What you'll do
Are you ready for a four-day adventure in Tofino?
This wild and remote small town on Vancouver Island's west coast is renowned as Canada's surf capital.
With its massive, flat sandy beaches stretching into the horizon, Tofino is perfect for surfing, beachcombing, and storm watching during the fall and winter months.
This charming town offers more than just waves—experience world-class fishing, savor incredible dining featuring fresh local seafood, and relax at beautiful coastal resorts.
Surrounded by misty rainforests and the rugged Pacific, Tofino’s mysterious beauty invites exploration, whether you're paddling through Clayoquot Sound or soaking in the natural hot springs nearby.
Tofino is a place where adventure and tranquility coexist, offering something for every traveler.
Day 1
Disclaimer: Our Vancouver Island travel guide offers packed, detailed itineraries designed to help you make the most of your time exploring this beautiful and diverse region. Vancouver Island is vast, with countless sights to see and experiences to enjoy, so there is plenty of ground to cover. While our itineraries provide a full and exciting schedule, we encourage you to tailor your trip to fit your preferences.
Please keep in mind that driving distances between destinations can vary significantly. We recommend doing some research to understand the travel times between locations and planning your route accordingly. Our itineraries are meant to inspire your journey, allowing you the flexibility to make your trip as short, long, busy, or relaxed as you like.
Happy exploring!
We believe a trip to Tofino is not complete without spending some time in Port Alberni! Port Alberni is a town you will drive through to get to Tofino (and probably grab some groceries and gas). But it has so much more to offer! Tons of incredible hikes, waterfalls, lakes and amazing breweries. We've added some of our favourite spots and hope you stop in to check out what this awesome town has to offer!
Cathedral Grove
park
Enchanting ancient forest on Vancouver Island
Cathedral Grove is a magical forest on Vancouver Island with ancient Douglas Fir and Western Red Cedar trees that are 800 hundred years old.
It's like stepping into a scene from Star Wars, with massive trees towering overhead and a peaceful vibe that makes you feel tiny in comparison.
The park has easy trails, pit toilets, and information signs, making it a great spot for a quick pit stop or a leisurely stroll to soak up the beauty of nature.
Don't forget to check out the Giant Douglas Fir tree on the Big Tree Trail – it's a must-see!
AllTrails hike linked here.
The full loop hike is rated as easy. Length 2.19 km, Elevation gain 61 m, Route Type Loop.
Hole In The Wall
Hike
Quirky hole-in-the-wall water feature
Nestled in Port Alberni, the Hole in the Wall is a quirky spot that draws in visitors with its mysterious charm.
This unique attraction used to be part of the town's water supply system, but now it's just a cool hole in a wall where water flows through.
The short trail to get there can be a bit muddy, but it's totally worth it for the funky photo ops and the chance to chill by the crystal-clear pool.
Just watch out for the busy highway when you park and cross over to this hidden gem!
AllTrails hike linked here.
This hike is rated as easy: Length 2.4 km, Elevation gain 49 m, Route type Out & back.
China Creek Falls
Waterfall
Scenic hike to China Creek Falls
China Creek Falls is a hidden gem just ten minutes south of Port Alberni on Franklin River Road. Nestled amidst the lush Vancouver Island rainforest, this trail offers a scenic hike alongside the turquoise waters of China Creek, leading to the powerful China Creek Falls (and one of our favs!).
With ropes to help navigate steep sections and a rocky bank at the base of the falls for a perfect viewing spot, it's a must-do adventure for nature lovers looking to experience the beauty of the region.
Just remember to tread lightly, leave no trace, and enjoy the journey!
AllTrails hike linked here.
This hike is rated as moderate: Length 2.7 km, Elevation gain 55 m, Route type Out & back.
Alberni Brewing Company
brewery
Laid-back craft beer hangout
Alberni Brewing Company is a laid-back spot in Port Alberni where locals and visitors alike can kick back with a cold brew. One of our new favourite breweries and it opened our eyes to how up-and-coming Port Alberni really is!
The cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and tasty beers on tap make it a go-to hangout for beer enthusiasts looking to relax and unwind.
With a variety of craft beers to choose from, as well as a large, delicious menu, Alberni Brewing Company is the perfect place to grab a pint and enjoy good company in a chill setting.
Taylor River Rest Area
Sightseeing
Stunning swimming hole on Vanisle!
The Taylor River rest area on Vancouver Island is a hidden gem with stunning blue-green waters that will make you feel like you've been transported to a tropical paradise.
It's the perfect spot for a quick break or a refreshing swim on your way to Tofino.
With free EV charging stations, picnic tables, toilets, and even free Wi-Fi (there is no cell service in this area), it's a great place to relax and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the river.
Don't forget to snap some photos, take a dip in the icy-cold water, or swing from the rope swing for some added fun!
Tofino Brewing Co
brewery
Craft beer in coastal paradise
Tofino Brewing Co is a laid-back spot in where you can kick back with a cold one and soak up the coastal vibes.
With a range of craft beers inspired by the natural surroundings, from the Tuff Session Ale to the Cosmic Wave Double IPA, there's something for every beer lover.
The tasting room is open daily from 12 PM to 9 PM, serving up tasty bites from Toki Doki food truck alongside their brews.
Plus, they're all about sustainability, using hydroelectric power and eco-friendly practices to keep things green.
Cheers to good beer and good times at Tofino Brewing Co!
There are plenty of incredible hotels in Tofino! It's hard to go wrong, honestly. But we have chosen the Best Western Tin Wis Resort as a great choice because: 1) It is located right on Mackenzie Beach (our personal favourite) and every room has an ocean view! 2) Complimentary hot breakfast and a Browns Socialhouse on site 3) All Tofino accommodations are quite pricy but this resort is slightly more reasonable than many others 4) This is a massive resort with tons of amenities like an oceanside hot tub, BBQs, beach fire pits and more! 5) Dog friendly rooms are available 🐶
Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort
hotel
Oceanfront hotel on Mackenzie Beach
Located on the picturesque Mackenzie Beach (our personal favourite) in Tofino, the Best Western Plus Tin Wis Resort offers cozy accommodations with stunning ocean views. Tin Wis Resort is proudly owned and operated by the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation.
This is usually our top choice for hotels in Tofino since it's prices are more reasonable, the location can't be beat, there is a complimentary full hot buffet breakfast, a beachside hot tub, and every room has an ocean view.
There is also a newly built Browns Socialhouse restaurant on site which means this resort has it all!