In early October, my family and I decided to treat ourselves to a few days’ stay on one of the beautiful beaches near Tofino, a 3-hour drive from our quaint seaside town on the southeast coast of Vancouver Island, so we could enjoy the island’s rugged west coast and the spectacular autumn drive, when the forests lining the roads are ablaze with vibrant fall colours.
With its long sandy beaches, ancient temperate rainforests, expansive Pacific Ocean views, and wild ocean swells, Tofino is a mecca for surfers, hikers, and visitors like me who love to experience the thunderous waves at Long Beach, as well as the gentle lapping of the water along the sheltered shorelines.
Our cabin was set amid tall conifers, overlooking a quiet cove formerly known as Mackenzie Beach. The Government of British Columbia renamed Mackenzie Beach to Tin Wis to honour the cultural heritage of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. The original name, tin wis (pronounced ti-nu-wis), is a Nuu-chah-nulth word meaning “calming waters” and not only reflects the nation’s spiritual and historical connection to the land, but also the nature of the beach itself, which is protected by small offshore reefs.
Tofino is known for having some of the most vibrant sunsets in the world. After each day spent exploring and listening to the ocean’s inimitable roar, I loved to stroll along the beach outside our cabin, enjoying the evening warmth and tranquillity as I waited for the retreating tide to leave shimmering sand with its intricate criss-cross patterns reflecting the brilliant pinks, purples, yellows, and oranges of the sunset sky.
