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
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
30 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 500 m
Frequently asked questions
Cox Bay Beach: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity high, average temperature +11.0°C, warms up to +14.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Cox Bay Beach: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — strong. Average wave height — 2.0 m. Strong waves will please surfers but require caution when swimming with children.
Cox Bay Beach: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 30 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Cox Bay Beach: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 500 metres.
Cox Bay Beach: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in June. It ends in September. The best month for a holiday is August. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Cox Bay Beach: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as good. Rip currents are likely — swim only in designated areas. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Cox Bay Beach: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: sharks, stingrays. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Cox Bay Beach: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: toilets, changing rooms, parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Cox Bay Beach: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
There are no lifeguards on the beach — be especially careful when swimming. A first aid station is available.
Cox Bay Beach: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Long Beach Lodge Resort Restaurant, Surf Grove Campground Cafe. Cuisines available: West Coast. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Cox Bay Beach: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Wetsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Headwear.
Cox Bay Beach: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for surfing is September-February, when waves are most consistent. For swimming, the water is cold, a wetsuit is essential.
Cox Bay Beach: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Dogs must be on a leash. Do not leave litter. Respect wildlife.
Cox Bay Beach: what activities are available?
The beach offers: surfing. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Cox Bay Beach: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for surfers of all levels and nature lovers. Suitable for storm watching and sunsets. Not suitable for families with small children due to strong waves and cold water.
Cox Bay Beach: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is known for its powerful and consistent waves that attract surfers from around the world, and is also one of the best places in Canada for winter storm watching.
Cox Bay Beach: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: 1.5 km of white sand beach, One of Canada-s best surf spots, Scenic Pacific Ocean views, Storm watching in winter, Surrounded by dense forest, Nearby resorts and restaurants, New accessible ramp for disabled visitors. Cons: Cold water year-round (8-14°C), Strong waves and rip currents, Paid parking (about $11 per day), Can be crowded in high season, Parking often full.
Cox Bay Beach: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Tofino, Pacific Rim National Park. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Cox Bay 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.