Every day is a beach day in Tofino! Get to know our local spots for sand, surf, sun and storm watching.
When a Tofitian says they’re going to “the beach”, they mean this one.
This “w” or “m” shaped stretch of sand measures 2.7 kilometres and is lined with beautiful homes. Its north end is home to the Wickaninnish Inn.
There are paid parking lots at North and South Chesterman Beach, with a few spots at Middle Chesterman. Street parking is permitted on the beach side of the road where indicated with signage.
If the wind is blowing, fly a kite!
Home to most Tofino surf competitions, this crescent-shaped beach offers consistent surf, tidepool exploration at its north and south ends and even some solitude. Here, you’ll find Long Beach Lodge Resort, Cox Bay Beach Resort and Pacific Sands Beach Resort.
Paid parking is in two main spots: There is a public lot accessed by the entrance to Long Beach Lodge Resort. A little further south, there’s ample parking on Maltby Road.
Wait for a low tide to explore the tidal caves at the northern tip of Cox Bay (to the right when facing the ocean.) You may find barnacles, sea stars, and more marine life.
Sheltered from most wind by large tidal rocks, this beach is known for its calm waters with only the gentlest of waves. It’s a popular destination for families with small children, especially at its south end. There’s also an entrance ramp, facilitating beach access for everyone.
Paid parking can be accessed by turning from the Pacific Rim Highway onto Hellesen Road.
Walk to the southern end of the beach (to the left when facing the ocean), where you’ll find a rocky intertidal zone to discover.
Aptly-named Long Beach is situated within Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Along with Florencia Bay, Wickaninnish, Combers and Schooner Cove beaches, it creates the longest beach on Vancouver Island, stretching for over 16 kilometres. In addition to a storied surf history, the massive amount of driftwood bordering old growth forest adds to the mystical vibe here.
Two main parking lots serve Long Beach. Daily National Park use fees apply and there are pay machines in each parking lot. Choose from the lot at Incinerator Rock or the larger Long Beach lot, both indicated with green roadside signs.
Winter storm watching on Long Beach can be a dramatic event. Watch as powerful tides flood the beach, changing its landscape daily.
Don’t forget to “Know before you go near the water” and be CoastSmart
Between the hundreds of weather-bleached driftwood on the edge of golden sand dunes and the ocean's powerful waves, this vast stretch of sand is a living postcard photo. Its westerly exposure make it a surfing destination - also bringing wind onshore. Wickaninnish Beach is situated within Long Beach, in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
There is a large parking lot here. Daily National Park use fees apply and there are pay machines in each parking lot.
Head right around the Kwisitis Visitor Centre, past the totem pole. You’ll be on the 1.5 kilometre South Beach Trail. South Beach is known for its large rock formations and its pebbles rolling in the foamy waves. If you’re visiting during storm watching season, be careful of powerful waves and ocean spray.