Sauna + Cold Plunge

Dive into a different West Coast experience. Relax and warm up at a wood-fired cedar sauna. Then, refresh yourself with a cold plunge into the brisk water of the Pacific Ocean or of calm inlet water. Repeat until you feel revitalized, and reconnected with the beauty of your surroundings.

Please note: while cold plunging has been used for centuries for therapeutic, health, and sporting recovery, it can cause a sudden, rapid increase in breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. People with heart conditions, who take medications, and older adults should check with their doctor before trying this activity.

Re-discover the warmth (and the cold)

Hot Springs Cove

Wade into the west coast in a whole new way. Explore Hot Springs Cove at Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, located in the traditional territory of the Ahousaht First Nation, 90 minutes north of Tofino by boat, or 20 minutes via seaplane. Arrive at the hidden wonder of mineral hot spring pools via a 1.5-kilometre boardwalk trail through towering cedars. Soak in the beauty of the ocean from the cascading pools.

Re-discover the waters

Surfing + SUP

Find out why Tofino is Canada’s surf capital. Epic winter swells await you on 35 kilometres of open-sand beaches. Beginners can take a lesson in the whitewash while experienced surfers hunt for the biggest waves of the year. Adventurers of all levels can explore the inlets and islands of the coast on a stand-up paddle boarding tour.

Please note: All beaches in the Pacific Rim region are unsupervised, with no lifeguards on duty. To get expert recommendations for the best beach to surf with today’s conditions, consult a Tofino surf shop, check out beach cams, or do your surf check at the beach.

Re-discover the surf

Storm Watching

Winter is when the raw beauty of the rugged West Coast is on full display. It’s the perfect time to check the tide, suit up, and walk on storm-lashed beaches to re-visit the wind and waves.

Re-discover the storms

Food + Beverage

Tofino’s laid-back welcome comes alive in winter, with food and drink that warms the body and feeds the spirit. From fine dining to cozy cafés to local hangouts, a host of seasonal flavours await your discovery.

Re-discover the food + drink

Art, Culture, Shops

Situated within the traditional territory of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation, Tofino has always been rich in art, tradition, and heritage. Stroll through the cedar longhouse of the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery. Visit artist studios and showrooms. Take in our public art installations. Browse locally-made knitwear , ceramics, and housewares at small shops and markets. Embrace the culture of the coast and let the art of this timeless land inspire you.

Re-discover art and culture

Cycling

Tofino’s mild coastal climate makes it an ideal winter cycling destination. Re-explore the village on a leisurely ride, or tour the hard-packed, open-sand beaches. More ambitious cyclists can travel the 40-kilometre ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (pronounced “ups-cheek-tashi”) path in and out of the rainforest, around coastal bogs, and past gorgeous beaches from Tofino, through (the) Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, and all the way to the village of Ucluelet.

Re-discover cycling

Nature Walks + Hiking

Explore forests where centuries-old cedars tower above you. Discover Douglas Fir groves and lush beds of ferns and salal shrubs. With an abundance of trails, hikes, and paths, a winter journey to Tofino immerses you in the calm of the rainforest canopy.

Re-discover the trails