Even if going on a trip for the weekend isn’t in the cards right now, we CAN still dream about future getaways so that as soon as it’s safe to do so, we can RUN not walk to the nearest forest/ beach/ ocean/ lake for the weekend. To help you prepare for when that moment comes, we’ve created a getaway series to help you make the most of your next weekend away!
Tofino, the sleepy surfer town on the East Coast of Vancouver Island that’s rugged natural beauty brings in crowds of about 600,000 tourists yearly. This little corner of the world is known for its wild weather, ruthless surfing waves, and small-town charm. Most of us who live on the West Coast of Canada have found ourselves stuffed into a wetsuit and braving the cold and dark waters of Tofino at some point or another. Albeit chilly, it’s clear why these stormy waters draw in such big crowds; surrounded by rainforest and ocean, this coastal town is the epitome of all things beautiful British Columbia.
Whether you’re heading to Tofino to surf, storm watch or explore, we’ve put a list together of places that you’ve got to check out. Oh, and obviously, check out our local stockists on the island to pick up some of your favourite Old Yale brews on your way to the coast.
BEACHES
Obviously, there is a TON of beautiful beaches on Tofino… I mean it’s basically just one big beach. These are just a handful of our favourite to explore (with a beer in hand, of course).
CHESTERMAN BEACH
Chesterman Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Tofino for surfing, so it’s usually fairly busy, and a great spot to watch some talented surfers do their thing! If you’re lucky enough to be here on a clear day, this is also a great spot to catch the sunset.
Image by: Boomer Jerrit via Destination BC
LONG BEACH
Yep, It comes as no surprise that Long beach is the longest beach in Tofino. Its size makes it perfect for a variety of activities, including exploring the small islands off the shore at low tide.
Image by: Destination British Columbia
COMBERS BEACH
A beautiful and winding walk through the rainforest leads to a long, secluded beach. It’s perfect for tidepool exploration and sea lion spotting.
HIKES
Ok, the term hike might be a tad generous, Tofino isn’t super mountainous. Nonetheless, these are absolutely stunning trails! If you’re looking for something a bit more rigorous you may have to take a ferry or plane to one of the nearby islands, we’ve heard the Hot Springs Cove hike in Maquinna Provincial Park is incredible.
CANSO PLANE CRASH TRAIL
A peaceful but muddy walk through a bog to the site of a 1945 plane crash - you can even climb on it!
RAINFOREST TRAIL
A beautiful weaving boardwalk submerged in the rainforest makes you feel like your miles away from civilization.
Image by: Brian Caissie via Destination BC
RADAR HILL
This was once a radar installation to watch for threats of bombers in WWI and The Cold War, now it’s a great spot to take in vast views of the Pacific Rim.
DRINKS & EATS
Tofino may be known for its beautiful wildlife, but it’s also got some seriously tasty drinks and eats! Here are our favourites.
TACOFINO
Duh, an absolute must in these parts. The original taco truck that started Vancouver’s famous restaurant chain.
Image by: Ben Giesbrecht via Destination BC
RHINO COFFEE
Freshly baked donuts. Enough said.
TOFINO CRAFT DISTILLERY
Swing by their tasting room to try some premium quality certified organic spirits. Their cocktail menu is always changing, so there’s always a new creation to sample.
Image by: Tofino Craft Distillery via tofinocraftdistillery.com
TOFINO BREWING
Visit these awesome folks and enjoy a pint of West Coast-inspired goodness in their tasting room. And of course, grab a few to bring home with ya.
SHELTER
The best spot to get cozy on a heated patio with friends, a drink and some tasty food.
KUMA
The most amazing Japanese comfort food, their Ramen is perfect on a rainy West Coast day.
WOLF IN THE FOG
Awarded Canada’s best restaurant in 2016. Stop here for some delicious cocktails inspired by oceans, forests and the shoreline of Tofino.
Image by: Jordan Dyck via Tourism Vancouver
SHOPS
When you have a few spare hours it’s always nice to poke around a few of the local shops, there’s not many, but this is one that’s a little tucked away that we definitely do not want you to miss!
MERGE TOFINO
The cutest little pink shop filled with curated goodies.
Can’t wait to see you out there exploring, friends!