Nurturing Nature – Make your Vacation Meaningful

Explore some of our sustainability partnerships that help make your vacation meaningful. In the ethereal landscape of Tofino, where rugged coastlines meet ancient forests, preserving the natural splendor is more than a commitment; it’s a way of life. Nestled amidst this fragile environment, we acknowledge the collective responsibility we share as stewards of the land and ocean, and embark on a journey dedicated to environmental preservation and community empowerment.

At the heart of this initiative lies a powerful concept: every stay and adventure at Tofino Resort + Marina contributes to local restoration initiatives, environmental education, and First Nation cultural continuation. Join us as we explore the diverse programs that define our commitment to protecting the Clayoquot Sound for all who inhabit, steward, and explore it.

The Clayoquot Sustainability Fund:  

In partnership with the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust (CBT), we established the Clayoquot Sustainability Fund. This initiative supports projects focused on protecting and restoring natural ecosystems and wildlife in Clayoquot Sound. Guests who stay and adventure with us contribute 1% of their total bill to the fund through an eco fee.

Since its inception in 2023, we have donated $73,000 to organizations like Redd Fish Restoration, Raincoast Education Society, and the Maaqutusiis Hahoulthee Stewardship Society, all working tirelessly towards the enhancement and preservation of Clayoquot Sound. Learn more about the fund and its supported projects here

Tribal Parks Allies:

The Clayoquot Sound, and specifically the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations territory, is an incredibly beautiful and bountiful landscape. From old-growth forests to invigorating marine life, its splendor knows no bounds.

Respect for indigenous culture and heritage is fundamental to our ethos. Operating on the unceded territory of the ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht) First Nation, we are committed to supporting indigenous economic development and environmental protection programs. Guests who stay and adventure at Tofino Resort + Marina contribute 1% of their total bill to empowering the Tla-o-qui-aht community, supporting the development of the Tribal Parks’ Guardians Program, cultural preservation, and restoration initiatives. Learn more about Tribal Park Allies here.

Restoring Kelp Forests with Veritree:

Globally, kelp forests face a decline due to ocean warming and environmental shifts. These forests are essential to ocean ecosystems, providing critical habitats for marine life and playing a pivotal role in climate change mitigation by capturing carbon and generating oxygen.

Locally, fresh water is one of Tofino’s greatest and surprisingly limited natural resources. The town’s water supply is fed by streams that fill reservoirs, which then direct water from Meares Island to Tofino. Escalating summer demand and longer, drier summers make this resource even more precious.

To address these concerns, we are proud to partner with Veritree. For every night that guests opt out of housekeeping services such as daily towel and linen changes, we commit to planting kelp in the waters of British Columbia. Join us in conserving local water supplies and contributing to ocean restoration. Check out our impact here.

Preserving Precious Ecosystems:

Through these programs, guests become catalysts for change. The impact of their stay exceeds mere relaxation—it becomes a meaningful investment in the future of the region. By choosing Tofino Resort + Marina, visitors align themselves with a vision of sustainability and regeneration, immersing themselves in the natural wonders of Tofino while actively participating in its restoration.

Why We’re Investing in Nature-Based Solutions: Kelp Forest Restoration with Veritree

Tofino Resort + Marina is committed to protecting the natural environment that sustains us, and we are grateful to reside on the unceded territory of the ƛaʔuukʷiʔatḥ (Tla-o-qui-aht) First Nation. Recognizing the urgent need to restore ecosystems and address the impacts of climate change, we are actively contributing to the restoration of kelp forests along the West Coast of North America. In partnership with Veritree, we are taking action to protect these vital marine ecosystems through Nature-based Solutions (NbS) as kelp forests continue to decline due to warming oceans.

 

The Importance of Kelp Forests

Kelp forests, classified as foundation species, are essential to the health of marine ecosystems. They support a wide variety of species, including salmon and sea otters, and are highly effective carbon sinks. A single hectare of kelp forest can absorb approximately 1,000 kilograms of carbon per year, making them critical to our planet’s ability to mitigate climate change. However, these ecosystems are under threat, with kelp forests along the West Coast facing significant declines due to rising ocean temperatures and environmental stressors.

Kelp Species We’re Planting

Through our partnership with Veritree, we are focused on planting three critical species of kelp:

  • Bull kelp
  • Sugar kelp
  • Winged kelp

So far, we’ve planted 1,675 kelp, which is equivalent to about 181 square feet of restored ocean habitat—roughly the size of a small family home. This restoration effort represents a vital step in rebuilding habitats for marine species while also enhancing the ocean’s capacity to sequester carbon.

The Power of Nature-Based Solutions

Earth is dangerously close to ecological tipping points, and millions of people are already feeling the effects of climate change and biodiversity loss. Nature-based Solutions like kelp restoration are essential to slowing these trends. We believe urgent action is needed today to avoid the most dangerous impacts of climate change and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.

By working with Veritree, we are making a measurable impact. Each night guests opt out of housekeeping at Tofino Resort + Marina, kelp is planted in the ocean, contributing directly to ecosystem restoration and freshwater conservation.

Key Stats So Far:

  • Total Kelp Planted: 1,675 (filling about 15 bathtubs)
  • Estimated Carbon Sequestration: 103 pounds (comparable to the weight of a baby humpback whale)
  • Ocean Area Restored: 181 square feet (about the size of a 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom home filled with kelp)

Global Impact of Veritree

Veritree works globally with planting organizations in locations such as Canada, Kenya, Madagascar, the United States, and Tanzania. Their platform helps scale NbS projects and ensures transparency and verification, linking restoration practitioners with corporate partners and donors.

At Tofino Resort + Marina, we’re proud to play our part in the net-zero transition. Through our actions, we support local communities, regenerate nature, and fight economic inequality—all while restoring precious marine ecosystems.

Together, we’re investing in the future.