Surfing in Tofino

[.anya]

heeey...

I have a few days off next week and am planning to go to Tofino and see how the surfing is. I've never been, so I'm pretty clueless about the scene there. Which ferry do I take? How far of a drive is it from the ferry to Tofino? What are the cheapest places to stay (hostels, preferably)? What kind of wetsuit do I need this time of year (a 5-4-3 or thicker?)? Is it better to rent the suit here or in Tofino? (I've already got a great Malibu, all I need is the suit, hehe...)
And how are the waves? Average heights on the most popular spots? Are there good beginner spots? Is it usually choppy or clear breaks? Is it mostly sandy or rocky beach? Is it usually crowded during weekdays?
I'm used to tropical surfing, so I know that this will be a change for me. If anyone has any information, tips, good websites, please let me know...

-anya

[Alex]

ferry to nanaimo I think would be closest... still a couple hours I think. I don't like the surf in tofino. small waves, cold water... bleh

[g!ggles]

http://www.tofino-bc.com/

There is lots of info there for you such as how to get there and blah blah blah. There is a place called Surf Sisters in Tofino. DON'T GO THERE!!! They are total snobs and just want your money :)

With that said have fun! The waves are amazing and the beaches are beautiful!

[dabbler]

ferry to nanaimo from horseshoe bay, drive to tofino is about 4 hrs, rent your suits here i would bet cuz then you don't have to worry about it there.

[magic_hands]

do yourself a favour.. get a campsite.. it's prolly the cheapest and it's close to the beach.. tofino is great..

[mugsy]

i just got back - stay at the whalers inn - amazing hostel. renting your gear is pretty cheap - $40 for 24 hours for the booties, wetsuit and board.
if your not driving, take the tofino bus - its $35 each way. eat at breakers - you get the most for your money. big daddies is a good place to eat, but you may be a stomach ache after. tuff beans is awesome to sit outside at and enjoy a beer.

[.anya]

thanks for all the advice! I'm gonna call Whalers (do they have kitchen facilities, btw?) and see if they have space, I currently have reservations at the Clayoquot Field Station at the Botanical Gardens. I'm can't wait to surf. caaaaaan't wait.

[mugsy]

^full kitchen including storage, you can drink there, they have a tv room so bring dvd's if you want (nightlife is a bit dead in tofino)
seriously. stay there.