Aerial shot of Long Beach looking south, Lovekin Rock, and people having a beach day in the summer. — Čaw̓inʔis / Lovekin Rock at Yaaqsis / Long Beach
Jeremy Koreski

About Tofino Beaches & Parks

Beaches and parks are where the community comes together.

Wide, sandy stretches hug a coastline of wind-swept trees. It’s at the beaches where you can take sunrise walks, shorebirds feed and rest, and winter storms are witnessed with caution in boots and windbreakers. Venture into Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to immerse yourself in the rainforest or mingle in Tofino parks as the pulse of the community comes alive with markets, spirited events and artful gatherings.

Long vista of a sandy beach with surf and forests in the distance

Vast stretches of sand

The sandy shores surrounding Načiks (Tofino) are famed for their unique traits: the surf at Čaḥayis (Cox Bay), low tide walks along the tombolo off Yuʔatu (Chesterman Beach), exploring Ćašiiwa (Incinerator Rock) perched on Yaaqsis (Long Beach), storm watching from the viewing deck of the Kʷisitis Visitor Centre, overlooking Kʷisitis (Wickaninnish Beach). There are more tiny inlets, coves, and bays to see here, at the end of Pacific Rim Highway - the gateway to the Hiłcaatu (Pacific Ocean). The culture of the West Coast is to spend time outside, and appreciate being a guest in these precious ecosystems.

Find your beach

Beach safety

There are no lifeguards on the beaches in Načiks (Tofino) or Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Before you visit the beach, learn how to stay safe from potential hazards like riptides and unexpected waves.

Forest meets sandy beach, rocky outcroppings and blue surf

Two people walking on the beach carrying surfboards in the sunset

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Some of the region's most iconic beaches are located within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, including Yaaqsis (Long Beach), the longest stretch of sand on the west coast of Vancouver Island. Surfing, bird watching, and camping are popular here, with over 100 beachview and forested sites at Muuýapił (Green Point Campground). Within the Park Reserve, visitors can hike or walk nine different routes or cycle along the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii (Going-the-Right-Way-and-Speaking-Truthfully) Multi-Use Pathway. Join an interpretive walk, talk, or theatre show in summer to explore tide pools, learn about ancient trees, and see the land and water from an Indigenous perspective.

Uncover the Park

ʔiisaak pledge

Guests are welcomed with open arms in Načiks (Tofino), but they are expected to respect the land, animals, people, and community while travelling within the Hahuulthi (territory) of the ƛaɁuukwiatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht) Ḥaw̓iiḥ (Hereditary Chiefs). Take the ʔiisaak Pledge to ensure that you travel here thoughtfully.

Community parks

The Village Green is where community gatherings and events are held while little ones make friends at the playground and kids practice kickflips at the Tuff City Skate Park. This green space hosts the weekly Tofino Market and live music throughout summer. Grab an ice cream and stroll down to Third St. Lookout (Anchor Park) for a view of Meares Island - the original Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Park - and Tofino’s working harbour. Stand before the totem or čiinuł honouring the Ha’wiih (Traditional Chiefs), gifted to Tofino by Tla-o-qui-aht artist and Master Carver, Joe David. For basketball and bocce courts, plus a sheltered picnic area, head to Centennial Park, on the way to the entrance of the ƛaakašiis (Tonquin Trail).

Come play