Jordan River BC
British Columbia, Canada
Beach breakIntermediate
On Vancouver Island's wild west coast, Jordan River is British Columbia's most accessible quality surf spot, a river mouth beach break that has been at the heart of the Victoria surf scene for decades, cold but consistent Pacific waves.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–NW 1–2.5m at 12–16s
Wind
E
Light to SE under 15 knots
Tide
Mid tide
LowMidHigh
Season
Oct–Apr
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach and river mouth break
Bottom
Sand and gravel
Shape
Peaks around the river mouth, predominantly lefts
Length
50–100m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
- •Why: Cold Pacific waves with river mouth currents require experience
Hazards
- •Cold water, 8–12°C requires 5/4mm hooded wetsuit
- •River mouth currents in rain season
- •The break can get crowded on good days given proximity to Victoria
Local Tips
- •Jordan River is 1 hour from Victoria, the most accessible Pacific swell for the capital
- •The old logging road along the Strait of Juan de Fuca is a spectacular drive
- •Check the wind, the Strait de Juan de Fuca channels strong winds that can destroy conditions
Location
48.4193, -124.0567