Things to do in Tofino

Grab a board and tackle the gentle breakers at Chesterman Beach or sit back and look on as rookies and experts surf the waves together. The 1.7-mile (2.7-kilometer) white sandy expanse is a popular place for learning how to surf. It's also where you can walk to an island, see migrating whales and explore tidal pools for marine life.

The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a natural and cultural wonder with rainforests, beaches and history. It is the main attraction on Vancouver Island, offering something for every type of traveler, from campers and sunbathers to history buffs. Camp and hike in the park, which stretches across more than 123,000 acres (50,000 hectares) of picturesque landscape and ocean.

Visitors flock to Mackenzie Beach to enjoy its calm waters and family ambiance. The Vancouver Island strip of sand is particularly popular because it is close to the town of Tofino and is protected from high winds by rock formations. Its calm waves create a family atmosphere, since more adventurous swimmers and surfers make their way to tougher waters farther south.

Walk among the trees of a temperate rainforest, explore gardens filled with native plants and spot wildlife by the pond when you visit Tofino Botanical Gardens. The 12-acre (5-hectare) site is tucked away on the western coast of Vancouver Island. Its collections include plants from Chile and Japan and art installations.

Tonquin Park is comprised of a leafy tract of preserved rainforest, which leads from the edge of Tofino to the sandy shores of Clayoquot Sound. Explore the walking trails that wind through the forest reserve and find scenic boardwalks and two sheltered beaches. Admire views of a magnificent ocean panorama dotted with islands.