Tofino, with just 1900 permanent residents lies on the west coast of Vancouver Island, on the tip of the Esowista Peninsula. It's a popular holiday destination due to it wild natural scenery and the best places to stay in Tofino are usually well placed for making the most of the area, whether you're here for the whale watching, surfing or simply a scenic getaway.

The resort enjoys a climate that is almost the definition of ‘temperate’. The winters are warm and the summers not too hot. As a result of this, you'll find many rare and exotic palms growing here.

During the summer months, the town’s population swells manyfold with the influx of tourists. People mainly come here to surf, camp and fish. It also attracts nature lovers, bird watchers, whale watchers and storm watchers! The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is close by and its hot springs are a particular draw. The Maquinna Marine Provincial Park also makes for an interesting day trip by boat or float plane.

There are a number of festivals to enjoy throughout the year:

• In May the Pacific Rim Whale Festival celebrates the migration of thousands of Grey Whales,
• in June Tofino hosts a Food and Wine Festival with British Columbian wines to the fore.
• There's a Lantern festival in August,
• ‘Art in the Garden’ in September
• and the O’Neill Coldwater Surf Classic in November - Canada’s only professional surfing competition.

Tofino has an airport and is also accessible by ferry and road from the mainland. Just remember that if you plan to visit during the busy summer months, the best places to stay in Tofino will be extremely busy, so do yourself a favour and book well ahead.

What Not to Miss

• Head off whale-watching, an enthralling way to spend a day.
• Spend your days hiking through the gorgeous Pacific Rim National Park - be sure to remember a camera!
• Or, alternatively, consider kayaking around Clayoquot Sound. A truly stunning spot.
• Afterwards, enjoy a refreshing beer at the Tofino Brewing Company.