Glide with Otters Explore Tofino’s Hidden Inlets
If you’re visiting Tofino in February, you’re in for something special. While summer draws surfers and beachgoers, winter reveals a quieter, wilder side of the coast, and one of the best ways to experience it is by joining an Otters & Inlets Tour. Glide with otters and create your own special memories in Tofino.
Imagine paddling through calm, glassy waters surrounded by rainforest-covered shoreline. Bald eagles perch high in cedar trees. Seals surface nearby. And then floating effortlessly in the kelp beds, a raft of sea otters rolls, dives, and plays just meters away.
This is Tofino at its most peaceful.
Many travelers don’t realize that winter is prime wildlife season in Tofino. With fewer boats on the water and fewer crowds in town, the inlets feel still and untouched. Wildlife activity remains strong — especially sea otters, who can be seen year-round in the protected waters around Clayoquot Sound.
February tours are running now, making this the perfect time for guests staying at Tofino Hostel to experience the ocean in a whole new way.
The crisp winter air, mist drifting over the water, and soft grey skies create incredible conditions for photographers and nature lovers alike.
These guided tours explore sheltered inlets and remote coastal areas just beyond Tofino. Depending on conditions, you may travel by boat or kayak with experienced local guides who know exactly where wildlife tends to gather.
On a typical tour, you might see:
Sea otters are often the highlight. Watching them crack shellfish on their chests or spin playfully in the water is unforgettable and something you won’t experience in many places in Canada.
Winter in Tofino isn’t about packed beaches or busy boardwalks. It’s about stillness, reflection, and connection to nature. The Otters & Inlets Tour perfectly matches that energy.
This glide with otters tour is also a fantastic option for school groups, field trips, and university programs visiting Tofino during the off-season. Winter offers a unique opportunity for students to experience marine ecology in action — observing sea otters, learning about kelp forest ecosystems, and understanding the importance of coastal conservation. At Whaler’s Guesthouse, we welcome group bookings and can help coordinate wildlife tours alongside comfortable, budget-friendly accommodations right in town. It’s an unforgettable way to turn a field trip into a real-world learning experience.
After a morning on the water, you can return to town for a quiet café stop, explore local galleries, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere that February brings. It’s one of the best things to do in Tofino in winter if you want something meaningful and memorable.
If you’re joining an otter tour this winter, Whaler’s Guesthouse (Tofino Hostel) makes an ideal home base. Located right in the heart of town, we’re within easy walking distance to tour departure points, restaurants, and shops.
Our relaxed, social atmosphere is perfect for solo travelers, couples, and small groups visiting Tofino during the quieter months. Winter guests often love the slower pace — fewer crowds, more space, and better access to tours like this one.
Planning a February escape? Be sure to check out our seasonal promotions to make your stay even more affordable while wildlife season is in full swing.
If you’re staying in Tofino this February, don’t miss the chance to explore its hidden inlets. The Otters & Inlets Tour offers a rare opportunity to see sea otters and coastal wildlife in their natural habitat — peacefully, respectfully, and up close.
Book your room and tour with us, pack your camera, and make Tofino Hostel your base for a winter wildlife adventure you’ll never forget.
