Discover Tofino from the sky with Harbour Air 

Tofino, located on Vancouver Island’s rugged West Coast, is renowned for its breathtaking coastal landscapes, world-class surf, and vibrant arts scene. The quickest and most scenic way to reach Tofino is with a scheduled Harbour Air flight from either Vancouver, starting April 1st, or Richmond (YVR south), starting June 19th. With two daily direct flights available, you can bypass long travel times and arrive refreshed, ready to explore this enchanting town. Whether you’re planning to hike in Pacific Rim National Park, surf the waves, or simply enjoy the stunning views, Harbour Air provides a fast, easy, and memorable way to begin your Tofino adventure.

Book a scheduled flight with Harbour Air and start your Tofino adventure today!

Top 5 Unique Outdoor Adventures You Can Experience in Tofino

Whale Watching & Wildlife Tours 🐋
Tofino is one of the best places in Canada for whale watching. Join a tour to see gray whales, humpback whales, and orcas as they migrate along the coast. You may also spot sea otters, bald eagles, and black bears along the shoreline, making for a wildlife experience like no other.

Surfing the Wild West Coast 🏄
Tofino is Canada's surf capital, boasting year-round waves and a laid-back surf culture. Beginners can take lessons at surf schools like Pacific Surf Co. or Tofino Surf School, while experienced surfers can chase the swells at Cox Bay or Rosie Bay, ensuring adventure on every tide.

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve🌲
No visit to Tofino is complete without exploring the natural beauty of Pacific Rim National Park. Here you’ll find a network of trails, pristine beaches, and rugged coastlines that offer perfect hiking and beachcombing opportunities. Explore the Rainforest Trail or head to Long Beach to watch surfers and seals alike.  

Chesterman Beach 🌊

A favorite among both locals and visitors, Chesterman Beach is ideal for surfing, tide pooling, and taking in the sunset. At low tide, you can walk out to Frank Island for a unique coastal experience. Plus, it’s home to the renowned Wickaninnish Inn, a luxury oceanfront retreat offering breathtaking views, world-class dining, and direct beach access for the ultimate West Coast experience.

Hot Springs Cove 🚤

Located in Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, Hot Springs Cove is a remote geothermal hot spring that flows into a series of natural rock pools. Accessible by boat or seaplane, it’s a one-of-a-kind way to unwind in the middle of a lush coastal rainforest.

The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Coastal Beauty & Local Cuisine 🌊🍽️

9:00 AM – Start your day with coffee and breakfast at Rhino Coffee House, a local favorite known for its delicious breakfast sandwiches and donuts.

10:00 AM – Head to Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Walk along the vast shoreline, explore tide pools, or simply enjoy the sound of crashing waves.

12:00 PM – Grab lunch at Tacofino, the famous food truck serving up fresh and flavorful Baja-style tacos.

2:00 PM – Visit Chesterman Beach for an afternoon of surfing, beachcombing, or taking in the stunning coastal scenery.

4:00 PM – Unwind at Tofino Brewing Company, where you can sample locally crafted beers in a laid-back setting.

6:30 PM – Enjoy a seafood dinner at The Pointe Restaurant at Wickaninnish Inn, offering world-class cuisine with panoramic ocean views.

Day 2: Outdoor Adventures & Aerial Views 🏞️🚤

9:00 AM – Choose your morning adventure:

Hot Springs Cove: Experience a 6-hour tour which included boating, a boardwalk hike, soaking in the hot springs pools, and wildlife viewing.

Bear Watching Tour: Cruise along the inlets of Clayoquot Sound to see black bears foraging along the shore.

11:30 AM – Grab a light lunch at Shed, a cozy eatery known for its fresh bowls, burgers, and local seafood.

12:30 PM – Explore the charming shops and galleries in downtown Tofino, featuring handcrafted art, jewelry, and surf-inspired goods.

3:30 PM – End your trip with a leisurely stroll at Tonquin Beach, a hidden gem with quiet trails and stunning ocean views.

6:30 PM – Enjoy a final dinner at Wolf in the Fog, a must-visit for its innovative, locally sourced dishes.

Book your flight today! Daily flights from downtown Vancouver to Tofino Resort and Marina.

View our other Harbour Air blog posts here
 

Get Ready to Experience Tofino Like Never Before

Tofino offers a rare blend of wild beauty, outdoor adventure, and coastal charm—and there’s no better way to get there than by air. With Harbour Air’s daily seasonal flights from downtown Vancouver (starting April 1st) and Richmond’s YVR South terminal (starting June 19th), you’ll skip the long drive and ferry lines in favor of stunning aerial views over Vancouver Island’s rugged coastline and the open Pacific. Arrive in the heart of Tofino feeling relaxed and ready to explore everything from world-class surf to lush rainforest hikes, hot springs, wildlife tours, and the laid-back energy that makes this town unforgettable.

With convenient downtown-to-downtown service, easy online booking, and unbeatable views en route, it’s more than just transportation—it’s part of the adventure. Soak in the scenery, travel in comfort, and let the excitement begin from the moment you take off. Book your Harbour Air flight today and let your West Coast story start in the sky.

Tofino - Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best outdoor adventures in Tofino?

• Surfing: Tofino is renowned for its consistent waves suitable for all skill levels, with popular spots like Chesterman Beach and Long Beach. Local surf schools offer lessons and rentals.

  Surf rentals and schools include: Pacific Surf Co., Long Beach Surf Shop, Tofino Surf School, Swell Tofino

• Cycling: Explore the scenic ʔapsčiik t̓ašii Multi-Use Pathway stretching from Tofino to Ucluelet. Local shops offer standard and e-bike rentals.

  Cycling rentals include: Tofino Bike Co., Pacific Sands Bike Rentals

• Hot Springs Cove: Take a boat trip with Ahous Adventures or Tofino Whale Centre to natural hot springs, with wildlife viewing and a boardwalk trail en route.
• Hiking: Tackle the Lone Cone Trail on Meares Island for panoramic views. Other trails range from rainforest walks to beach treks.
• Bear Watching: From spring to early fall, join a guided boat tour to watch black bears forage along the shoreline at low tide—best seen in the morning.
  Tour operators: Tofino Whale Centre, Remote Passages, Jamie’s Whaling Station

• Whale Watching: Between March and October, witness gray whales, humpbacks, and orcas in Clayoquot Sound. Spring is peak season for gray whale migration.
  Tour operators: Tofino Whale Centre, Jamie’s Whaling Station, West Coast Aquatic Safaris

  Learn more about what to do in Tofino here: Tourism Tofino

When is the ideal time to visit Tofino?

• Summer (June to September):
  This is the prime season to experience Tofino at its best. Expect long, sunny days, warm temperatures, and ideal conditions for outdoor adventures like surfing, whale and bear watching, kayaking, hiking, and beach lounging. The town is alive with festivals, open-air dining, and bustling surf culture. It’s the perfect time for first-time visitors and families looking to enjoy the full range of Tofino’s natural beauty and activities. Note: Harbour Air flights to Tofino operate from April 1st until September 30th. Book flights early—summer is the most popular season!
• Winter (November to March):
  Known for storm watching, this is Tofino’s quiet, moody season. Watch dramatic waves crash along the coastline, cozy up in oceanfront lodges, and enjoy off-season rates. Ideal for a romantic or reflective getaway.

How do I book a Harbour Air flight?

Harbour Air offers seasonal flights to Tofino Harbour. To book a flight:​

1. Visit Harbour Air's official booking page.

2. Select your departure location (e.g., Richmond (YVR Shttps://www.harbourair.com/book-flight/?utm_source=chatgpt.comouth) or Downtown Vancouver) and choose Tofino as your destination.​

3. Select 'One Way' or 'Round Trip'. Choose your travel dates and the number of passengers.​

4. Browse available flights and select a suitable option.​

5. Proceed to payment to confirm your booking.