Tofino
British Columbia, Canada
Beach breakIntermediate
British Columbia's surf capital and Canada's most celebrated surf destination, Tofino on Vancouver Island's wild west coast combines pristine old-growth rainforest, grey whale migrations, and consistent Pacific surf in one of North America's most spectacular settings.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Wind
E
Offshore
Tide
mid tide
LowMidHigh
Season
October–November
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Both
Bottom
Sand
Shape
Consistent, powerful beach break, Tofino's exposed beaches receive long-period Pacific groundswells and produce quality waves year-round
Length
40–100m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Intermediate
- •Why: Cold Pacific water, powerful beach breaks, and remote forest environment require ocean experience and preparation.
Hazards
- •Cold water (8–12°C), 5/4mm wetsuit minimum, hood in winter
- •Strong rip currents
- •Grey bears and cougars in the surrounding forest (stay on trails)
- •Sneaker waves on some beaches, never turn your back on the ocean
Local Tips
- •Tofino is a 5-hour drive from Vancouver via the Malahat and the West Coast road, the journey through old-growth forest is extraordinary.
- •Cox Bay and Long Beach produce the most consistent waves; check both before paddling out.
Location
49.1522, -125.9035