Vancouver, Whistler & Vancouver Island - Washington, Oregon and the Pacific Northwest - page 823

( www.surfsister.com ; 625 Campbell St; lessons $79) Introductory lessons for boys and girls,
plus women-only multiday courses.
Remote Passages KAYAKING
( www.remotepassages.com ; 51 Wharf St; tours from $64) Short guided kayaking tours around
Clayoquot Sound and the nearby islands.
Tofino Sea Kayaking KAYAKING
( www.tofino-kayaking.com ; 320 Main St; tours from $60) Evocative guided paddles - one-day
tour to the Freedom Cove floating gardens recommended.
Tours
Jamie's Whaling Station BOAT TOUR
( www.jamies.com ; 606 Campbell St; adult/child $99/69) Whale, bear and sea-lion spotting
boat jaunts.
Ocean Outfitters BOAT TOUR
( www.oceanoutfitters.bc.ca ; 368 Main St; adult/child $89/69) Popular whale-watching tours,
with bear and hot-springs treks also offered.
STORMING TOFINO
Started as a clever marketing ploy to lure off-season visitors, storm-watching -
viewing spectacularly crashing winter waves, then scampering back inside for hot
chocolate with a face freckled by sea salt - has become a popular pastime on the
island's west coast. There are usually good off-peak deals to be had in area accom-
modations during stormwatching season (typically November to March) and most
hotels can supply you with loaner 'Tofino tuxedos' (otherwise known as waterproof
gear). The best spots to catch a few crashing spectacles are Cox Bay, Chesterman
Beach, Long Beach, Second Bay and Wickaninnish Beach. Don't get too close or
turn your back on the waves: these gigantic swells will have you in the water within
seconds given half the chance.
Sleeping & Eating
Whalers on the Point Guesthouse HOSTEL$$$