The Canadian surf tourism sector is set for significant growth, with estimates forecasting an increase from USD 5.7 Billion in 2025 to USD 12 billion by 2035 at a CAGR of 7.7%. This is predominantly fueled by growing popularity of Canada's untouched and varied surf spots, including Tofino, Lawrencetown Beach, and the unknown treasures along the coast of Newfoundland.
As surfers search for less congested and unique surf experiences, Canada's striking coastlines and high-quality waves become more and more appealing. The general tendency of adventure-driven tourism is also driving the enhanced demand, since tourists favor energetic and active vacations.
With international and local visitors flocking in to explore Canada's untainted beaches and buzzing surf communities, the industry is benefiting from a wave of surfers who are eager to try out world-class waves alongside the country's rich cultural and natural assets.
Market Overview
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Estimated Canada Industry Size (2025E) | USD 5.7 Billion |
| Projected Canada Value (2035F) | USD 12 Billion |
| Value-based CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 7.7% |
Surf tourism is gaining momentum in Canada, with surfers flocking to the Pacific coastline and hidden gems along the Atlantic. Canadian surf resorts and camps are expanding, offering guided surf tours, surf school packages, and eco-friendly accommodations that cater to both seasoned surfers and beginners. Surfing enthusiasts are increasingly choosing Canada for its unique surf culture, less crowded beaches, and pristine natural landscapes.
Exclusive Offer: 30% Off on Regional Reports
Get a free sample report and customize your regions for a 30% discount on your regional report!
The following chart highlights the changes in CAGR for the base year 2024 and the forecast for 2025, reflecting evolving market trends.
CAGR Values for Canada Surfing Tourism Industry (2024 to 2025)
The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7% in the first half of 2024, increasing slightly to 7.1% in the second half. By 2025, the growth rate is expected to rise to 7.4% in the first half and peak at 7.7% in the second half due to an influx of international tourists seeking the iconic surf spots along the Vancouver Island coastline.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Market Value | The Canadian surfing tourism industry is expected to generate USD 5.3 billion in 2024, contributing 25% of North America's surfing tourism market. |
| Domestic Market Share | Domestic tourists account for 60%, with notable surf destinations like Tofino (British Columbia), Lawrencetown (Nova Scotia), and Crescent Beach (British Columbia). |
| International Market Share | International tourists make up 40%, with key visitors from the US, Australia, and Europe flocking to Canada's best surf spots. |
| Key Destinations | Top surfing destinations include Tofino, Long Beach, and Lawrencetown. |
| Economic Impact | Surf tourism generates millions annually, benefiting local businesses such as surf shops, hotels, and restaurants. |
| Key Trends | The rise of eco-conscious surf camps, expansion of luxury surf resorts, and increasing interest in winter surfing. |
| Top Travel Seasons | Summer and early fall are the peak seasons, especially in Tofino, where the weather and surf conditions are ideal. |
Canada’s surfing tourism industry is increasingly becoming a major part of the North American surf scene. Locations such as Tofino on Vancouver Island are drawing both domestic and international surfers with their picturesque beaches and consistent waves. The development of luxury surf resorts and eco-friendly surf camps, along with growing international attention, has spurred this rise.
A key trend is the growing popularity of winter surfing in Canada, particularly in places like Lawrencetown Beach, Nova Scotia, where the colder months provide world-class waves and fewer crowds. Also, many surf camps in British Columbia and Nova Scotia are now focusing on eco-tourism, offering environmentally conscious surf experiences that appeal to eco-minded travelers.
| Date | Development & Details |
|---|---|
| Jan 2025 | Opening of Tofino Surf and Wellness Resort: A luxury resort offering surf lessons, wellness retreats, and eco-friendly accommodations designed to blend adventure with relaxation. |
| Dec 2024 | Launch of Nova Scotia Surfing Adventure Package: A new package offering guided surf tours along the rugged coastline of Nova Scotia, complete with surf lessons and locally sourced meals. |
| Nov 2024 | Winter Surfing Camp in Tofino: Tofino Surf Adventures launched a unique winter surfing camp catering to experienced surfers seeking challenging waves and off-season tranquility. |
| Oct 2024 | Surf Resort Expansion in Vancouver Island: A new surf resort opened in the Vancouver Island region, offering surf lessons, a spa, and a sustainable oceanfront experience for eco-conscious tourists. |
| Sept 2024 | Surfing Competition in Lawrencetown: The Lawrencetown Pro-Am Surf Competition, a new event that combines top-tier surfing talent with local amateurs, was held, attracting global surfers and visitors. |
Independent Travelers Lead the Surfing Tourism Segment
Independent travelers are predicted to represent 60% of Canada's surf tourism market by 2025, as surfers increasingly look for freedom to craft bespoke surfing experiences. Direct booking websites such as Surf Canada and The Surf Guide have now given the independence traveler the power to plan their travels with precision. In a matter of clicks, they can research extensive destinations, surf camps, and local surf schools. This capacity to craft personalized itineraries has revealed exclusive, off-the-tourist-trail surf destinations, which are designed for surfers seeking something beyond the standard busy surf centers.
Tofino, one of the favorite surf spots on Vancouver Island, is an ideal location that appeals to independent surfers. With stunning Pacific scenery all around, Tofino has diverse surf breaks ranging from gentle waves for beginners to difficult barrels for experts. It is not only the waves that independent travelers are attracted to, but also the relaxed surf culture that pervades the town. Tourists can pick up surfboards from local stores, go to secluded beaches, and take guided surf tours to discover the region's secret spots. Whether it's riding the distinctive wild beaches or basking in the coastal atmosphere, Tofino provides the freedom that independent travelers desire.
At the same time, less-known surf breaks in Newfoundland give a more intimate and peaceful surf experience. With rocky coastlines and untouched nature, Newfoundland offers a different type of surf culture-less commercialized, but more real. Surfers can here have uncrowded waves and an opportunity to connect with local surf communities that value sustainability and nature. This appeal of authenticity and exploration, along with the freedom to organize a trip based on individual desires, makes these off-the-beaten-path Canadian surf destinations perfect for independent travelers who are willing to dive headfirst into Canada's varied coastal culture.
The 25-35 age group is anticipated to capture 40% of Canada's surfing tourism segment by 2025, with the surfers in this age group looking for a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experience. Tofino, British Columbia, is one of the preferred pulls for this age group, with its active surf culture and relaxed coastal vibe. Surfers in this age group are attracted to Tofino not just for its reliable surf breaks but also for its lively social scene. The town provides the perfect setting for a surf-and-social visit, where tourists can spend days surfing and nights socializing with other travelers at local eateries and cafes, basking in the West Coast atmosphere.
Aside from the surf culture, surfers in this age bracket are now looking for places that have more to offer than waves. Lawrencetown Beach in Nova Scotia, with its beautiful coastline and great surf, is one of these places. Surfers can ride world-class waves here while also experiencing the area's rich culture and natural scenery. After a day of surfing, the majority of tourists are keen to try the local seafood delicacies, participate in cultural activities, or explore along hiking trails through the picturesque coastal landscape. This blend of surfing and cultural exploration is highly appealing to this age group, which requires both adventure and authentic, local experiences.
This segment also leans towards independent travel, choosing to design their own itinerary to suit their diverse interests. The majority opt for customized surf lessons, locally organized tours, and accommodation with a mix of comfort and adventure. Vancouver Island and Nova Scotia, with their own combination of surf breaks, yoga retreats, art galleries, and hiking trails, are perfectly suited for the 25-35 demographic, who want more from a surf trip-i.e., an overall, enriching experience with both physical stimulation and cultural immersion.
The Canada Surfing Tourism Industry is relatively fragmented, with key players in the industry including Surf Sister Surf School, Pacific Surf School, and Tofino Surf School. Smaller surf camps and boutique accommodations are also growing in popularity, catering to specialized tourist groups.
2025 Market Share of Canada Surfing Tourism Players
Leading players in the market include Surf Sister Surf School, Pacific Surf School, and Tofino Surf School, followed by other regional surf resorts and camps offering unique experiences.
The industry is segmented into Domestic and International tourists.
The market is analyzed by gender (Men, Women).
Segmentation includes Independent Traveler, Tour Group, and Package Traveler.
The industry is segmented into Below 25 years, 25 - 35 years, 35 - 45 years, and Over 45 years.
The Canada Surfing Tourism Industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.7% from 2025 to 2035.
The market is projected to reach USD 12 billion by 2035.
The key drivers include Canada’s unique surf spots, a growing demand for eco-tourism and wellness experiences, and an increasing interest in winter surfing.
Key players include Surf Sister Surf School, Pacific Surf School, and Tofino Surf School, and other regional surf destinations.
Explore Outdoor Tourism Insights
View Reports
Canada Surfing Tourism Market
Thank you!
You will receive an email from our Business Development Manager. Please be sure to check your SPAM/JUNK folder too.
