Surfing and Paddling Getaways in British Columbia

Discover some of the best places to surf and paddle in BC

British Columbia’s coast offers incredible water adventures. Ride Pacific waves, kayak between forested islands or paddle across calm waters surrounded by mountains.

Pacific Coastal Airlines flies to several destinations that put you close to some of BC’s best surfing, kayaking, canoeing and paddleboarding experiences. Pack your gear and get ready to explore the coast from a new perspective.

 

Tofino/Ucluelet

Ride the Waves on Vancouver Island’s West Coast

With kilometres of sandy beaches and waves throughout the year, the Tofino and Ucluelet region is Canada’s best-known surfing destination.

Experienced surfers can search for their next wave, while beginners can book lessons and rent equipment from local surf schools. Away from the waves, the region’s inlets and channels also offer excellent opportunities for paddleboarding and sea kayaking.

Popular for:

• Surfing throughout the year
• Surf lessons and equipment rentals
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Sea kayaking in Clayoquot Sound

 

Masset, Haida Gwaii

Remote Waves on the Edge of the Pacific

Northern Haida Gwaii offers a surfing experience unlike anywhere else in British Columbia. Near Masset, the long beaches of Naikoon Provincial Park meet the open Pacific Ocean, creating a remote setting for cold-water surfing and coastal exploration.

North Beach and Agate Beach are known for their wide stretches of sand, ocean views and powerful Pacific swells. Visitors are encouraged to learn about Haida culture, take the Haida Gwaii Pledge and travel throughout the islands.

Popular for:

• Cold-water surfing
• North Beach and Agate Beach
• Coastal paddling
• Beach walks and storm watching

 

Port Hardy

Discover the Wild Side of Vancouver Island

Port Hardy is a gateway to the remote beaches and rugged coastline of northern Vancouver Island. From here, visitors can explore west coast locations such as Grant Bay, Raft Cove and San Josef Bay.

Local operators offer transportation, guided trips and equipment rentals for surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and other coastal activities. It is an ideal destination for travellers looking for a quieter and more remote West Coast adventure.

Popular for:

• Remote beach surfing
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Kayaking and canoeing
• Guided coastal adventures

 

Comox Valley

Calm Waters and Mountain Views

The Comox Valley combines peaceful coastal waters with views of the Beaufort Mountains. Comox Harbour, Goose Spit and the Courtenay River Estuary provide scenic places to explore by kayak or stand-up paddleboard.

Local rentals and guided experiences make it easy to spend time on the water, followed by a visit to the Valley’s beaches, restaurants and waterfront communities.

Popular for:

• Kayaking in Comox Harbour
• Paddleboarding around Goose Spit
• Exploring the Courtenay River Estuary
• Relaxed coastal getaways
• Windsurfing and kiteboarding

 

Campbell River

Paddle Between Islands, Bays and Estuaries

Campbell River is surrounded by waterways waiting to be explored. Paddle through the Campbell River Estuary, launch from one of the area’s sheltered bays or join a guided trip into the Discovery Islands.

The region also provides access to freshwater lakes and canoe routes, giving paddlers plenty of ways to experience Vancouver Island from the water.

Popular for:

• Sea kayaking
• Stand-up paddleboarding
• Estuary and wildlife viewing
• Freshwater canoeing

 

Powell River

Coast, Lakes and Endless Places to Paddle

Powell River offers easy access to the coastline, freshwater lakes and the waters around Desolation Sound. Kayakers, canoeists and paddleboarders can explore quiet bays, forested shorelines and nearby islands.

For a longer adventure, the qathet Canoe Route connects eight lakes through a series of paddling and portage sections surrounded by wilderness.

Popular for:

• Sea kayaking
• Canoeing and paddleboarding
• Desolation Sound
• The qathet Canoe Route

 

Plan Your West Coast Water Adventure

From the famous waves of Tofino and the remote beaches of Haida Gwaii to the sheltered harbours of Comox and Campbell River, Pacific Coastal Airlines connects you to some of British Columbia’s best surfing and paddling destinations.

Ride the waves, take a quiet paddle or plan a trip that includes both. We’ll help get you closer to the coast and your next BC adventure.

Book your flight today and start planning your trip. 

Where We Fly

Anahim Lake / YAA  |  Bella Bella / ZEL  |  Bella Coola / QBC  |  Campbell River / YBL   |  Comox / YQQ  | Cranbrook / YXC | Kamloops / YKA | Kelowna / YLW  |  Masset / ZMT   |  Nanaimo / YCD |  Penticton / YYF  |  Port Hardy / YZT  |  Powell River / YPW  |  Prince George / YXS   |  Tofino/Ucluelet / YAZ  |  Trail / YZZ  |  Vancouver / YVR  |  Victoria / YYJ  |  Williams Lake / YWL