Tofino, British Columbia, a surf town on Vancouver Island’s west coast, is a hidden gem where rugged beaches, ancient rainforests, and seafood feasts create a thrilling 24-hour getaway. Often overshadowed by Victoria, this coastal haven offers adventure and serenity. Why Tofino? Its wild beaches, rainforest trails, and seafood bounty make it a thrilling, under-the-radar retreat. Here’s how to dive into its wild beauty.

24 Hours and 1 Night in Tofino, British Columbia: The Pacific Wilds Itinerary

Friday Evening: Waves & Whiskey

6 p.m. - Stroll Chesterman Beach

Begin at Chesterman Beach, where Pacific waves crash against driftwood-strewn sands. The evening light gilds the surf, with surfers carving through swells and the scent of seaweed and cedar in the air. Wander the shoreline, spotting starfish in tidal pools, as the distant roar of the ocean sets a wild, invigorating tone.

8 p.m. - Dinner at Wolf in the Fog

Dine at Wolf in the Fog, a rustic-chic spot showcasing West Coast flavors. The Dungeness crab, served with garlic butter, is sweet and briny, while the cedar-planked salmon hums with smoky depth. The dining room, with its driftwood beams and ocean views, buzzes with locals’ laughter. Sip a BC rye whiskey for a warm, coastal finish.

Saturday Morning: Forests & French Toast

7 a.m. - Sunrise at Tonquin Park

Greet dawn at Tonquin Park, where a short trail winds through old-growth rainforest to a rocky bluff. The sunrise paints the Pacific in shades of coral, with mist curling through cedars and the cry of eagles overhead. The air, damp with moss and salt, invigorates as you soak in Tofino’s untamed beauty.

9 a.m. - Brunch at The Common Loaf Bake Shop

Refuel at The Common Loaf Bake Shop, a cozy spot where the scent of fresh bread and coffee fills the air. The salmon lox bagel, piled with capers and cream cheese, is a coastal treat, while the cinnamon French toast drips with maple syrup. The eclectic decor and surfer chatter create a laid-back, Tofino vibe.

Saturday Afternoon: Trails & Taps

11 a.m. - Explore Pacific Rim National Park

Venture to Pacific Rim National Park, where the Rainforest Trail loops through towering cedars and fern-choked paths. The forest hums with the drip of rain and the scent of damp earth, while boardwalks lead to glimpses of the ocean. The wild, primal beauty feels like a journey into Tofino’s heart.

1 p.m. - Sip at Tofino Brewing Company

Pop into Tofino Brewing Company, a craft brewery with a surf-shack vibe. The Tuff Session Ale, crisp and hoppy, pairs with a smoked fish taco from a nearby food truck. The outdoor tables, shaded by pines, buzz with surfers and hikers, capturing Tofino’s free-spirited soul.

Saturday Evening: Sunset & Seafood

6 p.m. - Sunset at MacKenzie Beach

Catch sunset at MacKenzie Beach, where the Pacific stretches wide, its waves glowing under a fiery sky. The air, cool with salt and kelp, carries the rhythm of the surf as seals bob offshore. The quiet beauty offers a serene moment to savor Tofino’s coastal magic.

8 p.m. - Dinner at The Schooner

End at The Schooner, a harborside restaurant where the halibut ceviche, bright with lime and cilantro, is a fresh delight. The seafood linguine, brimming with clams and mussels, sings of the ocean. The nautical dining room, with its twinkle lights and wave views, feels festive, a perfect close to your Tofino escape.