This Charming Canadian Town Is A Coastal Gem Full Of Beaches And Scenic Resorts

In seclusion at the end of the stunning Pacific Rim Highway on Vancouver Island lies one of Canada's most charming (and expensive) resort communities with incredible scenery. Tofino, British Columbia, widely known as a surf mecca, lies along the peaceful Clayoquot (pronounced klak-wot) Sound, where emerald rainforests and snowcapped mountains meet the ocean. It's a place where wellness comes in a variety of forms, from an adrenaline rush on a wave to a long, quiet walk on the beach or relaxing in a bathhouse or sauna to connect with nature and find your inner peace.

Despite having a population of roughly 2,500, Tofino (also known as "Tuff City") has an eclectic history. Traditionally, the area around the city was home to the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations people before the Spanish, and later the British explored the Pacific Northwest, including these scenic islands in Washington. The city takes its name from the Tofino Inlet, named for Vincente Tofiño, a Spanish hydrographer, and began as a small, isolated village of English, Scots, Norwegians, and Japanese fishermen who were forcibly relocated during World War II. Surfers, hippies, draft dodgers, and artists moved to the small city of fishermen and loggers as the counterculture took off in the 60s and 70s, leaving their bohemian mark on the area. 

Although originally a city that profited off the land, tourism has increasingly become more important to the local economy. Nearly a third of residents work in tourism, and 750,000 tourists visit Tofino annually, mainly during the golden summer days, when you can explore the ancient rainforests of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve or paddle in Clayquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Or, visit during winter when prices are lower (and the waves are higher) and watch the storms that put the small city on the map roll in.

Starting in the 1990s, Tofino grew into an eco-resort destination after the Wickannish Inn was built on Chesterman Beach, lighting the torch for the city to grow into one of Canada's best-known eco-tourism destinations. At the Wickannish Inn, beautiful hand-carved cedar doors beckon you inside into a luxurious blend of culture, craftsmanship, and gorgeous scenery.

All rooms within both buildings of the resort have picture-perfect views of the coast right out the window, along with a cozy fireplace to enhance the mood, or warm up. After exploring the neighboring 100-acre forest or a morning surf session, unwind and find your inner peace in the Ancient Cedars Spa, where you can soothe your mind and body during a yoga session or a spa treatment in gorgeous natural surroundings. Small (up to four participants) yoga classes are also offered at $32 per person and include everything you need. These classes are open to all, though advance reservations are recommended. Room rates at the resort depend on the season, but can range between $500 and $2,000 a night depending on the type of room booked.

Another popular beachside option includes the Pacific Sands Beach Resort, nestled along Cox Bay. Whether you're staying at a luxurious beach house or in the lodge, you're steps away from the beach and a beautiful view of the sunset at Pettinger Point. Bring your favorite foods from home (or at least plenty of marshmallows) and cook in your suite, or enjoy relaxed beach fare at the Surfside Grill. If you'd rather enjoy a hearty, home-cooked meal for two, order a full lasagna meal, including salad and dessert, delivered straight to your door on Friday or Saturday nights. Both resorts highlighted are highly acclaimed by visitors, winning Travellers' Choice Awards on Tripadvisor.

You'll forget that town is less than a mile away while walking along the scenic trails to Tonquin Beach, where you'll find beautiful lookouts perched in the rainforests that call for breathtaking photos of Wickannish Island and stunning sunsets. The trail network to the beach is largely flat and connects with short trails leading to quiet Third Beach, or as far as Middle Beach. Don't worry about your pace; enjoy the hike on "Tofino Time" and take a moment to truly soak in the magical views. Drone usage is restricted in the area due to the nearby airports, but don't forget your cameras to capture the magical views and some of Canada's most beautiful sunsets. Fires aren't allowed at Tonquin Beach, though they are at Chesterman and Mackenzie beaches. Just make sure to bring your own source of clean fuel (no driftwood) and ensure that the fire is fully extinguished before leaving. Along the beaches in Clayoquot Sound, you'll find incredible wildlife watching opportunities, including otters, whales, and even bears. Tours normally run during the warmer months, and at a distance to minimize disturbing the animals.

Getting to Tofino isn't a challenge, though it will take time. Pacific Coastal Airlines and Harbour Air operate regular flights between Tofino and Vancouver International Airport's South Terminal. During the summers, you'll be able to rent a car at Tofino/Long Beach Airport; however, other times of the year, fly into stunning Victoria, the provincial capital. The four-plus-hour car journey from there will fly by on the gorgeous drive, though you may want to stop on the way to explore Nanaimo, a waterfront city on Vancouver Island's east coast.