By Kerry Slavens
YAM’s Editor had the ultimate Winter Tofino experience and she shared her go-to places to stay, eat, drink and play.
STAY
Pacific Sands Resort
This oceanside resort is located on Cox Bay, a surf beach right at the edge of Pacific Rim National Park. The resort’s 41-plus acres take in more than 1,000 feet of beach. Each room is a suite and is either oceanfront or has ocean views. All have private decks or patios facing the beach. There are luxe beach houses. Enjoy fire pits, Adirondack chairs and big hammocks. The Surf Shack and Surfside Grill are on site. Don’t miss the Sunset Trail boardwalk to Pettinger Point.
SURF
Surf Sister
Started with a cell phone and a van, today Surf Sister is one of Tofino’s largest surf schools with all-female instructors. Classes are coed and for all levels, from beginners to hard-core.
KAYAK
Tofino Sea Kayaking
Tofino’s original kayaking company since 1988 is for paddlers of all levels, with experienced guides and a program of day tours and multi-day expeditions. Gourmet lunch boxes are available.
EAT
1909 Kitchen
Ingredient-driven dishes, sourced and foraged from Tofino’s oceans, shoreline and forests are featured at waterfront 1909 Kitchen. Chef Paul Moran’s passion for foraging, paired with an impressive culinary background, means a distinctly Tofinian menu that represents the true essence of the rugged, bountiful West Coast cuisine: Seafood platters and fresh catch share the table with delicious vegetable-forward dishes. Definitely try the pizzas from the kitchen’s Mugnaini wood-fired oven.
Wolf in the Fog
Wolf in the Fog captures the spirit of Tofino with Chef Nick Nutting’s seasonal menu of seafood from Tofino suppliers, meat and grain from Island farmers, and foraged greens and mushrooms. A focus on family-style gatherings, communal dining and sharing plates, encourages guests to engage with their food. Do not miss the Potato Crusted Oysters.
Bravocados
Fresh vegan and vegetarian meals feature many gluten-free choices. Don’t miss the “Buffalo” wings.
Surfside Grill
Former commercial fisherman Jeff Mikus’s Surfside Grill is a favourite for locals and visitors offering mouthwatering fish and chips, fish tacos, burgers and more.
DRINK
Tofino Distillery
Visit the tasting room for flagship spirits, including Small Batch Vodka, Jalapeño Vodka, West Coast Gin, Old Growth Cedar Gin, Psychedelic Jellyfish Absinthe and Rose Hibiscus Gin.
Tofino Brewing Co.
Visit the brewery’s tasting room for small-batch handcrafted beers like Tuff Session Ale and Kelp Stout, along with pretzels, salty crunch mix and smoked salmon.