Tofino holidays
This tiny town on the northern tip of Vancouver Island is famous for its rugged beauty. Surfers and wellness seekers have come here for decades to recharge and connect with nature. Despite its small population, Tofino’s numbers swell with summer visitors eager to explore ancient coastlines and rainforests. Whether you're riding the waves at Long Beach, hiking Pacific Rim National Park or savouring fresh seafood, holidays to Tofino promise adventure and tranquility in equal measure.
Tofino holiday highlights
Tofino
Noel Hendrickson; courtesy Tourism Tofino
Watch whales
Tofino’s whale-watching season runs from March to November, when grey whales, humpbacks and orcas can be spotted migrating through Clayoquot Sound. Choose a Zodiac boat tour for the best chance of a close encounter, and remember to dress warmly, even in summer. June to September offers the best chances for sightings, while March features the Pacific Rim Whale Festival.
Take an epic hike
Most hiking holidays to Tofino focus on the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. There are trails for all abilities, taking you deep into the rugged heart of the Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation territory. The popular Long Beach paths are the best for ocean views but can get busy. Try the Halfmoon Bay Trail through old-growth cedar-hemlock forest for a more secluded adventure.
Where to stay
The town centre offers charming hotels close to shops, seafood restaurants, art galleries and the bustle of the harbour. Wondering where to stay in Tofino for a more serene escape? Check out the town’s closest beach. Mackenzie Beach has waterfront stays with stunning sunset views, picturesque walking trails and easy access to sheltered surf for stand-up paddleboarding and skimboarding.
Tofino: Know before you go
Language
English
Currency
Canadian dollar ($)
Time zone
UTC-8 (PST) and UTC-7 (PDT)
High season
June – August
Low season
November – February
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Caption
Photographer name
Things to do in Tofino
Tofino
Photographer: Jeremy Koreski
Places to eat
The best seafood dinners in Tofino are served with a side of dramatic views. Savour wild salmon tacos from food trucks or hearty chowders in cosy cafes. If fish isn’t your thing, try Canadian classics like ‘poutine’ (french fries with cheese curds and gravy) and elk steaks. The Tofino Market is the place to go for local produce and tasty artisanal goodies.
Beaches
You don’t come to Tofino unless you plan on spending time at the beach. Long Beach delivers world-class surf waves along with a wide shoreline perfect for sunset strolls. Chesterman Beach also has great waves but is popular with families for its laid-back vibe and tide pools. If you’re after a secluded escape, head to Mackenzie Beach for the gentle surf and beachcombing.
Shopping
Shopping in Tofino is small-scale and geared towards local products. You’ll discover unique handmade crafts, from First Nations art to surf-inspired jewellery. Visit the town’s independent bookstores to pick up a title from a local author, or browse quirky boutiques offering eco-friendly fashion. Stop by the Saturday market (May to October) for fresh groceries, artisanal treats and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
FAQs about Tofino holidays
The locals here mainly speak English. Every city has its own distinct lingo, so it's worth picking up some common expressions to use during your city break in Tofino.
The cost of your city break in Tofino will vary based on things like where you're flying in from, when you want to go, and your chosen hotel. Tofino flights and hotels are usually pricier during peak periods, but you can score savings by booking in the off-peak months.
The warmest month in Tofino is August, when temperatures reach a maximum of 19ºC (66ºF).
February brings the coolest weather for a Tofino holiday. Go during this time and you'll experience lows of 0ºC (32ºF).
During your trip to Tofino, you'll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD) for all your spending. It may be helpful to carry a mix of cash and cards to avoid any hassles with payments.
Three full days in Tofino will give you enough time to explore the local area and take a few day trips around Vancouver Island. If you have more days to play with, it’s easy to combine a Tofino holiday with a stay in Vancouver.
With around 54 cm of rainfall, November is the rainiest month. If you're going on your Tofino holiday then, you'll want to plan a few indoor activities. Eat at one of the city's top restaurants, check out an art gallery, or hit the shops for some retail therapy.
While this city is generally considered safe, the best way to have a stress-free holiday to Tofino is to follow a few sensible precautions. Before you head out, plan your route so you can feel more confident about where you're headed. Be alert to your surroundings as you explore, and share your travel plans with a friend or family member.
Winter is the perfect season for cheap hotels and flights to Tofino. This is also the best time for surfing (although you’ll need to wear a wetsuit) and storm watching. Come in summer for the sunshine, but book well ahead as hotel rooms fill up quickly.
Whether you're just getting started or returning for more, this city has a way of making every trip unique. If exploring attractions is on your list of things to do in Tofino, you'll want to include Long Beach and Tofino Botanical Gardens.
Yes, tipping is expected, even if you’re trying to make your Tofino holiday a cheap one. Your tip should reflect the quality of service you received, but the recommended amount for restaurants and tours is 15-20%. Calculate your tip on the pre-tax price to avoid overpaying.
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