The waters surrounding Tofino are home to one of the most beloved marine animals on the west coast of Canada: sea otters. These playful and curious mammals are often seen floating on their backs in the calm coastal waters of Clayoquot Sound, surrounded by kelp forests and rocky islands.

Sea otters are known for their thick fur, expressive faces, and fascinating behaviours. Visitors exploring the coastline around Tofino frequently encounter these animals resting, grooming, or feeding while drifting on the ocean’s surface.

Seeing sea otters in the wild is a memorable wildlife experience and a highlight of many boat tours in the region.

Where Do Sea Otters Live Near Tofino?

Sea otters thrive in the kelp forests and sheltered coastal waters of Clayoquot Sound. These habitats provide both food and protection from waves and predators.

Kelp forests act as important marine ecosystems, supporting a wide variety of species that sea otters depend on for food. The calm waters and abundant marine life around Tofino make this area an ideal home for growing sea otter populations along Vancouver Island.

Sea otters are often seen floating among the kelp, sometimes wrapping themselves in the kelp fronds so they don’t drift away while resting.

What Do Sea Otters Eat?

Sea otters are important predators in coastal ecosystems and play a key role in maintaining healthy kelp forests.

Their diet includes a variety of marine invertebrates such as:

• sea urchins

• crabs

• clams

• mussels

• other shellfish

Sea otters are one of the few animals known to use tools. They often place a rock on their chest and use it to crack open shells while floating on their backs.

The Return of Sea Otters to Vancouver Island

Sea otters were once abundant along the Pacific coast but were nearly wiped out during the fur trade in the 18th and 19th centuries.

In the 1970s, sea otters were reintroduced to the west coast of Vancouver Island. Since then, their population has slowly recovered and expanded into areas like Clayoquot Sound near Tofino.

Today, their return is considered one of Canada’s most successful marine conservation stories.

Sea Otter Tours in Tofino

Sea Otter Tours departing from Tofino explore the sheltered waters and islands of Clayoquot Sound, where sea otters are frequently spotted.

While searching for whales and other marine life, guests often encounter sea otters floating in small groups known as “rafts.” Watching these animals groom their fur, feed on shellfish, or rest among kelp beds is always a memorable part of the experience.

Along the way, visitors may also see:

• humpback whales

• gray whales

• killer whales (orcas)

• sea lions

• harbour seals

• bald eagles

The incredible diversity of wildlife makes the waters around Tofino one of the most exciting places on Vancouver Island for nature lovers. Please note we see the sea otters on our Whale Watching Tours, Hot Springs Tours and Bear & Whale Combo Tours.