CampWreck
West Island
West Vancouver Island
Tofino & Ucluelet highlights: surf beaches, coastal trails, good eats and where to camp.
Quick Jump
Trip Ideas
Tofino Classic
The Tofino Classic is all about sandy beaches, surf culture, and west coast charm. Spend your day exploring Chesterman Beach, Long Beach, and Cox Bay, then unwind with fresh seafood in town. With breathtaking sunsets and a laid-back vibe, it’s a must-do trip for anyone visiting Vancouver Island.
Ucluelet Wild Pacific
The Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet offers some of the most dramatic coastal scenery on Vancouver Island, with rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views. Walk the Lighthouse Loop for a short but stunning experience, or explore the longer Artist’s Loop for a deeper adventure. Keep your eyes out for whales, eagles, and crashing waves—it’s raw west coast beauty at its best.
Pacific Rim Combo
A Pacific Rim combo trip lets you experience both Tofino and Ucluelet in one unforgettable adventure. Spend your days surfing at Long Beach, hiking the Wild Pacific Trail, and exploring Pacific Rim National Park’s beaches and rainforest trails. It’s the perfect balance of west coast wilderness, small-town charm, and endless ocean views.
Hot Springs Day
A Hot Springs Cove day trip is one of the most unique adventures on Vancouver Island. After a scenic boat or floatplane ride from Tofino, you’ll follow a rainforest boardwalk to soak in natural geothermal pools right on the ocean’s edge. It’s a perfect blend of west coast wilderness and pure relaxation.
Storm Watching
Winter on the West Coast transforms Tofino and Ucluelet into some of the best storm-watching spots in the world. Crashing waves, roaring winds, and dramatic skies can be safely admired from viewpoints like Amphitrite Lighthouse, Long Beach, or right from a cozy oceanside lodge. It’s a raw and unforgettable way to experience the Pacific Rim.
Food Ideas & Recommended Restaurants
Tacofino
Tacofino in Tofino is a must-stop for fresh, creative tacos served from their iconic food truck. Just be prepared—during the high season, the lineups can be long, but the food is worth the wait.
Shed
Shed Restaurant in Tofino is a cozy spot that blends west coast flavors with a relaxed, stylish atmosphere. It’s a favorite for everything from fresh seafood to hearty comfort food, especially after a long day exploring the beaches.
Howlers Family Restaurant
Howlers in Ucluelet is a lively spot where you can enjoy hearty meals alongside arcade games and pool tables. It’s perfect for families and groups looking for casual dining mixed with entertainment in a relaxed atmosphere
Chocolate Tofino
Chocolate Tofino is a must-visit for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering handmade chocolates and creamy gelato crafted right in Tofino. It’s a cozy local favorite, perfect for picking up a treat after a day of exploring the beaches or trails.
Barkley Café
Barkley Café in Ucluelet is a cozy spot known for great coffee and hearty eats. Their breakfast sandwich is my personal favorite, and I make a point to stop in every time I’m on the West Coast.
Shots from our travels on the west coast
Tips for the Area
- Bookings: Peak season sells out fast.
- Weather: Fog/mist common; waterproof layers.
- Respect: Pack out, stick to trails; sensitive ecosystems.
- Traffic: One-lane road work may cause delays.
- Ocean: Heed surf/tide warnings.