Surf: Chesterman Beach needs a bit of size to break since it’s sheltered and the southern part is good for learners, while there are bigger waves to the north end. Access: parking gets full by noon Environment: There is also the option of more beginner friendly beachbreak at MacKenzie Beach in the next bay north. Parking lots fill up quickly in summer. Surf: General: Often heralded as the favourite Tofino beach break by locals, North Chesterman (known simply as “North”) is generally the steepest and punchiest compared to its crumbly counterparts. It lays dormant through most of the summer months, allowing bars to build up and create steeper, wedgier waves breaking close to shore when the Autumn swells arrive. Multiple offshore reefs and islets break up swell lines, helping to create peaks, but also demanding more size to come alive. Tides: All tides, softer at high and punchy and more walled at dead low. Lower/mid-tide incoming generally is best bet. Size: Waist high - Overhead and a half Wind: SE, E Swell: SW, WSW, W Bottom: Sand bottom, no rocks. Paddling: Powerful and dumpy inside sections to push through on bigger days, especially early season. Relatively easy paddles on most days. Spot Rating: Shorter (2-3 turn) waves, punchy, needs strong offshore wind to get rid of residual rip and bump to be at its very best. Access: Multiple parking lots and access trails along Lynn Road, parking on right side of road only. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Busy on weekends with travellers and beginner surfers, softops and rental equipment. Thick local crowds on bigger, offshore days when the swell/wind options are limited and back-up venues are scarce. Local Vibe: Can be competitive on standout days, but always friendly and easy going in temperament. Environment: Very clean. Hazards: Strong rips on bigger swells, beginner surfers and errant boards, dog poop lined access trails. Season: October-April