We want you to know that we are committed to making sure your visit is a safe and healthy one – for you, our staff, and our residents. To that end, we are following all provincial and WorkSafeBC health and safety regulations.
Please understand that the current COVID-19 threat remains fluid, with government regulations and health guidelines changing rapidly. We monitor provincial health updates closely to ensure both our visitors and residents remain safe.
Feel confident about your health
Your safety is our priority. We want our visitors to be confident that we’ve done our part to keep you safe and healthy during your stay. Our businesses have implemented rigorous sanitation, hygiene, and physical distancing practices in accordance with provincial and WorkSafeBC standards.
We thank you in advance for your patience
No one enjoys waiting. Unfortunately, our new health and safety practices will likely result in line-ups and slower service times than we’d like. We ask for your patience as we work hard to keep things moving as quickly as possible, while providing a safe and healthy experience for all our visitors.
Bring your own PPE
Both federal and provincial health officers now recommend the wearing of masks when physical distancing is difficult and continue to recommend frequent hand washing or sanitizing.
Please: stay home if you’re sick
Limited health care facilities exist in Tofino. Before you travel please take stock of your health. If you or anyone traveling with you has been sick in the previous week, or currently has flu-like symptoms, we ask you to reschedule your trip. We’ll be here to welcome you when you’re feeling better.
Reserve your stay in advance
Make sure to book your campsite before you plan on arriving at Surf Grove. Walk in reservations create an additional touch point and for the safety of our staff we ask that guests call in advance before arriving on a whim to camp.
Physical distancing
It’s easy to stay 2m (6ft) apart on our expansive beaches but in other places, it’s a little more difficult. Please be respectful of others and use your best judgement to maintain distancing. On trails and sidewalks, walk single file and step to the right to allow others to pass safely.
What do I do if I am feeling ill?
If you are feeling ill use the COVID-19 online self-assessment tool at: https://bc.thrive.health/covid19/en or call HealthLinkBC at 8-1-1.
Remember to use hand sanitizer
Most businesses will provide hand sanitizer and request that you use it as you enter their premises. Hand cream will help to counter the effects of frequent sanitizing.
Things change
The current COVID-19 outbreak appears to be diminishing—but the situation remains fluid, with government regulations and health guidelines changing rapidly. If the threat escalates, our community will respond to comply with provincial health protocols. We ask our guests to remain flexible and prepared to change plans according to the situation.
Travelling from outside of British Columbia
The Canadian-US border remains closed. US visitors should check www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca for border updates.
We are currently accepting reservations for Canadian residents only. Please follow all travel restrictions and advisories in place in BC and your province of origin.
Visiting First Nations
Currently our local First Nations communities, including Esowista, Ty-Histanis, Opitsaht, Ahousaht and Hesquiaht are unable to welcome visitors.
What do I do if I am injured?
If you have been injured go to the Tofino Hospital at 261 Neill Street. If you have respiratory symptoms call 250-725-4010 before visiting the hospital.
What’s Open
Businesses are opening daily, some with modifications. Check here for a current list of openings.
Book your activities in advance
Our activity providers have adapted to maintain physical distancing, which means they will be hosting smaller groups on their tours. By booking in advance, you’ll ensure that you don’t miss out on a special experience.
Visit our restaurants—but please make reservations when possible
In accordance with provincial government health guidelines, our restaurants will have limited seating throughout the summer. Make a reservation or order takeout to eat at outdoor seating areas, or at the beach.
Shop local—and help our small businesses thrive!
Tofino’s grocery stores and specialty shops can provision you with everything you need. There’s no need to bring supplies from home—shop local and give our small businesses a helping hand. Please have only one person from your party enter the grocery store.
Activities to keep you enthralled
Immerse yourself and connect with the natural world. Find information on whale and bear watching experiences, tours, fishing, kayaking, hiking, surfing and SUP and much more. Visit our friends at Tofino Resort and Marina for information on tours and Pacific Surf School for everything under sun about surfing.
Hot Springs Cove
Trips to the natural geo-thermal pools at Hot Springs Cove will be unavailable through out 2020. Personal boats are will also not be permitted. Check with excursion providers for more information.
Check out our unique shops and arts scene
Tofino is home to a vibrant, eclectic art scene. Make sure to check out our numerous galleries, artist studios and unique shops, and take home a bit of the West Coast with you.
Hit the surf the safe way
Interested in trying the West Coast’s most exhilarating sport? If it’s your first time, we strongly recommended you take a lesson. Lessons for all ages are provided. You’ll not only learn how to stay up on your board, but you will learn important etiquette tips, as well as safety information about riptides and offshore currents.
Highway 4 construction
Highway 4 between Port Alberni and the West Coast remains open, but travellers should expect delays throughout the summer due to ongoing construction around the east side of Kennedy Lake. Please check the Drive BC website for detailed road closure schedules prior to your visit.
Ocean safety
The ocean is a place of wonder. But it can also be a serious safety hazard for all ages. Learn how to keep yourself and your family safe on and around the water by being CoastSmart.
Single-use plastic free zone
Tofino residents are committed to live in a way that reduces our impact on the environment and we invite you to join us while you’re visiting. Bring re-usable bags, water bottles and coffee mugs.
Parks and public spaces
While enjoying Tofino area parks and trails and our neighbouring Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, be sure to follow the signs in parking lots, on the trails, and at beaches. Be self-sufficient by bringing your own hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, garbage bags, picnic tablecloths and masks when recommended by health authorities. And please, make sure to maintain physical distancing on the beaches, trails, and facilities.
Helpful links
Trip planning, accommodations and activities
https://www.hellobc.com/what-you-need-to-know/
BC Travel Information
BC Centre for Disease Control – COVID-19
Helpful info on current COVID-19 information, along with tips on how to keep yourself safe.