Surfing is sweet at Tofino’s beaches. (Handout photo/Surf Sister) Pacific Sands Resort
Tofino has something for every member of the family in a quaint Vancouver Island town that celebrates life on the coast without the big-city bustle and attitude.
Surfing or skimboarding for kids? Check. Kayaking or paddleboarding for adults? Check. Tacos for kids and fine dining for parents? Or both? Check.
This British Columbia seaside town has long been an attraction for Canadians because it is home to stunning scenery and a laid-back vibe that the town strives to maintain. Part of this is because you won’t find any big chain stores — if you can’t find what you need at any area boutiques or shops, you probably don’t need it. You don’t come here to shop, but to enjoy long leisurely walks on the beach, to learn to surf — and just relax.
1. Surf
Surf Sister can hook you up with a board and lessons. If you’ve never tried surfing, you can easily catch a few waves in a few hours. There are bays with gentle waves here because not everyone is a die-hard Chesterman Beach surfer (but if you are: respect!). In fact, once you master the small waves, you’ll be itching to try to larger ones. If you bring the family, chances are the kids will pick this up quickly, which is inspiring and a little unnerving, too.
Paddleboarding is sublime in Grice Bay, a tidal flat located on the eastern side of the peninsula. You can easily spend a day here if you’ve packed some snacks and want to explore the shoreline and inlets to view wildlife. This sport taps into your core for a great workout, or it can be a zen-like as you wish. Check rentals and information here.
For more events such as festivals, interpretive walks and markets, check the Tourism Tofino website.
Pacific Sands Resort: You can’t get much more beachfront than this. [Pacific Sands Resort]
2. Sand
The grand expanses of beaches here are made for long walks in bare feet in summer. Including Schooner Cove, Long Beach is about 16 kilometres in length. We’re guessing you could easily rack up a few kilometres every day. And the flat, sandy beaches are a skimboarder’s paradise — as are the small waves that can be surfed on a skimboard for the truly talented.
3. Sustenance
Tofino is home to many excellent places to eat, from a quick meal to fine dining. Several favourites include Shelter, which has terrific ambience, and the fresh fish and seafood dishes never disappoint, and Wolf in the Fog, which has been rated as among Canada’s Top 100 restaurants. A trip to Tofino should always include a stop at the parking lot on the way into town to pick up fish tacos from Tacofino.
There are some new establishments to try, including Summit Bread Co., Tofino Craft Distillery, Lil’ Ronnie’s BBQ and Bravocados. Check out detailed information here.
Go to sleep with the sound of crashing waves, and wake up to the grand expanse of beach at Pacific Sands Resort. [Pacific Sands Resort]
4. Sleep
The grand dame of Tofino, Pacific Sands Resort, has undergone a mighty renovation. Beachfront accommodation means you are lulled to sleep with the sound of crashing waves. The updated suites are beautiful, inviting — and will be difficult to leave. There are a lot of accommodations to choose from, see the full list here.
Mark your calendar
Tofino has some great events and specials in the off seasons — up to 30 per cent off regular rates. Here are a few events to mark on your calendar, such as:
• Queen of the Peak, surfing competition Oct. 4 to 6
• Tofino Winter Lights Nov. 29 to Jan. 5
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