Tofino is an absolute dream for anyone who loves the great outdoors! With its stunning scenery, incredible beaches, and laid-back vibe, this little gem on Vancouver Island has so much to offer. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves, hike through lush forests, or soak in natural hot springs, there’s no shortage of adventures here. Let’s dive into some must-try activities that’ll make your Tofino trip unforgettable!
Cycling the Tofino Multi-Use Pathway and the ʔapsčiikt̓ašii Pathway
Explore the Tofino Multi-Use Pathway and the ʔapsčiikt̓ašii (pronounced ups-cheek ta-shee) Pathway, a scenic route that meanders through forested landscapes and along the coastline, from Tofino all the way to Ucluelet. You can rent bikes from a number of local shops, like T-Bird E-Bikes and Tofino Bike Co., with options for both e-bikes and traditional bikes. Along the way, there are plenty of stops to enjoy awesome hikes, beautiful beaches, and delicious food spots, making it a fun way to see some of the sights while getting some of that fresh ocean air!
A Day Trip to Hot Springs Cove with Ahous Adventures
Don’t miss a day trip to Hot Springs Cove / Mux̣šiƛa hot springs area with the Indigenous-owned Ahous Adventures! This is one of the best tour options, as it includes a boat ride to the cove, a beautiful hike, and of course, the hot springs!
On the boat ride, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—you might be lucky enough to spot bears, whales, seals, sea lions, sea otters, and more! Once you arrive, it’s just a short hike along a charming boardwalk before you get to unwind in the natural hot springs that flow down along the rocks and spill into the ocean.
The Challenging Lone Cone Trail in Meares Island Tribal Park
If you’re up for a challenge, consider hiking the Lone Cone Trail in Meares Island Tribal Park! This is another tour offered by Ahous Adventures. Just a short boat ride away, this steep, scenic trail boasts panoramic views of Tofino and the surrounding archipelago from the top. Fair warning: it’s a tough one! While the hike is only about 7km round trip, it gains over 700m of elevation in the final 1.5km push to the summit. However, it is absolutely worth it because it is breathtaking from start to finish. Here’s the link to my Strava: Lone Cone Hike.
Shorter Hikes
There are quite a few shorter hikes that offer excellent “bang for your buck”. Tonquin Trail is just over a kilometer, and spits you out on a secluded beach. Rainforest Trail in Pacific Rim has two loops that are each just over 2 kilometers, almost entirely on raised boardwalks. This is the ideal hike for a rainy day, as the trees provide coverage and the rainforest just comes alive!
Cox Bay Lookout is a very short scramble that starts right on the beach, and ends with a crazy view of the waves down below. This one isn’t a managed trail, so make sure you have All Trails or Strava ready, so you can follow the right path. Here’s the link to my Strava: Cox Bay Lookout Hike.
Surfing the Waves
Tofino is world-famous for its beaches and surf culture. With consistent waves perfect for all skill levels, beaches like Chesterman and Long Beach are the place to be! Numerous local surf schools and rental shops offer lessons and equipment, so whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned pro, you’ll find everything you need to catch some waves and have a blast.
Fueling the Adventures: Where to Eat
A key piece of adventuring is refueling, and brunch at Ombre is a great place to start. Known for its locally sourced ingredients and mouthwatering dishes, you can’t go wrong with anything on their menu! For a more casual experience, head to The Beach Shack. They have a range of delicious drinks (would recommend the S’mores Hot Chocolate!), and tasty breakfast and lunch options. Don’t miss out on trying some tacos from either Tacofino or Wildside Grill—these spots are local legends, and they’re a must visit!
Other favourites include the Tuna Poke Bowl and Cheesecake Jar from the Shed, and drinks from Harbourview Coffeehouse.
Relaxation at Tuff City Saunas and Tin Wis Resort
After a day packed with fun, unwind at Tuff City Saunas. They have cozy wood-fired saunas, and for a refreshing twist, you can cold plunge right into the ocean! Another great way to relax is in the hot tub at Tin Wis Resort, or around one of their firepits overlooking the ocean. As you soak in the warm ambiance or enjoy the crackling fire, you’ll have the chance to reflect on your day’s adventures (and maybe catch one of those famous Tofino sunsets!). It’s the perfect way to recharge for another day of adventuring.
Tofino is truly a playground for those who crave a balance of adventure and relaxation in the great outdoors. From biking scenic pathways and hiking up mountains, to soaking in hot springs and indulging in tasty meals, every moment is a chance to connect with nature and enjoy the local culture.
Note: Our stay at Tin Wis Hotel, our Hot Springs Cove Tour, Lone Cone Hike, and Tuff City Saunas experience were hosted, but my opinions are my own.
