Adventures in Tofino | Things to Do at MacKenzie Beach Resort
Tofino and Ucluelet sit on the wild west coast of Vancouver Island, and the list of things to do here is long enough to keep you coming back season after season. From MacKenzie Beach Resort — one of the top-rated resorts in Tofino — you are perfectly positioned to explore everything this coastline has to offer. Here is your guide to the adventures waiting outside your door.
Top Adventures in Tofino
Surfing
Tofino is the surf capital of Canada, and for good reason. Long Beach, Cox Bay, and Chesterman Beach offer waves for every skill level — from first-timers to experienced riders. MacKenzie Beach Resort is one of the area's premier surfing resorts, with surf rentals available through our amenities so you can grab a board and hit the water without any hassle. After your session, warm up at Tuff City Saunas right here on the resort grounds.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
This is one of the most spectacular stretches of protected coastline in the world. Hike through old-growth rainforest on the Rainforest Trail, walk the shoreline at Schooner Cove, or spend a full day exploring the Bog Trail and South Beach. The park entrance is a short drive from the resort.
Storm Watching
Between November and February, Tofino transforms into one of the best storm watching destinations on the planet. Massive Pacific storms roll in with towering waves and dramatic skies. Watching it all unfold from the warmth of your beachfront cabin — hot tub steaming, ocean raging — is an experience you will not forget.
Hot Springs Cove
A boat or floatplane ride north of Tofino brings you to natural hot springs tucked into the rainforest along the coast. The pools are heated by geothermal springs and flushed by ocean waves at high tide. It is a bucket-list Tofino experience and one of the most unique things you can do on Vancouver Island.
Whale Watching & Wildlife Tours
Grey whales, humpbacks, orcas, sea lions, eagles, and bears — the wildlife around Tofino is extraordinary. Several local operators run whale watching tours, bear watching excursions, and marine wildlife trips from Tofino's harbour. Spring through fall offers the best whale watching, while bear tours run from late spring into autumn.
Kayaking Clayoquot Sound
Paddle through the calm waters of Clayoquot Sound, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Guided kayak tours take you through ancient waterways, past islands, and alongside marine wildlife. It is one of the most peaceful ways to experience Tofino's natural landscape.
Exploring Ucluelet
Ucluelet is Tofino's quieter neighbour, about 40 minutes south along the Pacific Rim Highway. It has its own rugged personality and is well worth a day trip — or more.
- Wild Pacific Trail — a stunning clifftop trail with views of Barkley Sound and the open Pacific
- Big Beach & Little Beach — quieter stretches of sand perfect for a mellow afternoon
- Ucluelet Aquarium — a catch-and-release aquarium showcasing local marine species (great for families)
- Whale watching & diving — Ucluelet's harbour offers its own set of marine adventure tours
Family-Friendly Adventures
Tofino and Ucluelet are fantastic for families. Learn to surf together at Cox Bay, explore tidal pools along the beaches, bike through the trails, or spend an afternoon at the Ucluelet Aquarium. Beach yoga sessions are available at the resort for all ages and skill levels. For larger groups, the resort can accommodate family reunions and multi-family trips across our range of cabins and suites.
Your Launchpad for West Coast Adventures
MacKenzie Beach Resort sits just 5 minutes by car from downtown Tofino — or a 15-minute walk. That puts you close to restaurants, shops, and tour operators while keeping you tucked into the quiet of Tinwis Beach. Check our getting here page for directions and travel tips.As an eco-conscious resort, we take pride in helping you explore this coast responsibly. Our Drifter Code philosophy shapes everything we do — from how we run the resort to how we encourage guests to experience Tofino's natural beauty with respect and intention.Grab your surf gear from our rentals and spend the day exploring one of the most beautiful coastlines in the world. Then come home to your beachfront accommodation, fire up the hot tub, and watch the sunset over the Pacific.Browse our accommodation options to find the perfect fit for your Tofino adventure.
Book Your Stay at Tinwis Beach
Questions about activities or need help planning your trip? Reach out to us — we know this coast inside and out.