Tofino has a magic to it – drifting fog, ancient giant cedar trees and the tranquil sound of the ocean. An amazing way to experience it all up close is by sea kayaking between the islands and hiking in the rainforest. Disclosure: some activities on this blog were provided at low cost or no cost, but as always, I write about my own honest experiences and opinions, which I share with you here so that you can get the best ideas and advice for your own adventure planning!
Sea Kayaking
There are lots of tour companies who offer great excursions, and after reading reviews, we picked local legends Paddle West Kayaking. Our tour guide, Sam, is studying to be an Oceanographer and was a wealth of information. The other kayakers were joining from other parts of Canada and Europe. We didn’t have any previous experience in sea kayaking, coming from land-locked Calgary, so Sam gave us all a quick paddling lesson, got us outfitted with safety gear, and soon we were out in the water.
Watching the water glide silently under the kayak was mesmerizing, and the surrounding 360 degree views were stunning. Snowcapped mountains, green-blue waters, colourful boats and islands dot the landscape. Eagles were soaring high above and seals playing and splashing nearby. It was incredible!
As we paddled between islands, our guide talked about the ocean, the islands, the history, and the peoples. While we stopped to look at rock kelp, we heard the tell-tale puffing sound of a blow-hole and turned to see a pod of porpoises go by. Spectacular!
Rainforest Hiking
We landed the kayaks at Meares Island and walked through the rainforest on a raised boardwalk. The Tribal Park fee goes towards environmental monitoring and caretaking of these ancient forests by the traditional guardians. A wooden board walk winds through the island and our kayak guide shows us hanging mosses and clear ‘bubbles’ filled with tiny salamander eggs, while describing how the various trees grow together. The massive trees speak for themselves as the wind rustles their leaves.
Reflection
Back in the kayaks, we return to Tofino: our souls filled with the lush aesthetics of the forest, our heads brimming with new knowledge and our hearts bursting from a shared experience with other travelers who have now become friends. What a world away from the hustle of everyday life! An amazing trip that I’ll remember long from now!