Overview
Wickaninnish is a friendly sand-bottom beachbreak at the southern end of Long Beach, spread along a big, wide, flat beach strewn with driftwood. It sits right next to hotels, trails, viewpoints and the Wickaninnish Centre for the Pacific Rim National Park, so it doubles as an easy stop for anyone already staying nearby. Sheltered from south winds and forgiving in the water, it's a good place to learn. It can get fun, though when it's good here, it's usually better somewhere else. The next bay south, Florencia Bay, is stunning and tends to pack more punch. The water is clean, and it's cold, so suit up properly.
When It Works
Autumn and winter are the season, roughly September through February. The beach picks up swell from southwest through northwest, with southwest the best match. It works from 0.3 m / 1 ft to 1.5 m / 5 ft, and waist- to head-high is where it feels best. Sandbanks serve up both lefts and rights, and the paddle out isn't too bad.
Wind and Tide
Glassy mornings are the prize here, and a northeast offshore wind is the next best thing. The beach can work through most of the tide, but an incoming tide from medium to high is the better call.
Local Tips
Wickaninnish suits beginners, and it's mellow enough for just about any board — shortboard, funboard, longboard or fish all have a place. Expect a moderately busy lineup, and count on weekends and summer days drawing plenty of vacationers from the local hotels. The atmosphere in the water can feel a little reserved.
Access
Getting there is very easy, with the beach sitting close to the hotels.
