When you arrive in Tofino, it is almost like you have made it to the edge of the world. You have an endless ocean on one side and stunning old-growth forest on the other. It is like a place straight out of a fairy tale with a quaint downtown filled with local restaurants and shops. It is truly one of the most romantic spots in Canada and in the world and the perfect escape for you and your partner.
Where to Stay
There is nothing more romantic than waking up to the sound of the ocean and being just steps away from some of the most beautiful beaches in B.C. That is why staying at the Wickanninsh Inn is a must.
The Wick, for short, is located on the edge of the west coast of Vancouver Island and is surrounded by the untamed beauty of the ancient rainforest and the Pacific Ocean. Each of the rooms is designed to match the natural charm. Wood finishes, a reading nook, and dining space you really don’t have to leave the room, but I suggest you do to check out their restaurant The Pointe. They offer delicious brunch and with tables that extend over the ocean you can sit and watch the surfers in the distance. The whole place truly screams romance.
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What to Do
1) Take a day trip to the Hot Springs
Make your way by boat over to the Hot Springs Cove. I suggest the boat because you never know what you might see along the way. We were surprised by a pod of whales. Once there you take a stunning walk through the rainforest and arrive at the therapeutic mineral hot springs. Take in the views of the nearby waterfall that gushes into a series of natural pools and enjoy the stunning views overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The whole experience is pretty magical.
2) Hang Ten
Surf lessons may not scream romance of the bat, but trying a new activity with your partner is always fun and definitely brings you two a little closer together. Cheer on your cutie as they try and catch a wave in a place that is considered to have the best surfing in all of Canada. The best part is, it is one of the few places where you can surf year-round.
3) Go on a hike
One of the things that makes Tofino so spectacular is the incredible old-growth forest. Tofino is home to the Pacific Rim National Park, which has some of the oldest documented trees in all of Canada and a romantic shot to discover together. Why not spend a day trying to find the old Canso Plane Crash Site. This hike isn’t too difficult but at the end, you will be rewarded by seeing a beautiful Royal Canadian Air Force plane that crashed shortly after takeoff in 1945.
4) Take a stroll along the beach
As mentioned, Tofino is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Canada and what is more romantic than walking hand in hand down a beach with your partner? Long Beach is a must-visit and make sure to snap a picture of the two of you in front of Incinerator Rock.
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5) Shop for some local art
Along the main road in Tofino there are so many adorable shops with local designers and artists so it is easy to find the perfect souvenir to take home with you. Stopping in at the Roy Henry Vickers Gallery. Roy Henry Vickers is a Tsimshian Native artist and his gallery is filled with carvings and paintings that depict life on the west coast. Definitely a great addition for the house.
6) Explore the town by the sea
Sea kayaking is a beautiful way to explore the Clayoquot Sound. Paddle around the islands and inlets. It is pretty magical to see the old-growth so close and keep your eyes peeled for sea otters and seals along the way.
7) Try some delicious local food
One of my favourite things about Tofino is the delicious local cuisine. There are such amazing restaurants from casual dining to tasty food trucks. Get dressed up with your partner and head down for some fresh seafood at Shelter or try some of the best tacos in the world at a Tofino (and now BC staple) Tacofino.
Tofino is one of those magical places where you can relax, rejuvenate, and enjoy the stunning nature with your partner.
