1/2 hr ferry line up + 2 1/2 hr ferry ride + 2 1/2 hr drive = Awesome Scenery
The trip is nicely broken up in bite sized stages and its quite fun! You may see killer whales on the ferry from Vancouver, the drive from Nanaimo to Port Alberni passes through exceptional rain forests. The final stretch of highway to Tofino through pristine coastal mountains with waterfalls and mountain streams at every turn. (driving here)
Via here
Ferry Service from Vancouver to Nanaimo is from either Horseshoe Bay or Tsawwassen Ferry Terminals. We would recommend reserving a ferry spot if you are traveling during peak hours. (ferries to be booked here)
You can always chose to fly over to Tofino from Vancouver, Victoria or Seattle. If you are interested in this option check this website.
From Nanaimo we suggest: Take the Island Highway #19 North. Exit onto Highway #4 West towards Port Alberni and Tofino. Continue through Port Alberni. After approximately 1.5 hours, you will arrive at a T-junction. Turn right to Tofino (left is Ucluelet). Travel through Pacific Rim National Park, 10 minutes past Long Beach look for Middle Beach Lodge/Bella Pacifica sign on the left side of the highway. Turn left off the highway onto MacKenzie Beach Road. Continue past the campground until you reach another junction. Follow the signs accordingly to your rooms :)
