People talk about this place. In the best way, of course. Tofino, British Columbia, truly tugs at you, so dive in and prepare to be tuckered out with sand in your toes and feel fully alive. Popular with British Columbians, Tofino’s soft-sand beaches and laid back, West Coast lifestyle, have garnered the attention of not only backpackers from around the world but also adventure seekers also gravitate here. Its incredible, natural beauty and perfect locale for cold water surfing, sea kayaking and whale watching are just some of the attractions. Big trees, miles of sand, wilderness views, all in one cool town that mixes together people from around the world. Like I said – this place will tug at you.

The place to stay.
The best in beachfront boutique hotels, complete with luxury lodge rooms and private cottages snuggled into natural coastal vegetation, Long Beach Lodge Resort, located on Cox Bay Beach, at the edge of Pacific Rim National Park.

The place to eat.
Freshness is key, but few places forage for the very best, like Chef Ian Riddick does, making his way down the dock, from catch to plate, his ultimate goal is to create dishes that you respond to. The Great Room– crafted with exposed timber frame beams, crackling fire for storm days – is the perfect place for lunch or dinner to take in the most amazing ocean view while you dine. Topped off with the best sunset watching on the West Coast, spending time here is a real treat for your eyes and soul.

Adventure runs deep

My dear ocean, we meet again.
Long Beach Lodge Resort has the absolute best setup for surfing Tofino. A few years back they added the Surf Club Adventure Centre, complete with everything you need for riding waves, including that early and fresh cappuccino to get you moving. But the highlight is definitely the ease and convenience of private change rooms, after surf hot pool, board storage and close proximity to the beach, so no hassles. In addition to spray in your face while you carve the watery glass, you’ll get up close and personal with some of the best in local guides who share their water knowledge to develop your skills.

Whale of a good time.
Take to the seas with a Marine Excursion, an intimate way to view the natural beauty of this place and get up close with not only resident sea life but Humpback Whales, Gray Whales and the crowd pleaser, Killer Whales. The captain will keep a close eye on the wildlife for you, so you don’t miss a bear sighting, eagles or the ever-busy sea otter.

Getting here is easy.
Arrive awake and ready to play. Pacific Coastal Airlines’ new regular scheduled service whisks you away from Vancouver International Airport’s South Terminal for a short, worthwhile scenic ocean and mountain view flight. BTW the South Terminal rocks , so easy to get in and out of, with a super friendly vibe. If you have any wait time, take a short walk to the Flying Beaver Bar and Grill for a cold one and watch seaplanes come and go from the deck.

Story and Photo Credit: Matt Mosteller

 @PowderMatt

 @PowderMatt

 Sporting Life Blog – Matt Mosteller