BEST SURF SPOTS IN CANADA
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The Top 20 Surf spots in Canada:
Sombrio Beach
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Sombrio Beach - Vancouver Island
Sombrio Beach features a rocky reef break with boulders, offering both right and left-hand waves. The surf is characterized by hollow, fast, and powerful conditions, making it suitable for experienced surfers. The spot works at all tides, with rising and falling tide movements, and is accessible via a long walk (over 30 minutes) from the parking area.
Located on the southern coast of Vancouver Island, Sombrio Beach is a rugged surf destination about 45 minutes from Sooke along the Sooke Highway. The beach is known for its stunning natural surroundings and various peaks, including 1st Peak, Chickens, and 2nd Peak, catering to different skill levels. While the surf can get crowded during the week and ultra-crowded on weekends, the local surf community is friendly. Be mindful of the rocks and localism, and always respect the ocean's power. The persistent mist adds to the unique atmosphere, making it a memorable surf experience for those willing to venture out.
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Cherry Hill
Cherry Hill - Nova Scotia
Cherry Hill features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. The waves are generally powerless, making it suitable for surfers of all skill levels. The spot works at all tides, particularly during rising tide, and is best with a north wind and southwest swell.
This long, white sand beach is a hidden gem, offering three easily accessible breaks that cater to beginners and experienced surfers alike. The beach layout allows for various sections to be explored based on conditions, ensuring a fun experience for all. While it may not be the most famous surf spot, its charm lies in its emptiness, with few surfers on weekends and an almost deserted vibe during the week. To access Cherry Hill, take exit 14 off highway 103, then follow the 331 to the community, where the road to the beach is located near the fire department.
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Fort. Ebey
Fort Ebey - Whidbey Island
Fort Ebey features a left-point break over flat rocks, producing hollow, fast, and ledgey waves. The spot is best surfed at low tide during falling tide conditions, with optimal swell coming from the Northwest and West. Wave heights typically range from 0.3 to 1.2 meters, making it a fickle yet rewarding location for those in the know.
This ultra-mystical surf spot is known for its local crowd, where islanders often dominate the lineup. Access is straightforward via Whidbey Island, with parking available at Joseph Whidbey State Park. A short walk leads to the break, but be prepared for a wait if the crowd is thick. The atmosphere is laid-back, though kooks may find themselves unwelcome. For the best experience, time your visit with the largest swell of the season, and keep an eye on wind conditions between 15 to 25 knots from the west.
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China Beach
China Beach - Vancouver Island
China Beach features a right-breaking beach break over a sandy bottom, offering ordinary power waves. Accessible via a short 5-15 minute walk from the parking lot, it provides public access for surfers seeking a less crowded experience.
Nestled along the scenic west coast of Vancouver Island, China Beach is a hidden gem primarily frequented by locals. While not renowned, it offers a relaxed atmosphere ideal for honing skills without the pressure of larger crowds. Optimal conditions arise with a northeast wind, making it a suitable spot for various skill levels. Although it may not always deliver epic waves, the charm of China Beach lies in its tranquil vibe and the opportunity to enjoy a session in a picturesque setting.
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Ambleside Park
Ambleside Park - West Vancouver, BC
Ambleside Park features a beach break with waves breaking both right and left over a reef and sandy bottom. Ideal conditions arise with a minimum of 15 knots NW wind, particularly at low and mid tide during rising and falling tides.
This surf spot, located just west of the Lions Gate Bridge, offers instant access and is suitable for all skill levels. The atmosphere is friendly, with minimal localism. Weekdays see fewer surfers, while weekends attract a small crowd. Ambleside Park is a great alternative to ferrying to the island, making it a popular choice for local surfers. For more insights, check local media and surf clips online.
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Jordan river
Jordan River (The Point) - Canada
Jordan River features a point break with fast, long waves that can exceed 3 meters during winter swells. The bottom consists of flat rocks and sand, providing a unique riding experience. This spot works at all tides, particularly during a rising tide, and is best with swells from the Northwest, West, and Southwest.
Once a logging camp, Jordan River has evolved into a surf town known for its long wrapping rights, notably The Point, along with other breaks like Sewers and Rock Piles. While the surf can be inconsistent, mid-winter conditions often yield epic rides. However, surfers should be mindful of localism, as the atmosphere can be heavily localized, especially on weekends when crowds swell. Instant access to the beach makes it easy to catch a session, but respect for locals is crucial to ensure a positive experience.
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Crescent City South Beach
Crescent City South Beach - Crescent City, California
Crescent City South Beach features a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. This beginner-friendly spot offers smaller waves, approximately 40% of typical swell size, making it ideal for longboarders. The best conditions occur at mid and high tide during a rising tide.
Located near Crescent City Harbor, this expansive beach is a popular choice for surfers, especially during north winds in spring and after winter storms. Access is straightforward, with parking available right off Hwy 101. While the beach can get busy, particularly during the annual longboarding contest in October, it generally remains uncrowded during the week. The north end provides a more sheltered environment, enhancing the surfing experience. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced longboarder, South Beach offers a welcoming atmosphere for all.
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Saint George Reef Lighthouse
Saint George Reef Lighthouse - California
This surf spot features a reef break with a rocky bottom, characterized by flat rocks interspersed with sand. Located 11 kilometers offshore at the end of Radio Head, it offers a unique surfing experience with minimal crowding throughout the week and on weekends.
The waves here are best suited for experienced surfers due to the presence of rocks and potential shark encounters. The remote location ensures that surfers can enjoy uncrowded sessions, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude. The combination of the reef structure and the surrounding ocean conditions can create challenging yet rewarding surf opportunities. Always be cautious of the rocky terrain and the wildlife in the area.
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Elwha
Elwha - Strait of Juan de Fuca
Elwha features a left-breaking rivermouth wave over a flat rock bottom, known for its fast and ledgey characteristics. This spot offers some of the best waves on the Strait, with the potential for long rides, particularly when the swell is right.
Accessing Elwha requires a short walk (5-15 minutes) from Hwy 112, turning north on Place Rd, and following the trail to Dike Rd. While it is illegal to surf on the reservation, crossing the river is generally overlooked by the local tribe. The wave works best at low and mid tide, with optimal conditions during rising and falling tides, and is favored by southwest to southeast winds and northwest to west swells. Expect a few surfers during the week, but it can get crowded on weekends, so be prepared for localism.
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Whiskey Creek
Whiskey Creek - Washington
Whiskey Creek features powerful, hollow waves breaking over a rocky reef with a boulder bottom. This spot is accessible via a short walk from the R.V. Park after driving down Whiskey Creek Rd. It works best at low and mid tide, with optimal conditions from northwesterly winds and swells.
The atmosphere at Whiskey Creek can be deceiving; the initial approach may seem uninviting, but the reward is a super rippable wave that caters to both right and left-handers. The beach is relatively uncrowded during the week, making it an ideal spot for those seeking solitude. However, caution is advised due to rips, undertow, and rocky hazards. After a brief five-minute walk east along the beach, surfers will find themselves in a prime surfing location, ready to enjoy the waves.
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Westport
Westport (Jetty/Corner) - Washington
Westport features a breakwater and jetty setup, producing both right and left breaking waves over a sandy bottom. The wave characteristics range from ordinary to powerless, making it suitable for various skill levels. The spot works best at low and mid tide during falling tide conditions, with optimal wind from the southeast, east, or northeast.
Located near the mouth of Grays Harbor, Westport is a reliable surf destination for locals and daytrippers from Seattle. The area is accessible via a state park access road, with a short walk from parking. Expect a crowded scene on weekends, while weekdays see fewer surfers. The presence of strong currents and significant tidal changes can pose challenges, so checking conditions beforehand is essential. Despite its sometimes gutless waves, Westport offers a break from the flat coastline, making it a popular choice when the surf aligns.
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Port Orford
Port Orford - Southern Oregon Coast
Port Orford features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom, offering fun surf conditions. The spot works at all tides, primarily under NorthWest winds and West or SouthWest swells. While the surf can be inconsistent, winter swells provide the best opportunities.
Nestled on the southern Oregon coast, Port Orford is a hidden gem known for its scenic beauty and surf potential. The area is divided between Hubbard Creek and Battle Rock, each offering unique sensations based on the conditions. Access is straightforward, with parking available off Highway 101, making it popular among locals and travelers alike. The best surfing typically occurs from November to May, attracting a laid-back crowd. Despite its accessibility, the beaches often feel empty, allowing surfers to enjoy the waves without the hustle and bustle found at more crowded spots.
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Simpson Reef
Simpson Reef - Oregon Coast
Simpson Reef features a rocky reef break that offers both right and left-hand waves. This surf spot is located at latitude 43.3177 and longitude -124.4066, providing a unique surfing experience for those who seek diverse wave directions.
The reef is accessible for surfers looking to challenge themselves with its dynamic wave characteristics. The rocky bottom can create powerful swells, making it suitable for experienced surfers. The surrounding scenery adds to the allure, with stunning coastal views that enhance the overall surfing experience. Be prepared for varying conditions, and always check the tide and swell forecasts before heading out.
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Point roberts point
Point Roberts Point - Point Roberts, Washington
This spot features a point break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom mixed with rock. The waves are known to be hollow, fast, and powerful, primarily working at mid tide with swell from the southwest and wind from the northwest or southwest.
Located at the southeast corner of Point Roberts, access is straightforward with a short walk from the Lighthouse Park parking lot. While the wave is best during windy conditions in the fall and winter, particularly in January, the area is also a great spot for whale watching and fishing in the summer. Surfers should be cautious of strong currents and consider bringing a buddy for safety. Keep an eye on local weather conditions for optimal surfing opportunities, as the wave can be fickle and often deters casual surfers.
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Florence South jetty
Florence South Jetty - Oregon
Florence South Jetty features a sandy beach break with waves breaking both right and left. The spot is best enjoyed during summer with small swells, offering fun conditions. Access is via a crossing of the river to Glenada, and it works well with east to northeast winds and northwest to southwest swells.
This wide and flat beach stretches for miles, facing west, and is influenced by the jetty that creates predominantly right-breaking waves. While the surf can be challenging due to rough currents, it becomes rideable when conditions are clean and small. A notable left break appears at low tide near the harbor entrance. Access involves a $3 fee after a six-mile drive through dunes, with the last stretch being rocky. Expect a more relaxed crowd at the jetty compared to other nearby spots, but be mindful of the local vibe, which can be less than welcoming.
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Andrews Head
Andrews Head - Nova Scotia
Andrews Head features a beach break with waves breaking to the right and left over a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. The spot is easily accessible, with instant access requiring less than 5 minutes of walking, and it offers public access.
This surf location is known for its fun wave characteristics, making it suitable for surfers of various skill levels. The combination of sandy and rocky bottom provides a unique surfing experience, while the dual wave direction allows for versatility in riding. With its quick access and enjoyable conditions, Andrews Head is a favored spot for both locals and visitors looking to catch some waves in Nova Scotia.
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Crescent
Crescent - Strait of Juan de Fuca
Crescent is a beach break featuring right-hand waves over a sandy bottom, ideal for beginners. The wave typically ranges from knee to shoulder high, with the best conditions occurring at mid tide during a rising tide, particularly at the river mouth.
Located just off Hwy 112, access is straightforward, with parking available at the nearby RV campground for a fee. The atmosphere can be lively, as the spot attracts both surfers and kayakers, which may lead to crowded lineups. While the wave can be fun, it's advisable to check conditions with the RV park before heading out, as it doesn't always break. The spot is best enjoyed during weekdays when fewer surfers are present, allowing for a more relaxed session.
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Hirtles
Hirtles - Kingsburg
Hirtles features a beach break with both right and left waves over a sandy bottom. This spot is suitable for beginners, with consistent surf conditions at all tides, making it accessible for novice surfers looking to practice.
Located in the picturesque community of Kingsburg, Hirtles Beach spans 1 kilometer of clean, white sand. The area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, especially on weekends when a few surfers gather. For those seeking amenities, Lunenburg is just a 15-minute drive away, offering excellent food and drink options. Access is straightforward via Highway 103, with instant access to the beach requiring less than a 5-minute walk. While the waves may not excite advanced surfers, the scenic surroundings and local camping at the Ovens Campground make it a great weekend getaway.
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The Wall
The Wall - Hampton Beach, Rye
The Wall features a beach break with both right and left waves, characterized by a sandy bottom interspersed with rocks. It typically works best at low and mid tide, with optimal conditions arising from east to northeast swells and west to southwest winds. The wave power ranges from fast to fun, making it an exciting spot for surfers.
Located in Rye, just north of Hampton Beach, The Wall is easily accessible via Route 1A. While it can get crowded, especially on weekends, the vibe remains mellow, attracting a mix of beginners and hardcore surfers. The area is known for its cold water, so wearing booties is advisable even in summer. The surf can close out at larger sizes, making it ideal for smaller days. Parking is metered and free in winter, with instant access to the beach. Be cautious of the rocks when paddling out, as they can pose a danger.
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Broad Cove
Broad Cove - Nova Scotia
Broad Cove features powerful reef waves breaking both right and left over a boulder bottom. Access requires a short walk of 5-15 minutes, and the spot is publicly accessible.
This surf location boasts three point breaks, with the main break offering a long right that wraps into the bay, ideal for surfers seeking fun rides. The laid-back atmosphere attracts a diverse mix of surfers, making it a welcoming spot for all skill levels. While conditions can vary, it's advisable to check surf reports and consult locals to optimize your experience. Broad Cove is best enjoyed when the swell aligns, promising enjoyable sessions for those willing to wait for the right moment.
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