From August 26th to 30th, my family and I packed up the car with kids, dog, and all, and set out for an end-of-summer escape to Pacific Sands Resort in Tofino. This was a hosted stay, and as always, all opinions are my own. I had high expectations going in, but this trip exceeded them in EVERY way. I came home feeling relaxed, happy, and completely rejuvenated, with a deeper appreciation for the incredible beauty of Cox Bay and Rosie’s Bay.
The Journey to Tofino
The drive into Tofino is an adventure in itself. Winding through mountain passes, dense forests (including Cathedral Grove), and along stretches where the road hugs glimmering lakes, it feels like a journey into another world. Every turn revealed another postcard view. By the time we reached the coast, it was impossible not to feel both grounded and in awe. Tofino is part of the Clayoquot Sound Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO site recognized for its ecological and cultural significance. Knowing that we were entering a place with such global recognition made the trip feel even more special. It is not just a destination, it is a place worth protecting and cherishing.
The Room: Spacious, Comfortable, and Thoughtfully Designed
We stayed in a three-bedroom, three-bathroom oceanside suite, and the first thing that struck me was the space. Traveling with kids and a dog means we need room to spread out, and this suite delivered. The full kitchen made it easy to prepare meals and snacks, while the thoughtful touches made us feel immediately at home.
The kids were excited to find that one room had two twin beds, giving it a cozy cabin feel. They got to share a room where they could play and read, and even giggle conspiratorially well after bedtime.
Rosie, the newest addition to our family, got her own plush doggy blanket which she staked claim to as soon as she laid eyes on it. She especially liked snoozing by the warm fireplace in the mornings and evenings.
The resort had clearly considered the details: raincoats for drizzly days (perfect for Tofino’s famous storm-watch season), luggage carts that made moving in and out simple, and a towel exchange service where fresh beach towels appeared outside our door like magic. For our pup, there was even a wash station to rinse off sandy paws after beach time. Kid-friendly, pet-friendly, and equipped with everything we needed, it was not just a room, it became our home base for adventure and relaxation.
Come for a room tour of unit 208 (our homebase):
https://www.youtube.com/embed/cqz_vZfVwVU
Beach Adventures at Cox Bay and Rosie’s Bay
The beaches at Pacific Sands are breathtaking. Cox Bay and Rosie’s Bay Beach were just steps away, offering endless opportunities for play and discovery. We built sandcastles, flew kites, and spent hours body boarding in the waves. The kids loved exploring the tide pools, where sea anemones and sea stars sparked their curiosity, and we all enjoyed long walks beachcombing for shells and barnacle treasures.
The beach itself was soft and sandy with a shallow, gentle entry into the water, perfect for kids to splash and swim safely. The weather was mild during our stay, with the marine mist rolling in each day to cool things down. It was a refreshing change from the summer heat and created an atmosphere that was both peaceful and invigorating.
Making Memories at the Resort
When we were not at the beach, the resort itself offered so much to enjoy. We spent evenings gathered around the many campfires roasting marshmallows for s’mores (the resort provides marshmallow and chocolate cookie kits!), and lazy afternoons swaying in hammocks strung between the trees. The boardwalk trail that wound through the north side of the property quickly became a favorite, leading us out to Rosie’s Bay and Pettinger Point, where the views of the rugged coastline were nothing short of spectacular. That is also where we found the most sea stars!
The kids loved the scavenger hunt and activity books provided by the resort, and I appreciated how much thought had gone into making families feel welcome. For those looking for more structure, there were daily kids’ clubs in the summertime with themed activities, and even yoga sessions for adults.
Pacific Sands also made a big impression on me with its sustainability efforts. The gardens were filled with native plants that thrived with minimal water thanks to rain barrel catchment systems. There was even a place to drop off beach debris collected during walks, an easy but impactful way for guests to help care for the coast. The resort proudly supported Canadian brands, with Sea Wench Naturals toiletries, Mint Cleaning Supplies, and Fable Dishware featured throughout the property. Even the lobby coffee dispenser featured beans from Rhino Coffee, a beloved local roaster. For the kids, they also had a hot chocolate dispenser.
A Special Family Celebration
One of the highlights of our stay was celebrating a family birthday while we were there. There was something magical about marking such a special occasion with the ocean as our backdrop. We gathered together for a cozy evening by the campfire playing bean bag toss. Celebrating in such a beautiful, natural setting made the day unforgettable. It was the perfect way to pause and truly appreciate the gift of being together as a family.
Property Amenities
Pacific Sands offers a wide range of on-site amenities that made our stay even more enjoyable. Surf Sister Surf School has a rental shop right at the resort, so boards, wetsuits, and lessons are easy to access for anyone looking to hit the waves. When hunger struck, we loved having both the Surfside Grill and the Beach Shack Café right on property. Surfside Grill serves up incredible locally sourced seafood and comfort food at great prices (you've gotta try the fish tacos!), all enjoyed in an open-air setting with firepits that make dining outdoors extra cozy. The Beach Shack Café, just steps from the sand, was perfect for a quick coffee, snack, or light bite before heading out for more beach time. Inside the lobby, guests can borrow DVDs, books, and games, or pick up essentials and treats from the small shop that stocks both pantry and refrigerated items as well as thoughtful local gifts. Every detail made it easy to relax and enjoy our time without ever having to leave the property.
Why We’ll Be Back
By the end of our stay, I realized that Pacific Sands Resort is more than just a place to sleep. It is an experience. From the thoughtful amenities like beach toys, umbrellas, and raincoats, to the sustainable gardens and support of local makers, to the breathtaking beaches and warm hospitality, every detail contributed to a sense of ease and belonging.
It was a trip that left us with sandy toes, happy hearts, and memories we will be talking about for years. Whether it is for another family birthday, a storm-watching adventure, or simply a chance to breathe deeply and reconnect with nature, I know we will be back.
