A Vancouver Island black bear on the shoreline near Tofino

Visit Tofino with care

A black bear foraging near Tofino. Watch wildlife from a distance. Photo: Charles J. Sharp · Source · CC BY-SA 4.0

The coast is someone’s home. Travel in a way that respects local communities, Indigenous stewardship and the living landscapes you came to enjoy.

Updated · Independent visitor guide

Learn whose territory you are visiting

Tofino is in Tla-o-qui-aht territory, and regional excursions may enter other Nations’ territories. Learn from the Nations and Indigenous-led operators rather than treating cultural places as unrestricted attractions. Follow the access arrangements and stewardship guidance for the specific place you visit.

Keep wildlife wild

Observe from a distance, never feed animals, and secure food and waste. Follow current pet restrictions rather than assuming every beach has the same rules. Use designated paths and avoid trampling shoreline habitat for a photo.

Respect shoreline access

Use public access points and respect private property and closures. Low tide does not turn every island or shoreline into a public route. Give local residents room, keep noise down and leave nothing behind.

Support the community

Choose local businesses, ask thoughtful questions and make reservations you intend to keep. Our business directory is a starting point, while the official tourism and Nation resources provide further context for a respectful visit.

Frequently asked questions

Whose territory is Tofino on?

Tofino is within Tla-o-qui-aht Ha’huułi (territory). Hot Springs Cove is within Ahousaht Hahuulthi.

Can you have a fire on Tofino beaches?

Beach fires are allowed at Chesterman and tinwis subject to current restrictions, but not at Cox Bay or Tonquin.

Sources & current information

Check the responsible provider for current access, schedules, prices and availability.