Surfing
NOTE: All beaches are unsupervised. There are no lifeguards or surf guards on duty.
Surfing at Long Beach
© S. Clarkson
Pacific Rim is on many surfers’ “bucket lists”. These waters have been surfed since the sport became popular in the mid 1960’s. The early surfers came from elsewhere on Vancouver Island and from the Lower Mainland, but today, surfers from all over the world visit the beaches in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve to ride the waves.
Beaches in the Long Beach unit provide a variety of surf experiences that change daily with tides, weather, and other conditions. Pacific Rim offers year-round surfing; summer generally means moderate surf conditions while winter surf is for experienced surfers only.
Points of Interest
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Long Beach: The most famous of Pacific Rim’s beaches. Offering a 16 km stretch of surf, Long Beach has something for everyone.
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Wickaninnish Beach: A good mix of waves suitable for beginner riders.
Facilities and Services
| Availability | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Restrooms | Yes | Located in parking areas at Wickaninnish, Incinerator, Combers and, Schooner Beaches, Radar Hill, and Long Beach parking areas. |
| Change Rooms | Yes | Located at Incinerator, Wickaninnish, and Long Beach. Each is equipped with an outdoor hose to spray down gear. |
| Rentals/Lessons | Yes | Available through licensed business operators. |
| Parking | Yes | Located at all surfing beaches; Park use fees in effect year round. |
Safety Tips
- Consider taking a lesson from a licensed surf school if you are new to surfing.
- Always wear a wetsuit.
- Learn about rip currents and other water hazards.
- Check the local weather forecast and surf conditions before you go.
- Practice proper surf etiquette. Be aware of other people in the water; you may be sharing the area with swimmers and other wave riders.