Cox Bay
Cox Bay is Canada's surf capital—a beautiful beach break surrounded by old-growth rainforest on Vancouver Island's wild west coast. Tofino has become a surfing mecca, drawing everyone from beginners to experienced chargers. The water is cold year-round (thick wetsuits required), but winter storms deliver consistent Pacific swells that light up the sandbars. The setting is stunning: rainforest, black bears, and pristine wilderness. Canadian surfing at its finest.
Cox Bay surf forecast
Model forecast for swell, wind and tide.
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Spot Details
CustomizeCustomize this spotSwell Requirements
- Optimal direction
- W (260°)
- Direction range
- 220° - 300°
- Size range
- 0.8m - 3m
- Ideal size
- 1.8m - 2.5m
- Height multiplier
- 1.00×
- Ideal period
- 14s+
Wind Requirements
- Optimal direction
- E (90°)
- Offshore range
- 45° - 135°
Tide Requirements
- Optimal tide
- all
- Optimal range
- 0.5m - 2.5m
Water temp
11°C
Wetsuit
5/4mm + boots
Difficulty
4/10
Crowd level
5/10
Access: Or fly into Tofino airport (YAZ)
Frequently Asked Questions
What tide is best at Cox Bay?
The Cox Bay profile favors the recorded tide range, ideally between 0.5m and 2.5m on the local tide chart. Compare this preference with the forecast tide and local conditions before choosing a session.
What wind direction is offshore at Cox Bay?
The Cox Bay profile uses wind from E (90°) as its preferred direction, with an offshore range of 45° to 135°. Wind speed matters too: light winds outside that range can still produce surfable conditions, while strong offshore winds can make takeoffs difficult.
What swell size and direction work best at Cox Bay?
The Cox Bay scoring profile favors swell from W (220° to 300°), a swell-height range of 0.8m to 3m, and a reference period of 14s. These are model inputs, not guaranteed breaking-wave heights or a promise that the surf will suit every ability.
When is the best time of year to surf Cox Bay?
The main season at Cox Bay is Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar. A secondary window runs Apr, May, Sep. Winter storms deliver consistent swell. Cold water year-round.
How do I get to Cox Bay?
The spot profile lists YYJ as a nearby airport. The estimated road transfer is 240 minutes. Or fly into Tofino airport (YAZ)
What kind of wave is Cox Bay?
Cox Bay is a beach break, a peak with lefts and rights. Difficulty is rated 4/10.
Best Season
Peak: Oct, Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar
Secondary: Apr, May, Sep
Winter storms deliver consistent swell. Cold water year-round.
Getting There
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