Where to watch storms in the NW

Tofino, on the west coast of British Columbia’s Vancouver Island, is the ideal place for first-time storm watchers. The true advantage of Tofino is the option of retreat. Long Beach Lodge Resort (from $174 U.S.; restaurant $$$; longbeachlodgeresort.com) sits on a vast expanse of sand between the ocean and the rain forest. The resort has cozy rooms with beds laid with thick coverlets; some with their own fireplaces. And the three walls of wind-rattled picture windows in the Great Room lounge and dining room are perfect for watching a storm while eating a steaming bowl of chowder made with local seafood, or the chef’s Dungeness crab special. One trip to Tofino in a strong gale, and you’ll see that sunshine is overrated.