10 Best Places to Surf And Stay In Vancouver Island, Canada - Updated 2024

Jatin
Contributing Writer
Updated
| 6 min read

Located in the western Canadian province of British Columbia, Vancouver Island is one of the most popular travel destinations in the country. Apart from its stunning scenery, the island has a multitude of experiences that you can enjoy. Located off the shore of the Pacific Ocean, it has also been gaining a lot of popularity for water sports and activities. Plenty of tourists flock to the shores and beaches to enjoy activities such as scuba diving, whale watching, sport fishing and surfing. Tofino, a town on the west coast of the island, is one such place that has several beautiful surfing spots worth exploring. If you are planning an adventurous getaway on the island, keep reading to learn about the best places to surf and stay in Vancouver Island, Canada.

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and location with easy access to surfing spots. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on October 30, 2024.

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1. Breezy apartment with sundeck and yard; Tofino (from USD 227)

Have the best of times while staying in this spacious 102-sqm (1100-sq.-ft.) apartment with large windows that fill the space with inviting natural light. The rental is aptly located, within walking distance of the popular Tonquin Beach and a short drive from surf spots. Overlooking the ocean and the hills, it is packed with amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen and a TV and sound system. There is also a barbecue grill and an indoor fireplace at your disposal.

After a day of fun and surfing, you can hang your surfing suit in the outdoor shower area, relax on the private deck with your family, and have a barbecue while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
20.68 km (12.9 mi) from Rainforest Trail
177 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
wonderful hosts and spectacular place
the owners also gave us fresh salmon
allison was a great host
allison is an amazing host
the hosts are considerate and thought of every amenity and welcoming touch
Location:
a beautiful place super close to the main street of tofino (10 mins walk)
it’s a beautiful house in a staggeringly gorgeous location with such lovely hosts
great location and excellent communication - we will definitely be back
amazing hosts amazing location beautiful home with incredible views
one of the best places we’ve ever stayed
Cleanliness:
it was also immaculately clean
the house was super clean and the bedding so comfortable
this house is beautiful and very clean
the place itself is very clean and allison is so amazing to communicate with
the house is very clean and they checked in to make sure we had everything we needed
Amenities & Room:
the house was a perfect space for our family with a comfortable couch and beds
Read more reviews

2. Waterfront cottage with child-friendly amenities; Tofino (from USD 158)

This rustic beachfront cottage is located within a short distance of both downtown Tofino and popular surf spots. The property includes a fully equipped kitchen and is perfect for couples with toddlers, as it has been childproofed and boasts amenities such as a cot, a baby bath, and children’s books and toys.

It has a large private balcony that is furnished and looks out to a stunning view of the ocean and Meares Island. Make sure to come equipped with your binoculars, as the balcony is a perfect spot to enjoy sightings of migratory birds as well as grey whales, seals and otters.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
19.06 km (11.9 mi) from Rainforest Trail
382 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire chalet 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
the hosts are super responsive and kind
verne & gisèle were absolutely fantastic hosts
hosts very nice and helpful
the hosts were friendly and gave us our privacy
friendly hosts that were easy to communicate with
Location:
the location is awesome and walking distance to town
great location between the town and beaches
this was a great location
perfect location close to the town and many of the beaches
the location is very close to town but just far enough that you can relax in nature
Cleanliness:
everything was very clean the bed was comfortable and check in was easy
absolutely wonderful in every way immaculately clean beautiful location and lovely hosts will definitely be coming back
home was clean warm and just a few steps away from the beach
the cabin was clean well put together with lots of good info on things to do
Amenities & Room:
wouldn’t recommend for remote working due to wifi speeds
the oceanview from the bed put a smile on all of us every morning
beautiful cozy waterfront cabin for two or a family
really cozy comfortable place to stay
Read more reviews

3. Cox Bay Cottage; Tofino (from USD 211)

Tucked in the rainforest of Tofino, this contemporary cottage is located 6.2 km (3.5 mi) away from downtown Tofino and 11 km (6.8 mi) away from the famous Long Beach. Other nearby attractions include Cox Bay Beach and Surf Grove Campground, both of which are within walking distance. Both Long Beach and Cox Bay Beach have beautiful surfing spots that you can take advantage of. Apart from a fully equipped kitchen, the amenities in this rental include a TV, an indoor fireplace, and heated floors for your comfort. You will find a barbecue grill as well.

With its custom architecture of west coast cedar and its lush green surroundings, the cottage seems dreamlike, and you will surely get lost in its serenity.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
16.09 km (10.0 mi) from Rainforest Trail
255 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
jay is an awesome host and super responsive
great cabin and a wonderful host
jay was very responsive and accommodating the few times we reached out
jay was quick to respond and was very helpful
lovely secluded unit host responded promptly great location
Location:
location was excellent
great location very comfortable house
gorgeous place in an amazing location within easy walking distance to the beach and biking distance to town
gorgeous cabin in an ideal location
great stay in tofino awesome location very quiet
Cleanliness:
very clean and comfortable
comfortable clean and beautiful place
very clean and unique property
the place is super clean and spacious
spotlessly clean beautiful kitchen that had every thing you needed
Amenities & Room:
the other beds were very comfortable and the heated floors were lovely
the space was bright and open and the beds were super comfy
3rd bed option is a folding chair so best to book for 2 couples only
the beds were extremely comfortable
the beds and linens were super comfortable and you have everything you need for a relaxing holiday escape
Read more reviews

4. Beachfront home with an outdoor hot tub; Tofino (from USD 326)

This tasteful guest house, located on pristine Chesterman Beach, offers the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. You can take your surfboards right out on Chesterman Beach, as it is also one of the most popular surfing beaches in Canada. The kitchen is fully equipped, and a barbecue grill is also included so you can whip up a wholesome meal after a surfing session. The rental has super-fast Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to have a perfect workcation and also to stream your favourite shows in 4K on the TV.

It also features an outdoor hot tub that directly overlooks the beach and the Pacific and makes for an ideal spot to unwind.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
16.95 km (10.6 mi) from Rainforest Trail
111 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
todd is a great host
todd was an amazing host checking in with us but giving us our privacy
todd and linda were helpful kind and very communicative
hosts are also cool if you need anything; friendly & accessible
incredible beachfront property host was amazing- so accommodating and easy to connect with when needed
Location:
the location on chesterman beach is ideal
the location of the house is fantastic
beautiful beach close to downtown tofino
location on chestermain beach was perfect
great location right on the beach beautiful cabin
Cleanliness:
clean and well equipped
very clean and comfortable
place was very clean and well stocked with towels
spacious and very clean
very clean accommodation and hot tub and well kept grounds
Amenities & Room:
nice view from living room and balcony
very comfortable beds ample space tonnes of privacy excellent amenities and views for days
the place itself was cozy with lots of natural sunlight
a bonus outdoor hot shower was a nice way to complete your soak
great hot tub comfortable beds/living space
Read more reviews

5. The Anchor at South Chesterman Beach; Tofino (from USD 223)

Located less than a minute’s walk from Chesterman Beach, The Anchor stands against a backdrop of tall trees, which, along with the home’s beautiful facade, makes it perfect for a photo session. Its proximity to Chesterman Beach makes the rental an ideal spot for those who love surfing.

The property has vaulted ceilings and large windows that allow in lots of natural light. It features a fully equipped kitchen that also includes a coffee maker. the rental is babyproofed, so you don’t have to worry about your toddlers hurting themselves. You can also take advantage of the furnished backyard, which has a hot tub and an outdoor shower for surfers to freshen up. Just keep in mind that the hot tub and the shower are shared with the nearby Crow’s Nest suite, which has a totally separate space and entrance.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
16.74 km (10.5 mi) from Rainforest Trail
539 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
was a wonderful home and the hosts are so kind
bronwyn and jeremy were great hosts providing us with email correspondence prior to our visit
thank you to bronwyn for being a great host
the hosts tallea and tyler were awesome and very attentive to anything we may need
milan was a wonderful host -- quick to respond and had great suggestions for local food
Location:
fantastic location right across from beach
great accommodation and fantastic location
great location and great cabin to spend a weekend in
beautiful spot and the location couldn’t be better
this is a beautiful place in an ideal location
Cleanliness:
very clean and well stocked
very clean and well appointed
very clean and well equipped
the house was clean and had everything you could want/need
the house was lovely and clean
Amenities & Room:
all beds were rated as "supremely comfy" by 4 very particular women
the house itself was decorated with comfortable furniture and ocean touches making it feel so homey
Read more reviews

6. The Cabin Tofino; Tofino (from USD 181)

Tucked in the flourishing woods of Tofino, along Pacific Rim Highway, The Cabin Tofino is one of the most conveniently located stays in the area. Mackenzie Beach, surfing spots, and many popular cafes and restaurants are within walking distance. Surfers can take advantage of the proximity to the Live To Surf surf shop. You may also rent a bike from nearby rentals and ride to downtown Tofino and Chesterman Beach.

As for the amenities, the cabin has a fully equipped kitchen, a TV, an indoor fireplace, and a barbecue grill. You can also get some work done in the middle of this heavenly island, as the rental comes equipped with a dedicated workplace and Wi-Fi. Once you are done for the day, you can have a relaxing soak amidst lush greenery in the outdoor hot tub.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
18.52 km (11.6 mi) from Rainforest Trail
169 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
our hosts were awesome great communication and accommodating i highly recommend this place
already planning a return dan was also so responsive and accommodating whenever we were in touch
Location:
easy spot to find and close to town
cute and cozy little home really close to the town center in tofino
could walk to the beaches or town easy would stay again :)
super clean it has everything you need easy self check in close to downtown sooooo beautiful
great place to stay just outside of tofino town centre
Cleanliness:
cabin was very clean and organized when we arrived and communication was consistent and clear
its very private and kept very clean
great location very clean and comfortable house
Amenities & Room:
adorable & cozy fully equipped (local soaps shampoo etc
the house was perfect - so cozy and the hot tub was such a treat in the rain
beds were very comfy and we enjoyed the warmth of the wood stove every evening
great cozy cabin with a nice hot tub
beautiful cabin very warm and comfortable beds loved the wood fire place and the hottub
Read more reviews

7. Warm and cosy beach house with a patio; Tofino (from USD 385)

Stay in this modern and minimal cabin located less than a minute’s walk from Chesterman Beach and go surfing every day on the pristine shore.

The cabin is tastefully designed and has premium appliances, including a washing machine and a dishwasher. It has the necessary amenities for a productive stay, such as a dedicated workspace and Wi-Fi, allowing you to fulfil work commitments while on vacation. You can prepare your daily meals in the equipped kitchen or use the barbecue grill for a cookout. The rental has also got a furnished patio where you can host a barbecue feast or just laze around at the end of the day.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
17.39 km (10.9 mi) from Rainforest Trail
34 reviews   Wifi Available
Entire cabin 3 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host john is very helpful
john is a wonderful host
great hosts that had everything you could possibly need
john was easy to communicate with and extremely helpful throughout our stay
last but not least -- the hospitality was great john and heather were so welcoming and friendly
Location:
very stylish and cute cabin right next to the beach and very close to town
situated in a beautiful location immediately adjacent to mackenzie beach the house is stylish immaculate and inviting
the cabin is quiet bright and well situated to offer privacy
photographs don’t do this place justice and the location was absolutely prime
outstanding place to stay if you’re planning to surf especially
Cleanliness:
the cabin was as advertised and very clean
Amenities & Room:
beautiful kitchen and the fireplace was a fabulous touch for the stormy days
the “cabin” is modern with beautiful decor and very well equipped kitchen
it is a compact space but is very comfortable and cozy
overall we were very comfortable in this place and would stay again (can’t say for all airbnb’s)
the beds are very comfortable and have lovely flannel linens (for winter)
Read more reviews

8. Charming guest suite with a firepit; Tofino (from USD 140)

This lovely property is located steps away from Chesterman Beach, which allows you to go surfing any time of the day you want. This 56-sqm (600-sq.-ft.) suite is located on the upper floor, with the host living on the main floor.

The decor of the place is charming and colourful and the cosy living room includes an indoor fireplace and a TV for your enjoyment. Wi-Fi is available, too! You have access to an outdoor shower for washing off the sand after a surfing session. There is no kitchen, but the place is equipped with a refrigerator, and you will have a coffeemaker, a kettle, and some dishes at your disposal. The property also has an outdoor firepit where you can hang out with the host and her family.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
17.64 km (11.0 mi) from Rainforest Trail
279 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guest suite 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Host:
heidi is a wonderful host
quiet place and host was respectful of our privacy
heidi and bob are wonderful hosts
could not have asked for a better host and accommodation
we loved our stay and heidi was a great host
Location:
the location is excellent
the location was amazing
great location near the beach
great location a couple minutes walk to the beach
perfect location we’re grateful to be so close to the beachfront
Cleanliness:
very clean and tidy
excellent stay clean and comfortable
the unit was clean and cozy
wonderful beachside retreat clean cozy and quiet
the suite was totally clean and she had towels and a beach blanket for us
Amenities & Room:
the space is comfortable and filled with plush linens and beautiful artwork
the chesterman beach cottage is a very quiet cozy relaxing place
the place was spacious cozy and filled with beautiful artwork
it was spacious for two people with a nice terrace out the back and second bathroom
the suite is warm comfortable and relaxing
Read more reviews

9. Ray of Sunshine; Tofino (from USD 211)

Ray of Sunshine is located along Pacific Rim Highway, within a 15-minute walking distance of Chesterman Beach and Mackenzie Beach where you may enjoy surfing.

The rental features an open concept, which, along with vaulted ceilings and large windows, makes it look spacious and inviting. It is equipped with a complete kitchen, along with an indoor fireplace and a TV for spending relaxing moments indoors. Use the dedicated workspace and Wi-Fi to attend to your work emails. Later, you can hang out on the patio and make use of the barbecue grill. Moreover, the rental is pet-friendly, but you would have to pay an additional fee of 52 USD to bring your four-legged friends along.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
18.28 km (11.4 mi) from Rainforest Trail
271 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE HOME 3 Beds 6 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews
Host:
the owner was always friendly and a great communicator
although not the fault of the owners there was construction going on next door during our stay
Location:
very cool convenient location
the location is wonderful and located to great restaurants
great spot super close to everything you need
awesome house in a great location the hot tub was amazing
excellent space and convenient location right by the beach
Cleanliness:
very comfortable and clean
beautiful layout and cleanliness was exceptional
everything was beautiful immaculately clean and close to everything
this place is bright clean and has an awesome layout
great house really clean and in a perfect location right next to tacofino :) we'll be back
Amenities & Room:
very comfortable with all necessary amenities
beautiful architecture and light filled rooms
the floors in both bathrooms are heated which was unexpected and awesome
clean good wifi and cable and lovely hot tub
the kitchen was very well stocked and the beds were super comfy
Read more reviews

10. Pownall House; Tofino (from USD 215)

This Nordic-style cabin is one of those accommodations that can make any getaway remarkable. Just minutes away from Chesterman Beach, it is aptly located to go surfing and even comes with an outdoor shower to freshen up afterwards.

The open kitchen is fully equipped, and you can have your meals on the cosy bench seating beside the fireplace. It has also got a large TV with Netflix and Prime Video for indoor entertainment. For leisure, you have access to an outdoor hot tub and beach essentials, including a beach blanket and snorkelling gear. The upper loft bedroom has skylight windows that provide you with one of the best experiences of stargazing with your partner from your comfortable bed.

Stayed at this property?
Tofino, British Columbia, Canada
17.66 km (11.0 mi) from Rainforest Trail
128 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Host:
the host is also very responsive
Location:
short walking distance to the beach close to town and in a nice quiet neighbourhood
close to the beach i would definitely stay here again
amazing stay in tofino minutes from chesterman beach close to town but not too close
the beach is a short walk through a pleasant trail
Read more reviews

Have an amazing surfing experience in Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island is one of the best places to go surfing in North America, and you can have the vacation of a lifetime while staying at these Airbnbs that allow you to enjoy surfing to the fullest. Review this list before planning your getaway, and enjoy the best of times on your surfing adventure!

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Jatin is a freelance writer, photographer, and avid film enthusiast. He also gravitates towards culturally and historically significant cities during his travels. His excursions to new locales...Read more

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