If you’re dreaming of a coastal getaway with your dog, few places can rival the magic of Tofino, British Columbia. Nestled on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, Tofino is known for its wild beauty, expansive beaches, and lush temperate rainforest. Best of all—it’s an incredibly dog-friendly destination, making it a perfect addition to your bucket list adventures with your four-legged best friend.

Endless Beaches to Explore

Tofino is home to some of the most stunning beaches in Canada, and the best part is that dogs are welcome! From the long stretches of Chesterman Beach to the wide-open sands of Cox Bay to the magic of Tonquin Beach, and the sweeping coastline at Long Beach, you and your dog will have endless space to walk, run, play fetch, or just sit together watching the waves roll in. The salty air, crashing surf, and driftwood-lined shores make every outing feel like an adventure. Just make sure your dog isn't ingesting a bunch of salt water; pack some water and a bowl for your beach adventures.

Hiking the Temperate Rainforest

When you’re ready to trade the beach for the forest, Tofino offers incredible hiking opportunities that feel like stepping into another world. Towering cedars, moss-draped branches, and wooden boardwalks make every trail a sensory experience for both humans and dogs.

Three must-do hikes for your trip are:

• Cox Bay Lookout – A moderately challenging trail that rewards you with breathtaking views of Cox Bay and the surrounding coastline. This is a great spot to pause with your pup overlooking the busy surfer spot of Cox Bay, snap some photos, and soak in the Pacific Northwest beauty. Be aware that this can get muddy and slippery after rainfall so try and go after a few days of sun.

• Canso Plane Crash Trail – A unique hike that leads you through dense forest before arriving at the remains of a Royal Canadian Air Force Canso Bomber that crashed in 1945. It’s an eerie but fascinating piece of history (fun fact - all 12 people on board survived), and the trail itself is a fun, muddy, and adventurous outing with your dog.

• Tonquin Trail - If you’re looking for an easy, scenic walk to enjoy with your dog, then this is a perfect choice. This well-maintained trail winds through lush rainforest, the most beautiful intertwined ecosystems of fallen trees and new growth and along elevated boardwalks, leading to quiet, tucked-away beaches right in Tofino - Tonquin, Third, and Middle Beach (all with their own unique vibe to spend some time at in between your glorious forest walk). It’s a gentle hike, making it accessible for all fitness levels. With stunning viewpoints of the ocean, chances to spot wildlife, and plenty of places for your pup to sniff and explore, Tonquin Trail is a must-do for a peaceful, relaxed outing.

Dog-Friendly Cafes & Shops

Tofino isn’t just about nature, it’s also a welcoming community filled with laid-back cafes, local shops, and surf culture vibes. Many businesses happily welcome dogs, especially on their outdoor patios. Grab a coffee and catch up on work at The MAQ Cafe (your dog is welcomed inside and on the patio), enjoy fresh eats at Rhino Coffee House (their triple chocolate donut is our go-to), stop by the famous food truck Tacofino where your pup can hang out while you enjoy some West Coast flavors (be aware the line gets long here), and afterwards swing by Chocolate Tofino for the best ice cream of your life.

For browsing, check out local shops and visit the Tofino Market on Saturday mornings from May - Thanksgiving, which often allow dogs or have dog-friendly outdoor browsing spaces. The town as a whole has a relaxed, pet-friendly feel, so you’ll rarely feel limited while exploring.

Why Tofino Belongs on Your Bucket List

Between the endless dog-friendly beaches, rainforest hikes, and welcoming community, Tofino is the ultimate coastal adventure spot for you and your pup. It’s Canada's best kept secret, just take a ferry over from Washington or Vancouver and make the drive to this magical place.

If you’re ready for your next adventure together, make sure Tofino, British Columbia is on your list.