Kayaking

Perhaps the quintessential Clayoquot experience, and certainly one of the most fun, is to slip into a kayak and paddle out into the Sound. For beginners, half-day tours to Meares Island (usually with the chance to do a little hiking) are an especially good bet. For rentals, lessons, and tours, try Pacific Kayak, 606 Campbell St., at Jamie's Whaling Station (tel. 250/725-3232; www.tofino-bc.com/pacifickayak). The Tofino Sea-Kayaking Company, 320 Main St., Tofino (tel. 800/863-4664 or 250/725-4222; www.tofino-kayaking.com), offers kayaking packages ranging from 4-hour paddles around Meares Island (from C$68/US$54 per person) to weeklong paddling and camping expeditions. Instruction by experienced guides makes even your first kayaking experience a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable one.