Tofino with Kids: 5 Unique Activities You Haven’t Tried Yet

Looking for fun and unexpected things to do in Tofino with kids? You’re not alone. Before our first visit, we weren’t sure what to expect either. We knew we’d love the wild beaches and laid-back feel, but would it be the right kind of adventure for our kids?

Turns out, it absolutely was.

There’s so much more to Tofino with kids than sandcastles and surf. From spotting bears to exploring tide pools, this place has natural wonders and family-friendly surprises.

If you’re wondering what to do in Tofino beyond the usual beach day, here are five unique activities we tried (and loved) with our kids. You don’t need fancy gear or a packed schedule. Just a bit of curiosity, some layers, and maybe a snack or two.

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1. Surfing (Yes, Even with Kids!)

Surfing might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of things to do in Tofino with kids, but trust us—it’s totally possible, even for beginners. With the right surf school and gear, your kids can catch their first waves safely and confidently.

We booked a private family surf lesson with Tofino Surf Adventures and had an amazing experience. The water was cold (about 9–11°C in late April), but we were fully suited up with wetsuits, booties, gloves, and hoods—all provided. Even our kids, who aren’t usually fans of cold water, stayed comfortable the whole time.

The best part? Our instructor, Adam, focused on making the kids feel safe and excited. Meanwhile, my husband and I got a chance to paddle out and ride some bigger waves ourselves. Everyone had fun, and no one wanted it to end.

Surfing in Tofino is a great way to build confidence, burn energy, and try something new as a family. If you’ve been curious but hesitant, we say go for it—it might just be your trip highlight.

2. Bear Watching Tour by Boat

If your kids love animals, this adventure feels straight out of a nature documentary. Unlike a zoo visit, a bear-watching tour in Tofino lets you see black bears in the wild, from the safety and comfort of a boat.

During our trip, we debated between a whale-watching or bear-watching tour. We chose Jamies Whaling Station for a three-hour bear tour, which was a total win. The tour is timed with low tide, when bears come out to forage along the shoreline, flipping rocks in search of crabs. It’s a peaceful, fascinating experience—especially for kids seeing these animals in their natural habitat for the first time.

We were lucky enough to spot:

🐻 3 black bears

🦅 2 bald eagles

🦦 5 sea otters

🦭 2 sea lions

One important note: snacks aren’t allowed on board, so make sure your kids eat beforehand. Also, you’ll be asked to keep quiet when approaching the bears, so a bit of prep around that can help younger kids enjoy the moment without too much squirming.

With stunning views and plenty to see, this is one of the most unique wildlife experiences you can have in Tofino with kids.

3. Tide Pool Exploring at Low Tide

If you’re looking for a low-cost, high-reward adventure in Tofino with kids, tide pooling is a must. No tours, tickets, or gear are required—just curiosity, patience, and a good pair of waterproof shoes.

We spent hours exploring tide pools near the Ha’oom Fisheries Society, right by the HI Tofino Hostel (where we stayed). Each spot had something different to offer. The kids found everything from tiny crabs to bright sea anemones and even a strange, squishy sea slug (which we’re still talking about). We also saw many sand dollars at Cox Bay.

Tide pooling is perfect for families because it is interactive. Kids can lead the way, spotting creatures and asking questions while you enjoy the views and maybe snap a few photos.

Tip: Check the tide charts and go at low tide, ideally early in the day before the crowds arrive. Remind your kids to walk gently—this little underwater world is full of life.

If you’re wondering what to do in Tofino without a schedule or a reservation, tide pooling should be at the top of your list.

4. Discovering Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Tofino is surrounded by wild, beautiful nature, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is one of the best places to explore it with kids. You don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it. In fact, the park has several short, stroller-friendly trails that are perfect for families.

You’ll need a Parks Canada permit to visit the reserve. If you’re also visiting other national parks during your trip to Western Canada, then purchsing the Discovery Pass might be the best option. Also Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is span between Tofino and Ucluelet, so if you’re planning to visit Ucluelet, it’s best to visit on that day.

We loved the Rainforest Trail, with its raised boardwalks winding through old-growth trees. It felt like walking through a fairy tale forest. The Shorepine Bog Trail was another favourite, flat, easy, and filled with unique plants and boardwalk sections that kept the kids moving and curious.

And of course, there are the beaches. Long Beach is iconic (and it’s the one we went to), but quieter spots like Wickaninnish or Combers Beach are also great for a walk, a snack, or a few hours of digging in the sand.

Don’t skip the Kwisitis Visitor Centre, especially if your kids like hands-on exhibits. It’s a great spot to learn more about the ocean, local wildlife, and the area’s cultural history—all with a view of the surf. Sadly it was closed when we visited.

Exploring the park is an easy way to mix fresh air, learning, and freedom to roam. If you’re thinking about things to do in Tofino with kids that get you outside without too much planning, this is it.

5. Trying Local Seafood – Kid-Approved Spots

Tofino’s food scene is full of fresh West Coast flavours, but you don’t need to be a seafood expert to enjoy it. We were pleasantly surprised by how many dishes our kids loved, even the ones we didn’t expect.

Wildside Grill was one of our favourite casual spots. It offers fresh, simple meals that work well for families, think fish and chips, tuna poke bowls, and fish tacos. You can order, grab a seat outdoors, and let the kids run around while you wait.

One of our more adventurous meals was at The Bear Bierhaus, where our oldest decided to try oysters for the first time (and actually liked them). 

Other Fun Things to Do in Tofino with Kids

Beyond the big adventures, there are plenty of smaller moments that make a family trip to Tofino feel special. One of our favourites? Grabbing a cone (or sundae!) at Tofino Licks. Their soft serve with creative toppings is perfect after a beach day or surf session. We also picked up breakfast and pie from Savary Island Pie Company Tofino—the perfect mix of sweet and satisfying.

We also loved hiking the Tonquin Trail, a short, scenic route that winds through the forest and opens up to stunning coastal views. It’s a great option for younger kids who might not be up for a full day hike but still want to explore.

Wandering downtown Tofino is another easy, low-key activity. There are lots of fun local shops to check out—from surf gear and souvenirs to books and handmade goods. The whole area is walkable and full of character. Don’t miss the playground near the community centre if your kids need a quick energy burn. It’s nothing fancy, but it’s a nice little break in the middle of the day. And if you have a rainy morning or some downtime, stop by the Tofino Clayoquot Heritage Museum. It’s small but interesting, and a good way to learn more about the region’s history together.

Getting Ready for Your Family Trip to Tofino Family

How to Get to Tofino

Tofino sits on the west coast of Vancouver Island, and getting there is part of the adventure. If you’re coming from Vancouver, take the ferry to Nanaimo or Victoria, then drive across the island to the coast. The drive from Nanaimo takes about 3 hours and winds through stunning mountain and forest scenery.

You can also fly directly into Tofino-Long Beach Airport from Vancouver or take a bus from major Vancouver Island towns. Just keep in mind that once you’re in Tofino, having a car makes it much easier to explore with kids.

Where to Stay with Kids in Tofino

Tofino has a range of places to stay, from beachfront resorts to budget-friendly hostels and family cottages. We stayed at HI Tofino Hostel, and it was a great fit—cozy, close to the beach, with a shared kitchen and common spaces the kids really enjoyed. (We’ll be sharing a full review soon.)

If you prefer more space or a few extra comforts, there are resorts and cottages with kitchens, many just steps from the sand. For a more outdoorsy stay, campgrounds and campervan sites are available nearby. We also rented a campervan from Venture Van for part of our trip and loved how easy it made travelling and camping with kids.

Wherever you stay, look for somewhere close to the beach, with room to relax and make a few meals. In a place like Tofino, the simpler and more flexible your setup, the better.

Best Time to Visit Tofino with Kids

The best time to visit Tofino with kids is late spring through early fall. From May to September, you’ll get milder weather, longer days, and a better chance of sunshine, perfect for beach time, hiking, and wildlife tours. Summer is the most popular season, so it’s also the busiest. If you want fewer crowds and slightly lower prices, aim for May, June, or early September.

That said, Tofino’s beauty isn’t limited to the warm months. If your family enjoys cozy cabins, storm watching, and fewer tourists, fall and winter have their own kind of magic, just be ready for rain and plan some indoor downtime.

We visited in mid-April and it was absolutely wonderful. We had a full week of sunny days and around 14 to 18C days.

What to Pack for Tofino with Kids

Tofino weather can change quickly—even in summer—so packing smart is key. Layers and waterproof gear will go a long way in keeping everyone comfortable and ready for adventure.

Here’s what we recommend bringing:

• Rain jackets and waterproof pants – Even sunny days can turn wet fast.
• Waterproof shoes or boots – Great for tide pooling, trails, and wet boardwalks.
• Warm layers – Hoodies, long sleeves, and fleece are useful year-round.
• Beach gear – Swimsuits, towels, buckets, shovels, and maybe a beach blanket.
• Daypacks – Small backpacks for hikes, snacks, and spare clothes.
• Snacks and a few groceries – Tofino has stores, but options can be limited and pricey.
• Books, games, or art supplies – For quiet time or rainy afternoons.
• Sunscreen and hats – Yes, even on cloudy days.
• Binoculars – A hit for wildlife tours or beach spotting.

If you’re surfing, gear will be provided by your school—but bringing a warm change of clothes and a towel is a must for after the lesson.

Final Thoughts: Try Something New on Your Next Trip to Tofino

Tofino with kids is more than just a beach getaway. From surfing and tide pooling to bear watching and forest trails, it’s the kind of place that invites curiosity and creates lasting memories—often when you least expect it.

You don’t have to do everything. Pick one or two new things to try, leave room for spontaneous beach time, and let the rest unfold naturally. That’s where the magic usually happens.

Tofino keeps surprising us, and we can’t wait to go back and explore more. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something new waiting just beyond the next wave or forest path.

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