Discover the wilderness of Clayoquot Sound on a guided bear watching tour. Spot seals, sea otters, bald eagles, and black bears in their natural habitat—all just minutes from Tofino’s bustling harbor. An adventure perfect for wildlife lovers of all ages.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; comfortable boat ride and walking
Wildlife
History
Clayoquot Sound has been a hub for indigenous communities and outdoor enthusiasts for generations, with a long tradition of respecting and preserving its natural bounty.
Conservation
The area is protected within park boundaries and managed carefully to support sustainable tourism and wildlife health.
Tofino Resort and Marina
Discover the wilderness of Clayoquot Sound on a guided bear watching tour. Spot seals, sea otters, bald eagles, and black bears in their natural habitat—all just minutes from Tofino’s bustling harbor. An adventure perfect for wildlife lovers of all ages.
Tofino Resort and Marina is a marine-based tour operator and marina located in Tofino, British Columbia. The business offers a diverse lineup of guided experiences across Clayoquot Sound, including whale watching, fishing charters, remote kayaking, coastal bear watching, Hot Springs Cove trips, and seasonal floating sauna experiences.
Tours range from short group wildlife cruises to private adventures. Whale Watching Tours run about two-and-a-half hours and report a 95% success rate for sightings. Winter Wildlife Tours run approximately two hours from a covered vessel for comfortable viewing. The Remote Kayaking Tour begins after a scenic 25-minute boat transfer into Tofino Inlet. The Hot Springs Cove Tour includes a roughly 30-nautical-mile boat ride followed by a walk through old-growth forest to natural geothermal pools. The Ultimate Tofino Adventure is offered aboard a private 32' Kingfisher vessel, with opportunities to drop crab traps, explore Meares Island, and picnic in ancient coastal forests.
Floating Sauna Experiences feature wood-fired cedar saunas set on the water, with options for paddleboarding, kayaking, and seasonal foraging for crab and prawns. Boxed picnic items and grazing boards are available from The Bake Shack Tofino to complement on-water dining.
Guides use local knowledge to prioritize safety, responsible wildlife viewing, and maximizing time on the water. With an array of small-group and private options and direct departures from Tofino, the business provides practical access to the marine and coastal highlights of the region.
Location
Tofino, British Columbia
Departures on Vancouver Island's west coast
Tours Offered
11 Experiences
Guided marine and sauna activities
Whale Sightings
95% success rate
High likelihood on whale tours
Private Vessel
32' Kingfisher
Private boat for Ultimate Tofino Adventure
Check availability for whale watching, kayaking, fishing charters, and floating sauna experiences departing from Tofino, BC.
Dress in Layers
Weather on the water can change quickly; bring warm and waterproof clothing.
Bring Your Camera
Wildlife sightings are often fleeting—have your camera ready for moments you don't want to miss.
Arrive Early
Arriving early ensures you get the best seats and aligns with the guide’s schedule.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance and listen to guides’ instructions to keep wildlife undisturbed.
Waterproof Jacket
Protection from wind and rain is key when spending time on the water or shoreline.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Binoculars
Enhance wildlife viewing and get closer to distant animals.
Sun Hat and Sunscreen
Shield yourself from the sun during long hours outside.
summer
Sturdy Shoes
Comfortable footwear for walking on boat decks or gentle shoreline strolls.