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This is the Most Awesome Place to #explorebc in 2014

While Vancouver itself is indeed quite awesome, it’s our proximity to the awesomeness of other BC destinations that really kicks it up a notch.
mostawesome2014 While Vancouver itself is indeed quite awesome, it’s our proximity to the awesomeness of other BC destinations that really kicks it up a notch. Years ago we launched “Super, Neighbours”, a series where we hop onto float planes, ferries, and the open road to bring readers outside of the Lower Mainland on travel adventures. The name is an obvious nod to Destination BC's “Super, Natural” branding of our province, and upon doing a poll among our editors it became clear that the most “super” place that we all go back and visit is Tofino. It's magic any season of the year and although it's a bit of a trek to get there – 6 hours if you choose to drive onto the ferry instead of fly there - you'll net some wonderful views during your journey from the city.
The range of options for accommodations once you've reached this jewel on the western side of Vancouver Island is diverse and approachable from any budget. Camping on the beach, quaint B&B's, beaches houses at places like Pacific Sands, $60 motels, luxury hotels like the Relais and Chateaux certified Wickaninnish Inn... there's something for every traveler.

 Photo: Christine McAvoyPhoto: Christine McAvoy

Home to one of our favourite food truck imports (Tacofino!), the culinary experience of Tofino is unrivaled, with most restaurants utilizing local ingredients, supported and encouraged by The Tofino Ucluelet Culinary Guild whose mandate is “to support the region's farmers, fishermen and foragers to provide unique food experiences that rely on sustainable farm/boat-to-table practices and the freshest local ingredients prepared with integrity and passion”. They help put on a popular annual excursion for foodies and chefs alike: Feast BC! It's a month full of events, dinners and workshops celebrating the local producers in the area. Beyond sleeping and eating, you're going to find a ton of adventure in the area. From simply beachcombing to fishing charters with folks like Cleanline Sportfishing, or simply finding your way into the Pacific Rim National Park to find what remains of a WWII bomber that crashed there decades ago, we think Tofino is the Most Awesome place to explore in British Columbia. If you don't want to take my word for it, here's a slide show that Christine put together...

BC's Most Awesome place to Explore: Tofino!

By Vancouver Is Awesome

A few reasons why we named Tofino our Most Awesome place to #explorebc...

  • The Ferry Ride

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    It might be a long journey, but that's half the fun of escaping the city. BC Ferries helps you along from Horseshoe Bay to Nanaimo, and even offers vacation packages.

  • The Journey There

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    There are so many interesting stops along your way to Tofino, including the old growth forest, Cathedral Grove. 

  • Somewhere To Stay Warm & Dry

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    Since you're staying in a rainforest, you can be sure there might be some rain (esp in Storm Watching Season!). There are so many cozy places to call home (like Pacific Sands, pictured) & dry off!

  • Having Your Neighbours Over for Beer & Snacks

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    There are so many local artisan food and drink makers in Tofino, it just seems right to bring your whole party over for some meats from Picnic Charcuterie and beer from Tofino Brewing.

  • Exploring and Adventures

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    Tofino is full of trails and places to climb and explore, like Pettinger Point (pictured)! Time your expeditions right & you'll see waves crashing, birds flocking, or the tide pools for exploring.

  • Sharing Delicious Meals

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    No matter what time of year, you can be sure to eat an amazing meal. From tacos to fresh off the boat seafood, it as it all. Including the recently named Best New Restaurant  - The Wolf In The Fog

  • Have A Beachy Keen Time

    By Vancouver Is Awesome

    Obviously the beaches are a huge part about what makes Tofino awesome. Take a stroll with your group, or try out surfing (lots of lessons and rentals available all over Tofino). Just play safe!

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This is one of our Editor's Picks! Check out all of the winners of Most Awesome Awards from the Readers Choice below.

2014 Most Awesome Awards - Readers Choice

By Vancouver Is Awesome   Nominated by the readers of VancouverIsAwesome.com. Click the links in each slide to learn more about the winners!
  • Most Awesome Building Manager

    By Vancouver Is Awesome John Davis!
  • Most Awesome Teenager

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Tomas Lang!
  • Most Awesome Amateur Sports League

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Terminal City Roller Girls!
  • Most Awesome Sharing Advocate

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Joni McKervey!
  • Most Awesome Good Will Ambassador

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Bif Naked!
  • Most Awesome Graphic Design Advocates

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Ross Milne and Grace Partridge!
  • Most Awesome Doctor

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Doctor Julio Montaner!
  • Most Awesome Charitable Entrepreneur

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Ken Lyotier of United We Can!
  • Most Awesome Sports Fans

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Vancouver Whitecaps FC supporters!
  • Most Awesome Librarian

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Sheila Mclean!
  • Most Awesome Free Thing

    By Vancouver Is Awesome The Vancouver Public Library!
  • Most Awesome Walking Bridge

    By Vancouver Is Awesome The one in East Van featured in The Raymur Mothers!
  • Most Awesome Place to Regain Faith in Humanity

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Sol Convenience Store!
  • Most Awesome Public Park

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Stanley Park!
  • Most Awesome Knitters

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Knit Social!
  • Most Awesome TV Show

    By Vancouver Is Awesome My Little Pony - Friendship is Magic!
  • Most Awesome Soup

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Peaceful Noodle's Spicy Tangy Dumpling Soup!
  • Most Awesome FREE Music Event Series

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Playground.is!
  • Most Awesome Ocean Conservation Program

    By Vancouver Is Awesome The Vancouver Aquarium's Ocean Wise!
  • Most Awesome Local Food Advocate

    By Vancouver Is Awesome Chad Brealey from Salt, Fresh & Field!
  • Most Awesome Animal Rights Organization

    By Vancouver Is Awesome The BC SPCA's Vancouver branch!
  • Most Awesome Kitchen Rescue Organization

    By Vancouver Is Awesome VOKRA!
We're excited that TELUS is helping us bring you the Most Awesome Awards. A longtime friend of V.I.A., TELUS is passionate about giving back to the community by recognizing, celebrating and supporting great community partners, friends and neighbours making a difference in the lives of others. Watch in the coming weeks as we roll out all of the Most Awesome Awards presented by TELUS. TELUS_logo