Pettinger Point
A stunning coastal viewpoint on Vancouver Island, offering dramatic ocean vistas and breathtaking sunsets.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, prime sunset
Pettinger Point
Best Time
Fewer crowds, prime sunset
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning coastal viewpoint on Vancouver Island, offering dramatic ocean vistas and breathtaking sunsets.
"The pictures don’t do this place justice. This is the BEST part of Tofino!"
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The boardwalk offers spectacular sunset views. Arrive early to secure a good spot!
👟 Wear Water-Resistant Shoes
The path can get wet and puddly, especially near the rocks. Protect your footwear!
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sunset Boardwalk
Pacific Sands Beach Resort
A scenic boardwalk leading to a rugged lookout with panoramic ocean views. Perfect for sunset.
Rocky Point Overlook
End of the boardwalk
The dramatic rocky outcrop where you can witness powerful waves crashing against the shore.
Coastal Views
Along the trail
Enjoy stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean, coastline, and surfers catching waves.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Sunset Views
Dress for Coastal Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The boardwalk offers spectacular sunset views. Arrive early to secure a good spot! 
👟 Wear Water-Resistant Shoes
The path can get wet and puddly, especially near the rocks. Protect your footwear!
🧥 Layer Up!
Coastal winds can be chilly. Bring a jacket or hoodie for comfort.
🌊 Be Wave Aware
Powerful waves can surprise you. Stay on the trail and be cautious near the rocks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
The boardwalk offers spectacular sunset views. Arrive early to secure a good spot!
👟 Wear Water-Resistant Shoes
The path can get wet and puddly, especially near the rocks. Protect your footwear!
🧥 Layer Up!
Coastal winds can be chilly. Bring a jacket or hoodie for comfort.
🌊 Be Wave Aware
Powerful waves can surprise you. Stay on the trail and be cautious near the rocks.
📸 Capture the Views
This spot is incredibly photogenic, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Pettinger Point, calling it the 'BEST part of Tofino' for its stunning ocean views and dramatic wave action. The sunset views are particularly lauded, though it can get crowded during peak season. While the experience is often peaceful and serene, visitors caution about the powerful waves and slippery rocks, emphasizing the need for appropriate footwear and weather gear.
"A nice walk to the rocky point with nothing but the open ocean in front of you and waves crashing on the rocks below. Good spot for sunset views, but it can get pretty crowded with the summer tourists."
Danny Macintosh
"The pictures don’t do this place justice. This is the BEST part of Tofino! We’ve been here twice now and we had a blast both times. When we went in September 2021, the weather was beautiful and it was barely raining. We got to go to the very edge of the rocks and saw some amazing, big waves crash against the shore - the sound was absolutely beautiful. It feels so peaceful and serene here, away from the beach and with a stunning view of the sunset and coastline.
The most recent time we went in June 2022 - it was pouring rain and looked like it was about to storm. We went to the very edge of the rocks again and this time, the water current was SO strong that a huge wave almost wiped us out - we were completely soaked! Definitely an experience to remember, but with that said - please be careful and don’t stop watching the waves. The last thing you want is to be stranded on these rocks and a huge wave washes you out.
Also: wear appropriate shoes that you don’t mind getting wet or dirty, as there are some puddles by the rock viewpoint. It gets quite cold by the water so bring a jacket or hoodie. If it’s raining, you’ll need a raincoat and rain boots or you will get SOAKED. (We got soaked even with all of our waterproof gear on.)
Will be back! I highly recommend you check this viewpoint out if you get the chance; it is truly one of the most stunning views I have ever seen."
Preeti
"Great look out point !! I love going here and seeing the ocean!"
Malcolm Dedominicis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pettinger Point is located within the Pacific Sands Beach Resort in Tofino, British Columbia. Access to the Sunset Trail leading to the point is exclusive to resort guests. If you're not staying at the resort, you can access nearby public areas like Cox Bay Beach and enjoy views of the point from a distance.
If you are staying at Pacific Sands Beach Resort, the trail is accessible directly from the property. For those staying elsewhere in Tofino, it's recommended to use a taxi or ride-sharing service to reach the resort's vicinity, or consider it as part of a longer walk along Cox Bay Beach.
While it's a scenic walk along the coast, it's a significant distance from downtown Tofino to Pettinger Point. It's more feasible to access it via Cox Bay Beach or by staying at Pacific Sands Beach Resort.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to the Sunset Trail and Pettinger Point is generally exclusive to guests of the Pacific Sands Beach Resort. If you are not a guest, you can still enjoy views of the point from Cox Bay Beach.
As it's a natural viewpoint, there are no official opening hours. However, it's best visited during daylight hours, especially for sunset. Access may be restricted outside of resort operating hours if you are a guest.
There is no direct entrance fee for Pettinger Point itself. However, if you wish to use the dedicated Sunset Trail, you generally need to be a guest of the Pacific Sands Beach Resort.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hour leading up to sunset is magical for photography at Pettinger Point, offering warm light and dramatic skies.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean views and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like eagles or distant surfers. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for low-light sunset shots.
The end of the boardwalk and the rocky outcrop itself offer the most dramatic perspectives. Look for interesting wave formations and the silhouette of the coastline.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The Sunset Trail to Pettinger Point is a relatively short and easy walk, often described as around 1.5 km round trip, taking about 20-30 minutes depending on your pace.
Yes, the boardwalk trail is generally considered easy and suitable for families, including those with young children. However, caution is advised near the rocky edges.
Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes that can handle getting wet. Layers are essential, including a waterproof jacket and pants, as the coastal weather can change rapidly.
While tempting, exploring the rocks can be dangerous due to strong waves and slippery surfaces. It's best to admire the waves from the designated trail and viewpoint.
The primary amenity is the viewpoint itself. Restrooms and other facilities would be available at the Pacific Sands Beach Resort if you are a guest.
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