January 6, 2026
MAKE 2026 A YEAR OF TRANSFORMATIONAL TRAVEL
By Erin Linn McMullan
Your intention for mindful west coast travel is the alchemy that turns January’s blue sky dreaming into meaningful travel experiences in 2026. As you dream and plan ahead, rely on our local insight to inspire your visit to načiqs (Tofino) – a world class destination within Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks and your stay at oceanfront Tin Wis Resort an Original Original and Authentic Indigenous on stunning white sand tinwis Beach.
When you visit načiqs (Tofino), Nature takes centrestage so it’s important to appreciate its natural rhythms when designing your dream vacation.
Winter’s magic
The New Year embraces spectacular storm watching, challenging surf, and sunsets that illuminate and transform Yaaqsis (Long Beach) setting it aglow in gold, electric pink, and fiery vermillion as you explore the co-managed Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
It’s a time to revel in the elements with a cold Pacific plunge and a hot Nordic sauna with a west coast twist. To gather around a beachfront bonfire and stargaze and craft a vision for the year ahead, plugged into the pulse of the universe.
To visit respectfully is to acknowledge that this is not a wilderness but a place with deep and meaningful connection stewarded by the Nuučaanuł People since time immemorial. Taking the ʔiisaak (ii-saak) Pledge is an important first step to help guide your experience with nature, wildlife, and the Peoples whose home this is.
Spring Renewal
Spring gives way to renewal and the return of 20,000 Ḿaaʔak (Eastern Pacific Grey whales) in March–April, followed by Yayačam (Humpbacks) in May, and endless waves of shorebirds touching down on the Pacific Flyway, especially on more secluded Combers Beach.
March Break
During March Break, the family-friendly Pacific Rim Whale Festival (March 14–21) kicks off with a parade downtown. A variety of hands-on fun and educational events engaging both children and adults with the marine world are hosted across Tofino, Ucluelet, and the co-managed Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Whale-watching season launches with a splash.
Anniversary of Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks declaration (April 21)
Be sure to circle April 21st on your calendar, the 42nd anniversary of the declaration of the first Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Park – Wanachus/Hilthuu’is Tribal Park (Meares Island). You can visit the Big Tree Trail to marvel at these gigantic ḥumiis (Western Red Cedar) up to 1,500–2,000 years old which have been preserved as a result and continue to be cared for by Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks Guardians.
Four additional parks have since been declared by the Tlao-qui-aht ḥaw̓iiḥ, including ḥačxwiqaq (Deep Ocean) Tribal Park, to encompass the marine and terrestrial components of the ḥaḥuułi.
Indigenous History Month (June)
June is Indigenous History Month and an opportunity to learn more about the deep connection with this place, with National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrated on June 21st, summer solstice.
Summer’s glow
Summer brings softer waves and warm breezes for beginner SUP & surfers and Yoga on the beach or a board. Lazy beach days and low-tide adventures amidst children’s laughter as they splash in and out of the surf and build sandcastles onshore.
Eco-adventure is in full swing: E-biking along the ʔapsčiik t̓ašI, beginner-friendly to multi-day paddling excursions, and marine life watching enroute to the Mux̣šiƛa Hot Springs at Nism̓aakqin (Maquinna Marine Park).
Summer festivals
Summer is social. Satisfy your foodie fantasies at Tofino Wine & Dine onsite at the resort the weekend of June 6–7. Your thirst for music at Tofino Jazz Fest (June 26–29) downtown via the free Tofino Shuttle Bus. Your quest for incredible Indigenous artists and musicians at the Pacific Rim Summer Festival in Tofino and Ucluelet (June–July).
Cultural celebrations
August ushers in ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht) Days. All are welcome at the parade and public event.
Orange Shirt Day (September 30, 2026)
September 30th is Orange Shirt Day and National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. Facing oceanfront at the resort, the čiinuł, Tiičswina: We Survived! keeps vigil, raised for the Truth and Reconciliation Commission commemoration celebration on March 29, 2013.
Autumn’s deep reflection
Autumn’s quieter beaches and still-gorgeous weather invite solo travel and deep reflection on a sunset SUP or bioluminescent paddle, rendezvousing with friends, and family gatherings in this season of gratitude.
Corporate retreats at the resort’s Conference Centre with its upgraded kitchen enable you to connect with your team and with this incredible place.
Support Indigenous-led Tourism
Supporting regenerative Indigenous-led tourism and Allied partners who contribute towards the ongoing stewardship of Clayoquot Sound helps build capacity. 2026 is entering Year Two of the Tin Wis 10-in-10 vision articulating ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ’s intention to reclaim 10% of the local tourism economy over the next decade, foster leadership, and carry their narrative forward.
Support stewardship and cultural initiatives
Go that one step further when you take the ʔiisaak Pledge by supporting stewardship of Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks and initiatives like mułaa Rising Tide surf team which lift Nuučaanuł youth up.
Shop locally
Bring home an experience of a lifetime when you support Indigenous artisans via Tsawaak RV Resort & Campground’s visitor centre year-round, the seasonal Tofino Market and Jingle into Xmas.
Get inspired to fill your 2026 travel diary
Download the Indigenous Tourism BC app and visit “Indigenous Experiences” at Tourism Tofino to discover all the possibilities ahead.
-30-