Best things to do in Tofino

Tofino Essentials

Tofino is situated on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island within the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This selection features the town’s primary surfing beaches, Chesterman and Cox Bay, alongside the Roy Henry Vickers’ Eagle Aerie Gallery, housed in a traditional cedar longhouse. Culinary highlights include locally sourced seafood at Wolf in the Fog and Sobo, while outdoor activities range from whale-watching tours to kayaking through the surrounding temperate rainforest.

Colin W / CC BY-SA 3.0

Chesterman Beach

A 2.7-kilometer stretch of sand featuring a tombolo that connects to Frank Island during low tide.

West Coast Aquatic Safaris

Wildlife viewing tours specializing in whale watching, bear sightings, and excursions to Hot Springs Cove.

Cox Bay Beach

A crescent-shaped beach known for consistent surf breaks and the lookout trail at its northern end.

Eagle Aerie Gallery

Traditional Northwest Coast longhouse gallery showcasing the print and paint works of Tsimshian artist Roy Henry Vickers.

Wolf in the Fog

Restaurant focusing on locally foraged ingredients and sustainable seafood from the surrounding Pacific waters.

Shelter

Contemporary restaurant featuring a menu of local ingredients, including Vancouver Island beef and seafood, with views of the Tofino Inlet.

Tofino Botanical Gardens

Twelve acres of gardens and forest paths featuring local flora, sculptures, and views of the mudflats.

Tofino Sea Kayaking

Guided tours and equipment rentals for exploring the islands and waters of Clayoquot Sound.

Sobo

Short for Sophisticated Bohemian, this restaurant serves locally sourced West Coast cuisine, originating from a popular food truck.

Tofino Brewing

Microbrewery producing small-batch craft beers, including a stout brewed with locally harvested kelp.