Winter Surfing? Tofino’s Got You Covered!

Although winter surfing may not be as common as surfing in the summer, Tofino has proven that it’s a sport that can be done any time of the year.

How to Prepare for Winter Surfing

The number one thing that winter surfing enthusiasts need to have fun is a good attitude. Winter surfing is definitely not for everyone, but trust us when we say it’s an experience you’ll never forget. So, after having a good attitude, you’ll need a quality wetsuit. The water temperatures often reach an average of 8°C (46°F), which gets very frigid combined with the air temperature. The next tip is to layer up prior to diving in the water. It’s important to be very warm before removing some layers so that your body can maintain as much body heat as possible. The last tip regarding winter surfing is to not leave the water as soon as you get cold. Your body will naturally adapt to the water temperature, and although it may seem uncomfortable at first, it will become unnoticeable once you begin surfing. Plus, if you get out of the water, it will be even harder to get back in, so stick it out for the first few minutes!

Places to Stay

Tofino’s primary winter surf location is Cox Bay, which is only a 10-minute drive from downtown. That being said, it’s super easy to stay in town if you can’t find a place right on the water. However, Cox Bay Beach Resort is our favorite spot and is just a quick walk away from the beach. The resort offers house-style accommodations, with full kitchens and separate living areas. This lodging is perfect for larger trips with family and friends and can make for a very memorable stay. There are beautiful views from every balcony and stunning west coast-inspired architecture. Cox Bay Beach Resort also offers packages, which can make booking your next trip super easy. There are surfing, whale watching, and stand-up paddleboarding packages available for purchase with your reservation. The resort even offers beachside yoga classes in the mornings so you can get a nice stretch in before your surf!

Why Winter?

Obviously, Tofino is a beautiful place to visit in the summer, but the winter months are just as incredible. Temperatures rarely drop below 0°, and limited snowfalls throughout the season. The best part, however, is the fact that it’s a slower time of year for Tofino. Like many, the town becomes a popular tourist destination in the summertime. Because Tofino is small, it can get somewhat crowded during these months, so we recommend visiting in the fall or winter. That way, you’ll be able to experience winter surfing and a more relaxed environment. It truly will be an experience you will never forget, and an amazing activity you can tell all your friends about!