Overview
Cox Bay is the main surf beach at Tofino, a broad crescent of sand where the walls taper and line up best through the middle. That middle section combines north and south swell energy into some decent wedge peaks, while both ends serve up shifty beachbreak walls running left and right. It's the usual contest site, there's a webcam, and accommodation is close by. The beach is huge, so there's plenty of room for everyone.
When It Works
Swell comes in from southwest to northwest, and west is the direction that lights it up best. It's usable from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 2.4 m / 8 ft, though the whole bay tends to close out once it pushes past head high, and the occasional surprise still slips through. Autumn and winter are the months to watch, roughly September through February. It's a fun, forgiving place to get waves rather than a standout on the coast.
Wind and Tide
Look for east offshore wind, or a glassy morning before anything fills in. The beach helps you out when the wind is up, since each end offers shelter, and the southern headland gives good protection against south winds. Cox works through most of the tide, but a rising tide is the better call, with medium to high water generally the pick.
Local Tips
This is a good beach to learn on, and it suits just about anything you paddle out on, whether that's a shortboard, funboard, longboard, or fish. The paddle out isn't too bad. Expect a moderately busy lineup, though it swings with the calendar: weekends and summer days can get packed, while weekdays stay quiet.
Access
Getting in is simple, and there's a car park with paid parking. Camping, a surf school, and a surf shop are all on hand nearby.
