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Visit Comox Valley

Tofino, BC

Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino offers visitors a glimpse into a culturally rich past, a wonderful world of outdoor adventure and coastal views that are beyond compare. Tofino travel has increased significantly in the last decade. Be sure to make a stop and see for yourself what Tofino has to offer.

Getting to Tofino

Getting to Tofino is easy from the Comox Valley Airport. Travel to Tofino using one of the three car rental companies available in our terminal building. Then enjoy a scenic drive through the rainforest before arriving at Tofino in less than three hours. The Tofino airport does have limited incoming flights.

History and Climate

Tofino's name dates back to 1792 after the cartographer that tutored Galiano. The settlement of Tofino is now comprised of approximately 2,000 residents. The town is accessible by car and thousands visit Tofino each year to enjoy the mild seasonal temperatures. Even during winter, palms grow in this part of Canada! Although peak tourist season is summer, Tofino is becoming a hotspot destination year round.

Tofino Activities

The primary activity in Tofino is surfing, which in recent years has attracted international attention. It of-fers long beaches and wave zones that are perfect for all levels of surfers, from beginner to advanced. The number of surf schools, camps, rental outfitters and professional instructors in Tofino has risen ex-ponentially in recent years and many people travel to Tofino for this very reason. If you plan to visit Tofi-no and you have a spirit of adventure, be sure to plan ahead to participate in this incredible sport. Re-serve your guide, equipment and instruction well ahead of time though, as the popularity of this activity means advance booking is usually required.

If surfing is just not your style, sea kayaking is another popular Tofino sport. Viewing marine wildlife, including the beautiful grey whales, and enjoying coastal views from a kayak or chartered boat is not to be missed on a visit to Tofino!

Tofino holds many festivals during the year, which draw the attention of visitors from near and far. Each March, the Pacific Rim Whale Festival is held to celebrate the migration of the grey whales. This event is attended by marine biologists, environ-mental protection activists and many people that enjoy watching and learning about the whales. Other festivals during the year include the Tofino Food and Wine Festival in June, and the Tofino Lantern Festival in August - both popular events attract many travellers to Tofino.

The Tofino area has long been a place thriving with skilled artists and craftspeople. Each year in Sep-tember, a two day event called Art in the Garden is held to exhibit local art and music. Year round, visitors enjoy strolling through local retail art and craft shops. You can even participate in workshops to learn the local First Nation traditional artwork, as well as other styles of art and crafts by local artisans.

Tofino Accommodations and Dining

Tofino has many styles of accommodation to offer visitors to the area. From camping and motels, to charming inns and luxurious resort style lodging, Tofino has something for everyone at almost any budget. The popularity of this town means advance reservations are recommended.

Because of the growth in the tourism industry, as well as the availability of locally grown produce and wines, restaurants abound in the area. Top chefs enjoy preparing their culinary masterpieces for local customers and visitors to Tofino. Laid back cafe and pub style dining is also popular with many Tofino tourists and locals.

With such an abundance of ways to enjoy the area - from accommodations and dining, to year round festivals, soul soothing spas and outdoor sports like surfing, kayaking, hiking and biking - Tofino is a destination that is unlike any other.

Plan a visit to Tofino and you will, without a doubt, get the vacation of a lifetime. Perfect for families, couples, friends or solo adventures - Tofino is a destination spot that is world class fun!