2025 Tofino Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in February)

#getgoing2025 Tide times Chesterman Beach is on the west side of the Tofino peninsula on Vancouver Island, just south of Tofino town. It is divided into two main sections, Chesterman Beach South (or “South Chestie” as the locals call it) and Chesterman Beach North. Totalling 3 km in length, Chesterman Beach is divided in the middle by Franks’ Island, a tombolo which is an island attached to the mainland by a narrow causeway of land revealed at low tide. A short path leads to the white sandy beach. The north entrance is best for wheelchair users and pushchairs. The beach itself is long, flat and sandy. It is dog-friendly and popular for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, kite surfing and surf kayaking. There’s a surf school and the surf is suitable for beginners and experienced surfers in most conditions. The best waves occur at the south-facing end of the Chesterman Beach when there’s a southern swell while North Chesterman faces west and catches the west and northwest swells. It’s a beautiful beach for long walks along the water’s edge with views of the forested coastline. There are caves and rock pools to explore and you can spot birds, whales and marine life. Après surf activities include bonfires and barbecues, stargazing, kite-flying or exploring the rock caves and tidal pools edging the broad sandy strip. Look out for sand dollars and sea stars that frequently wash ashore.

#getgoing2025 Long Beach certainly lives up to its name. Stretching for 16km, the unbroken white sand is the longest beach on the island. Reached from Hwy 4 (Pacific Rim Highway) and despite its isolated location it attracts over a million visitors each year. The beautiful sand collects massive amounts of driftwood and is edged by old-growth forest. Pounded by the Pacific Ocean, this rugged coastline is within the Pacific Rim National Park which encompasses Long Beach along with the Broken Groups Islands and the West Coast Trail. Long Beach has two main car parking (fees apply), a larger main car park and one at Incinerator Rock. Both are signposted. The main car park has toilets and access to Rainforest Trail A and B Loops. Things to do on Long Beach include long, long walks, heading south until you reach the rocky headland marking the start of adjoining Wickaninnish Beach. If you walk north towards Schooner Cove Beach you’ll pass the Tla-o-qui-aht community of Esowista. In addition grey and Humpback Whales may be spotted during the migratory season. Swimming is not advisable for inexperienced bathers as the beach has powerful tides that reshape the beach on a twice-daily basis. However, you can enjoy surf kayaking, building sandcastles, throwing Frisbee, dog walking, picnicking, good surfing, sunbathing and watching the sunset.

#weekendgetaways Perched on the rugged coastline of Vancouver Island, Wickaninnish Inn offers an unparalleled seaside escape. Each room features cozy furnishings, fireplaces, and floor-to-ceiling windows with breathtaking ocean views. Guests can indulge in spa treatments at the Ancient Cedars Spa or enjoy fresh, locally inspired cuisine at The Pointe Restaurant. Located near Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, the inn provides easy access to scenic beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife watching. Whether you’re storm-watching in winter or basking in summer sunshine, the Wickaninnish Inn’s tranquil setting and exceptional service make it a perfect destination for a relaxing weekend getaway.

Tufanuzede Hotel: A Perfect Blend of Nature and Luxury When looking for a travel destination that offers both a connection to nature and luxurious accommodations, Tufanuzede Hotel is undoubtedly an ideal choice. With its unique location, elegant design, and exceptional service, the hotel provides guests with a tranquil space to escape the hustle and bustle and embrace nature. Hotel Features and Highlights: Tufanuzede Hotel is set in a picturesque natural environment, surrounded by dense forests and clear lakes, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The hotel's design combines modern simplicity with natural elements, with exquisite and elegant interiors. The rooms are equipped with high-end bedding and smart facilities to ensure guests have the ultimate accommodation experience. In addition, the hotel has several restaurants and bars offering a wide variety of culinary options, allowing guests to enjoy the bounty of nature while savoring delicious food. It is worth mentioning that Tufanuzede Hotel places a special emphasis on guest relaxation and wellness, with high-end facilities such as an indoor heated swimming pool, gym, yoga room, and spa center, where guests can relax and enjoy a healthy and pleasant time. Recommended Nearby Attractions: From Tufanuzede Hotel, guests can easily explore the surrounding attractions. The hotel is surrounded by numerous natural landscapes, such as magnificent waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and dense forests, making it an ideal place for hiking, cycling, and photography. In addition, there are famous national parks and nature reserves nearby, where guests can explore the mysteries of nature and experience its charm. For guests who enjoy cultural exploration, the historic towns and museums around Tufanuzede Hotel are also must-visit spots, where guests can learn about the local history, culture, and customs. With its unique location, elegant design, and exceptional service, Tufanuzede Hotel offers guests a luxurious and natural accommodation environment. Here, guests can enjoy a high-quality accommodation experience and explore the surrounding natural landscapes and cultural attractions, creating an unforgettable travel experience.

What's the coolest thing to do in the sea in Vancouver and its surrounding areas? Everyone has their own answer. Fishing enthusiasts think it's sea fishing, sports enthusiasts will say surfing, photography enthusiasts will say taking photos of the sunset by the sea... There's one thing to do in the sea that's most suitable in summer. It's not only cool, but also suitable for everyone: thrill-seekers like it, photography lovers like it, and ordinary tourists also like it. This thing is whale watching! The best place to go whale watching in Vancouver is definitely Tofino in the Pacific Ocean, Alberni-Clayoquot area. Even if you don't go whale watching, just come to Tofino to see the sea and vacation, you can have a good time. If you add whale watching, it will be even cooler! From spring every year, Tofino's whale watching tourists are endless. There are more marine life in the open sea, especially giant creatures like whales. Anyone with a little ecological knowledge knows that this is a better place than the inland sea near Greater Vancouver! Gray whales, humpback whales, killer whales... Tofino has a wide variety of whales, and you can see them for about 8 months each year. When you go whale watching on a cruise ship in Canada, be sure to keep warm! Even in summer, the wind and waves at sea will make people shiver. A jacket is a must, preferably waterproof, to avoid water mist. The whale watching tour ships range from speedboats to comfortable cruise ships. No matter which one you choose, you will have an unforgettable Pacific whale watching tour!

Nestled in the heart of Tofino, Duffin Cove proved to be the idyllic haven for our honeymoon escape. As we arrived after a scenic 3.5-hour drive, the quaint charm of this coastal gem instantly captivated us. Our cozy little spot exuded warmth and tranquility, each corner adorned with touches of rustic elegance. The picturesque views from our window painted a scene straight out of a postcard - the rugged coastline meeting the endless expanse of the Pacific Ocean in a harmonious dance of nature. From leisurely strolls along the shoreline to evenings spent by the crackling fireplace, every moment at Duffin Cove felt like a dream. The sound of crashing waves serenaded us to sleep, and each sunrise painted the sky in hues of pink and gold, a daily spectacle we cherished. Our time at Duffin Cove was a true retreat, a place where love blossomed amidst the beauty of Tofino's coastal wonders.#localguides #familytrip

Tofino is absolutely gorgeous, rugged and seemingly untouched terrain everywhere you go. The completely unpredictable weather is nothing short of stunningly exciting and can dictate how your trip plays out #westcoast #vancouverisland #bc #rainy #storm

Great cabin to stay at. This was the view from unit 58. The lodge/reception building only does dinner by reservation, so either make reservations or bring enough food. #cabin #resort #westcoast #beach

Explored the town of Tofino and stayed in Ucluelet for the 2 nights. Good weather during the summer. The shops in Tofino were interesting and sell many cool stuff. The views were very pretty as well, as seen in the pictures. Although it is a small town, there were many things to look at, to eat and to buy! Would recommend anone in Vancouver to takea trip down if they have a chance!

Beautiful Tofino, BC Canada