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Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada, is one of those places that will steal your heart and make you wonder why it wasn’t on your travel list sooner. We first heard about Tofino, one of its most famous surf towns, during a school Zoom back in the early days of COVID. A family had fled the U.S. to their summer home in Tofino, and every time they logged on, their backdrop was so jaw-droppingly beautiful we could hardly take it, sitting in our dark living room. While we were cooped up at home, their ocean views and forest surroundings became a sort of dreamland for us; a vision of escape we quietly tucked away onto our “someday” list.
Endless blues and coastal views — soaking in every moment on Vancouver Island.
Fast forward to the planning stage, and we quickly realized that many people (like us, at first) confuse Vancouver Island with the city of Vancouver—but they’re entirely separate. Vancouver Island sits just off the mainland, across the Strait of Georgia, and is reachable by ferry or a short flight. It’s also home to British Columbia’s capital, Victoria, a charming, historic city worth visiting on its own. To get a sense of scale, Vancouver Island is roughly the size of Massachusetts, packed with gorgeous beaches, ancient rainforests, charming small towns, and unforgettable coastal adventures. For first-timers to Vancouver Island or those returning year after year to a favorite surf spot along the Pacific Ocean, there is something undeniably magical about this rugged, windswept island.
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Families planning a Vancouver Island getaway will want to know the top places to explore, the unforgettable experiences, and the can’t-miss highlights that make the journey special. On our weeklong adventure, we discovered three standout destinations that perfectly capture the island’s allure: the laid-back surf vibe of Tofino, the rugged coastal beauty of Ucluelet, and the peaceful, spa-like retreat of Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort in Parksville—where the expansive beach transforms each day as the tides recede, revealing wide stretches of sand dotted with shells, tidal pools, and fascinating sea life all waiting to be explored.
Watching the tides breathe in and out — dark sands, deep blues, endless rhythm.
Getting There: Detours Welcome, Boredom Not Allowed
Getting to Vancouver Island is part of the adventure. The moment you leave behind the hustle and bustle of the Vancouver mainland and cross over to the island, you’ll feel like you’re somehow a world away, even though it’s just a short hop away—about 40 miles (65 km). There are flights (several a day and all under an hour), but most travelers start by boarding the British Columbia Ferry Services (AKA BC Ferries) from Vancouver (either Tsawwassen or Horseshoe Bay) to Nanaimo or Victoria.
The absolute BEST way to get there is to rent a car in Vancouver and drive it straight onto the ferry—you can pack all your luggage safely in the trunk, and once you’re onboard, you’ll head up just a few decks to hang out, grab a seat, or roam around while the car stays tucked below. (If you prefer to travel light, you can skip the car and go aboard as a foot passenger, but we recommend a car since exploring is key once you’re on the island.)
That little thrill when the ferry lines up and you know it’s almost go time.
The ferry ride itself is part of the fun. It’s about 1.5 hours long, and passengers can walk the decks, grab a coffee or snack, or even bring Fido along for the ride. Keep your eyes peeled from the deck for seals bobbing in the waves, seabirds gliding overhead, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a pod of orcas making a surprise appearance. The best times for whale sightings are generally spring through fall, but honestly, you never know what exciting things the sea might reveal.
Across the water, toward new memories — just a mama and her little one, watching it all unfold.
If you’re traveling with kids, the ferry ride adds some extra transportation fun. My daughter thought it’d be like the small Balboa Island ferry in California, but she was floored by the sheer size of this one, with countless cars packed in below like sardines and big decks to explore. It turned a simple crossing into a mini-adventure for both of us!
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Your Adventure Starts Here
Once you’re on the island, we recommend checking into the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort first for a night or two. It’s only about a 30-minute drive from the ferry, and you’ll want to plan your arrival while the tides are out. (You’ll understand why below.)
Checked in at Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa & Resort — let the coastal relaxation begin!
For those traveling with families and kids in tow, Tigh-Na-Mara has several cozy rustic cottages and oceanfront mini-suites for larger parties, so there’s plenty of room for everyone to kick back and soak it all in. And of course, all of the accommodations have easy beach access.
Tigh-Na-Mara: Gaelic for “House by the Sea,” Modern Code for “I’m Here to Spa, Snack, and Soak”
Let’s be real—after all that travel, you’re probably already in the mood for some well-deserved self-care. That’s why the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort is the perfect first stop on Vancouver Island. Just 30 minutes north of the BC Ferry in Parksville, you’ll find a peaceful, laid-back kind of luxury waiting for you. And with three incredible ways to experience this seaside resort, you’ll want to try them all.
The beach at Tigh-Na-Mara feels like your own little private island in the Pacific Northwest. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for escaping the everyday mundane. When the tide goes out, it reveals this amazing stretch of sand that goes on for nearly a kilometer (that’s just over half a mile!). You’ll find tiny tidal pools filled with sand dollars, mussels, and other little sea creatures. The sand itself is smooth and rippled, dotted with puddles to skip or step around as you take a slow, mindful stroll. For a few dreamy hours, it honestly feels like you have the whole beach to yourself. Here you can unwind, reconnect, and just be present. A one- or two-night stay is just enough to soak this in, and it’s worth every minute.
The Grotto Spa
But wait, there’s a bonus! Tigh-Na-Mara is home to The Grotto Spa, one of Canada’s top-rated spots for pure relaxation. This signature experience is a two-hour, free-flowing self-care journey you enjoy at your own pace, with indoor and outdoor spaces designed to help you chill and recharge.
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A serene, cave-inspired mineral pool infused with natural minerals and trace elements, designed to detoxify the body and rejuvenate the spirit. Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa and The Grotto are magical places.
Think warm mineral pools that feel like a natural stone grotto, a big whirlpool to soak in, and a splash waterfall to cool off under. Plus, there’s a sunny garden patio with fireside spots, cedar saunas, outdoor showers, and a Relaxation Lounge stocked with healthy refreshments. It’s an easy place to just relax, whether flying solo or spending quality time with family. Want to kick things up a notch? Add a massage or body treatment, and you’re officially in heaven. Even though we didn’t book any treatments, we still felt completely pampered and will plan to spend more time on our next visit.
Dip & Dine
And just when you think it can’t get better, the “Dip & Dine” experience is next level. Picture this: still wrapped in your soft robe and sandals, you stroll straight from the spa to The Treetop Tapas & Grill upstairs. No rush, no outfit changes—you’re already deep in relaxation mode, ready to savor a 10-course tasting menu crafted by Chef Lukas. As a Red Seal chef, he’s earned Canada’s top culinary certification, proving his mastery of the craft. Simply put, Chef Lukas has serious skills. He knows how to transform fresh, local Pacific Northwest ingredients into dishes that are both comforting and thrilling. Each course is also perfectly paired with wines, if desired, that hit all the right notes, taking your taste buds on a food adventure
From the Grotto Spa to the Treetop Tapas — mom & daughter time just hit a whole new level at Tigh-Na-Mara.
Dining á la robe is something special. It’s pure luxury and comfort rolled into one unforgettable spa-to-table experience. Going straight from the mineral pools into a cozy robe and then a gourmet meal is bliss!
I did the “Dip & Dine” with my daughter, and let me tell you, we soaked up every blissful moment at the spa, wanting to stay as long as we could. Adding to that, it was the 10-course meal that truly blew us away and turned our mother-daughter adventure into something we’ll always remember.
Two More Great Places To Stay On Vancouver Island
From there, the journey west to Tofino and Ucluelet is about a 2.5 to 3-hour winding adventure through towering old-growth rainforests, misty mountain passes, and mirror-like lakes. The scenery feels straight out of a fairytale or a masterful landscape painting. Expect narrow, sometimes one-lane stretches, hairpin curves, and dramatic climbs, with plenty of pull-off points to stretch your legs or snap that “we’re really here” photo.
Who needs a time machine when you have Hotel Zed Tofino? Retro fun at its finest.
The scenic route is always the best. But this isn’t just a pretty drive—you’re moving through land rich with history. The Nuu-chah-nulth people, whose territory stretches along this coastline, have lived here for thousands of years, navigating these waters and forests long before European explorers arrived. As you twist through these wild, forested roads, you’re crossing a landscape shaped by ancient Indigenous cultures, early explorers, and nature’s raw beauty. For a deeper dive into Indigenous culture, visit Vancouver’s Museum of Anthropology, or stop by Tofino and Ucluelet’s smaller centers and galleries, which will offer meaningful local insights into nature, community, and traditions.
From the sunken living room to the mini disco, Hotel Zed Tofino is a playground for all ages.
Dancing through the decades at Hotel Zed Tofino — where every stay is a blast from the past.
Tofino, A Drinking Town with a Surf Problem (And We’re Here for it)
Tofino is often jokingly called “a drinking town with a surf problem,” but don’t let the cheeky gift shop slogans fool you. This little gem on Vancouver Island’s wild west coast is a laid-back surf town perched on the edge of the Pacific, where ancient forests meet endless beaches, and life slows to the rhythm of the tides. It’s the heart and soul of the region, known internationally for world-class surfing, dramatic shorelines, and rugged natural beauty. Tofino attracts everyone, from beach bums and backpackers to luxury travelers, adventure seekers, and wellness lovers, all eager to soak up the vibe and wild charm.
Tofino days + patio hangs at Shed = the perfect recipe for a coastal escape.
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Sweating it out in the rainforest—this sauna’s got the best view in town.
What To Do In Tofino
Stroll along the main street where eclectic and inviting restaurants serve up killer flavors, and each meal is a local secret worth savoring. Explore surf shops, indie boutiques, and art galleries. Sip coffee in a cozy café with the ocean breeze on your face. Or try a surf lesson on one of the long, sandy beaches. Not a surfer? No worries! Tofino is just as much about soaking in stunning scenery, exploring the charming shops, wandering windswept shores, or cozying up fireside with endless Pacific views.
Bold lines, vibrant colors, and timeless tales—experiencing the essence of the West Coast through Roy Henry Vickers’ art.
Tofino is a fantastic destination in spring, summer, or fall, when you can soak up the long beach days, paddle out on a nightime SUP tour or take a kayak tour to explore nearby rainforest-covered islands, spot wildlife like bears, whales, and sea otters, and stroll the shore under glowing sunsets. While summer brings the sun and crowds, spring and fall offer quieter vibes with just as much natural beauty. And if you do visit in winter? You’re in for a storm-watching experience like no other. Think dramatic waves crashing against the shore, all watched from the cozy comfort of an oceanfront lodge, fireside suite, or a hot tub with a view.
Pie for breakfast? Yes, please! Enjoying a slice of heaven at Savary Island Pie Company.
Where To Eat In Tofino
Breakfast → Savary Island Pie Company (seriously good pies to start your day), Rhino Coffee House (donuts + coffee = joy), Tofitian Café (laid-back and beloved by locals), Common Loaf Bake Shop (cozy, homey, and fresh-baked goodness)
Lunch/Dinner → Wildside Grill (casual + craveable and Canadians will love their poutine), Adriana’s Sandwich Shop (perfect beach bites), Al’Oha Poke & Tostada (the best poke, not kidding), Shed (cool and casual), Surfside Grill (beachy and fresh), Roar (specialty cocktails and grilled perfection), Shelter (waterside seafood + dreamy ambiance), Wolf in the Fog (award-winning, elevated dining)
Dessert → Chocolate Tofino (handmade sweets you’ll dream about later)
Indulging in local flavors at Chocolate Tofino — a must-visit for chocolate lovers and gelato enthusiasts.
Top Must-Do Adventures In Tofino
Explore by Bike → Rent from Swell Tofino (next to Hotel Zed) — the best way to cruise around, and yes, you can ride right on the beach (how awesome is that?).
Rainforest Kayak Tour → Paddle West Kayaking — sea kayak your way to a hidden rainforest spot… honestly, what’s cooler?
Whether we’re gliding through the water or watching giants breach, Tofino’s got our hearts (and adrenaline)!
Whale Watching + Hot Springs Soak → Jamie’s Whaling Station — spot whales, bears, and otters, then soak in natural hot springs — pure Tofino fun.
Top Shops and Galleries → Jeremy Koreski Gallery, Roy Henry Vickers Gallery, Tofino Gallery of Contemporary Art, Mark Hobson Gallery, House of Himwitsa, SALT Tofino, Habit, Caravan Beach Shop, The Factory, Storm Surf Shop, For Keeps Shop, Merge Curated Goods
Adventure awaits just beyond the shore — sea kayaking vibes in BC.
Great Places To Stay In Tofino
Hotel Zed — Hotel Zed is a quirky place to stay with a retro vibe, featuring a restaurant, hot tub, sauna, and—uniquely—a bike trail that runs right through its lobby—one of the few, if not the only, hotels with this funky feature.
Wickaninnish Inn — Wickaninnish Inn is a luxurious 5-star beachfront retreat.
WILDPOD Glamping — WILDPOD Glamping is an innovative eco-lodge offering stunning harbor views.
A twist, a turn, and suddenly you’re in an arcade wonderland — only at Hotel Zed Tofino.
Three Beaches That Steal the Show in Tofino
Tofino is home to around 10 main beaches, each offering a unique blend of surfing, tidepooling, quiet walks, and jaw-dropping West Coast scenery. Whether you’re after crashing waves or calm moments, together these beaches capture the best coastal areas of Tofino. Of the bunch, these top three beaches rise above the rest, and here’s why they’re worthy of sandy toes.
Long Beach—Big, Bold, and Iconic
Set within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Long Beach lives up to its name with miles of soft sand, epic surf, and space to roam. It’s a dream for long walks, sunset lovers, and anyone craving wide-open coastal views. You’ll feel small in the best way possible.
Together we explore, laugh, and soak in the magic of Vancouver Island’s beaches. © Chanin Victor
Cox Bay—Surf Heaven with a Side of Sunset
Known as one of Vancouver Island’s top surf spots, Cox Bay delivers consistent waves and a buzzy vibe. Ride the swell on your own or just watch the pros carve it up; it’s an unbeatable place for catching waves and sunsets.
Salt in the air, sand between our toes, and memories made with my favorite girl on Vancouver Island.
Chesterman Beach—Surf’s Up, Dogs Out, Good Vibes Only
Chesterman Beach stands out among Tofino’s stunning shores, like Cox Bay, Mackenzie Beach, and Florencia Bay, for its long, sandy stretch of coastline (about 2.7 kilometers or 1.7 miles), surf-ready waves, and the rare tombolo that appears at low tide, connecting North and South Chesterman to Frank Island. This unique feature makes it ideal for scenic walks, tide pooling, and beachcombing with breathtaking views. This wide, white-sand expanse is beloved by locals and visitors alike, and it’s a must-visit spot where you can let the kids and dogs run wild.
Lost in the rhythm of the ocean breeze and endless horizons.
Ucluelet: Roll It Off Your Tongue, Then Hit the Wild Pacific Trails
About 30 minutes south of Tofino, straight down the Pacific Rim Highway (so you can tell your friends you survived Highway 4), Ucluelet is a laid-back harbor town known for its rugged coastline, peaceful charm, and fewer crowds. It’s the kind of place where the wild Pacific meets quiet coves, perfect for slowing down and soaking in the raw, untouched beauty.
Where To Eat In Ucluelet
Start your day at Heartwood Kitchen, a cozy breakfast and brunch spot located in the historic Glendale House. The menu features casual brunch fare with patio seating, making it a perfect spot to soak in the morning sunshine. We loved the Ukee Fried Chicken and French Toast with their famous house hot sauce—you can even take some home because it’s that good (yes, we packed some in our suitcase!). The Huevos Rancheros was also top-notch, absolutely over-the-top delicious! The owners were incredible, and while Heartwood Kitchen is mostly open for breakfast and brunch, they host special dining parties and events throughout the year that locals eagerly anticipate. Sitting outside enjoying the sunshine and eating breakfast is a wonderful way to start your day.
Crispy, juicy, and drizzled with house-made hot sauce — brunch perfection at Heartwood Kitchen.
After working up an appetite, dine at Yayu Cafe for a fully plant-based menu packed with fresh, locally sourced, organic options. I could’ve eaten buckets of their Pad Thai, and the Banh Mi was next-level. As for the Golden Mylk Latte? It warmed my soul, while the ashwagandha helped me relax almost instantly after hiking the trails (because even though I didn’t see a bear, just knowing I could have had my nerves on edge!).
Plant-powered Pad Thai perfection — Yayu’s twist on a classic, packed with flavor and heart.
If you’re craving a less casual sit-down lunch, one standout at Currents Restaurant is their famous Seafood Chowder, packed with bay scallops, shrimp, ling cod, sweet potato, and drizzled with herb kelp oil. No surprise this bowl wonthe 2025 Whale Fest Choice Chowder Champion. It’s rich, comforting, and bursting with fresh coastal flavor.
For something handheld, the S.B.L.T. (Seared Bay Scallops, Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato on a toasted Kaiser roll with lemon dill aioli) is a total showstopper. Or go classic with the Neptune Fish & Chips, featuring local ling cod in a crispy Lager beer batter, house slaw, tartar, and charred lemon.
Top Must-Do Adventures In Ucluelet
Walk off brunch on the Wild Pacific Trail, a family-friendly, self-guided coastal path that hugs the cliffs with jaw-dropping ocean views, crashing waves, and salty sea air that clears your mind. There are two main trails: the 2.6-km Lighthouse Loop, leading you to the historic Amphitrite Lighthouse and wheelchair-accessible viewpoints overlooking the Broken Group Islands. This area is also known as the “Graveyard of the Pacific,” as it’s home to many shipwrecks. The other trail is a 5-km stretch from Big Beach Park to Rocky Bluffs, and you can extend your adventure with the 1-km Ancient Cedars Trail as you loop through a grove of towering, 800-year-old trees.
Wandering the Wild Pacific Trail — where towering cedars meet crashing waves and every step reveals breathtaking coastal views.
Along the way, keep an eye out for (yes, you guessed it—bears!), bald eagles soaring overhead, whales cruising offshore, and dramatic rocky crags just begging to be photographed. It’s a favorite spot for storm watchers, birders, and anyone wanting a peaceful hike surrounded by wildlife and nature.
A beacon of resilience and beauty — the Amphitrite Point Lighthouse at the edge of Vancouver Island.
For a dose of the wild marine magic seldom seen, don’t miss the Ucluelet Aquarium, Canada’s first collect-and-release aquarium. It’s open every day between March 1st and November 30th, also the months to get the best catches. It’s small but authentically packed with local sea creatures. Get up close to tide pool wonders and learn about the fascinating underwater world of British Columbia.
Discovering the hidden treasures of Clayoquot and Barkley Sounds, one tank at a time.
Great Places To Stay In Ucluelet
For a quieter Pacific coast experience away from Tofino’s buzz, Ucluelet offers a slower pace and a deep connection to the heartbeat of the Pacific. We recommend staying in Tofino and driving between the two towns, but if you’d prefer to stay in Ucluelet, here are two options:
Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge —Clayoquot Wilderness Lodge is a 5-star luxury retreat nestled in pristine wilderness.
Black Rock Oceanfront Resort — Black Rock Oceanfront Resort is a stylish 4-star spot with luxe suites, plus a hip restaurant and bar in a prime oceanfront location.
Ucluelet: Where the Pacific meets the people of the safe harbour. A coastal gem where adventure and tranquility coexist.
A Wildly Good Time You Won’t Forget
Vancouver Island is the ultimate blend of rugged adventure and cozy indulgence. From Tofino’s laid-back surf culture and Uclulet’s jaw-dropping coastline to the robe-clad luxury of Tigh-Na-Mara. The island will have you catching waves, wandering windswept beaches, exploring tidepools, and floating away in a warm mineral soak. A visit to this unparalleled paradise will be a memorable one (in the very best way).
Paddling past misty shores to walk in ancient rainforests — sea kayaking and hiking through Tofino’s wild island beauty.
You’ll have unforgettable wildlife moments and see stunning seascapes with a mesmerizing West Coast vibe. Vancouver Island invites you to slow down, breathe deep, and fully savor every salty, sea-sprayed minute. Trust us—you’ll be daydreaming about it long after you’re home.
When You Go
Getting To Vancouver Island From Los Angeles
Five airlines offer direct flights from LAX: Air Canada, American Airlines, United Airlines, WestJet, and Flair Airlines. Flight time is approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes. Take the YVR SkyTrain to downtown Vancouver, then take BC Ferries from Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay (near Victoria) – 1.5 hours – then you’ll want to rent a car.
An excellent discount site for rental cars and flights is Booking! We literally save hundreds using it.
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