This winter, expect less in Tofino...
Kyler Vos
Winter in Tofino is unlike winter almost anywhere else.
We trade the snow for storm watching, snowboards for surfboards, and snow boots for rain boots. It’s the ferocity of the elements - with monstrous waves battering the rocky shoreline - and the epitome of cozy season: crackling woodfires, tea, intimate candlelit dinners, hot tub soaks or sauna sessions, and quiet reading nooks. This juxtaposition of the winter squall with the welcome of a comfortable spot near the fire to watch nature's fury unfold is what makes storm season so unique.
It’s the season for a quiet escape – one with fewer lineups and more open space to feel the rush of the winter wind and a cabin to retreat to afterwards. Excited to book this winter? Here are some of our favourite activities for the winter:
1. Storm walks – Absolutely a must while you are visiting! Feeling the wind pick up all around you, the smell of salt spray from the ocean and the thunderous sound of crashing waves are the true Tofino winter experience. Stroll the shoreline or trails for different vantage points. Making sure you’re bundled up in a raincoat or windbreaker, a toque, gloves and waterproof shoes (maybe even rain pants, especially if you are travelling with kids) will make the experience all the more enjoyable.
Please be wary of high tides and driftwood logs – the force of the waves can push them to the upper shoreline unexpectedly. Here are some other ways to stay safe at the beach during storm season.
2. Intimate dinners – Listen to the rain pattering on the roof while candlelight dances across the table as you sit across from someone you care about – be it a family member, a close friend, or a partner. Sample multiple courses and tasting plates, without rush, like Wolf in the Fogs’ seasonal menu, ocean views at Shelter Restaurant, or a more casual affair at Shed Tofino.
3. Geothermal Pools – One of the adventure tours offered in the winter is the Mux̣šiƛa Hot Springs Cove tour. Take a boat or seaplane on this journey between islands, remote inlets, and the places where bears, sea otters, and sometimes whales call home. Upon arrival, stroll through towering trees for 2 kilometres on a cedar boardwalk to get to the hot springs for a therapeutic dip.
Hot Springs Cove is within Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, in Ahousaht Hahuulthi (territory). In addition to the $3 BC Parks fee, your tour provider will charge an Ahousaht Stewardship Fee to support the maintenance and stewarding efforts that the Nation partakes in on these lands.
4. Curated Goods – Tofino has a unique, beachy, aesthetic that permeates the town. Explore the shops in the downtown core and the Outside Break plaza for all things surf apparel, home goods, locally-made products and -authored books. You may just want to do all your holiday shopping in one place. Check the Events Calendar for upcoming artisan markets this December and all other events.
5. Sauna & Cold Plunge - Whether steps from your beachfront stay or at a remote floating sauna or bathhouse, feeling the cleansing power of a sweat and chilly dip cycle at the sauna is the perfect recalibration this time of year.
6. Cozy Coffee Dates – Looking for a moment to escape the rain after a beach walk? Pop into the many coffee shops around Tofino. Take in the views of the storm from the Driftwood Cafe at the Wickaninnish Inn, climb the stairs at the iconic turret of the Common Loaf Bake Shop for peekaboo views of the harbour and some hearty soup, or treat yourself with a donut from Rhino Coffee House.
7. Spa Day – With 6 spas and a mobile spa, you really have your choice of ways to relax! Inca Stone Massage, aromatherapy, prenatal, couples, RMT services, and more are on offer with the addition of the ocean air nearby.
8. Culinary events - Come for the Tofino Oyster Fest - a 3-day event, November 24 - 26, 2024 - including the Oyster Gala and Shuckers Showdown. This event happens annually in late November. Tofino Winter Nights events are in December, including the month-long Tofino Hot Cocoa Trail.
Claudia Bastien, Kim Lecky; Alex Taalman
Anthony Redpath for the Wickaninnish Inn
tatetham on Instagram
9. Art Tours - Self-expression is woven into the built environment of Tofino. From upcycled marine debris to Nuu-chah-nulth carvings and striking sculptures, the art installations here make a statement. Follow an Art or Culture Walk around town or along the ʔapsčiik t̓ašii Multi-Use Path, created by the Tofino Arts Council, to find the public art displays that speak to you. Try a self-guided outdoor art walk celebrating works made from upcycled marine plastics as part of the Salvaged Art Project.
10. Brunch – Get all the pals together to enjoy the growing brunch scene in Tofino! There are daily brunch menus at The Pointe Restaurant, The Great Room, and daily breakfast at Roar, with a brunch-specific weekend menu. Weekend brunch menus can be found at Ombre and the Bear on Sundays.
Ready to find your affordable cozy season stay? Book a winter package to do more for less.
