I tried surfing in TOFINO. Was it WORTH IT?
#rvlife #travel
2022-09-04
As I stand on the rugged coastline of Tofino, British Columbia, I can't help but take a deep breath and let the salty air fill my lungs. This is Canada's premier storm-watching and surfing destination, and I am lucky enough to be here to experience it all firsthand.
My journey started at the Tofino Visitor Center, where I learned that many of the beaches are within the Pacific Rim National Park, and a parks pass is required to access them. I bought my pass, and I am ready to explore.
As a first-time surfer, I booked a lesson with a local surfing school. The instructors were encouraging and taught me all the safety measures and details before getting me out in the water. The lesson lasted for two and a half hours, and I have to admit, I am exhausted but exhilarated. The feeling of catching a wave and riding it to the shore is indescribable. If you are a seasoned pro or a first-timer like me, the surf in Tofino will not disappoint.
Long Beach, just 15 minutes outside of Tofino, is a vast and beautiful beach covered with silky, soft sand. It is the most popular surf beach in Tofino, and it's where I experienced my first surf lesson. Before coming down to the beach, signs are posted about the different rip currents, and areas to avoid, so take caution. The beach is also great for boogie boarding if surfing is not your thing. Renting a board is around $20, and if you want a wetsuit, then it's around $40.
Suppose you're interested in exploring a quieter beach with calmer waters for swimming. In that case, there is a secret and quieter beach near Long Beach that is perfect for those who want to avoid the crowds.
After a day of surfing and boogie boarding, there's nothing like a dip in the water to cool down. However, the water temperature in Tofino can be quite chilly, so make sure to rent a wetsuit if you want to enjoy the water fully.
Camping in Tofino can be challenging, so plan well in advance and get your campgrounds booked early. I stayed at the Cluelet Campground, which is outside of Tofino, as everything in Tofino was fully booked. However, it was worth it to be so close to all the breathtaking scenery.
In conclusion, if you are an avid surfer or just someone who wants to get out and try something new, Tofino is the place to be. With its vast beaches, beautiful landscapes, and amazing surf, it has something for everyone.
Traveling with an RV and Surfing in Tofino, BC - A Comprehensive Guide
If you're an avid surfer or just love the great outdoors, then Tofino, BC, should be at the top of your bucket list. Tofino is a small town located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, known for its incredible natural beauty, stunning beaches and thrilling surf. It is a perfect place to explore nature and experience the rugged coastal beauty of Canada's Pacific Northwest.
If you are planning a trip to Tofino, then why not go camping in an RV and take your surfing experience to a whole new level? RV camping is a great way to travel with family or friends, enjoy the convenience of having your own home on wheels, and make the most out of your Tofino visit.
Here's everything you need to know to plan your RV camping trip to Tofino and how to enjoy the fabulous surfing opportunities in the area.
Why Tofino is a Perfect Destination for RV Camping and Surfing
Tofino is a popular destination for RV camping and surfing for several reasons. The town is incredibly scenic, situated amidst the rugged beauty of the Pacific Northwest coastline, rainforests, and mountains. It is also known for its world-class surf breaks which attract surfers from all over the world. Tofino is an ideal place to camp in an RV, with numerous opportunities for boondocking and RV parks that offer excellent amenities.
Surfing in Tofino
Tofino is a world-renowned surfing destination, with some of the best cold-water surf breaks globally, offering experienced surfers a unique and exciting experience. The town is surrounded by several fantastic surf spots, with everything from beginner-friendly waves to expert-level swells. Some of the most popular surf breaks in Tofino are Long Beach, Cox Bay, and Chesterman's Beach.
If you are a beginner, then Long Beach is the perfect place to start. It's a long, wide-open beach with easy waves to learn on. Cox Bay, on the other hand, offers more challenging swells, making it a perfect spot for intermediate surfers. Chesterman's Beach is the most consistent surf spot in Tofino, offering waves all year round.
Surfing Equipment and Rentals
If you are an experienced surfer, you can bring your own surfing equipment with you. If not, Tofino has plenty of surf shops that rent gear at reasonable prices. A wetsuit is essential when surfing in Tofino, and most surf shops offer suits that are suitable for the cold water. A surfboard, leash, and wax are other essential items you will need.
Best Time to Surf in Tofino
Tofino's waves are excellent all year round, but the best time to surf in Tofino is from late September to April, when the waves are at their biggest and most consistent. During summer, the waves are smaller, but it's still possible to catch some excellent waves. It's important to note that the water here is quite cold, and you will need a wetsuit. The water temperature during the summer months ranges from 10 to 14 degrees Celsius, and during the winter, it drops to 6 to 8 degrees Celsius.
Boondocking in Tofino
One of the best things about RV camping in Tofino is that there are plenty of opportunities for boondocking. Boondocking is essentially camping off-grid, without hookups or other amenities. There are several areas around Tofino where you can park your RV for free.
The long stretch of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve provides some of the best boondocking spots. Some popular boondocking areas include Radar Hill, Green Point Campground, and Mackenzie Beach. Many of these spots offer stunning coastal views and are within walking distance of the best surfing beaches.
RV Parks in Tofino
If you prefer to camp with amenities, then Tofino has several RV parks and campgrounds that cater to campers of all types. Here are some of the best RV parks in Tofino:
- Crystal Cove Beach Resort: This resort has full hookups, a heated pool, and hot tub, as well as access to the stunning Mackenzie Beach. It's also within minutes of some of the best surf spots in Tofino.
- Bella Pacifica Campground: Located right on beautiful Cox Bay, this campground offers oceanfront RV sites and easy beach access. It offers amenities including full RV hookups, showers, and laundry facilities.
- Surf Grove Campground: Surrounded by ancient rainforest, this campground has easy access to some of the best surfing spots in Tofino. It offers full RV hookups, tent campsites, and a communal fire pit.
Things to Do in Tofino Besides Surfing
If you're looking for other activities besides surfing, then Tofino has plenty to offer. Here are some other things you can do during your visit:
- Explore the Rainforests: Tofino is located within the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, which is home to some of the most beautiful temperate rainforests in the world. Take a hike on some of the scenic trails and experience the lush, ancient rainforest.
- Visit Hot Springs Cove: Take a relaxing dip in one of the world's most unique hot springs. The hot springs are only accessible by boat or plane and provide a relaxing and unique experience in the wilderness.
- Whale Watching: Tofino is one of the best places in the world to catch a glimpse of majestic whales in their natural habitat. Take a whale watching tour and witness these gentle giants up close.
Conclusion
Tofino, BC, offers an incredible RV camping experience and world-class surfing opportunities. Surfers of all skill levels will enjoy the stunning beaches and ocean swells, while RV campers can choose between boondocking or camping at one of the region's many RV parks. Besides surfing, Tofino has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, whale watching, and soaking in hot springs. It's no wonder Tofino is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in the world. So pack the RV, grab your surfboard, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Tofino!