Because Tofino, British Columbia, is right next to the Pacific Ocean, temperatures are typically cool in the summer and mild in the winter. The average high temperatures in the summer and winter really don't vary too much. In fact, Tofino's average high temperature is 44 degrees cooler in the summer, and a gigantic 67 degrees warmer in the winter.
The average temperature is 40-50 degrees in the winter, and 65-85 degrees in the summer months. It can get as high as 90 degrees in June, July, and August, but these days are rare. Mostly, it will be a very comfortable 75-80 degrees day at the beach. Honestly, who doesn't love that?
In March, the Pacific Rim Whale Festival celebrates the migration of thousands of grey whales. The migration is something you will never forget, and everyone should see it at least once in their lifetime. For those who love surfing, The Rip Curl Pro Tofino is held each year in May. It's Canada's largest surfing competition, and the only one open to all divisions. The competition is typically held on Cox Bay Beach, and it's an excellent opportunity to see some great surfing.
During the cooler season, there is a lot of rain and snowfall. However, almost all the precipitation that falls throughout the year is rain. Winter cyclonic storms regularly pass over the town dumping rain on it, making it one of the wettest locations in Canada. However, like the rest of coastal British Columbia, the summer months bring mostly dry weather. These are ideal times to plan your beach vacation weekend away.
The end of August brings the Tofino Lantern Festival. It is the Raincoast Educational Society's signature community event, featuring an incredible variety of handmade lanterns, live music, dancing, and of course, delicious food. It's truly a magical festival. Mid-September offers Art in the Gardens, a two-day art and music festival. Located at the Tofino Botanical Gardens, it celebrates both the visual and performing arts. Created in 2004 by Marla Thirsk, it encourages local artists to come together to show off their specific talents.
To get the ultimate bang for your buck, you can look at the numerous accommodations available in town. You'll find that there are plenty of options, and some of them even offer certain services for free like parking and Wi-Fi. The Funk City shared room is a great value for the price. Several hotels also offer a variety of discounts such as AAA, senior, and military discounts. Make sure you ask what options are available for you.
Another great option is the Osa House – Forest Den. Chris is a super host and the rooms are sparklingly clean. The Osa House offers a private setting with a separate entrance, a comfy queen bed, west coast art, mini fridge, DVD player, optic Wi-Fi/tv, and a private bathroom with a beautifully tiled shower.
Sitting right on the water, Wharf Watch at Whiskey Landing Waterfront Studio is adjacent to Embarc Ucluelet. The Wharf Watch offers tastefully decorated, modern decor condos with spectacular views. Ideally located to provide a peaceful and comforting vacation, the Wharf offers complimentary Wi-Fi and self-parking.
To complete the charm, the smoke-free condos offer fishing on site. The views at the Wharf Watch are simply amazing, and even though it is not directly in Tofino, British Columbia it is worth taking a look at. The extra few kilometers traveled will be well worth it for the value you get while staying at the Warf Watch.
While in Tofino, you can go whale watching with the Tofino Whale Watching Inc, take some surfing lessons at the Pacific Surf School, or eat some incredible seafood at Wolf in the Fog restaurant. If you're looking to really treat yourself, consider spending your day lounging on a 53-foot luxurious motor yacht, while taking in the wildlife, spectacular scenery, and of course, whales. Archipelago Wildlife Cruises is sure to provide you with some much-needed relaxation.
Looking to be a little bit more active? There are three amazing hiking trails located in Tofino: The South Beach Trail, Schooner Cove Trail, and the Wild Pacific Trail. The South Beach Trail is next to the Wickaninnish Interpretive Center and provides beachfront views throughout the hike. The Schooner Cove Trail is approximately 2 km, and is located at the north end of the Pacific Rim National Park. Lastly, the Wild Pacific Trail is a very nicely groomed gravel trail that offers stunning views of the coastline surrounding Ucluelet and is highly recommended.
How about just hanging out in a hot spring all day? Approximately 45 km from Tofino, BC, is the ever-popular Maquinna Marine Provincial Park. The park is a natural hot spring in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. This has been a favorite day-trip destination for tourists for years. Easily reachable by boat or floatplane, you will definitely want to add this to your list of must-see destinations.
There is much to explore in Tofino, British Columbia. It's also nice to realize that a vacation here does not necessarily have to empty your wallet. Whether you're looking for a luxury place nearer the outdoor activities to immerse yourself in nature or a good value option near the center of Tofino, there is a hotel that will meet your needs and satisfy all your wants. No matter what's in your itinerary, you will always find yourself in the amazingly beautiful scenery in Tofino, British Columbia.
Below are reviews of the city of Tofino, BC from an actual visitor's perspective.
The wandering and shopping is so interesting! Love the laid back lifestyle! I always buy something to take home from the experience.
The Schooner Restaurant had the best steak I have ever eaten and the Tofino Brewery was excellent!
World class ocean views!
The town of Tofino is so lovely. Well worth the drive. The town is welcoming. Food is great! Views are gorgeous!