Čaḥayis / Cox Bay
Plan Your Trip Dog-Friendly Tofino
Dogs are some of our favourite visitors. They arrive completely present and ready to enjoy the moment.
Of course, this enthusiasm (and their inability to read the signage) means dog owners have to do a little more to make sure that everyone is following the rules and having a good time. We hope all visitors understand that protecting wildlife and sensitive natural areas is imperative. Learn more about how you can be a respectful dog owner and find resources for you and your pup around town.
Protecting wildlife
There are no off-leash parks, beaches, or areas in Tofino. Dogs on leash create a culture of conservation. The beaches and trails here are important habitats for wildlife, including wolves, shorebirds, and some forage fish whose very survival is impacted by dogs off-leash. We aim to protect the shorebirds that land here to rest while on their migratory path. If the birds are disturbed too often, they will be reluctant to return to these beaches.
Keeping dogs on leash also prevents excited (or potentially aggressive) dogs from roaming free on the beach and encountering wildlife. Although uncommon, excited dogs can cause conflict or become easy targets for other animals like cougars and wolves.
Beaches and trails
Tofino is laid-back and mellow. But, from traffic to sneaker waves, there are unexpected risks to dogs, owners, and wildlife that make it mandatory to leash up in town, on beaches and trails, in parking lots, and in all areas of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. While visiting, please follow dog-owner etiquette:
- Pick up after your dog
- Keep dogs under control
- Yield on trails to all other users
- Keep dogs leashed at all times
- Owners who fail to comply will be fined.
It’s always exciting to uncover different flora and fauna in a new place, but some of these plants and animals may be harmful to your pet. From ingesting too much sand, saltwater, seaweed, and potentially washed-up animals, it’s good practice to make sure your pooch doesn’t have a snack straight from the beach.
Dog-friendly accommodation
From beachside cabins to cozy motels, we have a variety of dog-friendly accommodations. Check our accommodations page and find a warm welcome for you and your pup. Just look for a paw print icon indicating a dog-friendly stay. Be sure to contact places to stay in advance to make arrangements before you arrive.
Patios for pooches
Find places where everyone can hang out, including dog-friendly restaurants, sunny patios, and cozy cafes:
- The BEAR Bierhaus at The MAQ - leashed dogs can join guests on the patio
- Café @ The MAQ - leashed dogs are welcome inside
- The Driftwood Café at the Wickaninnish Inn - leashed dogs can join guests on the patio
- Roar Tofino - leashed dogs can join guests on the patio
- SandBar Bistro at Long Beach Lodge Resort - leashed dogs are welcome on the beach below the patio
- Tacofino Cantina - leashed dogs can join guests at the outdoor picnic area
- Tofino Brewing Co. - leashed dogs allowed on all outdoor patio areas
- Wildside Grill - leashed dogs can join guests at the outdoor picnic area
Walking and doggy daycare
Call in backup with these dog walkers and sitters:
- Tofino Dog Sitting (Claire + Etienne) - 250.266.1727
- Woof Pack Adventures (Ana) - 250.668.4624
Tours
A variety of tours and activities allow you to bring your pooch or offer a kennel while you’re out:
- Jamie’s Whaling Station - complimentary kennel service while owners join a tour
- Paddle West Kayaking - complimentary kennel service while owners join a tour
- Spirit Eagle Experiences - dogs are welcome on the tour
- Tofino Water Taxi - complimentary, by arrangement
Transportation
Getting here and around Tofino with your dog is made easy with these options:
- Atleo River Air Service - private charters are dog-friendly, by arrangement
- Budget Car Rental - dog-friendly rentals
- Coastal Rides - most are dog-friendly, but please confirm with your driver
- Harbour Air - with guests or as special cargo, some size restrictions apply
- Tikicab Transportation Company - dog-friendly charter bus, by arrangement
- Tofino Free Shuttle - service dogs only, certification required (summer only)
- Tofino Water Taxi - dog-friendly and free, by arrangement
- Vancouver Island Connector - service dogs only, certification required
- Pacific Coastal Airlines - checked cargo with kennel or carry-on
- Pacific Rim Navigators - private vehicle and shuttle service, by arrangement
Food, prescriptions & pet supplies
Top up on supplies, food, and more:
- Co-op Grocery Store
- Epic Pharmacy (Pharmasave)
- Gaia Grocery
- Bad Dog
- Ocean Pet Supplies (Ucluelet)
Veterinary Clinic
The local pet doctor is available for visiting dogs, too:
Tofino Veterinary Clinic
Dr. Jeff Berry
250-266-5280