Do everything, one thing or nothing at all.
anything still sets you up for A perfect trip.

That’s what I love about Tofino. You can set out to have a weekend to shut off and unwind, pack it with adventure or have a bit of both in the mix. There is literally no wrong answer. But you know how I roll, and shutting off still means climbing something, running to somewhere or sailing off anywhere.  Here are some of the adventures that you should put on your radar once you’re there!

 

Hot Springs Cove + Scenic flight

If you’re anything like me and want to do all of the things, all of the time; this is the excursion for you. This trip with Ocean Outfitters covers an ocean safari over to the hot springs, and gives you an (optional) scenic flight back.

Start the morning by checking in at Ocean Outfitters, located right downtown. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early to check in and enjoy their coffee bar and lounge.  If there’s any gear that you’ve forgotten, you can pick it up in their shop.

Your excursion will start with an unbelievably scenic boat ride over to the hot springs. Your guide talks to you about the area and is constantly on the lookout for whales and other wildlife!  We were lucky to spot two grey whales just before we got to the hot springs.  (OMG!) 

At the time of booking, you’ll have the option of choosing a covered boat or a Zodiac experience.  Both are great, but we opted the covered boat for comfort as there is an outdoor viewing deck at the back that you have access to!

You’re dropped off, given a few hours to hike in and enjoy the hot springs and meet back at the dock to return to Tofino.  We chose to upgrade the experience, taking the scenic flight back.  Your day is totally customizable to your needs and interests, the staff on hand will tailor a day that best suits you.

If hot springs aren’t your thing, you can opt soley for a whale watch, bear watch or scenic flight.  I recommended doing at least one of these experiences while you’re there!

 

surf lesson

I feel like you can’t go to Tofino and NOT try surfing.  Whether you’re an absolute beginner or an experienced surfer, this place has something for everyone.

We booked in a private lesson at Surf Sister. It was a huge perk (and easy convenience) that they had a surf shack right on-site at the Pacific Sands. The morning was absolutely effortless. The staff were amazing, providing us  with everything we needed, and the instructor was great!

We got on-sand lesson that taught us about the ocean – how waves work, safety, and the basics of popping up on our boards before we went into the ocean for a few hours. 

These lessons are catered to your level, or if you don’t need one, pop in to rent your gear for the weekend.

catching sunset is a must

Some of the most mind blowing sunsets that I’ve ever witnessed have been in Tofino.  The skies can be dramatic over the endless horizon and reflections on the beach from the moving tides.

Out front of our room at the Pacific Sands, we had direct access to the Sunset Point trail.  This is one of my favourite spots to catch sunset from.  You can hike out and up onto the rocks, or stay below at the tide pools for cool reflection shots.

Other great spots are Long Beach or even just really soaking it in with a sunset surf or paddle!

 

OTHER ACTIVITIES

• Pacific Rim National Park
• Hike the Cox Bay Lookout
• Hike Lone Cone
• Bikes! A fit, fun and eco-friendly way of exploring!