Kayaking in Tofino, Mackenzie Beach
Kayaking in Tofino, Mackenzie Beach
Kayaking in Tofino is an incredible way to explore the calm, scenic waters of the bay while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding islands and wildlife. At Tofino Paddle Surf, we offer single and double sit on top style kayaks specifically designed for use in the bay, providing a safe and enjoyable paddling experience. However, there are some important safety guidelines to follow to ensure you have a fun and trouble-free adventure. We include a full safety briefing with each rental and will be reminding you of these basic safety guidelines on the day of your rental.
Where Can You Paddle?
Mackenzie Beach and the surrounding coastline offer beautiful and protected area for kayaking, with plenty to see and explore:
•Closest Islands: As you paddle, take in the views of the two closest islands. These provide a great landmark and reference point for your journey and the recommended rental boundries.
•Exploring the Bay: You can paddle north and south along the shoreline and weave between the rocks—just be sure to stay inside the closest rocks for safety.
Why You Should Stay Inside the Rocks
Just beyond the rocks, the conditions change significantly, and it’s not safe for recreational kayakers without proper navigational skills and legal equipment. Here’s why:
•Legal Restrictions: Entering open ocean waters without the proper gear can lead to fines. You must have specific safety equipment to navigate these zones legally.
•Navigational Skills & Local Knowledge Restrictions: Paddling the dynamic coastal waters can be serious business. Between boating traffic, strong & changing weather, wind and swell systems, thick and unexpected fog banks, tides, currents, reefs & rocks, leaving the safety of Mackenzie and Middle Beach be very risky without understanding the ins and outs of navigational principals and experience, and local knowledge of the waters and atmospheric system patterns.
•Wind & Currents: Conditions beyond the rocks can change quickly, with strong currents and unexpected wind storms and gusts making paddling difficult.
•Boating Traffic: This is a navigational zone where larger boats operate and kayaks must follow the same rules in these zones. Most boats won’t see a kayak until it’s too late.
•Fog & Visibility: Fog can roll in fast, making it easy to lose your sense of direction and increasing the risk of getting lost at sea.
Safety First at Tofino Paddle Surf: Kayaking Essentials
1. Always Wear Your Lifejacket
A properly fitting lifejacket is mandatory. It could save your life in case of an unexpected capsize.
2. Stay Close to Shore
The water in Tofino is cold year-round. If you tip your kayak far from shore without a wetsuit, you’ll have a long and challenging swim back. Avoid putting yourself in a risky situation—stay near land.
3. Know How to Launch & Land Safely
If there’s any swell, we’ll show you the safest way to get in and out of the water:
•Launch & land near Crystal Cove on the south end of the beachfor the calmest conditions.
•Avoid the sandbar in the middle of the bay, where waves break and can tip you over unexpectedly.
4. Understand Open Ocean Hazards
If you’re unsure why staying in the bay is important, consider this:
•Open ocean crossings involve strong currents, shifting tides, powerful winds, and thick fog.
•Shipping lanes pose a major risk, as large vessels may not see a small kayak in time to react.
•Storms can develop quickly, turning a peaceful paddle into a dangerous situation.
Enjoy a Safe & Scenic Paddle in Tofino
Kayaking in Tofino is an amazing way to experience the natural beauty of the area—as long as you follow safety guidelines. Stick to the bay, wear your lifejacket, and respect the power of the ocean. Our kayaks are not intended for open ocean navigation, but for a fun and safe paddle adventure close to Mackenzie and Middle Beaches. If you would like to go further and beyond please book a sea kayaking tour with one of Tofino’s awesome kayak tour companies.
Ready to hit the water? Visit Tofino Paddle Surf to rent a kayak or other surf or standup paddle gear for a few hours or longer and start your adventure!
Learn more about your kayak rental in this short video.