Ancient rainforests and white sand beaches await you in this small town in B.C., known for its surfable waves and picturesque scenery.
After living in B.C. for two years and travelling around the province every chance I got, I’ve dubbed this beautiful small town my favourite summer destination.
From Vancouver, the small oceanside town is about five hours away, but part of that journey is getting whisked away by BC Ferries, which breaks up the road trip and gives you some spectacular views. On my last trip there I even spotted a few whales while on the ferry deck, so keep an eye out.
Tofino isn’t exactly a hidden gem, as a popular surfing retreat and summer getaway for many British Columbians and people globally alike. It’s one of the few not overhyped tourist destinations though, in my opinion, and here’s everything I’ve done while in Tofino that’s solidified it as my favourite summer spot.
Camping over hotel
If you’re up for it, camping in Tofino is hands-down one of the best experiences you can have in B.C. For one, the hotels and Airbnb options in this town are extremely pricey during the summer season, thanks to how popular it is.
I ended up camping at Bella Pacifica Campground the first time I visited, just because I didn’t want to pay for a stay at a hotel in town, but was happily surprised by the experience and went back again.
One of the things that makes Tofino special is its nature, from the jagged rocks alongside the ocean and the stretches of sand to the thick rainforest teeming with life. When I’m there I want to get outside as much as possible, and camping is the perfect way to do it. Dozing off to the sound of waves and having your morning coffee on the beach is perfection.
If you really want a cheaper option stay in the nearby town of Ucluelet, where there are some equally beautiful campsites. I stayed at Wya Point Resort once, and it was an incredible trip. It’s a cheaper alternative to Tofino and just about 30 minutes from the town.
Bike to Long Beach
There’s a long biking path that stretches across the town and you’ll see it bustling with bikers, roller skaters, runners, and walkers in the summer months. Me and my friends rented some bikes on our last trip and rode all the way to Long Beach.
The ride there was breathtaking alone. You’ll go under canopies of lush greenery, past towering old-growth trees, and get glimpses of the sparkling ocean in the distance. The winding path makes for a pretty easy journey, and the reward of this unbelievable beach makes it that much more worth it.
The stretch of shoreline gives you an uninterrupted view of the horizon and there’s the iconic Incinerator Rock. Located within the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve this is actually the longest beach on Vancouver Island (as its name hints at).
We spent about an hour or so there before heading back, but you could spend the entire day just exploring this unique coastline and watching the many surfers off the shore at this beach.
Get coffee from Rhino
The line that normally stretches out the door of this coffee shop is worth waiting in for their donuts alone.
Right in the downtown area of Tofino, this spot is the perfect place to go if you’re fueling up for a day exploring the area. Definitely get a donut (any of their flavours will do the trick) and dunk it in your latte for the perfect start to your day.
If you’re more in the mood for a beer post bike ride then stop by Tofino Brewing Co. and cross your fingers that the Toki Doki food truck is open out front.
Surfing at Chesterman Beach
You’ve gotta try getting out on the water if you’re visiting Tofino, and the spot we rented boards from sent us right to this beach. Make sure to ask the people working at wherever you rent from, as the waves will change based on the day, but this was the ideal spot for a group of novices like us.
Even in the summer, the waves are chilly, so we all donned a wetsuit before braving the ocean water.
On the day we went the waves were small, and we had the time of our lives attempting to pop up on our boards. You’ll want to set aside a whole day for surfing probably, because you’ll be exhausted afterwards.
The crescent of sand that makes up the beach is perfect to warm up on after a day on the water though, with classic West Coast views to enjoy.
Explore the rainforest
There are jaw-droppingly beautiful trails throughout the area here and walking into the ancient rainforest will make you feel like you’re in another world. I recommend exploring the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, with its rugged coastline views and lush forest.
If you want to keep adventuring you can take a boat out to the Big Tree Trail, where you can walk among trees that are 1,500 years old.
Grab dinner on the water
One of my favourite dinner spots in Tofino is Shelter, where we got to enjoy our meal looking out on the water. With mountains peppering the coastline and the deep blue ocean stretching out far, it’s the most breathtaking backdrop you could ask for.
The food was also delicious, but the massive patio is what sets this place apart.
Watch the sunset from the wharf
After dinner going to watch the sun dip below the ocean horizon and light up the sky with bright oranges and reds is a must. If you’re right in town already and don’t want to venture further out to a beach then just walk out onto the wharf.
At sunset we were joined by other tourists and some locals, all looking out at the water as the sunset put on a show.
The beauty of Tofino is undeniable and mixed with the charm of the town centre, range of activities, incredible food, and friendly people, it’s no surprise why it’s a favourite for many.
If it’s not on your bucket list already then definitely add it, because the trip of a lifetime awaits you.
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