Tofino

At the Western end of the Trans Canada Highway, where Vancouver Island's rain forest meets the Pacific Ocean, you'll find the village of Tofino. A small intimate town, Tofino is a natural hideaway nestled in the coves of Clayoquot Sound. Easily accessible by car, Tofino bus or plane, Tofino is a tranquil, beautiful destination.

The ambience of Tofino village with its art galleries, distinctive boutiques & gift stores, and it's unique cafes, invites you to explore this quaint and unusual town, that attracts visitors from all the corners of the world. For a cultural experience, take in an event at one of Tofino's seasonal festivals or a play at the Clayoquot Sound Theatre.

Imagine, wandering along trails with interconnecting boardwalks in the ancient temperate rainforest, or strolling down long stretches of sandy beaches. Take a dip in the Pacific Ocean, or enjoy a wide variety of activities that include guided rain forest tours, bear watching cruises, horse back riding, beach biking, bird watching and of course the whale watching tours, that are offered in one of the most spectacular settings in the world.

The more adventurous can chose from sea kayaking treks, seaplane cruises or diving excursions. The rough and tumble ocean waves are perfect for surfing and boogie boarding. For the more leisurely inclined there are long stretches of beautiful beaches, wonderful hidden coves where you can explore the fascinating wildlife of the intertidal pools, or fly a kite to the sound of the pounding surf. The world renowned Pacific Rim National Park is just a few minutes away, inviting you to enjoy relaxing strolls on Long Beach or on one of the boardwalks in the ancient rain forest. Perhaps a round of golf on the splendid greens of Long Beach Golf Course, which is situated in the heart of the national park.

For the sports fishing enthusiasts the opportunities in Tofino abound, fishing for salmon, halibut and cutthroat trout. Bird watchers will find the beaches and mud flats to be an important resting place for migratory birds and the sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, sand pipers and hummingbirds, are just a small part of the abundant wildlife that calls Clayoquot Sound it's home.

The surrounding nature makes Tofino a popular holiday destination for naturalists and conservationists, families and couples, the young and the young at heart. Information about the unique eco system combines a fun filled break from urban life, with important education about our role in nature. As a vacation area, Clayoquot Sound and the Pacific Rim Park offer a dizzying array of family attractions: native culture and art, some of the best fishing in the world and the ever relaxing hot springs, just a boat trip away.

After an exciting or relaxing day, the Tofino restaurants offer unique dining experiences, featuring fresh seafood, salmon feasts, and wide range West Coast and international cuisine. End the day at the various pubs, lounges and bars for the local flavour of evening entertainment, or simply enjoy the sunset and a bonfire on the beach under a star lit sky.

Tofino offers accommodation of various styles and for any budget. From wild side camping on the beach, Bed & Breakfasts to suit any taste, cabins in the forest and on their own little islands, to the comfort of beach resorts and the luxury of world famous Tofino hotels.

Whether you are looking for an active excursion or a romantic getaway, Tofino is at the end of the highway and at the beginning of a memorable vacation.


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For more information about Tofino and for Tofino accomodations or Tofino events visit Tofino Time Magazine at tofinotime.com.

For a listing of pet friendly Tofino accommodations, visit petfriendlytofino.com and tofinocabins.com for cottages in tofino.

brandon mcgaghey