Watch Storms from a Safe Distance
Watching the full fury of a west coast storm is a memorable experience. Waves can be big any time of year, but are usually most dramatic from November to April.
Charles McDiarmid is #CoastSmart:
“During storm season there is a lot of wave action. A bare rock that you might see as a perfect viewing spot could soon be buried under six feet of fast-moving ocean water.”
Top Picks for Storm Watching
TOFINO
- Viewing benches along the Pettinger Point Trail
- Tonquin Trail
- Chesterman Beach
- Oceanfront resorts and restaurants
IN THE PARK
- Kwisitis Visitor Centre’s Observation Deck at Wickaninnish Beach
- Kwisitis Visitor Centre south to the Totem Pole at Lismer Beach
- Florencia Bay Lookout
UCLUELET
- Amphitrite Lighthouse
- Numerous viewing benches along the Wild Pacific Trail
- Oceanfront resorts and restaurants
Storm Watching Tips
- Dress in layers with a warm layer and a wind/rain shell.
- Wear sturdy shoes that can get wet.
- Check the local weather forecast and surf conditions before you go.
- Observe the conditions closely before you step out onto the beach.
- If you are on a coastline trail, stick to the trail and stay off the rocks.
- Be prepared – high tides, and strong surges can make beach access unpredictable and treacherous.
- Stay off the drift logs if the tide or swell is high.
- Consult a tide table, the swell forecast, and the park’s Wave Hazard sign before your shoreline activities.
- Respect all temporary beach and trail closures.
- Check out the Wickaninnish Inn’s storm watching page