Clayoquot Sound

Rainforest islands and inlets from Tofino’s harbour.

A UNESCO biosphere region of forested islands and quiet inlets right off Tofino’s docks. Half-day paddlers cross to Meares Island to walk among giant cedars on the Big Tree Trail; experienced crews head out for days toward Vargas Island or Hot Springs Cove. Tidal currents and cold water mean rentals need some experience, so first-timers usually start with a guided harbour tour.

At a glance

First paddle

2.5 hr guided harbour tour

Meares Island

Paddle and hike the Big Tree Trail, about 4.5 hr

Multi-day

Vargas Island (3 days) or Hot Springs Cove (5 days)

Local fees

Ahousaht guardian fee $15/person/day; Big Tree Trail $3

Good for

Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

What’s here

• Sea kayaking
• Multi-day trips
• Paddle-in camping
• Boat rentals
• Guided tours
• Wildlife

Rentals, guides and shops

• Tofino Sea Kayaking

  Tofino’s pioneer kayak centre: harbour, Meares Island and open-coast day tours, family and private trips, plus a coffee house and inn.

• Paddle West Kayaking

  Day and overnight rentals from the yellow shack on Campbell Street, guided day trips and 3–5 day tours.

Events

“Usually” means the date follows past years. Confirm before you go.

• FestivalMarch 13–20, 2027

  Pacific Rim Whale Festival

  A week of whale-watching, talks and community events in Tofino and Ucluelet during the grey whale migration.

Where to stay

• hotelLong Beach Lodge Resort

  Boutique hotel and cottages on Cox Bay, a surf beach south of town.

  10 min drive
• innTofino Paddler’s Inn

  Five simple rooms with shared baths and kitchen on the downtown waterfront, run by Tofino Sea Kayaking.

  In Tofino
• innWickaninnish Inn

  Upscale inn on the rocks at Chesterman Beach, known for storm watching.

  10 min drive

Nearby

• Big Tree Trail, Meares Island · Across the harbour

  Boardwalk loop through giant old-growth cedars in Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, reached by kayak or water taxi.

• Hot Springs Cove · Boat or floatplane

  Natural hot pools at the end of a boardwalk in Maquinna Marine Park, by boat or floatplane.

• Long Beach · 20 min drive

  The long surf beach of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, with trails and beach walks.

• Tofino Brewing Company · In Tofino

  Local brewery and tasting room, an easy stop after a day on the water.

• Tacofino · In Tofino

  The orange taco truck that started in Tofino.

Getting there

• Tofino–Long Beach Airport (YAZ) · about 15 min drive
• Nanaimo · about 3 hr
• Victoria · about 4.5 hr

Directions in Google Maps