HI Tofino, Whalers on the Point Guesthouse, is at 81 West Street in Tofino, on Clayoquot Sound near downtown. It offers seven room types, from a six-bed dorm to private rooms with four to six single beds, a small private room, a private suite and private rooms or suites with ocean views or a balcony, so it suits solo travellers, couples and groups. Guests share a kitchen, a common room, a TV and movie room, a games room, a library and a barbecue area, with free Wi-Fi, lockers, luggage storage and a surf shower. It is open year-round, with winter access available, and it offers bike rental for a fee and tourist information. It is the most affordable way to sleep in the middle of Tofino.
Location and getting around
The guesthouse is within walking distance of the harbour, cafes and tour operators in Tofino, so you can book a whale, bear or hot-springs trip and walk to the dock. Beaches such as Tonquin are reachable on foot or by bike, while Chesterman, Cox Bay and Long Beach are a short drive or a local shuttle ride away, and the hostel can help you connect with surf schools for lessons.
The rooms and the feel
This is a social, practical place with a lived-in feel, and a kitchen means you can cook and save money in an expensive town. The dorm is a six-bed room, while private rooms and suites give more privacy, including some with ocean views or a balcony. Laundry is available for a fee, and gear storage and a surf shower make it easy for surfers.
Who it suits and what to know: backpackers, solo travellers, budget couples and small groups will like it most. Check-in is in the evening, from 5 pm to 9 pm, and check-out is at 10 am, so plan your arrival, since the town is a long way from anywhere. Confirm parking arrangements and any fee before you arrive. It is not a quiet retreat, so light sleepers should choose a private room and bring earplugs. Book early for summer, when beds in town sell out.
Why stay here
- ✓Walk to downtown Tofino
- ✓Six-bed dorm and private rooms
- ✓Shared kitchen
- ✓Free Wi-Fi
- ✓Surf shower and gear storage
- ✓Lockers and luggage storage
- ✓Common room and games room
- ✓Open year-round
Good questions
Where is Whalers on the Point Guesthouse?+
It is at 81 West Street in Tofino, on Clayoquot Sound near downtown. You can walk to the harbour, cafes and tour operators.
What kinds of rooms are there?+
There are seven room types, from a six-bed dorm to private rooms and suites, some with ocean views or a balcony. Guests share a kitchen and common areas.
Is it open in winter?+
Yes, the hostel is open year-round, with winter access available. Check-in is between 5 pm and 9 pm and check-out is at 10 am.
