Top 5 spots for summer sunsets
Čaḥayis / Cox Bay
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We often get asked: “Where is the best spot for sunset?”
As one of the westernmost points in Canada, Tofino is graced by glorious sunsets regularly, but the best places to watch sunset depend on the time of year.
Here are our top picks for the summer months:
5. MacKenzie Beach (Tinuwis): Arguably the most family-friendly beach, Tinuwis, or “calm waters,” is a sheltered bay, protected by a smattering of islands out front. Have a friendly volleyball match with the pals or play some bocce as you bask in the yellow sunset glow. You can also enjoy the views from the nearby Browns Socialhouse patio at Tin Wis Resort or grab some authentic BBQ for a picnic from Lil’ Ronnie’s Beachside BBQ at Mackenzie Beach Resort at the north end.
Yaaqsis / Long Beach
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Kwisitis / Wickaninnish Beach
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Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
4. Wickaninnish Beach (Kwisitis): One of the most southern beaches in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Wickaninnish Beach is unique for its spectacular sand dunes. This beach feels exposed and can be a surreal place for sunset, especially near the beginning and end of the summer season when the sun sets into the sea. If it’s a full moon, watch the moon rise above the trees near the Kwisitis Visitor Centre.
3. Long Beach, (Yaaqsis): Long Beach - particularly Incinerator Rock - is arguably the most recognizable beach in all of the Tofino area making it a magical place to experience sunset. Enjoy the glowing pink light reflected off of Lovekin Rock as it sits out among the waves or the cotton candy clouds as the sun dips behind the Esowista Peninsula. As the longest stretch of sand on Vancouver Island, you have plenty of space to roam in the sun’s glow.
TIP: Walk south towards Green Point campground to extend the sunset a bit longer and soak in all the light.
REMINDER: If you decide to venture into the sand dunes, please be careful where you walk because sensitive dune plants grow here. The National Park Reserve gates close at 11 PM, so be sure to keep that in mind if you decide to stay for stargazing after sunset.
Čaḥayis / Cox Bay
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Yuʔatu / South Chesterman
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N̓an̓akʷuuʔa / North Chesterman
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2. North Chesterman Beach (N̓an̓akʷuuʔa): Chesterman Beach was named one of the top 20 most beautiful beaches in the world this year by Lonely Planet, making this beach a must-stop destination! Sit along the driftwood or walk the tombolo (the sand bar connecting the beach to the island, visible at low tide) that leads to Frank Island as the sun kisses the horizon. Pack a picnic and make it a whole experience!
REMINDER: Frank Island is private property, please do not explore the island itself.
1. Maltby Rd at Cox Bay (Čaḥayis): Follow the forested trail from the public pay-parking lot for about 400m to the south end of Cox Bay. This part of the beach has large driftwood features and views of the iconic Lennard Island Lighthouse. This is where you can see the sun sink into the ocean.
BONUS: Although Tofino Harbour doesn’t face west, the not-so-secret sunset spot is to watch the sky turn rosy from the Inlet. Take in the view from the patio at Shelter Restaurant or while eating sushi on the deck at Tough City Sushi, overlooking Meares Island.
Which is your favourite place to watch the sunset while in Tofino?
