A Recap of the 2025 Rip Curl Nationals in Tofino

Tofino’s Cox Bay transformed into a buzzing hub of stoke, skill, and salty air as the 2025 Rip Curl Nationals brought Canada’s top surfers together for a weekend of unforgettable competition. Held from May 9–11, this annual event didn’t just highlight elite surf talent, it also reminded us why Tofino is the heart of Canada’s surf culture.

And for us at Whaler’s Guesthouse, the weekend was especially exciting. We had a personal stake in the competition Ocea Green, daughter of one of our owners, brought home incredible results and had the whole hostel cheering from the sand!

What Is the Rip Curl Nationals?

Canada’s Premier Surf Competition

The Rip Curl Nationals is the pinnacle of competitive surfing in Canada, where rising stars and seasoned riders compete for national titles across a variety of age groups and categories. With heats held over three days at Cox Bay, surfers take on everything the Pacific throws their way, be it clean green lines or stormy west coast swells.

This year’s categories included:

• U14, U16, U18 boys and girls
• Open Men and Women’s Shortboard
• Masters Divisions (40+)
• Longboard and SUP surf events

Each heat is judged based on:

• Wave selection
• Variety and difficulty of maneuvers
• Speed, power, and flow
• Overall impression and style

Meet Ocea Green A Rising Star from Right Here at Whaler’s Guesthouse

We’re beyond proud of Ocea Green, who won the U16 Girls division and placed second in U18 Girls, a phenomenal performance from one of Tofino’s own. Ocea’s style is fluid and fast, and her connection to the waves is something even seasoned surfers admire.

Having the entire guesthouse rally around her heats made the weekend feel personal. Guests gathered around phones for heat updates and made the short walk to Cox Bay to catch her live in action.

A Quick Breakdown of Surf Competition Basics

Not everyone staying with us is a surf pro, so here’s a quick primer to help newcomers understand the excitement:

What Happens During a Heat?

• Surfers are grouped into heats (usually 20–25 minutes long).
• They paddle out and aim to catch the best waves available.
• Each wave is scored from 0.0 to 10.0.
• A surfer’s top two waves are added together for their final score.
• Judges look for: technical ability, style, risk, and creativity.

Types of Boards Used

Most divisions use shortboards, lightweight, high-performance boards built for sharp turns and aerial maneuvers. Longboard and SUP events emphasize grace and glide.

Why Stay at Whaler’s Guesthouse for Surf Events?

Located in the heart of Tofino and just minutes from Cox Bay, Tofino Hostel Whaler’s Guesthouse is a surfer’s dream stay whether you’re here to compete, spectate, or simply soak up the local vibe.

• Wetsuit rinse station + gear storage: Keep things clean and organized.
• Oceanfront views: Relax after a long surf day with unbeatable scenery.
• Social energy: Swap stories with other surf fans in our cozy common areas.

Plan Your Surf Stay in Tofino

The Rip Curl Nationals are just one of many reasons to visit Tofino in spring, but they’re definitely one of the most exciting. Whether you’re competing, watching, or dreaming of trying surfing for the first time, there’s no better place to stay than Whaler’s Guesthouse.

This year’s Nationals gave us thrills, community connection, and an unforgettable moment watching Ocea Green stand on the podium. Tofino’s surf culture is alive, thriving, and waiting for you to be part of it.

Come ride the wave with us. Book your room today where the surf meets your doorstep.