Yes. The water temperature here changes only slightly with the seasons and typically ranges between 7C and 14C. Cold shock can impact your extremities and movement within 10 minutes of exposure to these temperatures, so wearing a wetsuit is essential - it also adds a bit of buoyancy while you’re in the water. 

This depends largely on the conditions each day and your level of experience. Lessons are highly encouraged, and the instructor will choose the most appropriate beach for that day and time based on the conditions, tides, and winds.

All of the surf schools have qualified, experienced instructors, so you can be confident that you are in good hands. For beginner or novice surfers who have never surfed Tofino’s breaks, lessons are highly recommended.

Most of the beaches!  The waves are generally the largest on č’ahạ yis (Cox Bay), where the surf competitions usually take place, and where you can find more experienced surfers. Yuʔatu (South Chesterman) is typically more protected and is a better place for watching beginners or boogie boarders. 

The Tla-o-qui-aht Language Centre, Tla-o-qui-aht Tribal Parks, and Mułaa (Rising Tide Surf Team) - a non-profit organization getting local Indigenous youth in the water to learn to surf - have been working collaboratively and have created a map of Nuu-chah-nulth beach names and surf breaks. Most beach entrances also have the names displayed on signage.