Ucluelet
British Columbia, Canada
Beach breakIntermediate
On Vancouver Island's wild west coast, Ucluelet sits at the south end of the Pacific Rim National Park and has consistent, powerful beach break and reef options in a setting of old-growth rainforest, whales, and dramatic Pacific storms.
Typical Conditions
The Surf Window
Swell Window
OptimalW (270°)
WindowSSW–NNW (210°–330°)
Size–NW 1.5–3m at 14–18s
Wind
E
Light to SE under 15 knots
Tide
Mid to high
LowMidHigh
Season
Oct–Apr
JFMAMJJASOND
The Wave
Type
Beach and reef break
Bottom
Sand and rock
Shape
Various, beach peaks and reef points
Length
60–150m
Skill Level
- •Who it's for: Intermediate to advanced
- •Why: Cold, powerful Pacific swells and remote location require experience
Hazards
- •Very cold water, 7–12°C requires hooded 5/4mm or drysuit
- •Storm swells can arrive quickly and dangerously
- •Black bears on the beaches and trails
Local Tips
- •Ucluelet has better surf infrastructure than Tofino, fewer tourists, more locals
- •Wild Pacific Trail along the headland has stunning views of the swell from shore
- •Black Bear season is spring, make noise on the beach trails
Location
48.9450, -125.5605