Tofino is a beautiful coastal destination on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada with stunning beaches, great surfing, amazing hiking through ancient rainforests, and laid back coastal charm. This remote location is an incredible elopement destination for couples looking for both the moody surf vibes in town, and the stunning natural beauty and all the adventures that come along with it.

35 mm film photo of Tofino Elopement Photographer Heather Nolan of Wildflower Elopement Co. They are laughing and looking off camera

I'm Heather, your Tofino Elopement Photographer and Planner, and I truly believe in crafting elopements with intention. I'm here to help you discover all the possibilities for your Tofino elopement, from sunrise ceremonies on the beach followed by a surf sesh, to biking deep into the rain forest for a ceremony among the old growth trees, and everything in between! In this guide you'll find some fun ideas for adventures you could include on your elopement day.

Tofino Adventure Elopement Activities

couple walks along the beach in Tofino with surf boards at sunset

image sourced from Google

1. Surfing, Obviously!!


Tofino is a world renowned destination for cold water surfing, and people come from all over the world to experience these magical waves. Whether you are seasoned pros or just trying surfing for the first time, this is an incredibly fun way to experience Tofino and participate in the local culture. Imagine a sunrise surf session and campfire coffee to start the morning before heading back to your accomodations for a hot shower and to get ready for the rest of the day!

an orca whale jumping out of the water in Tofino

image sourced from Google

2. Whale Watching Boat Tour


If getting in the water doesn't sound like your jam, there are plenty of ways to get out on the water - like a whale watching boat tour that will take you out into Clayoquot Sound to see the incredible marine life in the area, especially Orca Whales! It is also just a beautiful way to relax on board and explore the coastal scenery without having to do the paddling yourself. Imagine a ceremony right on board, while these playful whales splash around you!

couple kayaks along shoreline with boulders and evergreen trees in Tofino

image sourced from Google

3. Kayak or SUP Along the Coast


For a more hands-on boating experience, there are endless opportunities to explore the coast with its calm waters and remote beaches in a Kayak or SUP. This is the perfect way to pack a picnic, or even your vow books, and find a secluded, intimate location to explore together for your Tofino elopement.

cyclist on the path of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve with lush rainforest on both sides

image sourced from Google

4. Head Out For an Epic Bike Ride


There are so many incredible bike rides in the area, and cycling is such a beautiful way to explore on your elopement day. From forest paths through the old growth of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, to the endless opportunities to ride along the hard packed sand at low tide along the many sandy beaches, to exploring the town, biking is the perfect pace to explore Tofino.

waterfall cascades over the cliff and into the natural hot springs at Hot Spring Cove in Tofino

image sourced from Google

5. Explore the Hot Springs at Hot Springs Cove


These incredible natural Hot Springs are only accessible by float plane or boat tour, making them a full adventure to get to! A beautiful way to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings, especially on chillier days. This unique spot would make a perfect relaxing addition to your Tofino elopement!

woman walks along wooden boardwalk surrounded by old growth forest on Vancouver Island

image sourced from Google

6. Hiking in the Old Growth Forests


Vancouver Island is famous for the incredible old growth trees in the vibrant rainforests. A walk through these incredible, massive trees with their dense carpet of moss is an absolute must on your visit to Tofino! There are several great trails to check out, but the Rainforest A and B (one loop on either side of the highway) trails are one of the best ways to have a look at these incredible trees. The Ancient Cedars Loop in nearby Ucluelet is another incredible spot to check out the beautiful old growth.

Tofino Elopement Photographer

Heather Nolan of Wildflower Elopement Co stands on a rock in a river surrounded by wildflowers, looking down into a TLR film camera

Feeling excited about all the unique coastal activities Tofino has to offer, and ready to start planning your best adventure yet? I'm here to help. Get in touch to chat more and find out how I can help you plan a Tofino elopement that is totally custom to who you are as a couple and all your favourite things to do together.

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