City Guide: Tofino, Canada
The sleepy surf town that has my heart
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I’m a few city guides behind currently (Taiwan and Tokyo is coming up) but happy to finally share my Tofino guide. In What I did + wore in Tofino, BC, I talked about my most recent trip to Tofino so if you want to read my exact itinerary, you can find it there.
To be fair, I think I’ve been actively avoiding these ones because they were trips I had with my ex and were the catalyst to our downfall but needless to say, it had nothing to do with the cities and everything to do with us.
Tofino is still, and will always be, one of my favorite spots in the Pacific Northwest. The place brings about a calm that’s unignorable. Walk along long beach, listen to the waves, and there’s just no way your nervous system won’t relax.
I spent a few days there very recently and despite the madness of work and fighting with my partner, I still left Tofino feeling rejuvenated.
Tofino is a sleepy little beach town on Vancouver Island. Despite becoming one of the hottest escapes for Vancouver locals over the years, the town still has this slow comfort even when it’s bustling with people. It’s one of those places that you go to relax, disconnect from the digital world, and reconnect with yourself or your loved ones. Whether you’re looking for some outdoor adventures or just good food, cozy cabins, and the beach—there’s something there for you.
The busiest season for Tofino is definitely summer but it has it’s charm year around. The fall time is storm season meaning lots of rain and dreary weather but imagine cozying up to a fire after a misty beach walk and hearty dinner—it’s the only time I don’t mind rain.
Being a beach town, there’s a huge surf scene here. I want to say it’s what most people come here for (although who am I to say as someone who can’t even swim.) As Tofino got more popular, travellers started coming for other reasons as well but still it remains one of the best surf spots in the Pacific Northwest.
There are two ways you can get from Vancouver to Tofino. The first is to take the ferry with your vehicle. The total trip time is about 5 (ish) hours which includes getting to the ferry terminal, taking the 2 hour ferry, and then driving from Nanaimo (where you dock on Vancouver Island) to Tofino.
There’s one road in and out of Tofino so sometimes you do have to account for roadwork and closures. You can check the Drive BC website for real-time updates or the Tofino website for an overview of what’s going on.
The good thing about this method is that you’ll have your car with you throughout your trip. The amazing beaches in Tofino do span across the highway and to get to Long Beach there is a 20 minute drive. You can walk to one of the closer beaches but I prefer having my car with me so I can get from place to place more easily.
If the drive is too long for you, you can also opt for a the plan from downtown Vancouver or from the YVR airport. Both flights are around 45 minutes and can cost between $100 - $500.
If you arrive by plane, you can get around Tofino by taxi or bus. If the weather permits, I’d highly recommend renting a bike for the duration of your stay too. A few years back the city built a MUP (multi-use path) along the highway so it’s a beautiful (and safe) ride no matter where you want to go. I always rent from Tofino Electric Bikes in town but there are a few different options you can choose from.
I’m an Airbnb girl through and through. While there are some private accommodations in Tofino that are charming and worth checking out, there’s also been an influx of beautiful homes on Airbnb that I prefer. Having your own cabin space just feels right when you’re here. Many of the properties are surrounded by trees and exude that west coast architectural charm. There are also more and more modern scandi/japondi homes popping up if that’s your aesthetic.
Airbnbs I’ve stayed in
Fetch Tofino - The largest home I’ve stayed in in Tofino. There are 3 bedrooms and can sleep 6. The home was completely redone a few years back so the interior feels new and well-kept while still maintaining that beautiful West Coast cabin charm. the double volume living space is definitely one of the highlights although I loved everything about this spot.
Moniker Beach House - This two bedroom home is perfect for two couples. It’s close to Tacofino and the rest of the shops and restaurants in that area. Although there’s no hot tub here, they have a lovely fire pit and a BBQ that you can use.
Hotels I’ve stayed in
The Shoreline - This boutique hotel feels like a home with it’s charming cabins. If you have a large group, they actually have a separate larger cabin that can accommodate. What makes this place for me is the water view that you get right from your front door.
Other recommendations
Wickaninnish Inn - A luxury hotel hotspot
Pacific Sands - Beautiful waterfront properties with soaker tubs
Tofino is such a wonder when it comes to good eats. I don’t think I’ve had a single bad meal in all the times I’ve been there. Some of the standout spots are:
Jeju - My favorite restaurant in town! Jeju is a family-run Korean restaurant that feels both upscale and homey at the same time. Their food is phenomenal and even for friends who don’t usually eat Korean food, it’s a must-try.
Must try: Sung Style Rib, Dubu, and the K.F.C. Lettuce Wraps
Adriana’s - If you’re looking for an easy and quick lunch (that’s delicious), Adriana’s serves up classic Italian-style sandwiches and pizza. They even have San Benedetto Thé Pesca (peach tea), one of my favorite drinks from Italy.
Must try: Calabrese sandwich, a slice of salami & honey pizza, and a peach tea.
Wolf in the Fog - One of the most popular spots in town, Wolf in the Fog has a rotating menu that’s based around the produce of the season.
Big Daddy’s Fish Fry - Nothing beats fresh fish from a surf town and although fish and chips aren’t usually my thing, Big Daddy’s just does it right.
Must try: BD’s Seafood Chowder & Panko Crusted Prawns
Tofino Coffee Roasting - Perfect spot to grab a coffee and some beans to go
Rhino Coffee House - Everyone’s favorite coffee spot in town. Grab a donut while you’re here!
Tofitian Cafe - Another amazing option for coffee with a beautiful space to boot.
Wildside Grill - My personal favorite burger spot in town. You can’t go wrong with the poutine either.
Tacofino - The infamous original Tacofino truck! expect a wait but it is worth a visit if you’re in Tofino.
The Pointe Restaurant - I’ve heard amazing things about their dinner service but I’ve only been here for brunch. Loved it!
Other recommendations
Although Tofino isn’t a place you go to shop, I couldn’t help but wander around especially since all the store are small, independent businesses. My favorite shops were by far Merge and The Factory for beautiful gifts, high quality clothing, and unique west coast jewelry from indie designers. Bad Dog Tofino is a must visit if you have a pet too.
Whether you’re looking for a rejuvenating cabin stay or an adventure, Tofino has something for you. I personally love coming here to wander, relax, beach-walk, and meander the trails.
Tonquin Beach trail - Easy trail that leads to a smaller beach at the end of town.
Atleo Air Service - Get the most amazing views and flow over Tofino and the neighbouring islands!
Tofino Electric Bikes - If you feel like a bike ride, the MUP is a great way to get from beach to town to beach.
Scared Stone Spa - For the ultimate bliss-day, try the sauna + massage combo from Sacred Stone.
Surf Sister Surf School - Tofino is a surf town at the end of the day and Surf Sisters offers lessons for all levels.
Tofino will definitely be one of the places I miss most about the PNW. It holds such a special place in my heart for so many reasons but mainly because it’s a place I’ve been with so many loved ones and it never fails to bring peace to my soul.
Other city guides
Below the paywall, you’ll find my idea of the perfect weekend itinerary for Tofino as well as my personal Tofino Google Maps.
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