Welcome to the surfing capital of Canada and to 35km/21.74mi of magnificently surfable beaches. Around Tofino, waves build up steam without interruption, from Japan. Brave a cool, constant water temperature of 10°C/50°F. Or a winter that boasts some of the most dynamic surfing ever seen, with boarders performing like stars of Cirque du Soleil.
O'Neill Cold Water Classic
In 2009, Tofino hosted Canada's first professional surfing event, the O'Neill Cold Water Classic. It attracted almost 150 professional surfers. Tofino lit up on the surfer's map of the universe.
Surf Culture in Tofino
Boarders from total novices to veteran waveriders find their nirvana in Tofino. Surfing is a culture hereabouts. The incomparable setting of ocean roaring in towards the mountains suggests the epic. Tofino life is laid-back, unmindful of tomorrow, reverent in its elopement with nature. People who arrive in Tofino for other reasons often wind up on a surf board.
Surf Gear
Wetsuits, booties, gloves and a hood are essential gear. Tofino's many surf shops rent equipment, advice on weather conditions and different beaches. Where is that epic wave, the one that lives in the soul for a lifetime?
Surf Beaches around Tofino
With an amazing 10km/6.2mi of golden beach, Long Beach is the single greatest stretch of sand on Vancouver Island and a natural magnet for surfers. Cox Beach boasts more powerful wave action than other beaches in summer. On any day from June through Sept, it's a surf festival. The exquisite Chesterman Beach varies with the winds, but surely struts its stuff in winter.
Surf Shops
Tofino's smallest surf shop, Long Beach Surf, offers a big selection of equipment and gear. Live to Surf on the Pacific Rim Hwy has a complete selection of equipment and also offers lessons. Storm Surf specializes in hi-performance surf gear for boarders ready to take on winter surfing.
Surf Schools Pacific Surf School
Tofino has at least five surf schools that address surfers of all ages and levels of expertise. Pacific Surf School offers surfing lessons and operates a surf camp. Lessons last 3 hours, take place on the beach and cover the territory from surfing etiquette to best techniques. Gear is included. Private lessons are available for all levels and ages. Lessons for people 60 and over are free, if accompanied by a paying customer. Surf camps are all-inclusive, with 2, 3 and 4-day options and accommodation at Bella Pacifica Campground. Beaches are chosen to take advantage of best conditions.
Surf Sister
Surf Sister is Tofino's only all-girl school, but boys are welcome, too. The enterprising outfit offers daily lessons, weekend clinics, teen camps, and the Yoga &Surf Retreat in conjunction with Milagro Retreats.
Riptides
One danger in surfer heaven is sometimes vicious riptides, powerful currents sweeping out to sea. Strong riptides lurk at either end of Cox Beach and at the south end of Long Beach. Riptides are not the best way to go to Japan. Before going to the beach, check conditions at Tofino surf shops or the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre. If caught in a riptide, the best strategy for escape is to swim at right angles to the current towards the nearest breaking wave until you're out of it. Then, using the waves for extra push, make your way to shore. If exhaustion sets in, don't be inhibited about yelling for help.
For more information on surfing drop by the Pacific Rim Visitor Centre at the Tofino-Ucluelet junction or the Tofino Visitor Centre at 455 Campbell St in Tofino.