When you think of Canada, the last thing you’d think of is surfing. However in Canada, and more specifically the province of British Columbia, boasts some of the best cold-water surfing in the world. Located on the far west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is an incredibly popular area for not only surfers but hikers, bird watchers, campers, whale watchers, fishers, and all-around outdoor enthusiasts. It’s wild, natural beauty makes it the perfect place for adventures but also a great place to sit back and relax on the beach with a glass of wine and a good book.
GETTING THERE!
We flew to Tofino via Vancouver and caught a connector flight with Orca Airways from there. You save yourself about 6-8 hours of driving each way (from Vancouver and the lower mainland). The flight from Vancouver to Tofino is about an hour, plus you really don’t need your car once you’re there. If you’re planning to go (3 days in Tofino is a perfect amount of time) then you want to spend the majority of the time relaxing, not commuting, in my opinion.
If you’re driving, the Horseshoe Bay ferry runs between West Vancouver and Nanaimo on Vancouver Island and takes about about 1.5 hours each way. Once you’re on Vancouver Island, take Highway 4 all the way west from Nanaimo to Tofino (2.5-3 hours). While It’s a bit pricey to drive on to B.C. Ferries, it’s a scenic, albeit slow and windy, drive.
Located along Long Beach, Wickaninnish Inn was home for our stay and boasts endless stretches of ocean and sand and is dotted with huge, beached driftwood that’s brought in by the West Coast’s powerful waves. Head up to the observation deck for sweeping views, or go to the Kwisitis Visitor’s Centre for more info.
THINGS TO DO
STORM WATCHING
If you’re planning on spending three days in Tofino in the winter, one of the coolest activities is storm watching. Tofino gets pretty rainy in winter so if you visit at this time of year, you have to just anticipate rain (it is the wet West Coast, after all). However, with the rain comes some pretty amazing storms and the swells can get pretty crazy, and if you’re there during storm season it’s something you have to experience! Get all bundled up in your wellies and waterproof jackets, feel the howling wind and the ocean spray on your face, and return to your hotel or cabin and get cosy as the rain comes down. It’s really magic.
The most obvious and common thing to do in Tofino is surfing. Whether you’re a complete newbie or a seasoned pro, there are loads of options. If you fall into the former category, sign up for lessons with one of the Tofino surf schools.
ART GALLERY
If time allows, check out the Roy Henry Vickers Art Gallery, a celebration of the work of world-renowned Canadian First Nations artist Roy Vickers. Plan some time to see his legendary work up close!
BEACHES
Whether you’re a sun-worshipper or a sunset photographer, you’ll want to become acquainted with Tofino’s beaches. Sit back and chill as you watch the surfers rip or chill out with a book while you work on your tan. Just remember, the beaches are windy so be prepared with layers and look for shelter on the beach. There are so many great beaches in Tofino that all offer something special so make sure you check them all out.
BIKING
Tofino has a paved bike path that connects the entire length of the town so you really don’t need a car. It’s almost entirely flat so not only will biking provide great exercise, you can enjoy some adults pops on the beach or wine with dinner and not worry about having to drive home.
RECOMMENDED EATS
Being so close to the ocean, Tofino is teeming with fresh seafood. Catch it yourself on a fishing tour, purchase at the Trilogy Fish Company to cook up at your campsite, or head into town to enjoy a meal at one of the many different restaurants in town serving seafood.
A short distance from Mackenzie Beach is the Live to Surf complex which houses the incredibly popular (and rightly so) Tacofino serving up fresh and delicious tacos and burritos out of a food truck at the back of a parking lot. You’ll likely be greeted with long lines, but for the best fish taco in town, it’s worth it. For those looking for something other than Mexican inspired, the Wildside Grill next door offers fish and chips, succulent salmon burgers, and a Boston style creamy clam chowder that will warm you up after a morning of cold surf.
Wash your meal down with a beer from Tofino Brewing Company. Order a tasting flight in their cozy brewery to discover your favourite brew and take a growler to go enjoy back at your campsite. Be sure to try their Kelp Stout and Spruce Tree Ale for a taste that’s uniquely West Coast.
Whether you’re looking to get active, relax, or a mix of the two, Tofino is the perfect place to spend a weekend or an entire week. But you may never want to leave!
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