In what should be the 8th wonder of the world, Tofino stands in my backyard and although I've lived in BC all my life i had never ventured to the farthest west one can travel by car in Canada. Until one day a few years ago.

Tofino is located within Clayoquat sound on Vancouver Island amidst ancient temperate rainforests. The Pacific Ocean crashes on rocky outcrops and washes up over miles of sandy beaches. Absolutely stunningly beautiful. Erie yet peaceful, quiet yet one can hear thunderous waves crashing all around. We watched surfers riding huge waves on the miles on empty beach among the low lying grey haze. There were kayakers silently exploring pockets along the edge of the earth. I walked for hours when the tide was out exploring pools of water and rocks covered in mussels, starfish and anemones.

Just my dog and I. We were alone and at peace.