Tofino
Tofino =>, population 1100, is a former logging and fishing village that has become a center for ecotourism. It is located on Clayoquot Sound, on the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island, 208 km (129 miles) west of Nanaimo
See
- Pacific Rim National Park =>. Rocky headlands, long beaches, and wild surf, set against Vancouver Island's temperate rain forest. Parking fee $10/day.
Do
Tofino is a gateway to the Island's backcountry. With a guide or on your own, explore amazing trails or paddle beautiful inlets. There is still a lot of wildlife, such as Orcas, Bald Eagles, and bears. The chamber of commerce site has good listings for things to do in Tofino =>
In the summer, this is a very busy tourist destination. It is a popular place for residents of BC to go as well as for those visiting from outside BC. In the winter, many of the facilities close up. However, there are still a number of travellers who come to see the storm season.
Early in the season, the main attraction is the gray whales that are passing through the area. In the height of summer, the long sandy beaches south of town are the main attraction. Surfing (with a 5mm wet suit) is popular whenever the surf is up.
Eat
- Tough City Sushi Bar, 350 Main St., 725-2021. Excellent sushi restaurant. Dinner about $25/person.
- "Sobo", In the Botanical Gardens. Outstanding! Have the chowder, the killer fish taco and the sushi tofu pockets. Dinner about $15 / person.
- "Schooners", 331 Campbell St., (250) 725-3444 , do yourself a favor and go there for a yummy breakfast.
Sleep
Hotels
During high season (May-September) hotels here are among the most expensive in BC. During the off-season better deals are available. If you don't mind the drive, considerably cheaper accommodation is available in Port Alberni.
- Middle Beach Lodge, 725-2900 (1-866-725-2900) =>. Picturesque hotel on rocky headland, with private beach, adults-only lodge, and a wide selection of rooms, suites, and cabins. $165-395. Next door o the Wickannish Inn.
- Best Western Tin Wis, 1119 Pacific Rim Highway, 725-4445 (1-800-661-9995). Nice hotel located right on the waters of McKenzie Beach. First Nation owned and operated. $199-325 (Less in the off-season).
- Long Beach Lodge Resort, 725-2442 (1-877-844-7873) =>. New (2002) cedar-shingled lodge and luxury cabins on Cox Bay.
- Wickaninnish Inn, 725-3100 (1-800-333-4604) =>. Upscale hotel, restaurant, and spa at scenic Chesterman Beach. $240-1000.
Campgrounds
In the summer the campgrounds are very popular. There are a number of public and private campgrounds in the Tofino area. Most of these operate from about Mid-March to October or November.
- Green Point, Long Beach Unit, Pacific Rim National Park. 105 sites available, no hook-ups or showers. $14-20. (Reservations fee extra). http://www.pc.gc.ca/pn-np/bc/pacificrim/activ/activ4b_e.asp
- Bella Pacifica Campground. http://www.bellapacifica.com/
Get out