Tofino has an amazing coast with wonderful beaches all over!
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Cox Bay Beach Tofino

4.9
·438 reviews·, Canada

A vast, sandy beach renowned for its consistent surf, stunning sunsets, and tidepooling adventures. A quintessential Tofino experience.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fall/Winter mornings

Best surf conditions

CrowdLow
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Tofino has an amazing coast with wonderful beaches all over!

Cox Bay Beach Tofino

Best Time

Fall/Winter mornings

Best surf conditions

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vast, sandy beach renowned for its consistent surf, stunning sunsets, and tidepooling adventures. A quintessential Tofino experience.

4.9
(438 reviews)

"Even if you're not a surfer, Cox Bay Beach is a very beautiful beach just to walk around and enjoy the fresh salty west coast air."

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TIP

🚗 Parking Patience

Paid parking is available but can fill up quickly. Arrive early or be prepared to wait.

🌊 Surf's Up!

Cox Bay is a top spot for surfing, with waves suitable for various skill levels. Consider lessons if you're a beginner.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cox Bay Beach

Cox Bay Beach

Expansive sandy shores perfect for surfing, walking, and sunset gazing. A true West Coast gem.

Cox Bay Lookout

Cox Bay Lookout

North end of Cox Bay Beach

A rewarding hike offering panoramic views of the beach and surrounding coastline.

Tide Pools

Tide Pools

North and South ends of Cox Bay Beach (at low tide)

Discover fascinating marine life in these natural rock pools revealed by the receding tide.

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Surf's Up & Sunsets Down

Cox Bay Beach is a prime spot for surfing, with consistent waves year-round. Even if you're not a surfer, the expansive sandy shores are perfect for walks and sunset viewing. Be aware that parking can fill up, especially during peak times. Reddit

Tidepooling & Trail Tips

Explore fascinating tide pools at the north and south ends of the beach during low tide. For a breathtaking panorama, consider the hike to Cox Bay Lookout, but be prepared for a challenging trail. InstagramReddit

Best Times

When
Fall/Winter mornings
Why
Best surf conditions
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Spectacular sunsets
Crowd
Medium
When
Low tide
Why
Tidepooling opportunities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

where i feel at peace 🥂 #tofino #ucluelet
@andrewpettitt
1.1M likes • 6.2M views

🚗 Parking Patience

Paid parking is available but can fill up quickly. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Reddit

🌊 Surf's Up!

Cox Bay is a top spot for surfing, with waves suitable for various skill levels. Consider lessons if you're a beginner. TikTok

Thank you @The Duffin Cove resort Tofino This is the closest I’ve felt ‘whole’ in awhile #tofino #SpotifyWrapped
@benkielesinski
412.9K likes • 1.7M views
Beachside in Tofino, you? Cox Bay Beach Resort’s location steps away from the surf and the whole-house feel of each unit has made it the choice destination for families who appreciate their own space, and excellent value. Call our front desk now to learn more about our fantastic February rates or to secure your spot for summer! ☎️ 250-725-2600 #tofinobc #surftrip #februarytrave...
coxbaytofino
104 likes • 1.2K views

🥾 Lookout Hike

The Cox Bay Lookout trail is challenging but offers incredible views. Wear sturdy shoes! Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific. Cox Bay is a prime location to witness them. Instagram+1

Sunsets at the Cox Bay Lookout🌊 Just off of Cox Bay beach you’ll find a little trail leading to maybe the best view in Tofino. We hiked up to this spot just in time for sunset and watched the waves crash in on the beach🌅 #tofino #explorebc #tofinobc #yourtofino #vanisle #vancouverisland #hikebc #explorecanada #beautifulbc
natashananji
578 likes • 17.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Patience

Paid parking is available but can fill up quickly. Arrive early or be prepared to wait. Reddit

🌊 Surf's Up!

Cox Bay is a top spot for surfing, with waves suitable for various skill levels. Consider lessons if you're a beginner. TikTok

🥾 Lookout Hike

The Cox Bay Lookout trail is challenging but offers incredible views. Wear sturdy shoes! Reddit

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

Don't miss the breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific. Cox Bay is a prime location to witness them. Instagram+1

🚫 No Campfires

Campfires are generally not permitted on Cox Bay Beach. Check local regulations. Reddit

📶 Spotty Signal

Internet and cell service can be unreliable on the beach. Download maps and information beforehand. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(438 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Cox Bay Beach's stunning natural beauty, making it a top choice for surfing and scenic walks. The beach's expansive shores and breathtaking sunsets are frequently praised. While parking can be a challenge and cell service is spotty, the overall experience is highly positive, with many appreciating the well-maintained facilities and the opportunity for tidepooling. InstagramReddit+1

"Top three of my favourite tofino beaches. The shore line is beautiful the water and waves always looked so great. Bathrooms were some of the best at the beaches"

Ange D

"Even if you're not a surfer, Cox Bay Beach is a very beautiful beach just to walk around and enjoy the fresh salty west coast air and watch the surfers, play in the sand, build a fort, etc... It's paid parking and can get pretty full with lots of cars. Worth a stop for sure, not a long walk to the beach."

K FP

"Broad beach, popular with surfers and walkers alike. When the tide is out there are some good spots for tidepooling and both the north and south ends of the beach. Perhaps best enjoyed from one of the adjoining resorts. Note, no campfires permitted (at least during our visit)."

Brian Brewington

What People Like

Beautiful sandy shores
Excellent surfing conditions
Spectacular sunsets

What People Dislike

Paid and crowded parking
Spotty internet/cell service

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cox Bay Beach is located about a 15-minute drive west of Tofino town. You can drive your own vehicle and use the paid parking lot, or consider a taxi or ride-sharing service if available. TikTokInstagram

Yes, there is paid parking available at Cox Bay Beach. It can get quite busy, especially during peak season and weekends, so arriving early is recommended. InstagramReddit

While it's a bit of a distance, it's possible to walk or bike to Cox Bay Beach from Tofino, though driving is the most common method. The scenic route offers beautiful coastal views. TikTok

Many visitors drive to Tofino via Highway 4, which has recently reopened. The drive itself is a scenic journey through Vancouver Island's forests. TikTok

Public transport options directly to Cox Bay Beach are limited. Most visitors rely on personal vehicles or shuttle services offered by accommodations. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Cox Bay Beach itself is free to access, but there is a paid parking fee. The fee helps maintain the facilities and the beach area. Reddit

Cox Bay Beach is accessible 24/7, as it's a public beach. However, parking facilities may have specific operating hours, and it's best to check locally. Instagram

No, you do not need to book tickets in advance for Cox Bay Beach. Access to the beach is open to the public. Parking is first-come, first-served. Instagram

While generally open, be aware of potential seasonal restrictions, especially regarding campfires, which are typically not permitted. Always check local advisories. Reddit

Cox Bay Beach offers public restrooms, which are noted as being well-maintained. Some visitors also mention the convenience of facilities at adjoining resorts. InstagramReddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Cox Bay Beach is renowned for surfing, beachcombing, tidepooling at low tide, and enjoying spectacular sunsets. It's also a great spot for leisurely walks and building sandcastles. TikTokInstagramReddit

Absolutely! Cox Bay Beach is considered one of the best surf spots in Tofino, offering consistent waves suitable for both beginners and experienced surfers, especially in the fall and winter. TikTokReddit

Yes, tidepooling is a popular activity at Cox Bay Beach, particularly at the north and south ends during low tide. You can discover a variety of marine life in the exposed rock pools. InstagramReddit

The hike to Cox Bay Lookout is described as challenging but highly rewarding, offering stunning panoramic views. It's recommended for those who are fit and prepared for an uphill trek. InstagramReddit

Dogs are generally allowed on Cox Bay Beach, but they must be kept on a leash. Always be mindful of other beachgoers and clean up after your pet. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire stretch of Cox Bay Beach offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The Cox Bay Lookout provides a dramatic elevated perspective. Instagram+2

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset are magical for photography at Cox Bay Beach, casting a warm glow over the landscape. Moody, overcast days can also create dramatic, atmospheric shots. Instagram+1

Look for surfers catching waves, the dramatic coastline, the unique rock formations and tide pools at low tide, and the stunning cloud formations often seen during sunset. TikTokInstagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive beach and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing surfers. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance sky and water colors. TikTok

Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local bylaws. Always check for any restrictions or no-fly zones before flying your drone. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cox Bay Beach is a fantastic destination for families. The wide, sandy expanse is perfect for building sandcastles, playing games, and simply enjoying the fresh ocean air. Reddit The tide pools at low tide offer an exciting educational experience for children, allowing them to discover small marine creatures. Instagram While surfing lessons are available, younger children might enjoy simply splashing in the gentler waves closer to shore or watching the surfers. The well-maintained public restrooms are also a convenient amenity for families. Reddit

🏄‍♀️ Surfers & Water Sports Enthusiasts

Cox Bay Beach is a mecca for surfers, offering consistent waves that cater to a range of skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned pro or looking to catch your first wave, the conditions here are often ideal, especially during the fall and winter. TikTokReddit Numerous surf schools and rental shops in Tofino make it easy to get geared up and receive instruction. Beyond surfing, the powerful waves and open ocean provide a thrilling environment for experienced bodyboarders and skimboarders as well. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Nature Lovers & Hikers

For those who appreciate natural beauty, Cox Bay Beach offers serene walks along its expansive shoreline, perfect for beachcombing and soaking in the West Coast atmosphere. Reddit The hike to Cox Bay Lookout is a highlight for nature lovers and hikers, providing stunning panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. InstagramReddit The surrounding old-growth forests also offer opportunities for exploration, with trails leading to hidden coves and viewpoints. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Surfing at Cox Bay Beach

Cox Bay Beach is a world-class destination for surfers, drawing enthusiasts of all levels. The consistent swells rolling in from the Pacific Ocean create ideal conditions, particularly during the fall and winter months when the waves tend to be larger and more powerful. TikTokReddit Many visitors rent boards and wetsuits from local surf shops in Tofino, and numerous surf schools offer lessons for beginners. Even if you're not ready to paddle out, watching the surfers dance on the waves is a captivating sight. Reddit

Key Takeaways for Surfers:

* Best Waves: Fall and winter often bring the most consistent and powerful surf. Reddit
* Rentals & Lessons: Numerous shops in Tofino offer gear rental and surf lessons for all skill levels. TikTok
* Safety First: Always be aware of ocean conditions and your own abilities. Consider taking a lesson if you're new to surfing. TikTok

Exploring the Tide Pools and Lookout

When the tide recedes, Cox Bay Beach reveals its hidden treasures: fascinating tide pools teeming with marine life. These natural rock pools, found at both the north and south ends of the beach, offer a glimpse into a miniature underwater world. InstagramReddit It's a fantastic opportunity for families and curious minds to observe starfish, anemones, and small crustaceans. Remember to tread carefully and avoid disturbing the delicate ecosystem. Instagram

For those seeking a more elevated perspective, the hike to Cox Bay Lookout is a must-do. While described as challenging, the effort is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the beach, the vast Pacific Ocean, and the rugged Vancouver Island coastline. InstagramReddit The trail can be steep and may involve navigating some obstacles, so wearing appropriate footwear is essential. Reddit

Capturing Cox Bay's Beauty

Cox Bay Beach is a photographer's dream, offering a diverse range of scenic opportunities. The expansive sandy shores, dramatic ocean vistas, and the ever-changing light create a constantly evolving canvas. Instagram+1 Sunrises and sunsets here are particularly spectacular, painting the sky with vibrant colors that reflect beautifully on the wet sand and the ocean's surface. Instagram+1

Beyond the sweeping landscapes, photographers can find compelling subjects in the surfers riding the waves, the intricate patterns of the tide pools, and the rugged textures of the coastal rocks. TikTokInstagram The Cox Bay Lookout provides a unique vantage point for capturing the grandeur of the entire bay. Remember that cell service can be spotty, so downloading offline maps and having your camera gear ready is advisable. Reddit

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