3-Day Vargas Island Kayak Camping Tour

Paddle West Kayaking currently offers a 3 day, 2 night tour. The tour begins, unless otherwise specified, on Friday at 8:00am and ends on Sunday between 12:00pm and 3:00pm (weather dependent). All tours begin and end in Tofino, British Columbia on our kayak docks at Jamie’s Whaling Station.

It is recommended to arrive at least one day prior to the beginning of the tour. This will allow you to meet your guide and to pack so you are ready to paddle away the following morning. Knowing how beautiful Tofino, Ucluelet and the surrounding area is we suggest that you plan to stay and explore once your tour ends.

The multi-day tour requires no previous paddling experience but we suggest that you be familiar with camping in a wilderness setting. It is also recommended that you have the physical ability to sit in a kayak and paddle for four to six hours a day. The paddling is often not strenuous but depending on conditions more physical exertion may be required. The tour and the destination campsites will be determined by the group’s experience and abilities.

Paddle West Kayaking provides all the kayaking and safety gear required for the tour, your guide, wilderness camping fees and West Coast inspired meals.

You are responsible for providing your own camping set up which includes a tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad, personal clothing and other personal items. If you do not have your own camping set up, Paddle West Kayaking rents such items for a reasonable extra cost.

Clayoquot Sound is a kayaker’s dream destination, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and unparalleled opportunities for exploration. With its intricate network of islands, inlets, and coves, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve provides a diverse and captivating environment for paddlers of all skill levels.

Expect sprawling white sand beaches, ancient rainforests, wave-battered rocky shores, and steep mountains plunging into the sea.

Home to a diverse range of wildlife, it is common to spot sea otters, seals, sea lions, black bears, coastal wolves, and a plethora of bird species. Orcas, gray whales, and humpbacks are also known to frequent the area, providing kayakers with the opportunity for unique and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters.

Despite the proximity of Tofino to Vargas and Flores islands, they are incredibly quiet — it is common to be the only group camping on a particular beach. Leave the hustle and bustle of Tofino behind to discover pristine beaches, all to yourself.

Daily paddling will depend on a variety of factors, from paddling abilities and energy levels, to ocean and weather conditions. Typically, expect to paddle 4-6 hours daily, with breaks to stretch your legs, hydrate, and enjoy snacks provided by Paddle West.

Paddle West prides itself on high quality, locally inspired cuisine while on expedition.

• Expect hot breakfasts with fresh fruit and bottomless coffee/tea.
• Large lunches will keep you fueled for the day — fresh fruit, cookies, and coffee/tea are always available.
• The highlight of each day can be dinner under the setting sun. Begin with a cedar plank charcuterie board before enjoying some of the best entrees you will ever eat in the wild. No dinner is complete without dessert — provided by a selection of Tofino’s local bakeries. As always, tea is served!

Home to a diverse range of wildlife, it is common to spot sea otters, seals, porpoises, sea lions, black bears, coastal wolves, and a plethora of bird species. Orcas, gray whales, and humpbacks are also known to frequent the area, providing kayakers with the opportunity for unique and awe-inspiring wildlife encounters.

A highlight in Clayoquot Sound is the rich intertidal life — find colourful sea stars, anemones, sea urchins, crustaceans, and if you’re lucky, maybe even an octopus!

Paddle West expeditions are suited for beginners and seasoned paddlers alike. Your expert guide(s) will ensure all group members are comfortable, and assess routes depending on ability. Safety and guest experience is our top priority — guests will always be consulted by their guide on weather conditions, sea state, and route planning.

Any tour can be customized to fit your group — for an additional $100/person, book a private expedition to tailor the experience for your group.

Paddle west provides high quality camping gear — from 1/2/4 person tents, to camping mattresses, and sleeping bags, we’ve got you covered (no pun intended!). If you would to prefer bring your own gear, please feel free.

Most sites are beach camping only — have no fear, as your guide will advise you on predicted tide levels, and recommend tent placement. Some sites have the option for forest camping, where you can set up among the canopy of the rainforest.

Yes — but only once we arrive at camp.

You are welcome to bring alcoholic beverages on the expedition, so long as there is space to pack them! Please enjoy responsibly.

In your booking request, mention if you need help finding accommodation in Tofino/ Ucluelet to bookend your expedition.

Paddle West works with community partners to provide great options for our guests.

Alternatively, if you have a camper or van kitted out for sleeping, inquire about camping in our parking lot for a small additional fee (unserviced).

It is recommended to arrive at least one day prior to the beginning of the tour. This will allow you to meet your guide and to pack so you are ready to paddle away the following morning. Knowing how beautiful Tofino, Ucluelet and the surrounding area is we suggest that you plan to stay and explore once your tour ends.

Meet at 8:00 am at Paddle West. Prepare for your expedition with your guide’s help — learn how to properly pack a sea kayak, get geared up, and hit the water! Set off from the Paddle West dock in the heart of Tofino. Meander through islands en route to Vargas Island while learning about the rich natural history of the area. Navigate through pristine waters watching for wildlife, with your expert guide leading the way. Set up camp on one of Vargas’ many remote beaches — savor a locally inspired beachside dinner and watch as the sun dips below the horizon.

Meals provided: Lunch, charcuterie appetizer, dinner. 

Discover Vargas Island’s outer coast. Meander through secluded beaches, encounter Tofino’s famous wildlife, and bask in the unparalleled beauty of the West Coast. Depending on group interest, this day can be spent exploring by kayak, or paddling directly to our next campsite to enjoy an evening of beach activities, or, relaxation. Enjoy sprawling, empty beaches you won’t find back in Tofino. As always, your guide will provide expertly crafted food all day long. Share stories around the campfire, under a starlit sky, before drifting off in your tent to the sound of crashing waves.

Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch, charcuterie appetizer, dinner. 

After your last coffee on the beach (one of life’s greatest pleasures), pack up camp and begin the journey home. Repeat your favorite activities from the past two days — whether that’s searching for wildlife, hugging the rocky shores, hanging out in kelp forests, or perfecting your paddling technique. Stop for a beachside lunch before arriving in town in the early afternoon. Return to Tofino with a heart brimming with appreciation for the region’s wonders, reflecting on the magical moments of your journey with your guide.  On this expedition, explore what Tofino is all about — enjoy high-quality food and campcraft, the untouched beauty of Clayoquot Sound, and unplug from everyday life.

Meals provided: Breakfast, lunch.

Upon arrival to Tofino, your guide will help you unpack your kayaks, and provide a detailed debrief from your expedition. After swapping stories (and photos!), it is time to say goodbye.