or just soaking up the fresh ocean air.
The waves are great for both beginners and experienced surfers, and you’ll often spot seals bobbing near the surf.
Sunset here is especially magical. The beach is huge and curved, so you can pick out the perfect place to watch from as the low sun casts warm tones over the sand and sea stacks.
8. Watch Sunset at Tin Wis Beach
We've stayed on or near Tin Wis Beach almost every time we've visited Tofino. It's a more tranquil spot compared to Tofino’s busier beaches, making it perfect for a peaceful evening. The sand is soft and white, and the shoreline is wide even at high tide.
It's our favourite place to base ourselves for our stay because it's one of our favourite beaches, it's our absolute favourite beach for sunset, a lot of the best hotels and cabins are right on the beach, and we love being walking distance to Tofitian Cafe and Tacofino!
Bring a blanket or a thermos of tea to really relax and soak in the view. Photographers will love the soft golden light reflecting off the wet sand (this is most pronounced when the receding tide lines up with the sunset), and the beach’s relative quiet makes it an ideal spot to watch the colours shift as the day ends. Keep an eye out for tide pools and wildlife along the edges. Sometimes seals or seabirds make a surprise appearance.
9. Wander Tofino’s Downtown & Shops
Tofino’s downtown is small but full of character. Stroll along Campbell Street and explore local boutiques, galleries, and surf shops. Places like Merge Goods and Caravan Beach Shop offer handmade items and one-of-a-kind souvenirs, while cafés and bakeries make perfect pit stops for a latte or snack.
I'm not usually the one suggesting an afternoon of shopping (on a trip or at home), but I do find myself wandering around at least once each trip and browsing a bit. It's as much about taking in the town's vibe as it is actually looking for something to buy.
The vibe is laid-back, and it’s easy to spend a couple of hours just wandering and popping into shops and cafes. Evening is especially charming when the sunset light spills onto the streets, and the cafés start to glow, and the bars start to buzz. A perfect way to wind down after a day exploring Tofino’s natural beauty.
10. Rent a bike
It doesn't matter if we're in Greece, Vancouver, or some little Island in Asia, I'm always down to rent a bike. I really think that there is almost nowhere (maybe Lisbon) that isn't best explored on 2 wheels. Tofino, especially, is amazing with a bike. The whole peninsula is relatively flat, and there are great paved bike trails following the highway between most points of interest. Even when I have my own car here, I'm tempted to ditch it and grab a bike, but if you've flown in with Harbour Air, a bike is basically essential!
Pedal along the waterfront, cruise through the village, or tackle the forested trails nearby. For something truly scenic, rent a bike and ride along Chesterman Beach. The long, sandy stretch gives you ocean views, fresh air, and the chance to spot surfers and wildlife along the way. It’s a low-key way to mix adventure with sightseeing, and you can stop whenever a view or café catches your eye.
11. Hike Cox Bay Lookout for Sunset
This is a short and steep hike. You start from the beach and head uphill instantly, but just 127 meters of gain and then the payoff is an incredible sweeping view of the entire bay.
It is a harder hike than the stats suggest. There are big root sections that I tripped on a few times, and some muddy patches that put our shoes out of commission for the rest of the trip. We also met a girl at the top who made it in bare feet, so I guess it's just a matter of mindset.
The trail has some markers the whole way up, but we were checking the AllTrails map a lot because there are lots of little side trails that don't go anywhere. I don't think you can get too lost, but tracking the main trail can be a bit confusing. We stayed until the sun was good and set, so it was especially confusing coming down in the dark.
I suggest you head down a little sooner than we did, but it is definitely best at sunset and is a top contender on my list of best sunset spots on Vancouver Island. Make sure to pack headlamps. We didn't and were just using our phones' flashlights, which worked sort of, but whenever we needed both hands to climb over some steep root section (which was all of the time), it really didn't work at all. So go hands-free or head down as soon as the sun dips, and try to make it back down to the beach in the fading light.
| Distance | Elevation | Time | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.7 km | 127 m | 1.5 h | out and back | hard |
12. Take a Day Trip To Ucluelet
We completely disregarded Ucluelet on our first few visits, but on our last trip, we actually based ourselves there. For me, Ucluelet feels more like a cozy staycation kind of spot where you book a nice place with a hot tub and a sauna and you spend a lot of time at your hotel, but Tofino and Ucluelet are actually only about 30 minutes apart by car, and nearly every point of interest is between the two towns, so you can't really go too wrong basing yourself in either.
Ucluelet is a bit smaller than Tofino, businesses keep less consistent hours and a lot more close down entirely over the winter. If you're okay to sacrifice the convenience factor, I find Ucluelet to feel a lot more authentic and lived-in and less overrun by the tourism industry compared to Tofino.
If you've only got time for a day trip, I recommend hiking The Lighthouse Loop, a coastal trail that winds along rocky headlands, windswept beaches, and old-growth forest. Keep an eye out for sea lions, eagles, and even black bears from a distance.
The trail leads to the iconic Ucluelet Lighthouse, where you can pause to enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific and the Broken Group Islands. It’s not overly strenuous, making it ideal for families or a half-day adventure. The mix of forest, ocean, and dramatic cliffs gives you a taste of everything the island’s coast offers, all at once.
| Distance | Elevation | Time | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5 km | 65 m | 1 h | loop | easy |
13. Hike Lone Cone
As you can see from our photos here... this was a bit of a bust for us. I don't fully understand the science of it, but for some reason, clouds love to linger around Lone Cone's peak. Even from the mainland, you can often look over to the island and see it wearing a hat of clouds amongst an otherwise mostly clear sky.
The good news is this hat usually blows off by the afternoon, but the bad news is we did the hike in the morning. So we really just climbed up into a cloud and turned around. Sometimes I don't mind so much, but this is an incredibly steep hike and an absolute knee killer on the way down. I was mostly fine because of my long legs, but Alia really struggled on the way down because there were so many huge root steps that were too big for her little legs.
But this is not us suggesting you don't go. Just do your best to plan it when the peak is clear to make your knee's sacrifice worth it.
In good conditions, Lone Cone is one of the most iconic hikes near Tofino, offering jaw-dropping views of Clayoquot Sound from the summit. The trail is short and steep, and the steps near the top are big, so if you have shorter legs, it can be a tough grind. It’s a challenging climb, but the panoramic vistas of the ocean, islands, and surrounding forests make every step worth it (which unfortunately, we did not get.) Bring good shoes, plenty of water, and plan for a slow and steady pace. The weather is unpredictable, but often the peak is shrouded in cloud all morning and clears up later in the day as the sun burns off some of the moisture.
You can book your tour to the Lone Cone trail with Ahous Adventures. They are a great indigenous-owned company that runs whale watching, bear spotting, hot springs, and hiking tours.
Note: You will need to book a tour in order to do this hike because it is on Meares Island and is only accessible by boat.
| Distance | Elevation | Time | Type | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.8 km | 720 m | 4 h | out and back | hard |
14. Go Whale Watching
Tofino is famous for its marine life, and a whale-watching tour is one of the best ways to experience it. Cruises often spot gray whales, humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, and bald eagles. With knowledgeable guides sharing insights about the local ecosystem. Tours vary from a few hours to half-day trips. The early morning often gives the calmest waters and best wildlife viewing.
We haven't made it out on this tour yet, but based on all of the wildlife we saw during our Hot Springs Cove tour, we know you're in for a treat. Even during our other tour, we could hear all the radio chatter as all the captains shared notable sightings, and our captain was taking huge detours to spot herds of sea otters or chase down a lead about a whale.
While they can never promise what you will see, you are almost guaranteed a few great sightings. Even the hot springs tour sees at least one whale on nearly every tour.
Also, if you think that just seeing one whale is plenty, consider just signing up for the hot springs tour. You won't see as much wildlife, but you will still see a lot on the 3-hour round-trip boat ride, plus... hot springs!
You can also book these tours with Ahous Adventures.
15. Hike to the Canso Plane Crash Site
For a mix of history and adventure, the Canso plane crash site hike is a unique one. The trail leads you through forested paths and past a very out of place abandoned building, and finally up to the site of the Casno plane crash, which reminded me a lot of the Train Wreck hike in Whistler.
This is a pretty quick hike without too much elevation gain. The whole thing took us around an hour and a half, which included lots of time taking photos and climbing around the wreckage. There is an odd building about halfway through the trail that might pique your curiosity, creep you out, or, in my case, do both.
The path itself is generally a muddy mess. It's really like hiking through a swamp, but there is a long make-shift boardwalk set up for the worst stretches. We had a few near slips in our group, but my sister was able to wear white pants the whole way without issue, so it could just be a skill issue.
Once you reach the site, you’ll see the remains of a vintage Canso aircraft. It's impressively intact considering it's been there for over 80 years. Over those years, plenty of people have spray-painted their graffiti or stuck their stickers to it, and the forest itself has left quite a mark as well.
Where to Eat and Drink in Tofino
- Tacofino (@tacofinolovesyou): Casual tacos and burritos loved by locals and visitors alike.
- Bravocados (@bravocados_tofino): Great spot for fresh and healthy bowls, smoothies, and light bites.
- Tofitian Cafe (@tofitian): Cozy café perfect for breakfast or a coffee break.
- Rhino Coffee House (@rhinotofino): A local favorite for quality coffee and relaxed vibes.
- Shed Tofino (@shedtofino) Great spot for burgers and a pint on a lively patio
- Roar Tofino (@roartofino) Tasty food cooked over a live fire
Getting Around Tofino
Tofino is small but spread out, and some of the best beaches, trailheads, and attractions aren’t within walking distance from town. Here’s how to get around efficiently:
- Rental Car or Camper Van: The easiest way to explore is by driving yourself. It gives you flexibility for early hikes, sunset viewpoints, and reaching more remote spots like Tonquin Beach or Tin Wis Beach. Roads are generally paved and easy to navigate, but keep an eye out for wildlife crossing.
- Biking: For shorter distances and some coastal adventures, renting a bike is a fun option. Tofino has a few rental shops, and cycling lets you enjoy the scenery without worrying about parking. Mostly flat roads make it an easier place to cycle but be prepared to be caught out when the weather changes.
- Free Shuttle: In the summer months a free shuttle operates between Tofino and Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Riders can hop on and off at any stop along the route. The service is offered from the end of June to the beginning of September.
- Taxi & Rideshare: Limited but available for quick trips within town or to nearby beaches. Handy if you’re without a car but can be pricey for longer distances.
- Shuttle & Tour Services: Many tours (whale watching, hot springs, surf lessons) include pickup and drop-off from town accommodations. This is convenient if you don’t want to drive and can help you reach more remote locations safely.
- Walking: Downtown Tofino is very walkable, and many shops, cafés, and the waterfront are easy to reach on foot. Just note that some beaches or trailheads are a 10 to 30 minute drive away, so walking alone won’t get you everywhere.
- Seasonal Considerations: During peak season, parking at popular spots like Long Beach or Cox Bay can be limited. Arrive early or consider biking or shuttles to avoid frustration.
Where to Stay in Tofino
Tofino offers a range of places to stay, from cozy inns to luxury lodges. Many visitors choose to camp to be closer to nature and Tofino has some beautiful campsites right along the beaches.
We camped at Bella Pacifica Campground with @viooverlander during our overlanding adventure and highly recommend it. Another great option is Surf Grove Campsite, known for its community vibe and location.
Tin Wis Resort is a great choice if you’re not into camping. The property sits right on Tin Wis Beach, one of the calmest and most family-friendly beaches in Tofino. You can step out of your room and be on the sand in seconds. The rooms are modern but relaxed, and most come with ocean views that make catching sunsets effortless. On top of that, they’ve got solid amenities: a sauna and hot tub area for warming up after a chilly beach walk, a restaurant on site, and easy parking. The location is close enough to town for restaurants and shops, but just far enough to feel quiet and tucked away.
You can browse all the best Tofino hotels and resorts here.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re hiking, surfing, whale watching, or just relaxing by the beach, Tofino has a laid-back charm that’s hard to beat. Save this list for your next Vancouver Island trip, and you’ll have plenty to explore.
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