Travel Diaries

On Tofino Time

by Joy Pecknold

Disneyland bills itself as the happiest place on earth, but in my heart, Tofino takes the title. Sidled up to the Pacific Ocean on Vancouver Island, it’s a playground for flora, fauna and food lovers, not to mention surfers. Herein, my latest adventure.

First things first, to wash off the city stress, wash down a pint or two at the Tofino Brewing Co.‘s bar, and soak up the sun, salty breeze and chill vibes like this little guy.

Tofino Brewing dog

After a cold one, omnivores will find it worth their while to stroll down the street to Picnic Charcuterie where owner Tina Windsor makes her own hormone-free cured meats—don’t walk away without a pound of bacon—and sells premium cheeses, amongst other treats, essentially everything one would need for an amazing picnic.

Take any goodies procured back to the beach and enjoy the view.

For those seeking adventure, there’s plenty—surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking. A trip to Hot Springs Cove mingles nature with nurture. Jamie’s will boat you in to this natural spring 26 nautical miles from Tofino and then float plane you out.

While Tofino may be small, it’s bursting with world-class cuisine. One of the most recent additions is Wolf in the Fog. Not yet a year old, it’s already collecting significant accolades. The potato-crusted oyster (pictured) is scrumptious.

Looking to bring a souvenir home? At the new Merge Artisan Collective you’ll find some cute, less conventional gifts, all handmade, and many from local craftspeople.

When it comes to Tofino, one visit leads to another.