Vancouver, Whistler & Vancouver Island - Washington, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest - page 822

Inkwis Arts and Culture GALLERY
( www.inkwis-portal.com ; 368 Main St; 11am-5pm Wed-Sun) The newest of several First Na-
tions-focused galleries around Tofino's downtown drag, this spartan but friendly little
space has a lively roster of ever-changing exhibitions - check the website for openings.
And while the focus is contemporary First Nations, artists from other communities are
also part of the mix, as well as workshops and a growing art-for-sale section.
Tofino Botanical Gardens GARDENS
( www.tbgf.org ; 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy; 3-day pass adult/child $10/free; 9am-dusk) Explore
what coastal temperate rainforests are all about by checking out the frog pond, forest
boardwalk, native plants and educational workshops at this smashing bird-packed rustic
attraction. There's a seasonal cafe on- site for that essential glass of wine, while classical
music is also piped through the gardens most evenings. There's also a $1 discount if you
arrive car-free.
Maquinna Marine Provincial Park PARK
( www.bcparks.ca ) One of the most popular day trips from Tofino, the highlight here is
Hot Spring Cove . Tranquillity-minded trekkers travel to the park by Zodiac boat or sea-
plane, watching for whales and other sea critters en route. From the boat landing, 2km of
boardwalks lead to the natural hot pools.
Meares Island PARK
Visible through the mist and accessible via kayak or tour boat from the Tofino water-
front, Meares Island is home to the Big Tree Trail, a 400m boardwalk through old-
growth forest that includes a stunning 1500-year-old red cedar. The island was the site of
the key 1984 Clayoquot Sound antilogging protest that kicked off the region's latter-day
environmental movement.
Activities
Pacific Surf School SURFING
( www.pacificsurfschool.com ; 430 Campbell St; board rental 6/24hr $15/20) Offering rentals,
camps and lessons for beginners.
Surf Sister SURFING