HOW TO GET TO TOFINO
Tofino is a beautiful and popular destination on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations. Nestled in the heart of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it is known for its stunning natural beauty, rugged coastline and abundant wildlife, including whales, sea otters, black bears and bald eagles. Tofino is also a popular spot for surfing, hiking and camping.
If you enjoy outdoor activities and appreciate natural scenery, then Tofino is an excellent place to visit. The town is small with a population of 2000 residents and has a relaxed atmosphere, but there are plenty of opportunities to explore the beaches, shops and unique dinning experiences.
Some of the top attractions in Tofino include the Pacific Rim National Park, whale watching, Hot Springs in Maquinna Provincial Park, kayaking and more.
Overall, if you are looking for a scenic and adventurous destination in Canada, Tofino is definitely worth considering.
DRIVING
Whether driving or taking a bus, the road from Nanaimo is one of the most spectacular in the world. You will pass through the towering old-growth forests of Cathedral Grove, the township of Port Alberni , majestic Sutton Pass, and through Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
No matter what time of year you are travelling our way, keep up to date on road conditions, including events or delays that may affect your travel plans, by checking your route on DriveBC.
Vancouver Island – and Tofino – can be accessed by vehicle from the British Columbia mainland via BC Ferries.
TRAVELING TIMES
Vancouver to Tofino: (via Nanaimo) 2 hours on BC Ferries and 3 hours by car
Victoria to Tofino: 5 - 6 hours by car, or by Tofino Bus
Ucluelet to Tofino: 40 minutes by car
Plan Your Drive:
We suggest adding an extra 30 min of travel time for reservations + appointments, to allow for delays.
Drive BC for up-to-date information on Highway 4.
BC FERRIES
Taking the ferry to Tofino from Vancouver, you will need to sail with BC Ferries from one of two points near Vancouver to Vancouver Island:
Horseshoe Bay to Departure Bay: The Horseshoe Bay terminal is north of Vancouver and this ferry route takes just under 2 hours, arriving at Nanaimo’s Departure Bay.
Tsawwassen to Duke Point: The Tsawwassen terminal is south of the city, closer to the USA border. This ferry route takes approximately 2.5 hours, arriving at the Duke Point terminal, about 15 minutes south of Nanaimo.
Tsawwassen to Swartz Bay: The Tsawwassen terminal is south of the city, closer to the USA border. This ferry route takes approximately 2 hours, arriving at the Swartz Bay terminal, about 30 minutes north of Victoria.
Please note that advance ferry reservations are highly recommended on all routes during weekends, holiday periods and summer months.
FLYING TO TOFINO
You can fly directly to Tofino (YAZ) from Vancouver (YVR).
MORE INFO TO PLAN YOUR TRIP
Here are some links to help you plan your trip to Tofino. These websites can assist with travel, accommodation and great tips on things to do.
Tofino, BRITISH COLUMBIA