Thinking of visiting Tofino? Looking for a family-friendly, budget-conscious place to stay?
We recently stayed at the HI Tofino (or HI Whalers On The Point Guesthouse) with our kids and loved how it brought us close to nature and the beach. This hostel offered the perfect mix of comfort and coastal charm, from tidepool adventures to sunsets by the water.
HI Tofino is a cozy, well-located hostel ideal for adventurous families or travellers looking for simplicity, nature, and connection. It’s not fancy, but it’s warm, welcoming, and perfectly located for exploring Tofino’s wild beauty.
HI Whalers On The Point Guesthouse
HI Tofino stands out because of its unbeatable location and laid-back vibe. You’ll:
- wake up to ocean views (we stayed in room H2 and the view was amazing!),
- walk to downtown Tofino in minutes, and
- meet other travellers who love nature as much as you do.
It’s where you can sip your coffee with a sea breeze while the kids are comfortably reading their favourite books.
The hostel is ideal for budget travellers, surf lovers, backpackers, but also families who want a relaxed West Coast experience. HI Tofino offers a simple, welcoming base to explore all of what Tofino offers.
What We Loved About Staying at HI Tofino as a Family
The Location
There is a little beach was just steps away from the hostel, and our kids couldn’t get enough of it. They spent hours exploring tide pools and looking for crabs and other sea creatures (we discovered what a sand slug was).
We also had a great view of the water right from our room.
But, best of all, the hostel is within walking distance of Tofino’s main street. We could park the car and forget about it. Restaurants, ice cream shops, and a small beach were all just a short walk away.
The Laid-Back Vibe
Everyone at the hostel was friendly and relaxed, from solo travellers to other families. Chatting with people or just hanging out as a family felt easy.
No pressure, no rush, just that slow-paced coastal feel.
It was relaxed and calm (not your typical backpacker hostel, we also saw another family with young children)
The shared kitchen had everything we needed to cook meals, which helped us save money and stick to our usual family routines. The living room had comfy couches and big windows with ocean views.
There was a pool table, a small library, and a shelf full of board games that kept the kids entertained on a rainy morning.
The Adventure Center
The hostel had an on-site adventure center with discounts on popular local activities like whale watching, bear watching and surfing lessons. It also had a big bulletin board with information on community events, tide charts, and hiking trails.
What to Expect When Staying at the Tofino Hostel
HI Tofino isn’t a luxury hotel but has everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. The vibe is simple, relaxed, and welcoming. It’s perfect for families who enjoy nature, shared spaces, and a slower pace.
The hostel offers a mix of dorm rooms, private rooms, and family-friendly setups. We stayed in a private room that had enough space for all of us to sleep comfortably. Linens and cozy bedding are provided, and the room includes towels (but it’s a good idea to bring your own just in case).
Unlike wilderness hostels, the HI Whalers On The Point Guesthouse has full indoor plumbing. Hot showers were always available, and everything was clean and well-maintained. We didn’t have a private bathroom in our room, but there were shared bathrooms on our floor, but also private bathrooms and showers on the main level. It worked just fine for our family.
There’s a fully-equipped kitchen where you can cook full meals and store on snacks! The ridge space is shared, so label your food. Mealtimes felt relaxed and social. Some guests cooked together, while others shared travel tips over dinner. And the view from the dinning room was AMAZING!
Plus, there are plenty of places to relax, other than our private room (which we all know is important when travelling with kids.
Indoors, the living room has big windows overlooking the water with cozy sofas. There is also an entertainment room with a pool table, a few guitares and a TV. And shelves full of books and board games for all ages in the upper level library room.
Outside, you can hang out on the deck with picnic tables and veggie gardens. It’s a great balance between social space and quiet corners for family time.
Things to Know Before You Go
HI Tofino is cozy and down-to-earth, but it helps to know what to expect before you arrive, especially when travelling with kids.
It’s not a luxury hotel, but it’s a spotless hostel
There’s no on-site restaurant or hotel-style service. Rooms are simple, and you’ll share bathrooms and kitchen space. But that’s part of the charm. It feels more like a friendly cabin than a hotel.
Tofino can get busy in summer and so the hostel
Tofino is a popular spot in peak season, and the hostel fills up fast. If you’re visiting in the summer, book well in advance to get your preferred room.
The hostel has quiet hours and most guests are respectful, but it’s still a shared space. Light sleepers might want to pack earplugs just in case. We visited in April and honestly we found it to be pretty quiet, but it might be different in the peak of summer.
FAQ – HI Whalers On The Point Guesthouse
How to Get to Tofino Hostel?
HI Tofino is about a less-than-five-minute drive or a short walk from the heart of Tofino. If you’re coming by car, it’s an easy and scenic drive along Campbell Street. Watch for signs. It’s tucked just off the road with inlet views.
The drive into Tofino feels remote and wild in the best way. You’ll pass lakes, old-growth forests, and winding coastlines. It really sets the tone for the peaceful, nature-filled stay ahead.
Most drop-offs are near the town center if you’re arriving by bus (like the Tofino Bus or a shuttle from Nanaimo). From there, you can walk or take a short taxi to the hostel.
Parking Tips:
There’s paid parking on-site for about $5 a day. But when we visited in April, we could park for free on the street right next to the hostel. Just note that town parking rules kick in on May 1st, so it’s good to double-check the dates if you’re planning a spring or summer visit.
What time is check-in/check-out?
Check-in is usually around 5:00 PM, and check-out is by 11:00 AM. It’s best to double-check your confirmation for exact times.
Can you walk to town?
Yes! It’s a quick 5-to-10-minute walk to the center of Tofino.
Are there private family rooms?
Yes, the hostel offers private rooms that work well for families. Some have multiple beds or bunk beds, depending on availability. However, the private rooms do not have a private bathroom.
Is It Child-Friendly?
Definitely, while it’s not a kids’ resort, the hostel is relaxed and welcoming. Our kids enjoyed playing games, exploring the beach, and meeting other travellers.
Do they allow surfboard storage?
Yes, there’s a designated area for surfboard storage—super handy if you’re planning to catch some waves.
Are pets allowed?
No, pets aren’t allowed at this hostel, so you’ll need to make other arrangements if you’re travelling with a furry friend.
Final Thoughts: Should You Stay at HI Tofino Hostel?
We left the HI Tofino with sandy shoes, happy kids, and a camera full of ocean sunsets. It was a simple, comfortable stay filled with beach walks, shared meals, and friendly faces. For us, it struck the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
If you’re looking for an affordable and welcoming place to stay, this hostel is a solid pick. You’ll get easy access to nature, a chance to meet other travellers, and a peaceful place to recharge after a day of exploring.
👉 Want to learn more or book your stay? Check out HI Tofino here.
