Tofino's appeal changes dramatically with the season, and the best time to visit depends entirely on what you want to do.
Summer (July–August) is warm, relatively dry (by Tofino standards — it still rains), and busy. This is peak season for kayaking, whale watching, and hiking. Accommodation prices are at their highest and demand is intense, so book well ahead. Temperatures reach 18–22°C on good days, though fog is common in the mornings.
Spring (March–April) is the peak season for whale watching, when the grey whale migration passes through. The Pacific Rim Whale Festival runs in March. Weather is unpredictable but the ocean can be dramatic. This is also when the surf is at its most powerful.
Storm season (November–February) is Tofino's best-kept secret. The waves from November through January can reach 8 metres or more, and the resort lodges offer "storm watching" packages specifically for people who come to watch the fury of the Pacific from the warmth of a heated lodge. The town is quieter, prices drop significantly, and the atmosphere is unlike the summer version. Surfing continues through the winter for experienced surfers.
Autumn (September–October) is a sweet spot: fewer tourists than summer, warm enough to be comfortable, and the light on the Sound is exceptional.