Storm Season Surf Guide: Prepare for Tofino’s Fall & Winter Waves
October 20th, 2025
As the days get shorter and the Pacific starts to wake up, Tofino’s storm season begins to roll in — bringing powerful swells, colder water, and that moody coastal energy we all love. It’s the time of year when the beaches quiet down, the waves get heavier, and the most dedicated surfers come alive. Here’s what to expect — and how to make the most of it.
1. The Shift to Storm Season
Fall and winter on Vancouver Island mean one thing: swell. Big, powerful systems track across the Pacific, sending long-period waves straight toward Tofino’s west coast. While summer surf is fun and forgiving, storm-season waves bring extra punch. The waves often double up in size, there’s more wind and colder water.
The conditions can change fast. One day you’re surfing shoulder-high peelers in sunshine, and the next, you’re staring down double overhead closeouts with sideways rain. That unpredictability is part of the magic — and challenge — of surfing through the winter.
2. Reading the Forecast
This is the season to become best friends with your surf forecast apps and websites. We recommend checking sources like Surfline, Windy, the Government of Canada website, and surf cams for a full picture.
➡️ How to do a Tofino Surf Check – Winter Conditions
Here are a few things to keep an eye on:
- Swell period: Longer periods (15–20 seconds) usually mean more power.
- Swell direction: West and southwest swells light up most of Tofino’s breaks.
- Wind: Offshore is ideal — anything blowing from the east and south east tends to clean up the waves.
- Tides: Most beaches in Tofino work better at an incoming tide.
Storm days can look messy on paper, but sometimes a small window of calm wind or dropping tide opens up perfect, glassy waves. The locals know to stay patient — the ocean always rewards those who wait.
3. Gearing Up for the Cold
Tofino’s water temps drop to around 8–10°C (46–50°F) in winter, so the right gear makes all the difference. We’re currently in the middle of October and it’s 11.3°C / 52.4°F.
Here’s your cold-water checklist:
- Wetsuit: A 5/4mm with an attached hood will keep you toasty. No hood means brain freeze 🥶
- Boots and gloves: 5mm booties and 3–5mm gloves are essential.
- Leash: Upgrade to a thicker leash if you can, winter surf packs more pull.
- Wax: Choose a cold-water formula to keep that board sticky.
4. Safety First (and Always)
Storm-season surf is no joke. Bigger waves mean stronger rips, faster paddles, and heavier wipeouts. Always surf within your comfort zone — or go with a buddy who knows the break.
A few key tips:
- Watch the ocean first. Spend 10 minutes observing sets and currents before paddling out.
- Know your exits. Make sure you know where and how you can safely get back to shore. If it’s closing out everywhere, there’s no shame in calling it.
- Warm up. Cold muscles cramp fast — take a few minutes to loosen up before hitting the water.
If you’re new to Tofino surf or want to step up your confidence, a private coaching session with one of our instructors can help you build the skills and awareness needed to handle heavier conditions safely.
5. Best Spots for Big Swell Days
When the main beaches get too big, look for spots that are more protected from the swell.
Cox Bay can handle size on the right tide, but during big winter swell it can get huge and unsurfable. Imagine the paddle out. 😵💫
When the surf gets too heavy at Cox Bay, North Chesterman often becomes the go-to spot. But when even Chesterman is pushing its limits during big storm swells, we surf the tucked-away corners of Mackenzie Beach which offer more manageable conditions.
Every storm is different — so explore, observe, and chat with the locals before paddling out. Our crew at Swell Tofino is always happy to point you in the right direction.
6. Embrace the Season
Storm season isn’t just about the waves — it’s about embracing everything that makes Tofino, Tofino. The mist, the wind, the roaring ocean, the moments when the clouds part and you score perfect clean surf in the middle of chaos.
Bundle up, wax up, and get ready! It shaping up to be another incredible season on the coast. See you out there! 🌊🏄♂️
Lara and the Swell Crew 🤙