3-Day Tofino/Ucluelet Adventure
Nestled along the rugged and breathtaking coastline of Vancouver Island, the towns of Ucluelet and Tofino offer a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventures, and culinary delights. This carefully curated three-day itinerary promises to captivate your senses and create lasting memories by combining exhilarating activities with opportunities to immerse yourself in the region’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences.
Getting to Tofino/Ucluelet
Embarking on your 3-day Tofino/Ucluelet adventure is easier than you might think, with various convenient transportation options available depending on your starting point.
From Canada: WestJet flies directly from Calgary or Edmonton to Comox on Vancouver Island, from where you can rent a car and drive to Ucluelet (about 3 hours). Air Canada flies into Nanaimo, or you can fly into Vancouver and take a commuter flight to Tofino (about 30 minutes from Ucluelet) with Orca Air.
From the USA: Many visitors fly into Vancouver and then rent a car, driving to the Tsawwassen Ferry (about 45 minutes) and taking a ferry to Nanaimo (Duke Point) on Vancouver Island (about 2 hours), followed by a 2.5-hour drive to Ucluelet. Alternatively, you can fly into Victoria, Comox, or Nanaimo and rent a car from there. If driving, you can take the Horseshoe Bay Ferry from Vancouver or the ferry from Port Angeles to Victoria if coming from Seattle or further south.
With these convenient transportation options and premium accommodation choices like the wood cabins with saunas and cold plunges offered by VancouverIslandvr.com, your 3-day Tofino/Ucluelet adventure promises to be a memorable and hassle-free experience immersed in the region’s natural beauty.
Day 1
Time | Activity | Duration |
9:00 AM | Surfing Lessons at Cox Beach | 2.5 hours |
12:00 PM | Lunch at Jiggers Food Truck | 1 hour |
2:00 PM | Fishing Charter with Salmon Eye Charters | 4 hours |
6:00 PM | Dinner at Wolf in the Fog | 2 hours |
Surfing Lessons
Kickstart your Tofino adventures by catching the exhilarating swells of the Pacific Ocean during a surfing lesson with the acclaimed Pacific Surf School. This renowned local outfitter is lauded for its passionate, certified instructors who make your safety and overall experience their top priorities. You’ll be fully equipped with high-quality rental gear, including sturdy beginner-friendly lesson boards and premium wetsuits designed to withstand the chilly Pacific waters.
What truly sets Pacific Surf School apart is their unwavering dedication to providing the quintessential West Coast surfing experience. Their carefully curated team of instructors possess a profound love for the ocean and an eagerness to share that passion. With certifications in First Aid, CPR-C, and Bronze Cross, your well-being is always the foremost concern. Under their expert guidance and local knowledge, you’ll master proper techniques and ocean safety protocols. Pacific Surf School also offers professional photography packages, ensuring you can immortalize your memorable time riding the iconic waves. By choosing them, you’re supporting a community-driven, locally-owned business that gives back through initiatives like the local elementary school’s surf club program.
Lunch at Jiggers Food Truck
After a day of exploring the rugged beauty of Ucluelet on Canada’s Wild West Coast, there’s nothing quite like satisfying your hunger with a visit to the beloved Jiggers Food Truck. This local institution has been serving up mouthwatering fish and chips for decades, making it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists alike.
As you approach the truck, the tantalizing aroma of sizzling fish and crispy fries wafts through the air, whetting your appetite. The friendly staff greets you with a warm smile, ready to serve up a feast that will tantalize your taste buds. Each bite of the flaky, tender fish encased in a light, crispy batter is a revelation, perfectly complemented by the tartare sauce and creamy coleslaw. While Ucluelet has since welcomed a diverse array of food trucks, Jiggers remains a beloved institution, offering a taste of the region’s rich culinary heritage and the true essence of this charming ocean village.
4 hour Fishing Charter with Salmon Eye Charters
Prepare for the highlight of your day – a 4-hour fishing charter with Salmon Eye, where you’ll have the opportunity to reel in the prized salmon while keeping an eye out for other ocean wildlife including eagles, bears, whales, and sea lions. Whether you’re a local looking for a day on the water or a visitor with a tight schedule, this professionally guided fishing adventure promises an unforgettable experience.
From the breathtaking scenery to the world-class fishing, you’ll be hooked from the moment you step aboard one of Salmon Eye’s 25-31 foot boats with large heated cabins and toilets. Stay dry and comfortable with onboard amenities (like a toilet) as you fish with top-of-the-line equipment including Scotty downriggers and 10.5 ft with top of the line rods and reels. Your catch will be expertly cleaned by the crew, allowing you to simply enjoy the thrill of reeling them in. With fishing starting at 2pm, you’ll have ample time to reel in memories that will have you yearning to return to Ucluelet’s waters again soon. There is options for vacuum sealing close by. Visit www.salmoneye.net.
Home-cooked Dinner with Freshly Caught Fish
After a long and eventful day exploring the natural wonders of Tofino and Ucluelet, there’s no better way to unwind than by preparing a delicious home-cooked meal with the freshly caught fish from your fishing charter. Consider booking one of the premium wood cabins offered by Vancouver Island Vacation Rentals (VIVR) to fully immerse yourself in the authentic West Coast experience
These rustic yet well-appointed cabins provide a unique lodging experience that connects you with the great outdoors. Imagine preparing your fresh catch in a cozy cabin kitchen, surrounded by the sights and sounds of nature. Many cabins feature private outdoor spaces like saunas, cold plunge pools, hot tubs, and fireplaces where you can relax and savor your meal while taking in breathtaking ocean vistas. As the sun sets, you may even spot whales breaching in the distance. With prime locations offering breathtaking natural surroundings, VIVR’s wood cabins create an unforgettable home base to relish the flavors of the Pacific and reminisce about your Tofino/Ucluelet adventures.
Day 2
Time | Activity | Duration |
9:30 AM | Hiking the Wild Pacific Trail (45-minute loop) | 1.5 hours |
12:00 PM | Lunch at the Floathouse | 1.5 hours |
2:00 PM | Kayaking in Barkley Sound | 6 hours |
8:30 PM | Home-cooked dinner | 1.5 hours |
Hiking the Wild Pacific Trail
Escape into the rugged coastal beauty of Vancouver Island by hiking the renowned Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet. This 7-phase trail system hugs the dramatic cliffs and shoreline, offering breathtaking vistas of Barkley Sound, the Broken Group Islands, and the vast open Pacific Ocean at every turn. The 45-minute loop meanders through ancient cedar and spruce forests before emerging at strategically placed viewing platforms that frame spectacular seaward panoramas.
Immerse in the area’s rich natural and cultural history by joining guided tours led by experts or taking advantage of online resources. Pause along the way to soak in the wonders surrounding you and capture photographs that will become cherished memories. Whether a local resident or visitor from afar, hiking the wondrous Wild Pacific Trail promises an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the wild majesty of Canada’s West Coast.
Paddle into Serenity: Kayaking Barkley Sound
Experience the tranquil beauty of Vancouver Island’s west coast by kayaking the serene waters of Barkley Sound with Paddle West Kayaking. Begin your aquatic adventure from the historic Ucluelet Harbour, where you may be greeted by bald eagles soaring gracefully overhead, seals basking on the rocky outcrops, and playful sea lions frolicking in their natural habitat.
Venture beyond the harbour and glide through mystical kelp forests, their emerald fronds swaying hypnotically beneath the surface. Hug the rugged shorelines, teeming with a fascinating array of intertidal life. For those seeking an extra exhilarating experience, paddle further into the open ocean to behold the breathtaking coastal vistas that draw kayakers from around the globe.
Ucluelet offers a hidden gem for kayaking enthusiasts exploring this wild West Coast region. While Barkley Sound is justly renowned for its abundant marine life and jaw-dropping natural scenery, Ucluelet provides unparalleled access to these wonders without the crowds found at hotspots like the Broken Group Islands. This peaceful on-the-water activity allows you to forge a deep connection with nature, savoring the tranquility of the surroundings and creating lasting memories amid Vancouver Island’s coastal splendor.
Dinner at Wolf in the Fog
After a day filled with adventurous pursuits, indulge in a culinary experience that will have you howling with delight at Wolf in the Fog, one of Tofino’s most acclaimed restaurants. This popular establishment is renowned for its exceptional service, even on the busiest of nights, with attentive staff who provide a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Savor the flavors of locally sourced, seasonal ingredients expertly prepared by their talented chefs. Don’t miss the highly recommended charred octopus appetizer, a tantalizing blend of textures and bold flavors. For your main course, the delectable halibut dinner for two, showcasing the freshest catch from the Pacific, is a must-try. With its prime location overlooking the bay, Wolf in the Fog provides a stunning backdrop to toast the memories you’ve created.
The extensive wine list offers perfect pairings to complement your meal, ensuring a truly memorable dining experience. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends when it can be packed with locals and visitors alike, all seeking to indulge in the howling delights.
Day 3
Time | Activity | Duration |
10:00 AM | Archipelago Tours tour in Ucluelet for Barkley Sound with lunch | 5.5 hours |
4:00 PM | Visiting Chesterman Beach | 3 hours |
7:00 PM | Dinner at The Pointe Restaurant at Wickaninnish Inn | 3 hours |
Archipelago Tours
Embark on an unforgettable Archipelago Wildlife Cruises tour departing from Ucluelet. Step aboard the luxurious 53-foot “Raincoast Maiden” motor yacht and prepare for a one-of-a-kind nature cruise through the picturesque waters of Barkley Sound and the Broken Group Islands. With spacious indoor and outdoor seating areas, washroom facilities, and state-of-the-art hydraulic stabilizers ensuring a smooth ride, you’ll cruise in comfort while taking in the spectacular scenery.
Your knowledgeable guides will share their enthusiasm for the region as you keep watch for the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. Spot bald eagles soaring overhead, whales breaching offshore, and other marine mammals like sea lions, seals, and sea otters in their natural habitats. The tour includes a gourmet lunch served while anchored in a scenic location, making it more than just a wildlife viewing excursion – it’s an immersive West Coast experience. Whether joining a scheduled cruise or opting for a private charter, Archipelago Wildlife Cruises promises an unforgettable journey through one of Vancouver Island’s most breathtaking environments.
Visiting Chesterman Beach
No visit to the Tofino and Ucluelet region is complete without immersing yourself in the iconic beauty of its beaches. Spend an afternoon strolling along the sandy shores of Chesterman Beach, taking in the crashing waves and picturesque scenery as you explore the diverse coastal landscapes. Recently, Chesterman Beach has been recognized as one of the world’s best by the renowned travel guide Lonely Planet. In its highly anticipated January 2024 review, this 1.7-mile stretch of firm, sandy shoreline on Canada’s wild West Coast was named the 6th best beach globally – a testament to its impressive natural beauty and diverse environments.
The beach offers a captivating array of experiences that shift with the tides and time of day. Mornings often dawn with a romantic, misty ambiance, while afternoons beckon visitors to invigorating walks along the crashing surf and explorations of the fascinating tidal rock pools and Frank Island during low tide. As the sun sets, Chesterman Beach transforms into an enchanting evening backdrop, perfect for contemplating the world’s wonders while basking in the changing colors of dusk. With its ever-evolving moods and stunning scenery, a stroll along Chesterman Beach immerses you in the raw, rugged splendor of Vancouver Island’s coastline.
Dinner at Pointe Restaurant (Wickaninnish Inn)
As the day winds down, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at the renowned Pointe Restaurant at the Wickaninnish Inn. Perched at the edge of Chesterman Beach, this fine dining establishment offers stunning ocean views that perfectly complement its expertly prepared West Coast cuisine. Indulge in a menu that showcases fresh, local ingredients, expertly crafted by talented chefs who celebrate the flavors of the Pacific Northwest.
The attentive staff at The Pointe Restaurant provides exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of your dining experience is nothing short of extraordinary. As you savor each bite, raise a glass to toast your Tofino adventures and the unforgettable memories you’ve created amidst the region’s natural wonders.