Tofino

Travel Guide

A harbor with several boats docked, surrounded by residential buildings and trees.
A calm lake with a dock, a boat, and a forested mountain in the background.
A wooden dock with a house and a red building on stilts by a calm lake with mountains in the background.
A black bear standing in shallow water surrounded by rocks.
A dock with boats, a forested hillside, and a house with lights.

Located on a bay on Vancouver Island’s west coast, this resort town offers forest hikes, surfing beaches and whale-watching tours.

Once a tiny Vancouver Island fishing village, the town of Tofino is now a beachside resort town. Its wild surroundings within the Clayoquot Sound provide plenty of room to find peace. Surfing, whale watching and storm chasing are just a few of the ways to explore Tofino’s landscape.

During the summer, relax on Tofino’s beaches. Chesterman Beach is the closest to the village of Tofino. Explore the tide pools or head to Frank Island, accessible only at low tide. Trek into Pacific Rim National Park to find the aptly named Long Beach, where huge waves attract surfers. Sign up for surf school to build your skills.

Pacific Rim National Park also features excellent hikes. Beginners can take Big Tree Trail, lined with redwoods up to 1,500 years old. See the Hanging Garden Tree, which is a whopping 60 feet (18.3 meters) wide. If you are an experienced hiker, attempt the near-vertical Lone Cone Trail. From the peak of Lone Cone, enjoy a fantastic view of the hills and countless islands of Clayoquot Sound.

Get close to Tofino’s incredible wildlife on a boat tour. An estimated 20,000 whales pass along the west coast of Vancouver Island each year, so you are likely to see a gray, humpback or orca whale on a whale-watching tour. Bear-watching boat tours are available as well safely watch black bears feeding along the coastline at low tide.

Explore Clayoquot Sound on your own in a kayak. Paddle 3 miles (4.8 kilometers) west to reach a beautiful, remote beach on Vargas Island. Fish in the sound to catch delicious salmon.

While outdoor activities are Tofino’s main attractions, another great way to enjoy the area is to relax in a cozy waterfront cabin during winter and watch heavy storms roll in. Visit between November and March, when Tofino receives more than 10 storms per month.

From Vancouver, take a ferry to Vancouver Island, then make the 3-hour drive to Tofino. Beach resort meets remote mountain village in this Pacific paradise.

Where to stay in Tofino

Find the best Tofino areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Tofino
Learn more about Tofino
A rocky beach with clear water, surrounded by dense forest.

Tonquin Beach

While visiting Tonquin Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Tonquin Park and Tofino Art Glass.

Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort

Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort

2.5 out of 5
1119 Pacific Rim Highway Tofino BC
$181 nightly
The price is $210 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$210 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Tofino. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,192 reviews)
"Beach"

Reviewed on Oct 9, 2026

Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort
Tofino Resort & Marina

Tofino Resort & Marina

3 out of 5
634 Campbell Street Tofino BC
$119 nightly
The price is $138 total per night from Nov 1 to Nov 2
$138 total
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Tofino. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a marina. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (988 reviews)
"10/10 recommend"

Reviewed on Oct 8, 2026

Tofino Resort & Marina
Hotel Zed Tofino

Hotel Zed Tofino

3 out of 5
1258 Pacific Rim Highway Tofino BC
$138 nightly
The price is $161 total per night from Nov 4 to Nov 5
$161 total
Nov 4 - Nov 5
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this family-friendly hotel in Tofino. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Our guests praise the restaurant and the helpful ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,005 reviews)
"Really comfortable beds, clean and spacious rooms. Loved the big shower! Cool atmosphere. Highly recommend. Sauna could be hotter."

Reviewed on Oct 10, 2026

Hotel Zed Tofino
See all 402 properties in Tofino
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Fred Tibbs Ocean Front Condos

Fred Tibbs Ocean Front Condos

3.5 out of 5
230 Main Street Tofino BC
Stay at this condo in Tofino. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a garden. Popular attractions Chesterman Beach and House of Himwitsa are located nearby.
9/10 Wonderful! (416 reviews)
"Checked in at 5pm to hear raging electric guitar playing all the way up to 10pm, be aware there is a staff accommodation right beside this building where you will be staying and they have absolutely no respect for your holiday experience in the quiet Harbour. Also the front desk staff didn't care ..."

Reviewed on Oct 10, 2026

Fred Tibbs Ocean Front Condos
Gorgeous Oceanfront Rancher with Stunning views, Sauna, Hot tub and Pool table!

Gorgeous Oceanfront Rancher with Stunning views, Sauna, Hot tub and Pool table!

Tofino BC
Book a stay at this beach vacation home in Tofino. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a sauna. Popular attractions Chesterman Beach and Pacific Rim National ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (431 reviews)
"Excellent location. The home had everything you will need and with plenty of room for everyone. There was easy access to the water (Inlet side) from the property. We will definitely stay at this property again. Great place."

Reviewed on Oct 7, 2026

Gorgeous Oceanfront Rancher with Stunning views, Sauna, Hot tub and Pool table!
Fred Tibbs #20 I Ocean View I Downtown I Fireplace

Fred Tibbs #20 I Ocean View I Downtown I Fireplace

Tofino BC
Stay at this condo in Tofino. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and patios. Popular attractions Chesterman Beach and House of Himwitsa are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (90 reviews)
"Excellent location in Tofino. So close to everything.Great space or 2-3 people."

Reviewed on Oct 6, 2026

Fred Tibbs #20 I Ocean View I Downtown I Fireplace
See all properties in Tofino
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Tofino attractions

A sunset over a beach with silhouettes of trees and distant mountains.
Photo by Tourism Vancouver Island
Open Photo by Tourism Vancouver Island

Chesterman Beach

9.6/10 (948 reviews)
Unwind on soft white sands and ride the waves at a picturesque beach where many people learn how to surf.
See properties

Things to do

Tofino: Clayoquot Sound Kayak Tour with Boat Ride

Tofino: Clayoquot Sound Kayak Tour with Boat Ride

$154
per adult
Tofino: Clayoquot Sound Kayak Tour with Boat Ride
See all activities in Tofino

Frequently asked questions

Is Tofino worth visiting?
Tofino is worth visiting for its fresh seafood and Asian dining options. Travelers can explore standout attractions like Naa'Waya'Sum Gardens and Tonquin Park, or relax at distinct areas such as Tonquin Beach. These offerings provide a diverse experience for any traveler.
When is the best time to visit Tofino?
The best time to visit Tofino is from May through September, when the climate is most favorable for exploring. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option. During this period, travelers can enjoy a more serene experience, often with cooler weather.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Tofino?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Tofino depend on what you want to see:

  • Tonquin Beach is a great spot for travelers interested in art, with Tofino Art Glass, and outdoor activities at Tonquin Park and Tofino Bike Park.

What is Tofino known for?
Tofino is known for being named after Vicente Tofiño de San Miguel. Travelers can explore its natural areas, including Naa'Waya'Sum Gardens and Tonquin Park, or visit the Tofino Bike Park. The city also features distinct neighborhoods, such as Tonquin Beach.
What is a good itinerary length for Tofino?
A good itinerary length for Tofino is two to three days to explore Naa'Waya'Sum Gardens, Tonquin Park, and enjoy a Bear Watching Boat Tour. For an extended stay of four to five days, travelers can also visit Tofino Bike Park, spend more time at Tonquin Beach, and experience a private photography session. See Tofino Activities.
What are the top things to do in and around Tofino?
In Tofino, travelers can enjoy outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and unique local spots:

  • Embark on a Bear Watching Boat Tour with a nature guide.
  • Experience a Clayoquot Sound Kayak Tour with a boat ride.
  • Explore Maquinna Provincial Marine Park.
  • Wander through Naa'Waya'Sum Gardens.
  • Visit Tofino Bike Park for outdoor recreation.

How do I plan a trip to Tofino?
To plan your trip to Tofino, search for places to stay, perhaps near Tonquin Beach. Book flights, rental cars, and activities like a Bear Watching Boat Tour in advance. Tofino offers attractions such as Naa'Waya'Sum Gardens and Tofino Bike Park. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility.
What cuisines can you find in Tofino?
In Tofino, you can find Japanese cuisine, with options like sushi, ramen, and tempura. Travelers can also enjoy fresh seafood, Italian dishes, Latin American flavors, and North American comfort food. Local coffee shops are also available for a quick stop.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Tofino?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Tofino by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Tofino with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Tofino trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Tofino?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Tofino can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Tofino trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Tofino trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Tofino trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Tofino trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Tofino?
If it's your first trip to Tofino, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Tofino hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Tofino hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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A marina with boats docked, surrounded by lush greenery and mountains in the background.

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A rocky island with a grassy hill and a surfer riding a wave.

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