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Nanaimo to Tofino Road Trip Guide: 15 Amazing Places to Stop

The Nanaimo to Tofino road trip is one of British Columbia’s very best and it is easy to see why.

The curving route travels from one side of Vancouver Island to the other, passing peaceful lakes, old-growth forests, golden sand beaches and misty mountain ranges.

And the final destination of this road trip is just as important as the journey to get there.

The small yet characterful community of Tofino sits on the very edge of Vancouver Island’s wild western coast. Think crashing waves, windswept beaches, rugged headlands and more. There’s nowhere else quite like it in Canada!

Three surfers carrying boards along rainy beach in Tofino, with mist obscuring forested headland
Surfers in Tofino

We’ve driven this scenic road trip over two dozen times over the last few years. In this post, I’ll share our top 15 places to stop along the 207km long route, as well as useful tips to make the most of the journey.

Last updated February 2024

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Driving view of Highway 4, with highway surrounded by forest. There is a mist obscured mountain in the background
Driving Highway 4 to Tofino

Nanaimo to Tofino road trip: Essential details

Before I get into my recommendations for the best places to visit between Nanaimo and Tofino, I thought it would be a good idea to share some background about the route.

This Nanaimo to Tofino road trip route travels across the traditional territory of multiple First Nations, including the Snaw-naw-as, Snuneymuxw, K’ómoks, Tla-o-qui-aht, Tseshaht, Hupacasath, We Wai Kai and Yuułuʔiłʔatḥ.

The driving distance between Nanaimo and Tofino is 207km.

Most people drive this trip in one day. Without stops, the journey takes around three hours.

But with so many places to see along the route, you’ll definitely want to stop at least a few times.

As mentioned, this post will suggest 15 different stops along the Nanaimo to Tofino road trip route.

If you’re really dedicated and have the time, it would be possible to visit all of these places on one road trip.

Realistically, however, I would suggest 2 to 4 stops in each direction. This would increase your one-way journey time to around 5 to 7 hours.

Keep in mind that:

  • Snow is possible at higher elevations from November to March
  • Port Alberni is located around the halfway point
  • Phone signal is patchy between Port Alberni and Tofino

Nanaimo to Tofino road trip map

How to reach Nanaimo

The start of this road trip route is the city of Nanaimo (pop 100k) on the east coast of Vancouver Island.

Nanaimo is a major arrival point for visitors to Vancouver Island, due to the proximity of two ferry terminals – Departure Bay (just north of downtown Nanaimo) and Duke Point (16km drive from downtown Nanaimo).

Of course, Nanaimo can also be reached by road. Nanaimo is 111km from Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia (1 hour 40 minutes driving time).

If you are planning a road trip from Victoria to Tofino, you’ll probably still find this post helpful as it covers the most scenic section of the journey.

To make the most of your time on Vancouver Island and British Columbia, consider combining this adventure with a Nanaimo to Campbell River road trip or a longer drive to the Canadian Rockies.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Nanaimo? The Best Western Dorchester Hotel is located downtown and therefore also close to the Departure Bay ferry terminal. Some rooms have views of the harbour and all guests have access to free parking.

Standing aboard BC Ferries outside deck, with calm ocean and islands visible on left and boat funnels on right
BC Ferries crossing to Nanaimo from Vancouver

Driving between Nanaimo and Tofino: what to expect

The drive from Nanaimo to Tofino follows two major roads – Highway 19 and Highway 4.

Highway 19 is a busier road and is a divided double-lane highway (four total lanes). There are quite a few traffic lights around Nanaimo and Nanoose Bay, so expect a slower start to the drive.

Highway 4 is a road of two halves. The section between Coombs and Port Alberni is pretty busy. The latter section, between Port Alberni and Tofino, is still well-used but definitely quieter. Notably, there is less industrial and commercial traffic.

Both parts of Highway 4 have only two lanes, with one in each direction. There are intermittent passing sections.

Some elevation is gained between Cameron Lake and Port Alberni. The section of road bordering Kennedy Lake features many tight curves. If you suffer badly from motion sickness, you may want to bring medication.

Highway 4 ends in Tofino, 207km from Nanaimo. In this post, I have also suggested a detour to the nearby community of Ucluelet (20km return).

View of the city of Nanaimo from Newcastle Island, with grass and rock beach in the foreground and skyscrapers and mountains visible across the water in the background
View of Nanaimo from Newcastle Island

Public transportation

Curious whether you can take the bus between Nanaimo and Tofino? Yes, you can, but only from May to October.

The Vancouver Island Connector runs between Nanaimo and Tofino on a seasonal basis, also stopping at Parksville, Coombs, Port Alberni, and Ucluelet.

While you won’t be able to stop at most of the attractions featured in this post, the bus journey still offers some beautiful views along the way.

Rocky canyon at Wally's Creek with steep walls and rushing water, forest in background
Wally Creek on Highway 4

Nanaimo to Tofino road trip: Best places to stop

Read on to discover our top picks for places to visit on a Nanaimo to Tofino road trip.

I have included three places off the main Nanaimo to Tofino road trip route, all in or close to the small community of Ucluelet.

If you can, consider spending a night or two in Ucluelet to make the most of your West Coast adventure.

Here’s what to expect in this section:

Back view of Gemma looking up at the biggest tree in Cathedral Grove forest, one of the best stops on a Nanaimo to Tofino road trip
The biggest tree at Cathedral Grove

Rathtrevor Beach Provincial Park

Need to stretch your legs after the ferry ride? Head to Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville. This long beach is a mix of golden sand and pebbles and is breathtaking at any time of the year.

When the tide is out, it feels like you can walk for miles. The views stretch endlessly too, towards offshore islands and distant mountain ranges.

Rathtrevor isn’t the only gorgeous beach in this area, but I recommend this one specifically as it has a large amount of parking (in the provincial park of the same name) and relatively easy access from Highway 4.

Distance from Nanaimo: 34km
Distance from Tofino:
179km
Suggested time: 10 minutes detour (each way) plus beach walking time

Looking across pebble section of Rathtrevor beach with calm ocean and mountains visible in background
Low tide on Rathtrevor beach

Goats on the Roof / Coombs Country Market

A few glasses of wine inspired the owners of the Coombs Old Country Market to utilise goats to cut the grass on their Norwegian-inspired sod roof. More than 40 years later, Goats on the Roof is a Vancouver Island institution!

The Country Market is a shopping destination in its own right, showcasing artisan food items from around the world as well as locally made products.

The on-site restaurant (with views of the goats) is very popular, as is the bakery, ice creamery shop and doughnut shop.

Personally, Goats on the Roof isn’t my cup of tea and I find the crowds to be pretty overwhelming in summer (parking can be tricky). For many people, however, Goats on the Roof is an essential Nanaimo to Tofino road trip stop.

If you’re on the fence about visiting, consider making the five minute detour to see how busy it is. It is usually possible to spot the goats without stopping.

Distance from Nanaimo: 44km
Distance from Tofino:
161km
Suggested time: 30 to 45 minutes (+ additional time for food)

Looking over the fence to café area with one story building behind. The roof of the building is covered in grass and a goat walks away
Goats on the Roof, Coombs

Little Qualicum Falls

There’s nothing ‘little’ about this Nanaimo to Tofino road trip stop! Little Qualicum Falls showcases a series of waterfalls rushing through a dramatic, mossy gorge.

A 3.2km loop from the main parking area takes in both the Upper and Lower waterfalls plus numerous spectacular viewpoints of turquoise pools, roaring rapids, moss covered cliffs and more.

Bridges and elevated viewpoints are provided to help see the action along the way. The full loop takes around an hour to walk. Be sure to stay on established trails at all times and keep well back from drop-offs.

Distance from Nanaimo: 57km
Distance from Tofino:
153km
Suggested time: 1 to 1.5 hours

Mossy canyon with fast river running through it, multiple cascades
Little Qualicum Falls

Cameron Lake

Just around the corner from Little Qualicum Falls is Cameron Lake.

Surrounded by forested hills on one side and the highway on the other, Cameron Lake is a convenient place for a picnic. On hot days, you may even want to go for a swim!

Cameron Lake is also popular for fishing. The lake is calmer in the mornings, so keep that in mind if you plan to swim or paddle.

One of the main access points for Cameron Lake is Beaufort Picnic Site, about half way along the southern shoreline. There is water access here, as well as picnic tables and plenty of shade.

Distance from Nanaimo: 62km
Distance from Tofino:
145km
Suggested time: Up to an hour for a picnic and/or swim

This attraction is currently inaccessible due to construction on Highway 4. More info here

Cathedral Grove (MacMillan Provincial Park)

Cathedral Grove is the most popular place to see old growth trees on Vancouver Island. Officially known as MacMillan Provincial Park, the trees in Cathedral Grove are amongst the oldest and tallest in Canada.

It’s definitely a humbling experience to stand next to these incredibly tall and gnarled tree trunks. The tree canopy is up to 80 metres high in places, with some of the trees as wide as a car!

Cathedral Grove is very busy during the summer months, on weekends and especially in the middle of the day. If you can, visit early (before 10am) or late (after 4pm).

Plan to try and stop at Cathedral Grove on your outgoing journey to Tofino. If there is no available parking, you’ll have a second chance on the way back. Allow at least 30 minutes to walk the 1km loop trail to see the biggest tree on the south side of the park.

Distance from Nanaimo: 67km
Distance from Tofino:
141km
Suggested time: 45 minutes to one hour

This attraction is currently inaccessible due to construction on Highway 4. More info here

Huge trees stretch towards the sky in Cathedral Grove, BC
Cathedral Grove

Hole In The Wall Waterfall

While the Hole in the Wall is not technically a waterfall, it remains one of the most beautiful spots in this area to visit.

Naturally created from the remnants of Port Alberni’s old water system, a stream of water rushes out of an oval opening in a rock.

The Hole in the Wall is accessed via a short rocky path from Highway 4. On our last visit, there were small wooden signs providing direction. The 2km return hike takes around 30 to 45 minutes.

The hardest part of visiting the Hole in the Wall is finding parking. There is a very small, unmarked parking area on the eastbound side of the highway.

Alternatively, there is a small unpaved parking lot opposite Coombs Country Candy, on the other side of the highway. Of course, be very careful when crossing the busy road.

Distance from Nanaimo: 79km
Distance from Tofino:
128km
Suggested time: Around one hour

Gemma sat on log looking at thin waterfall dropping through round hole and into turquoise coloured pool
Hole in the Wall

Port Alberni

As the largest service centre in the area, Port Alberni is the ideal place to pick up groceries, coffee, gas and other essential road trip supplies. Please note that phone signal is patchy after Port Alberni.

Despite its mid-Island location, Port Alberni is technically an oceanside city! It sits at the head of the Alberni Inlet, which stretches 40km from Barkley Sound on the Pacific Ocean.

Highway 4 runs right through the north end of town, with easy access to big box stores as well as independent cafes and shops. There are two breweries as well!

For scenic views of the city and the inlet, make the short (5 minute) detour to Alberni Harbour Quay.

Distance from Nanaimo: 85.5km
Distance from Tofino:
126km
Suggested time: Depends on shopping requirements

Two wooden sculptures sit on wooden boardwalk path overlooking Alberni inlet in Port Alberni, with reflective ocean water and misty mountains in the background
Alberni Harbour Quay view

Sproat Lake petroglyphs

Highway 4 follows the edge of Sproat Lake, a popular destination for swimming, camping and boating.

Sproat Lake is also host to some of British Columbia’s best preserved petroglyphs (rock carvings), a reminder that people have been living in this area for time immemorial.

The petroglyphs at Sproat Lake are known as K’ak’awin. The deep grooves in the rock are believed to have been made with a sharpened stick, with wet sand as a abrasive. The area was traditionally occupied by the Hupacasath First Nation.

To see the petroglyphs, head to the parking lot adjacent to the Lower Campground in Sproat Lake Provincial Park. The 600m walk to the petroglyphs is almost completely flat. A floating platform sits in front of the carvings.

For context, I would highly recommend reading the interpretive displays leading to the petroglyphs. One of the boards explains the individual petroglyph designs, which is helpful to understand what you are looking at.

Distance from Nanaimo: 95.5km
Distance from Tofino:
113km
Suggested time: 30 to 45 minutes

Mossy rockface in Sproat Lake with petroglyph carvings on surface, with low water level below
Sproat Lake petroglyphs

Taylor River Rest Area

It may seem odd to recommend a particular rest area, but the one at Taylor River is a little special.

The main rest area features a large paved parking lot with picnic tables and washroom building. Backdropped by forest and hills, the rest area is already pretty scenic.

Just below the rest area, however, is the most turquoise coloured river you could imagine. It almost doesn’t look real! The water is absolutely crystal clear and completely calm. It is possible to swim here but keep in mind that the water is very cold!

Distance from Nanaimo: 124km
Distance from Tofino:
85km
Suggested time: Allow 30 to 45 minutes

Wally Creek

Part of the ?a?ukmin Tribal Park, Wally Creek is a scenic roadside stop with expansive views of rugged mountains and huge boulders. The latter have been carved by hundreds of years of erosion.

On sunny days, the water here is just as turquoise as Taylor River. Some people like to swim, though keep in mind that the water is usually very cold and there is a pretty fast waterfall.

Wally Creek is located about 14km after Taylor River Rest Area and is best visited on the way to Tofino. There is space for about 8-10 vehicles to park on the right hand side of the road.

Although Wally Creek is right by the highway, don’t rule out seeing wildlife here. We spotted a black bear on our first visit!

Distance from Nanaimo: 137km
Distance from Tofino:
69.6km
Suggested time: 15 minutes to 1 hour

Back view of Gemma standing on rock at Wallys Creek on Highway 4 to Tofino
Wally Creek

Giant Cedar Trail

The Giant Cedar Trail is a great alternative to Cathedral Grove. Personally, I think it’s one of the most underrated stops on this Nanaimo to Tofino road trip. I hardly ever see any vehicles parked in the small lot just off Highway 4.

The 1.4km return trail features a number of huge cedar trees, some within just 500m of the road. The path is almost completely flat but tends to be a little overgrown due to lack of use.

To find the Giant Cedar Trail, look for the signage on the right hand side of the road about 5km after Wally Creek (19km after Taylor River Rest Area).

After the Giant Cedar Trail turnoff, the highway starts to wind its way down towards the Pacific Ocean. There are some pretty sharp turns along this section, as well as gorgeous views of Kennedy Lake (Vancouver Island’s largest!)

Distance from Nanaimo: 143km
Distance from Tofino:
63.7km
Suggested time: 30 to 45 minutes

JR stands next to a huge cedar tree on the Giant Cedar Trail on the way to Todino
Giant Cedar Trail (in my opinion, better than Cathedral Grove!)

DETOUR – Ancient Cedars Loop Trail

Eventually, Highway 4 comes to a stop at the Ucluelet/Tofino junction. Even if Tofino is your final destination, you may want to consider a side trip to the Ucluelet area.

The Ancient Cedars Loop Trail is a worthwhile stop and is only 5km from the junction. Part of the Wild Pacific Trail (see below), this section takes only 15-20 minutes to walk.

For such low effort, the reward is surprisingly high with large cedar trees appearing next to the trail almost immediately. Some are over 800 years old. 

Distance from Nanaimo: 180km
Distance from Tofino:
38km
Suggested time: 30 to 45 minutes

A burl (knot) on the lower trunk of a cedar tree on the Ancient Cedars Loop
A large burl on a tree on the Ancient Cedars Loop near Ucluelet

DETOUR – Ucluelet

Ucluelet is a small community (pop. 2200) situated on the northern edge of Barkley Sound. The name comes from the Nuu-chah-nulth phrase, Yu-clutl-ahts, meaning ‘safe harbour’ or ‘safe landing place.’

Tucked into a calm inlet, Ucluelet is fairly sheltered. It is has a less touristy feel than Tofino and is less busy too. The waterfront area is host to a not-for-profit aquarium that runs on a catch and release basis only.

Our favourite place to eat in Ucluelet is Jiggers Fish & Chips. Don’t underestimate this food truck; it produces the best fried fish and fries anywhere in British Columbia. Think local seafood and homecut fries – simply delicious!

Distance from Nanaimo: 182km
Distance from Tofino:
40km
Suggested time: 30 to 45 minutes (+ additional time for food, aquarium)

Looking across bushes to calm Ucluelet harbour with boats and forest, with mist obscured mountains in background
Ucluelet waterfront

DETOUR – Lighthouse Loop, Wild Pacific Trail

The Wild Pacific Trail is Ucluelet’s premier walking path, showcasing where the temperate rainforest meets the ocean.

The full trail is 8km long (one-way). For your Nanaimo to Tofino road trip, I’d suggest walking the 2.6 km Lighthouse Loop.

This popular section of the trail leads through mossy old-growth rainforest to the rugged rocky coastline, with sweeping views of the ocean, pocket beaches, crashing waves, distant islands and Amphitrite Lighthouse. Start this easy hike at the parking lot mid-way down Coast Guard Road.

If time is tight, I would recommend walking the Ancient Cedars Trail (above) and then extending your route along the coastline in that area instead. It will give you a good taste of the spectacular coastal scenery that characterizes this beautiful area. 

Distance from Nanaimo: 185km
Distance from Tofino:
42.6km
Suggested time: 1.5 hours with driving time from Highway 4 junction

Looking through the trees to rugged coastline in Ucluelet on the WIld Pacific Trail
Wild Pacific Trail, Ucluelet

Rainforest Trails, Pacific Rim National Park

Haven’t seen enough big trees yet? Pacific Rim National Park hosts two short boardwalk trails leading through the forest, appropriately named ‘Rainforest A’ and ‘Rainforest B.’

Both Rainforest trails are 1km in length and feature undisturbed old growth forest, with big trees, mossy undergrowth and thick ferns. There are a number of steps to climb on either trail. 

I like both trails fairly equally but if I had to choose, I’d say I prefer ‘Rainforest B’ over the other.

Please note that a Parks Canada pass is required to hike either trail. Passes can be purchases in the parking lot. In 2023, the daily admission fee is $10.50/adult and $21/group. Children and youth are free.

Distance from Nanaimo: 184km
Distance from Tofino:
24km
Suggested time: 15 to 30 minutes for each loop

Gemma standing on boardwalk in Pacific Rim National Park looking at large dead tree trunk
Rainforest Loop B, Pacific Rim National Park

Long Beach, Pacific Rim National Park

The largest and longest beach in Pacific Rim National Park, Long Beach is a must see on any Nanaimo to Tofino road trip.

True to its name, the golden sands of Long Beach stretch into the distance for 16km! With this in mind, there’s plenty of space for surfers, walkers and beachcombers.

There are many places to access Long Beach. There are three large beachside parking lots near the airport turnoff and more at the Kwisitis Visitor Centre.

Alternatively, you can hike through the old growth forest to Long Beach from the Schooners Cove and Combers Beach trailheads.

Distance from Nanaimo: 190km
Distance from Tofino:
17km
Suggested time: Allow 30 to 45 minutes

Driftwood log on endless sandy beach in Pacific Rim National Reserve with ocean and island in background. The log's shadow stretches towards the camera
Long Beach, Pacific Rim National Park

Tofino

The small village of Tofino (pop. 2500) is perched on the very western edge of Vancouver Island.

The very walkable downtown area is surrounded by long sandy beaches, old-growth temperate rainforest, misty mountains, rocky headlands and pounding surf.

There are so many things to do in Tofino, from surfing and kayaking to hiking and whale watching.

If you’d prefer to relax, there are boat-accessible hot springs and plenty of calming beaches to enjoy. Cox Bay is our favourite local beach (there’s a great hike up to the headland), but Mackenzie Beach is wonderful as well.

Looking down on sandy Cox Bay from headland lookout, with ocean waves rolling in and distance mountains in background
Cox Bay

Where to stay in Tofino

Tofino is one of the most popular places to stay in British Columbia.

For this reason, I would highly recommend making a reservation early (6+ months). If you can, plan your trip for the shoulder seasons. Not only will the prices be cheaper, but there will be more choices too.

Tofino is well known for its luxurious beachfront resorts, such as Middle Beach Lodge (adults only), Pacific Sands Beach Resort (dreamy beach houses with floor-to-ceiling windows) and Long Beach Lodge Resort (soaker tubs, fireplaces).

Looking out through glass balcony window and trees to sandy beach and forested headland in Tofino, with ocean visible in background
The view from our room at Pacific Sands Beach Resort, Tofino

If your budget doesn’t stretch that far, check out Ocean Village on Mackenzie Beach. The distinctive ‘beehive’ cabins sit right behind the sand, offering spectacular perspectives of crashing waves and sunsets.

Green Point is the one and only vehicle-accessible campground located in Pacific Rim National Park (park pass required). The campsites are set into the forest above the beach, with a handful having ‘peek through’ views. Reservations usually open in January and the competition can be pretty fierce!

For more information about staying in Tofino, head to our dedicated accommodation guide.

Line of small beehive shaped cabins sit behind the sand at Ocean Village in Tofino
Ocean Village, Tofino

Other resources you may find helpful to plan your road trip:

Where to Find Big Trees on Vancouver Island

25+ Amazing Vancouver Island Waterfalls You Must Visit

22+ of the Best Campgrounds on Vancouver Island, BC

Ultimate 2 Week Western Canada Road Trip from Vancouver: Itinerary, Tips & Map

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Linda

Saturday 8th of July 2023

Thank you both. This listing is very helpful. We will be staying in Nanaimo with a day trip to Ucluelet and Tofino. The stops you have suggested are in sufficient detail to make some choices and the time specified for some of the walks helps in the choosing.

Gemma

Monday 10th of July 2023

I'm so glad you found this helpful Linda. Just to add, if you’re planning to drive this route soon, please note that some of the stops (Cathedral Grove, Cameron Lake picnic site) are closed while Highway 4 remains single-lane alternating traffic.