Nestled on the edge of Vancouver Island’s wild, rugged coast, Tofino, BC is a haven for adventurers and those seeking serenity. With its towering rainforests, pristine beaches, and laid-back vibe, it’s the perfect destination for a long weekend escape from Seattle. Fold in a stay at the luxurious award-winning Wickaninnish Inn and your experience becomes an unforgettable retreat where nature, relaxation, and fine dining blend seamlessly.
Getting there is part of the adventure, with Kenmore Air offering exclusive PC-12 turboprop or seaplane charters from Seattle that land you in Tofino in as little as an hour and a half. The breathtaking aerial views of the Pacific Northwest coastline set the tone for a weekend of indulgence, exploration, and reconnection with nature.
Day 1: Arrival and Relaxation
Here’s how to make the most of a luxurious weekend getaway from Seattle to Tofino.
1:00 PM – Arrive in Tofino via Kenmore Air Charter
Your weekend escape begins with a scenic flight from Seattle aboard a Kenmore Air PC-12 charter flight departing from Boeing Field or a seaplane charter flight departing from Kenmore. As you soar above the Salish Sea and Vancouver Island, the rugged coastline, verdant forests, and the Pacific Ocean unfold beneath you. Upon arrival in Tofino, you’re a quick taxi or rideshare from Long Beach Airport or Tofino’s harbor dock to the iconic Wickaninnish Inn.
3:00 PM – Check-in at the Wickaninnish Inn
Perched on the rocky shores of Chesterman Beach, the Wickaninnish Inn is a masterpiece of luxury in the wilderness. Known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding temperate rainforest, the Inn offers a serene escape that embraces nature’s beauty. Check in to your ocean-view room and take a moment to breathe in the salty air and listen to the waves crashing below. The room’s expansive windows, cozy fireplace, and deep soaking tub set the stage for an unforgettable stay.
4:00 PM – Afternoon at Chesterman Beach
With a full afternoon ahead of you, take a leisurely walk along Chesterman Beach, just steps from your hotel. The wide, sandy beach is perfect for beachcombing, tidepool exploring, or simply soaking in the beauty of the rugged coastline. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a surfboard from a nearby shop and try catching a few waves in one of the best surf spots in the Pacific Northwest. Chesterman’s expansive shores also offer a serene backdrop for reflection and relaxation.
6:30 PM – Cocktails at The Rocks Bar
Before dinner, head back to the Wickaninnish Inn and enjoy pre-dinner cocktails at On The Rocks Bar. The cozy, wood-paneled bar offers panoramic views of the ocean, making it the perfect place to unwind with a handcrafted cocktail. Sip on a signature drink like the “Wickaninnish Negroni” or a local craft beer while watching the sun dip toward the horizon.
7:30 PM – Dinner at The Pointe Restaurant
The Pointe Restaurant, the crown jewel of the Wickaninnish Inn, is your dining destination for the evening. With 240-degree ocean views and a menu that highlights local and sustainable ingredients, dining here is a feast for the senses. Begin with a delicious smoked salmon plate or Dungeness crab, and move on to entrées like poached steelhead trout or roasted beef tenderloin. The sommelier-curated wine list features exceptional British Columbia wines that perfectly complement the menu. End your meal with a decadent dessert while listening to the soothing sounds of the ocean outside.
Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
8:00 AM – Breakfast with a View
Start your day with room service or breakfast back at The Pointe Restaurant, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries, gourmet eggs benedict with local smoked salmon, or a hearty bowl of oatmeal as you watch the morning waves. The Wickaninnish Inn’s attention to detail and dedication to local, organic ingredients make breakfast here as much of an experience as dinner.
9:30 AM – Bike Ride to Ucluelet
Rent a bike from Tofino Bike Company and ride along the scenic Pacific Rim Highway toward Ucluelet, about 40 kilometers south of Tofino. The ride takes you through the majestic old-growth rainforest and offers glimpses of the wild coastline. Once you arrive in Ucluelet, park your bike and head to the Wild Pacific Trail, a stunning coastal hike that takes you along dramatic cliffs, through dense forest, and past crashing waves. The trail’s vistas offer unforgettable views of the rugged coastline and the open ocean beyond.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Tacofino
After settling in, make your way to the local favorite, Tacofino, for a casual yet delicious lunch. Known for its fresh, vibrant flavors, Tacofino’s Tofino truck serves up mouthwatering tacos made with locally sourced ingredients. Try the Baja-style fish taco, or opt for the pork gringa with a side of their famous chocolate diablo cookie. The laid-back, surf-town atmosphere makes this an ideal spot to rub elbows with locals.
3:00 PM – Massage at Ancient Cedars Spa
After a day of outdoor adventure, treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage at the Ancient Cedars Spa, located at the Wickaninnish Inn. Nestled among towering trees with views of the ocean, this spa offers an array of treatments inspired by the natural surroundings. Opt for the Lomi Lomi treatment, which weaves together passive movement, stretching and full-body massage to release tension in a traditional style used by Hawaiian shamans and healers.
6:00 PM – Bonfire on Chesterman Beach
As evening falls, gather around a bonfire on Chesterman Beach. The Wickaninnish Inn provides all the essentials—blankets, marshmallows, and firewood—so you can enjoy the warmth of the fire while listening to the sound of the waves. This intimate experience is the perfect way to unwind after a day of exploration, with the stars twinkling above and the ocean breeze gently rolling in.
Day 3: A Day of Leisure
9:00 AM – Morning Walk in the Rainforest
Wake up early for a peaceful walk-through Pacific Rim National Park’s lush temperate rainforest. The park’s Rainforest Trail is an easy, scenic loop that takes you through a dense forest of towering cedars, ferns, and moss-covered trees. The quiet serenity of the forest, combined with the fresh ocean air, is the perfect way to start your final day in Tofino.
12:00 PM – Lunch at Driftwood Cafe
For your last meal in Tofino, return to The Wick for a casual bite at the Driftwood Café. Perched on the rugged edge of Chesterman Beach, enjoy a delicious soup and salad with a glass of wine as you soak in the unbeatable ocean view. With its relaxed atmosphere and floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing the crashing waves, you’ll enjoy wild beauty while indulging in comforting, thoughtfully prepared fare.
2:00 PM – Free Time to Explore Tofino
Spend your final afternoon strolling through the town of Tofino, visiting its eclectic mix of shops and galleries. Pick up locally made souvenirs at Roy Henry Vickers Gallery, grab an afternoon coffee from Rhino Coffee House or if you’re up for more adventure, rent a kayak and paddle around Clayoquot Sound, taking in the beauty of the islands and inlets.
6:00 PM – Departure with Kenmore Air
As your weekend getaway comes to a close, return to Long Beach Airport to catch your Kenmore Air PC-12 charter flight or Tofino’s harbor for your seaplane flight back to Seattle. The journey home offers one last chance to admire the stunning Pacific coastline from the air, bringing your unforgettable Tofino adventure full circle.
