Tofino Sea Kayaking is your gateway to adventure in the pristine wilderness of Clayoquot Sound. Join us for guided tours exploring the area’s natural beauty and cultural history. Our dedicated team promotes sustainable travel and outdoor education, ensuring a memorable and enriching experience for all.
Single Itineary
Exploring Clayoquot Sound: A Paddler’s Dream Destination
Sandy beaches, steep old-growth forested hills, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history. World-renowned Clayoquot Sound, with Tofino as a launch point, offer diverse guided tours for novice paddlers, and challenging solo experiences for the intermediate to advanced paddler. While there are some sheltered route options for short trips; on longer trips paddlers must be experienced and prepared for paddling in ocean swell, strong tidal currents, landing on surf beaches, navigating in fog amongst motorized vessels, and predicting changing wind conditions.
A classic trip for seasoned paddlers is kayaking up to Hot Springs Cove, in traditional Ahousaht territory, along the inside waters to be rewarded with a soak in mineral pools. This is a region where local knowledge is critical for planning ahead. Reach out to a local outfitter for guided tours and information on planning multi-day excursions.
Gear and Safety
Strong currents and large ocean swells can significantly increase the difficulty of paddling, especially on more exposed routes, so ensure you have the skills and equipment to navigate these conditions. Bear safety is also important, as black bears are common in the area, particularly on the mainland. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Additionally, respect local Indigenous lands by avoiding landing on Indian Reserves (marked IR on charts) without permission from the respective band office.
Meares Island
Meares Island is home to some of British Columbia’s oldest and largest trees, including the famous Hanging Garden Tree, a towering western red cedar with a 60-foot circumference. While boat and sea plane traffic in Tofino’s harbor can pose challenges, the boardwalk trail offers a stunning hike through old-growth forest, showcasing the island’s rich natural beauty.
Tofino
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Tofino Sea Kayaking
320 Main St, Tofino, BC, CA, V0R 2Z0 -
Paddle West Kayaking
606 Campbell St, Tofino, BC, CA, V0R 2Z0Paddle West Kayaking provides professionally guided kayak tours and rentals in Tofino and Ucluelet, allowing you to explore the stunning Clayoquot and Barkley Sound. From day trips to multi-day adventures, our experienced guides ensure a safe and unforgettable experience for all paddlers. Join us for an immersive journey into the natural beauty of Vancouver Island’s west coast!
Vargas Island
Offering stunning sandy beaches, remote wilderness, and abundant wildlife. Paddlers can enjoy the wild, untouched beauty of the area, with opportunities to spot transient killer whales and other marine life. Vargas Island is an ideal stop for those seeking adventure and tranquility in the heart of nature.
Flores Island (Ahousaht First Nations Territory)
One of the largest islands in Clayoquot Sound and a major point of interest, particularly for advanced paddlers heading to Hot Springs Cove. The island’s beautiful landscapes and cultural significance make it a must-visit for longer trips.
Paddle pros
Here are the experts who will help perfect your paddling trip.
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Tofino Paddle Surf offers private surf lessons, SUP tours, and quality beach rentals.
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Embark on guided remote kayaking tours through Tofino Inlet’s calm waters to explore wildlife and stunning coastline beauty.
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Discover Tofino Sea Kayaking, offering guided tours and rentals for exploring Clayoquot Sound.
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Every corner of BC has something unique to offer. From freshwater lakes on Vancouver Island to rafting on the whitewater of Squamish, you will never find a shortage of amazing paddling.