Last Updated on March 1, 2024 by Aisha Aslam
Ever since growing up and living in BC, I always dreamed of seeing Tofino, watching everyone else visit just made me nostalgic for that oceanside feeling. Finally one day I just decided to plan a trip with my girlfriend and visit during the storm-watching season as I thought it would be less touristy and crowded. Storm-watching in Tofino, a place that is on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, was a magical storm-watching adventure during the off-season months that I will get into more in this post!
You probably heard of Tofino a lot if you are in BC but there is another town not far off called Ucluelet which is also worth visiting in my opinion and it is only 30 minutes away from Tofino! Please keep reading for information on both of these beautiful places.
The Thrill of Storm Watching
Whether you choose to cozy up in a beachfront stay, venture out to explore the many unique beaches, witness storm watching from the safety of a cliffside viewpoint, or enjoy them all, Tofino and Ucluelet promise an unforgettable experience for anyone visiting!
So last minute I decided to do a spontaneous two-day weekend trip from Vancouver to Tofino with one of my girlfriends for the storm-watching season. It was my very first time in Tofino and I absolutely would love to go back again! I will be sharing details in this post of what we did so you can plan your trip accordingly! So grab your rain gear and embrace the stormy beauty of these ultimate storm-watching destinations.
Best Times for Storm Watching
The best time to go storm-watching in Tofino is from November through March, with December and January usually being the most active months. I decided to do my trip in mid-November. We got lucky as the weather wasn’t too stormy so we got to enjoy other activities as well.
These months create the best conditions for stormy weather – perfect for storm-watching in Tofino! Be aware that the weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check local forecasts and be flexible with your travel plans to get the best out of your trip.
Weather Conditions and Safety Tips
While storm watching can be a thrilling experience, it’s important to prioritize safety and be aware of weather conditions. Stormy weather can bring heavy rain, high winds, and dangerous waves. Dress warmly, wear waterproof clothing, and bring appropriate gear such as sturdy footwear and rain gear. Stay away from exposed areas, cliffs, and rocks near the water as they can be slippery and unsafe.
I highly advise you to stay a safe distance from the shoreline to avoid sudden waves or debris. Even if there is a photo opportunity or a better viewing point, always take into consideration that waves can sneak up on you while you are on the rocks. Trust me you do not want to be hitting rocks if a wave catches you as that won’t end well.
There are many places you can safely view the shoreline that I will mention later on. Always keep an eye on the weather forecast/tide forecast and follow warnings or advisories issued by local authorities. You will see that many beaches have warning signs so make sure to follow them! Safety should be the top priority when enjoying the power of nature.
So reminder again that when you go storm watching, it is important to always make sure you follow safety protocols at all times as waves can be unpredictable.
Storm Watching Safety & Precautions
Storm-watching can be an exciting experience, but it can also be dangerous.
Always stay aware of yourself and your surroundings – as well as others around you
Check the tide schedule – waves most pretty fast, so stay close to the beach
Avoid standing on rocks too close to the water – waves can sneak up on you and before you know it you are swept off your feet
Top Spots for Storm-Watching in Tofino
Tofino has many incredible viewpoints to witness the raw beauty of storm watching and I am so glad I was able to visit most of them on my trip!
One of the most popular spots is Long Beach, tofino’s longest beach offering a majestic expanse of sand with dramatic waves crashing against the shoreline. Chesterman Beach is another popular choice, with its sandy stretches and sweeping ocean views.
For a different perspective, head to Radar Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic vistas and observe the storm from higher ground while getting in some steps for the day.
Cox Bay Beach is another great area to storm watch and if the weather permits I highly recommend that you check out the Cox Bay Lookout viewpoint. It is a bit of a muddy steep hike up but worth it for the stunning views.
The Wickaninnish Beach provides excellent vantage points, along with sea stacks and towering cliffs adding to the breathtaking scenery. You can head to the Kwisitis Visitor Centre (note that it is closed right now) but you can get on to the viewing deck to watch some waves crashing, it is quite scenic and probably the safest spot to storm watch in the area.
Top Spots in Ucluelet for Storm-Watching
With Ucluelet being about 30 minutes away from Tofino, it makes sense to check out both areas for storm watching. One of the most iconic spots is the Wild Pacific Trail. The one we did was Lighthouse Loop and there are tons of viewpoints along the way which you can stop and storm watch. We arrived at sunrise and it was gorgeous and not busy at all. It is truly magical and I highly recommend this area to explore. You can make it as long as you like as you do not have to do the full loop.
You can continue to do the Wild Pacific Trail to Rocky Bluff where you continue along the trail through forest and the coastline, you will be able to go down to the rocks if there is a safe place to do so and enjoy watching the waves.
If you are looking for another easy one then the Big Beach trail to Rocky Beach also has views of the beach and shoreline.
Whichever spot you choose, be prepared to be amazed by the mesmerizing power of the stormy coast of Tofino and Ucluelet.
Accommodations in Tofino and Ucluelet
When embarking on a storm-watching adventure, it’s essential to find the perfect accommodations to enhance your experience. Tofino offers a wide range of options suited for storm enthusiasts.
From cozy waterfront stays with breathtaking views to luxurious resorts that provide a touch of indulgence amidst the wild weather, there is an accommodation choice for every taste and budget. Make sure to book well in advance, as storm-watching season attracts visitors from near and far. I am going to list some of the top stays around Tofino and Ucluelet that I recommend you check out for planning!
My Top Recommendations On Places to Stay
1. Pacific Sands Resort
A luxurious resort located on the coast of Tofino, the views from the rooms offer spectacular beach and ocean scenery. Book here if you want a taste of luxury right by the ocean.
2. Tofino Resort & Marina
A full-service resort and marina that has everything you need for a comfortable stay in Tofino. Located right by the town of Tofino this stay is an amazing place to base yourself for adventuring.
3. Hotel Zed Tofino
A budget-friendly stay right in the town of Tofino. This could be a good base for all your storm-watching and Tofino adventures!
4. Wikkinnish Inn
This all-around resort is the perfect place to book a stay for storm watching in Tofino as it is right by the coast located on nature’s edge, as they mention, and offers stunning views.
5. Surf Grove Campground
A hip campground located in Tofino with cabins and campsites this is a budget-friendly option for those wanting to find a place nearby and explore Tofino!
6. Ocean Village Resort
With offerings of cabins and unique stays, this place is an amazing stay to book. Located at Mackenzie Beach it includes a pool and hot tub so you can soak right after coming back from storm-watching in Tofino.
7. Sleepy Bear Guesthouse
An amazing stay hosted by a couple in Ucluelet, this stay offers the feel of home with everything that you need to feel super cozy during your storm-watching trip! I loved the touch of the sauna and having hot water and oatmeal for the mornings! I would book this budget-friendly stay again in the future!
8. The Nami Project
One of the most luxurious dream stays I have ever seen! Located in Ucluelet, you get oceanfront views right from your bedroom stay. This place includes a hot tub and sauna so you can soak up after some storm watching from your private window. Add this to your bucket list!
Local Activities During Storm-Watching Season
Aside from storm-watching, Tofino offers many activities and attractions for visitors during the storm-watching season. Take a stroll along the pristine beaches, go on a refreshing hike through the rainforest trails, or indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment.
Just remember if you head to the trails in Pacific Rim National Park, you will need to purchase a park pass. You can get a daily one or a 4-hour slot for beach walking. You can get more information here about the passes. You can make your purchase at the visitor center or the kiosks in the parking lot at the trails.
Don’t forget to explore the little town of Tofino, visit the local cafes, and check out some of the restaurants. I loved the quaint little gift shops in Tofino and recommend checking them out when you are in town! Tofino truly offers something for everyone, allowing you to create unforgettable memories alongside the stormy backdrop.
Photography Tips for Capturing the Stormy Coast
Capturing the dramatic beauty of a stormy coast requires a keen eye and some photography know-how. To capture your storm-watching adventure, here are a few tips to help you capture that perfect shot:
✅ Make sure to bring a sturdy tripod to ensure stability in challenging conditions.
✅ Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add dynamism to your photos.
✅ Utilize long exposures to create magical effects with crashing waves or streaking clouds.
✅ Embrace the dramatic lighting and unique colours that storms often produce, and don’t be afraid to get creative with your composition.
Conclusion and Planning Your Storm-Watching Adventure
In conclusion, planning a storm-watching adventure in Tofino promises an awe-inspiring and unforgettable experience. From choosing the perfect accommodation to exploring local activities and attractions during the storm-watching season, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the stormy beauty of this coastal paradise.
Remember to bring your camera, practice photography tips for capturing the stormy coast, and consider joining a Tofino storm-watching tour or hiring a guide for an enhanced experience. Ready yourself for an adventure that will leave you in awe of nature’s power and beauty.
If you like this post, you can follow more of my adventures on my blog here!
