Are you ready to hang 10? If you thought surfing was a sport that can only be associated with the summer months or warm weather destinations, think again. In Tofino, on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, surfing is also a winter activity. The reason for this is the weather and water temperatures – Tofino doesn’t get harsh winters like other parts of Canada and the water temperatures stay consistent (and surf-ready) all year round. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer ready to try something different, or someone who might be curious about what Tofino has to offer in the winter, winter surfing is for you.
An intro to surfing in Tofino
Tofino is known as the surfing capital of Canada as well as one of the best places in the world to surf, so it should come as no surprise that people from all over come here to catch some waves. Not only that, you can surf all year long. There are 35 kilometres of surfable beach break here meaning there’s no shortage of spots to get on your surfboard. And the best part is that Tofino can accommodate everyone from total beginners to seasoned surfing pros.
If you do happen to be a beginner, there are nine surf schools in Tofino to choose from. Surf schools offer equipment rentals and lessons that cover everything from surf safety and etiquette to techniques for surfers of all levels. So whether you’ve never stepped onto a board or you just want to continue building on skills you already have, there’s a surf school in Tofino for you. Surf school is also a good idea if you aren’t used to larger waves or surfing in the winter. If that is the case, book a few lessons with a surf school in Tofino so that you’re sure to end up at a surfing spot that matches your skill level and be with an instructor who can ensure you have a safe, informative and fun experience with the winter waves.
Why winter surfing
Winter is the season known for some of the biggest waves in Tofino. Winter storms generate big swells that are ideal for experienced surfers. And since the climate in Tofino doesn’t fluctuate the way it does in other provinces, the opportunity to keep on surfing once summer is over is a real possibility and one which many locals and tourists take full advantage of. As long as you have the right gear on (see below) why put your board down just because it’s winter? Part of the draw of Tofino is the fact that surfers don’t have to stop doing what they love just because the seasons have changed.
What you need for winter surfing
During the winter the ocean water in Tofino is around 8 to 10 degrees Celsius, which is pretty chilly. To combat the cold, surfers need the right equipment like a winter wetsuit designed for cold water surfing. This suit should be at least 5 mm thick and you’ll also need a neoprene hood, booties and gloves. All of this equipment can be rented at surf shops in Tofino and will protect you from the cold so you can stay focused on what matters: surfing. You’ll still need a wetsuit for surfing in summer since the water never gets above 15 or 16 degrees Celsius, but it will be lighter and not as thick as the ones you would wear in the winter.
At times the winter surf can get too big to be safe, but this will vary from beach to beach. You can get a better sense of waves, weather conditions and surf breaks with the help of a surf forecaster.
Where to surf in Tofino
There are an abundance of beaches to surf at in Tofino, no matter the season. Chesterman Beach is known as the most popular beach in Canada for people learning how to surf and it’s also the most accessible beach in Tofino. It’s close to central Tofino and has lots of parking.
Long Beach is another popular surfing spot. It’s located in the beautiful Pacific Rim National Park Reserve and about a 25 minute drive from Tofino. Long Beach is one of the most popular surfing beaches in Canada as the waves here are known to be suited to surfers of all levels.
More about Tofino
As much as Tofino is all about the year round surfing, there’s more to this Vancouver Island hot spot than boards and waves. Being located in the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Tofino is the place to be if you love the great outdoors. Hiking trails, a thriving food scene, laid back atmosphere and an abundance of activities for various interest and energy levels can all be found here. Other must-dos while in Tofino include beach-hopping, storm-watching (a popular activity in the winter), whale watching, stand-up paddle boarding, bird watching and kayaking.
Have you ever surfed in the winter? If so, how was your experience?
For more information about winter surfing in Tofino and everything else Tofino has to offer (which is a lot), visit Tofino Tourism.
Featured image: Insiya Rasiwala-Finn used under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike license)
