Northern British Columbia Surfing & Watersports
Haida Gwaii beach, Tourism BC photo
For surfing in Northern BC, head to Haida Gwaii/Queen Charlotte Islands.
Discover kilometres/miles of white-sand beaches bordered by open ocean and big winter waves, but no crowds – even on days with perfect conditions.
Most surfing in BC occurs on Vancouver Island, which mean surf spots in Northern BC are relatively untouched. Popular surf areas include North Beach in Masset and East Beach and Rennell Sound near Tlell. Bring gear or rent it at North Beach Surf Shop (Masset), which offers lessons and guided experiences.
In November, Masset hosts the Haida Gwaii Expression Session, a local surfing event that includes surf movies, lessons and photography workshops and more.
Show More
Popular Northern BC Surf Spots
The region's prime spot for surfing is at North Beach (20 minutes east of Masset) on Haida Gwaii. North Beach is easily accessible by car year-round and is home to long, sandy shorelines with consistent main breaks that are good for all levels of surfers.
Intermediate or experienced surfer? Head to East Beach and Rennell Sound (near Tlell on Haida Gwaii), and discover large wind swell in winter months that make for challenging waves. Both of these spots are accessible by car, but winter conditions can affect roads. Check with the local surf shop in advance.
Cold Water Surfing in Northern BC
October to May is the prime season for surfing in Northern BC. In Haida Gwaii, winter storms bring good, clean swells, while summertime has sunnier skies and smaller waves that are good for beginner surfers. Water temperatures range from 3°C/37°F in the winter to 12°C/54°F in summer, and 5mm neoprene wetsuits with booties, gloves and hoods are essential.
Surf Shop and Lessons
Masset has the only surf shop in Northern BC: North Beach Surf Shop. At the shop, sign up for lessons and learn basic techniques, or opt for guided surfing services to remote locales (for intermediate and experienced surfers). Rentals for surfing are available, along with additional beach activities such as stand up paddlesurfing and kiteboarding.
Practical Points
- The primary season for surfing in Northern BC is from October to May.
- Haida Gwaii has mostly sandy beaches, but be aware of rocky outcroppings and riptides.
- Check with North Beach Surf Shop (Masset) for surf and road conditions and visit local Visitor Centres for help with accommodation, transportation and trip planning.
Show Less
Hide Map
Main Address
Activity/Branch/Terminal
Visitor Centres
1 - 1 of 1 Results
Page:
1
Km 765 Of Alaska Hwy
Muncho Lake, British Columbia
V0C 1Z0
Spectacular folded mountains, bountiful wildlife, brilliantly coloured wildflowers are just some of the wonders to discover. The southern portion of the park has the impressive geological formations of Folded Mountain, formed by tectonic deformation of limestone.
View Details