About Tofino
Tofino, population 2,500 in 2021, is a former logging and fishing village that has become a center for ecotourism and activities such as whale watching, surfing, and camping. It is located on Clayoquot Sound, on the Pacific coast of Vancouver Island, 208 km (129 miles) west of Nanaimo. Clayoquot Sound is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Source: Wikipedia
Essential Information
Currency
Canadian dollar (CAD)
Symbol: $
Language
English
Also: French
Phone Code
+1
International dialing code for Canada
Driving
Drive on the right
Standard for Canada
Region
Americas
North America
Connectivity
Cell phones work in Tofino, but data connections can be very slow. Computers with Internet access are available at a few shops in town (such as the Tofino Pharmacy and Tofitian Coffee Shop). Free Wifi is available at Darwins Cafe at the Tofino Botanical Gardens.
How to Get to Tofino
Transportation options and arrival information
Tofino is only reachable by travelling west onHighway 4, which starts nearQualicum Beach. The road, best driven during the day, is very twisty and narrow (particularly west ofPort Alberni) but offers great views of lakes and mountains on the west coast. Coming fromVictoria, take Highway #1/#19 north 160 km to the Highway 4 turnoff west to Port Alberni.
Getting Around Tofino
Local transportation and navigation tips
The town is small enough to walk through. A dedicated walking and bike path runs all the way down to Cox Bay. A free shuttle bus with a surfboard rack runs hourly in the summer season giving access as far as Cox bay.
Safety in Tofino
Very High Safety (Global Peace Index: 1.389)
About the Global Peace Index: Global Peace Index measures peacefulness on a scale of 1 (most peaceful) to 5 (least peaceful)
Where to Stay in Tofino
Accommodation tips and recommendations
During high season (May–September) hotels here are among the most expensive in BC. During the off-season better deals are available. If you don't mind the 2 hour drive each way, considerably cheaper accommodation is available inPort Alberni.
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