Description
General information about the beach
One of the most famous beaches in Tofino, named one of the 50 best beaches in the world in 2025. It features white sand, rocky outcrops and excellent surf waves, popular for swimming, surfing and sunset watching.
Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
2 700 m
Tips
What to bring, best time, local rules
What to Bring
SPF50+ cream
Water
Towel
Swimsuit
Flip-flops
Cash
First aid kit
Best Time to Swim
The best time for surfing is from September to April. For swimming — summer months. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people.
Local Rules
Dogs are allowed on leash. Leaving rubbish is prohibited.
Frequently asked questions
Chesterman Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +12.0°C, warms up to +15.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Chesterman Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — moderate. Average wave height — 1.0 m.
Chesterman Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Chesterman Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 2 700 metres.
Chesterman Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is July. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Chesterman Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as excellent. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Chesterman Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Chesterman Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming.
Chesterman Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Chesterman Beach House. Cuisines available: Canadian. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Chesterman Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, First aid kit.
Chesterman Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for surfing is from September to April. For swimming — summer months. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people.
Chesterman Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs are allowed on leash. Leaving rubbish is prohibited.
Chesterman Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing, kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Chesterman Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers, active holidaymakers and romantic sunsets. Not suitable for those seeking warm water and solitude.
Chesterman Beach: what makes this beach unique?
Chesterman Beach was named Canada-s best beach and ranked among the world-s top 25 beaches. It is divided into two sections by a sandbar that connects to Frank Island at low tide.
Chesterman Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: White sand, Excellent surfing, Scenic sunsets, Surf schools, Sandbar, Frank Island views. Cons: Cold water, Crowded, Little natural shade, Paid parking.
Chesterman Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Chesterman Beach: how do I get to the city of Tofino?
The beach is located near the city of Tofino. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Tofino.