The Vancouver Island Double: Surf and Shred in One Unforgettable Day
Ever heard of the California Double? It’s surfing and skiing/snowboarding on the same day! But why are we talking about it? Because you don’t have to go all the way down to Cali to “double down”, you can do it right here on Vancouver Island! Yep, you read that right!
This wild, unforgettable bucket list experience lets you ride waves in the morning and shred snow by afternoon or evening right here in the PNW. Welcome to the Vancouver Island Double—where the BC Mountains meet the Pacific and the stoke runs deep.
Start your day catching clear, cold-water waves in Tofino, then make your way across the Island to ski or snowboard the alpine terrain of Mount Washington Alpine Resort. It’s ambitious, yes — but totally doable (and incredibly rewarding) with the right planning. And we’re here to help.
You want to stretch the day even longer or get up later? From Jan 4 to April 4 Mount Washington Alpine Resort offers Night Skiing (easily another bucket list item!) from Thursday to Saturday every week from 3:30pm to 9pm which get’s the issue with shorter winter days right out of your way and gives you enough time to not have to rush on your way across the island.
If you’ve got more time, stretch the trip into a couple more days and enjoy everything Tofino and Cumberland have to offer. Tofino’s food scene, art galleries, endless beaches, and laid-back vibe are well worth a full day or two. And in Cumberland you can explore the quirky town, warm up in a local café or brewery, and explore the village’s rich coal-mining history. Nearby trails are perfect for peaceful walks or snowshoeing when conditions allow — and when the snow melts, you’ll see why Cumberland’s mountain biking trails are legendary (even more bucket list material!).
Whalers Guesthouse – Tofino Hostel currently offers a 4-night Winter special and great discounted weekly rates, making it the perfect base for a longer surf getaway. With heated gear storage, a cozy fireplace, games room with a free pool table, and stunning waterfront views in downtown Tofino, it’s everything you want after a chilly surf session.
Tofino Hostel – Downtown Tofino
Surf at sunrise, ski by sunset or Surf for breakfast, ski for dinner. Whatever you want to call it, when you tell your friends all about it, there aren’t many places in the world where you can spend a day like this – and Vancouver Island does it with style. Whether you go full send in 24 hours or take it slower over a long weekend, the Vancouver Island Double is the kind of adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab your wetsuit and your snowboard—Vancouver Island’s version of the California Double is waiting! Never surfed before? No problem, book your stay and a morning surf lesson with us at Whalers Guesthouse Tofino Hostel!
