Vancouver to Nanaimo and Tofino

Horseshoe Bay - Begin the journey from Vancouver by heading west to the BC Ferries terminal at Horseshoe Bay. If time permits, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque village of Horseshoe Bay.

Once aboard the ferry at Horseshoe Bay, enjoy the 1.5-hour voyage to Nanaimo. Savor breakfast on board, or visit the upper deck to breathe in the fresh air and admire the scenery. Be on the lookout for whales, eagles, and other wildlife, as the Salish Sea is a vibrant marine habitat.

Nanaimo - Dubbed the “Harbour City” for its charming, island-protected harbor located in the city’s center, this urban haven offers a perfect blend of activities. From hiking, kayaking, and boating to world-class snorkeling and scuba diving, as well as excellent dining, shopping, museums, and festivals.

Old Country Market - Goats on Roof - After disembarking the ferry, follow the signs to drive north. Beyond Nanaimo, you’ll soon arrive in the tranquil district of Coombs/Errington, home to the renowned Coombs Country Market, famous for its rooftop goats.

Spend an hour or two exploring the market and nearby shops – it’s a sensory delight. Discover food, baked goods, candy, specialty crafts, and ice cream with 55 flavors. And don’t forget to spot the goats!

MacMillan Provincial Park - MacMillan Provincial Park, also known as Cathedral Grove, is a quintessential west coast destination. The park offers breathtaking views of one of the most accessible old-growth rainforests on Vancouver Island.

The winding trails at this popular stop provide visitors with an intimate view of the trees that form BC’s iconic rainforest – massive Douglas fir and Western red cedar trees that are over 800 years old and up to 9m/30ft in circumference.

Port Alberni - Port Alberni marks the halfway point on the drive to Tofino and Ucluelet.

This expansive oceanside town has strong ties to the forest and fishing industries, proudly showcasing this heritage through attractions like McLean Mill National Historic Site and the Maritime Discovery Centre. From downtown, hop on a 1929 ex-logging locomotive for a journey through the town and surrounding forest to the historic McLean Mill.

Ucluelet - Welcome to the Pacific Rim! A short drive down the Ucluth peninsula leads to the quaint town of Ucluelet, where outdoor adventures await. Interested in fishing? Numerous charters are available. Feeling hungry? Visit Norwoods for a memorable meal, or enjoy the stunning views from Black Rock Resort. Several surf schools offer rentals and lessons, or try a guided kayak tour of the harbor or the Broken Group Islands.

Tofino - Travel through Pacific Rim National Park, then check into your hotel and enjoy some leisure time. Dinner (not included) will be followed by a beach campfire with roasted marshmallows and s’mores for dessert (weather and fire restrictions permitting).

Tofino to Vancouver

Pacific Rim National Park - Pacific Rim National Park Reserve spans 511 km² in British Columbia, Canada, and consists of three distinct regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail. It showcases the Pacific Coast Mountains landscape, known for its rugged coasts and temperate rainforests.

Ucluelet Aquarium - Explore the Ucluelet Aquarium to discover the incredible marine life inhabiting the waters of Barkley and Clayoquot Sounds.

Wild Pacific Trail - A destination for scenic hikes through tree-topped paths overlooking rugged coastlines and crashing waves. The Wild Pacific Trail starts near the mouth of Ucluelet Inlet, at Amphitrite Point Lighthouse.

Nanaimo - Nanaimo is a city and ferry port on the east coast of Vancouver Island, in British Columbia, Canada. At its core, the Nanaimo Museum features exhibits on the city’s industries and indigenous peoples. Near the Harbourfront Walkway, the Bastion is an 1853 wooden tower with summer cannon firings. The Old City Quarter is filled with shops and cafes. Offshore, on Newcastle Island, trails lead to beaches and First Nations sites.

• Round trip ferry transportation
• Private transportation
• Minimum 2 People Needed to Run this Tour
• 1 night hotel accommodation
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Breakfast
• Discounts for optional activities such as surfing, whale watching, kayaking, and many more!
• Snaps and Photo Stop Allowed

• Food and drinks, unless specified Gratuities

Tofino Tour offers a personalized experience to explore the stunning natural beauty of Vancouver Island’s West Coast. Enjoy outdoor activities such as surfing, kayaking, and whale watching.

Key attractions include the ferry ride to Nanaimo, Coombs Market, Port Alberni, Ucluelet Wild Pacific Trail, Long Beach, the town of Tofino, and numerous hiking trails. This tour also provides opportunities for whale watching, surfing lessons, kayaking, and other exciting activities!

Day 1: Depart from Vancouver at 7:15 am sharp. Enjoy a ferry ride through the Strait of Georgia to Nanaimo. Discover Englishman River Falls, drive through Coombs Pacific Rim National Park, then check into your hotel and enjoy leisure time.

Day 2: Visit Long Beach, a surfer’s paradise. Explore the charming fishing village of Tofino, renowned for activities like surfing, whale watching, bear watching, and kayaking. Depart Tofino in the afternoon and arrive back in Vancouver by 10 pm.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.