Tofino is best known for its outdoor recreation, but an interesting diversion is Tofino Botanical Gardens (1084 Pacific Rim Hwy., 250/725-1220, daily 8 a.m.–dusk, adult $10, child free), just before town. Developed by knowledgeable locals, it showcases local flora with the emphasis on a fun, educational experience. One garden is devoted to native species you would find in the adjacent national park, another to plants you can eat (but aren’t allowed to). This is the only botanical garden I’ve visited where a colorfully painted camper van from the 1970s is incorporated into a display.

Eagle Aerie Gallery (350 Campbell St., 250/725-3235, daily 9 a.m.–8 p.m. in summer, daily 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. the rest of the year) features the eye-catching paintings, prints, and sculptures of Roy Henry Vickers, a well-known and highly respected Tsimshian artist. You can watch a documentary about the artist, then browse among the artworks—primarily native Canadian designs and outdoor scenes with clean lines and brilliant colors.